Find hotels in Ridgecrest, CA from $65

These Ridgecrest insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 18, 2026.

Top reasons to visit Ridgecrest

• Outdoor Adventures: Ridgecrest is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails and stunning desert landscapes for exploration.
• Cultural Attractions: Visit historic government buildings, archaeological sites, and the aviation museum to immerse yourself in local history.
• Charming Downtown: Explore unique shops and local eateries in the vibrant downtown area, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a range of family-friendly excursions and thrilling outdoor activities suitable for all ages.
• Comfortable Accommodations: Ridgecrest provides a variety of hotels with essential amenities for a pleasant stay.

Find great hotels in Ridgecrest

Discover a variety of hotel accommodations in Ridgecrest, California, perfect for every traveler. Whether you're on a family vacation, a business trip, or traveling with pets, Ridgecrest hotels offer essential services and amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Explore the best options for your needs and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere that this charming town has to offer.

• Clarion Inn Near China Lake Naval Station: This 3-star hotel is perfect for families and business travelers alike, offering a welcoming atmosphere for both humans and their pets. With amenities like complimentary cribs and pet-friendly policies, it ensures a comfortable stay for all. Guests appreciate the spacious accommodations and friendly staff. Located conveniently in Ridgecrest, the Clarion Inn caters to those looking for a blend of relaxation and practicality, making it an ideal choice for your California getaway.
• Days Inn by Wyndham Ridgecrest near China Lake Naval Station: Offering a budget-friendly stay, this Days Inn boasts a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, making it a popular choice among travelers. The hotel features essential amenities, including shared playgrounds for children and pet-friendly options with designated areas for dogs. Its family-oriented environment and proximity to local attractions make it a great option for those looking to explore Ridgecrest without breaking the bank. Guests appreciate the convenience and comfort provided at this affordable accommodation.
• HomeTowne Studios by Red Roof Ridgecrest: Another 3-star option, HomeTowne Studios is known for its focus on long-term stays, making it ideal for business travelers. With a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, it provides essential amenities and a pet-friendly policy that accommodates various pet sizes. The hotel emphasizes convenience with its kitchen facilities in rooms, allowing guests to enjoy a home-like experience. Located in Ridgecrest, it offers a comfortable and practical choice for both work and leisure travelers.

Where to stay near Ridgecrest

Ridgecrest, California, offers an exciting blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery perfect for any traveler. Explore the charming downtown area, where unique shops and local eateries await. Venture into the nearby breathtaking landscapes, ideal for family-friendly excursions and thrilling outdoor activities. Whether you're hiking the scenic trails or soaking in the captivating atmosphere, Ridgecrest promises an unforgettable vacation experience filled with adventure and natural beauty.

• Inyokern: Nestled 8 miles from Ridgecrest, Inyokern is a charming city that offers visitors a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery. Known for its recreational areas and access to hiking trails, it's an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. The area's geographic location allows easy access to national parks and forests, making it perfect for exploring the great outdoors. While the number of travelers remains fairly stable year-round, expect a peak in visitor activity during April and from June to July, when the weather is particularly inviting for outdoor pursuits.
• Trona: Situated 19 miles from Ridgecrest, Trona is a hidden gem that beckons adventurers and scenery lovers alike. This city offers a unique travel experience with its proximity to national parks and stunning desert landscapes. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including exploring recreational areas, shopping, and catching a show at the local theater. Like Inyokern, Trona sees a steady flow of tourists, with peak times in June to July and October, when the weather is ideal for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.
• Searles: Located 10 miles from Ridgecrest, Searles is a quaint village known for its seasonal influx of visitors, peaking from July to September. Travelers flock here for its beautiful outdoor surroundings and recreational areas. The village’s close proximity to national parks and the desert offers ample opportunities for exploration and adventure. With fewer visitors in spring and winter months, Searles provides a more tranquil setting for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the serenity of the landscape.

Things to do in Ridgecrest

Ridgecrest offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty, making it an ideal vacation destination. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking along picturesque trails, playing a round of golf at local courses, and exploring the unique desert landscape. Don't miss the chance to discover various attractions that highlight the area's natural wonders and recreational opportunities.

Shopping

In Ridgecrest, you'll find local shops like the Ridgecrest Plaza for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Valley Plaza Mall in Bakersfield for a larger selection of stores, including popular retail chains and dining options.

Recreation

In Ridgecrest, the Sagebrush Wellness Center offers holistic treatments and yoga classes in a serene environment, promoting relaxation and rejuvenation. Nearby, enjoy hiking in the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains, where you can connect with nature and enhance your well-being through outdoor activities.

Adventure

Explore the scenic beauty of the Mojave National Preserve, where you can hike through stunning desert landscapes and witness unique wildlife. For a thrilling experience, venture to the nearby Red Rock Canyon for rock climbing and breathtaking views of the vibrant rock formations.

Nightlife

Experience Ridgecrest's nightlife at the Desert Empire Fairgrounds for exciting events and local fairs. For a laid-back vibe, visit the Red Rock Canyon Cafe, where you can enjoy live music and hearty meals. End your night at the Historic USO building for community gatherings and entertainment.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ridgecrest

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Ridgecrest are January, March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Ridgecrest is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Ridgecrest is Wednesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy to specify your budget, desired location, and other preferences. You can arrange the results by price, starting with the lowest rates, so you can quickly find the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel category—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll see a list of sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Ridgecrest hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Ridgecrest

Ridgecrest, California, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering stunning scenery and a variety of attractions. Popular points of interest include historic government buildings, archaeological sites, and an aviation museum. These cultural experiences make Ridgecrest an ideal destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local history and vibrant heritage of the area.

• Ridgecrest City Hall: This historic civic government building showcases the architectural charm of Ridgecrest. Visitors can appreciate its cultural significance while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding area, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
• Maturango Museum: Dive into the rich history of the region at this archaeology and anthropology museum. It features fascinating exhibits that highlight Native American culture and local history, making it a cultural gem for enthusiasts.
• Petroglyph Park: Explore this remarkable landmark filled with ancient rock carvings. The petroglyphs offer a glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants, making it an intriguing site for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Best time to go to Ridgecrest

The best time to visit Ridgecrest can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Ridgecrest falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Ridgecrest falls in December, visitor numbers are low and weather is sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	46.6°F (8.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	48.7°F (9.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
March	54.3°F (12.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	62.2°F (16.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	High	Average
May	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	79.7°F (26.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	High	Slightly High
July	86.2°F (30.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	84.4°F (29.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	78.1°F (25.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	65.3°F (18.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Low	Average
November	53.2°F (11.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
December	45.0°F (7.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Ridgecrest

If you're planning to visit Ridgecrest, California, you have a couple of airport options. Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field) is 78 miles away, with nearby hotels like the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bakersfield, only 3 miles from the airport, offering a 24-hour airport shuttle service. Inyokern, CA (IYK) is much closer at 9 miles away, with hotels such as Springhill Suites by Marriott Ridgecrest and Clarion Inn Near China Lake Naval Station, both around 9 miles from the airport. For a convenient stay, these hotels provide easy access to Inyokern Airport, making your travel plans hassle-free.