Camping in Baja is a truly unique experience. The stunning desert landscapes, the wide-open skies, and the incredible solitude make it a paradise for adventurers. But as we learned the hard way, Baja's beauty comes with its own set of challenges—challenges that can be made much easier with the right gear. Chief among these: don’t forget your rainfly.
Set up and ready for sunset in Cataviña. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Our Rainfly Mistake
When we set out for Baja in our Ford Bronco equipped with a Yakima rooftop tent, we thought we were ready for anything. We carefully packed everything we thought we’d need. But in an effort to save space, we decided to leave the rainfly behind. After all, it’s Baja, right? A place where sunburns are more common than rainstorms. We figured we’d never need it.
That turned out to be a major miscalculation. Our first night in Cataviña was beautiful. This remote stretch of Baja is known for its otherworldly landscape—huge boulders, towering cardón cacti, and surreal boojum trees that look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book. It’s a popular stop on the Baja 1000 route and a favorite for overland campers.
The desert setting was peaceful, and we drifted off under a canopy of stars. But the next morning, we woke up to a cold, damp surprise. The tent’s fabric and our sleeping bags were soaked with dew. It was enough to leave us shivering and a bit miserable. In that moment, we realized how much easier life would have been if we’d packed the rainfly. While it might not have rained, the rainfly would have provided a layer of protection against the overnight moisture and made for a more comfortable night.
Waking up cold and wet while camping in Cataviña. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Lessons Learned and Tips for Baja Camping
Camping in Baja offers some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ll ever find. But you need to come prepared. Here are a few tips we learned from our experience:
Bring Your Rainfly: Even if you think it never rains in Baja, the morning dew can drench your tent and sleeping gear. The rainfly provides extra insulation and keeps your tent drier and warmer.
Pack for the Unexpected: Baja’s environment can be unpredictable. Nights are often cooler than you expect, and even the driest deserts can have damp mornings.
Drying Out Is Easy: One great thing about Baja is the warm, sunny weather during the day. If your gear does get wet, you can often dry it out quickly by laying it in the sun or hanging it on a line.
Prepare for Remote Locations: Many of the best camping spots, like Cataviña, are miles from the nearest town. Plan ahead and carry enough water, fuel, and food. You’ll also want to pack a good map or GPS, as cell service can be spotty.
A coyote high on the rocks in Catviña looking for some food. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Why Cataviña Is Worth Stoping
Despite the dew-soaked gear, camping in Cataviña remains one of our favorite Baja experiences. The area is a camper’s dream. You can pull off the road and set up camp almost anywhere. The wildlife—coyotes howling in the distance, birds fluttering among the rocks—and the stark, beautiful terrain make it feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. The boulder fields and unique vegetation invite endless exploration. And because it’s so remote, you’ll often have the place all to yourself.
If you plan to camp in Cataviña or anywhere else in Baja, make sure you’re fully prepared. Learn from our mistake: pack the rainfly, prepare for cooler nights, and ensure you have enough supplies to enjoy the wild, untouched beauty of this incredible region.
