The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ridgecrest leads with a 9.1 cleanliness score and 9.8 Wi-Fi, the fastest in the area. For pet-friendly stays with a free first pet, the Red Roof Inn Ridgecrest offers strong value with an 8.0 overall rating. Both are top-tier options near the China Lake Naval Station.
Inyokern sits right at the doorstep of the China Lake Naval Station and Death Valley, making a clean, reliable hotel essential after a long day.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 5400+ total verified guest reviews across 13 properties in the Ridgecrest area, using a 7.9/10 average guest score as the baseline to pinpoint the very best hotels in Inyokern and nearby.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best for Wi-Fi: #6 Holiday Inn Express & Suites→ Rates
- Cleanest rooms: #13 Hampton Inn & Suites→ Rates
- Pet-friendly: #7 Red Roof Inn Ridgecrest→ Rates
#4 Clarion Inn Near China Lake→ Rates - Value for money: #2 Days Inn by Wyndham→ Rates
#12 America Inn & Suites→ Rates - Best breakfast: #11 SpringHill Suites Ridgecrest→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Baymont by Wyndham Ridgecrest | (900+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Days Inn by Wyndham Ridgecrest near China Lake | (650+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Howard Johnson by Wyndham Ridgecrest | (650+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Clarion Inn Near China Lake Naval Station | (650+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Best Western China Lake Inn | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ridgecrest | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Red Roof Inn Ridgecrest | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Quality Inn Near China Lake Naval Station | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 9. A Nights Inn | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Hotel Europa Ridgecrest | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 11. SpringHill Suites Ridgecrest | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 12. America Inn & Suites | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Hampton Inn & Suites Ridgecrest | (50+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: 13 Best Hotels in Inyokern
1. Baymont by Wyndham Ridgecrest
The Vibe
This is the highest-reviewed property for its location at 8.4, sitting right in the Ridgecrest town center. You get free private parking and a solid 8.0 value score, making it a straightforward pick for anyone needing quick access to China Lake Boulevard businesses and restaurants.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include free Wi-Fi and guests consistently praise the front desk staff for being “very polite and professional.” The included breakfast runs from 5–9 AM at the attached Denny’s—you grab your coupon at the front office. There’s a $50 damage deposit at check-in, and the cancellation policy shifts depending on which rate you book. While it’s a 2-star property, the staff score of 8.6 and location ease make it a reliable fallback.
Choose this if: You want the most central Ridgecrest location with free parking and a very early breakfast option.
2. Days Inn by Wyndham Ridgecrest near China Lake Naval Station
The Vibe
With an 8.5 cleanliness and 8.6 value score, this is one of the cleaner, more affordable options. Guests love the dedicated dog area, and the staff rating of 8.9 is among the highest of all the budget properties. The pool view rooms are a nice bonus in the desert heat.
What You Actually Get
You get free parking at the hotel, free Wi-Fi, and an outdoor swimming pool. The breakfast situation has changed post-COVID—currently it’s a hot continental breakfast, but call ahead to confirm. Pet fees do apply if you’re bringing a dog. Groups booking more than 5 rooms face different policies, so check that if you’re traveling with a team. The BBQ facilities are a rare find for this price point.
Choose this if: You’re bringing a dog and want clean, comfortable rooms with pool access near China Lake.
Check Tonight’s Price for Days Inn by Wyndham Ridgecrest near China Lake Naval Station →
3. Howard Johnson by Wyndham Ridgecrest, CA
The Vibe
The staff score here ties at 8.9, and guests rave about Host Ken making fresh Belgian waffles at breakfast. The 8.1 value score is solid, and the free breakfast has a “great variety of items,” per reviews. It’s a classic roadside motel done right for the Ridgecrest area.
What You Actually Get
Every room includes a mini-fridge and microwave, which makes it a top pick for longer stays or anyone who wants to stash snacks. Free Wi-Fi (7.2 score), free on-site parking, and air conditioning come standard. The pet-friendly policy allows pets with charges, and the staff can sometimes accommodate splitting a suite into two rooms—just call ahead. No bathtubs or Jacuzzis here, so if that matters, aim for the Quality Inn.
Choose this if: You need a mini-fridge and microwave for road-trip snacks and value a staff that goes the extra mile.
Check Tonight’s Price for Howard Johnson by Wyndham Ridgecrest, CA →
4. Clarion Inn Near China Lake Naval Station
The Vibe
Guests describe it as “clean, quiet,” with a pool and jacuzzi that get consistent praise. The Wi-Fi scores a 9.0, making it the second-fastest in this list. The garden and mountain views add a touch of calm that’s rare for a China Lake Blvd property.
What You Actually Get
This is a 4-star rated hotel with an outdoor pool, fitness center, and BBQ facilities on a garden property. Pets are allowed with charges, and connecting rooms are available—just ask the front desk at check-in. Breakfast-included rates give you two coupons for a free breakfast at nearby Ridgecrest restaurants, which means you’re not stuck with a buffet. Early check-in is possible after 12 PM, and the late check-out can be arranged.
Choose this if: You want a pool, garden views, and free breakfast at a local restaurant rather than a hotel buffet.
Check Tonight’s Price for Clarion Inn Near China Lake Naval Station →
5. Best Western China Lake Inn
The Vibe
This is the no-pets-allowed property in the list, so it appeals to travelers with allergies or those who prefer a quieter atmosphere. The 8.4 cleanliness and 8.1 comfort scores outrank several pricier options. Guests mention “clean rooms, hot breakfast, and good customer service” consistently.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and you get access to the outdoor pool and fitness center. Breakfast is hot and included. Parking is free and on-site, and RV parking is available on the road beside the lot—not designated spots, but feasible. Late check-in between 11 PM and 1 AM is possible if you arrange it. Three sets of connecting rooms exist, including a King-to-double-Queen option. Groups booking more than 9 rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: You prefer a pet-free environment and want reliable hot breakfast and a pool.
6. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ridgecrest – China Lake by IHG
The Vibe
This is the highest-rated property in the entire list at 8.6 overall. The 9.8 Wi-Fi is astonishing for the area—guests can actually stream and work without drops. The 9.1 cleanliness and 9.4 comfort scores set it apart. Guests call it “very good breakfast with veg options” and note the hotel “smelled fresh when entering lobby.”
What You Actually Get
You get free parking, free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and an outdoor swimming pool. The good breakfast is included, and the guest reviews highlight the egg and bread variety. Pets are allowed at $25 per night. There’s a $50 damage deposit required at check-in, which is standard for the area. The check-out at 12 PM gives you an extra hour compared to most properties here.
Choose this if: You need reliable, fast internet for work or streaming and want the highest comfort standards in the area.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ridgecrest – China Lake by IHG →
7. Red Roof Inn Ridgecrest
The Vibe
This is the pet-friendliest pick: one well-behaved domestic pet stays free, and a second is $15/night. The 9.0 staff score is among the highest in the guide, and guests call the rooms “clean, quiet, very spacious.” The 8.5 location score makes it easy to reach nearby attractions.
What You Actually Get
The property has an elevator on the south side—important if you have mobility issues or heavy luggage. The outdoor pool is open (hours: 8 AM–9 PM weekdays, 7 AM–9 PM weekends), though the hot tub was out of service as of recent reports. Free Wi-Fi (8.5), free parking, a fitness center, and a very good included breakfast round out the offering. Pets must be declared at check-in. Groups booking more than 5 rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: You’re traveling with a pet (especially one dog) and want spacious rooms with an elevator and pool.
8. Quality Inn Near China Lake Naval Station
The Vibe
If you want an in-room hot tub, this is your only shot in Ridgecrest. The 9.0 Wi-Fi score ties with the Clarion, and the 8.4 value score is the highest of any 4-star property here. Guests say “room is clean, the included breakfast is good” and mention the “very friendly” staff.
What You Actually Get
Every room comes with a microwave, fridge, safe, and coffee maker. The two hot-tub rooms exist but you need to request them specifically. Pets are allowed at $29 per night per pet (up to 35 lbs). There’s an outdoor pool, free parking, and free Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included. The cancellation policy requires you to check the specific dates when you book.
Choose this if: An in-room hot tub is non-negotiable, or you want the best Wi-Fi among the budget-conscious 4-star options.
Check Tonight’s Price for Quality Inn Near China Lake Naval Station →
9. A Nights Inn
The Vibe
The cheapest option with an 8.1 location score and free private parking. It’s across the street from Ridgecrest Town Center, so you can walk to fast food and shops. The 7.6 cleanliness is lower than the top picks, but the 8.8 staff score shows effort from the team.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi (7.5), free private parking on site, and no pet fees because pets are not allowed. There’s no breakfast here, no pool, and no frills. Children of all ages are welcome and there’s no age requirement for check-in. The cancellation policies vary, so check your rate carefully.
Choose this if: Budget is your #1 concern and you just need a clean, staff-friendly room near the Town Center.
10. Hotel Europa Ridgecrest
The Vibe
This is your best bet for flexible timing—check-in starts at 1:30 PM and check-out stretches to 12:30 PM. The 8.4 location and 8.2 value scores are solid. Just know the Wi-Fi here scores a 6.7, the lowest on the list, so download your maps and shows ahead of time.
What You Actually Get
Free parking and free Wi-Fi come standard. Pets are allowed at $10 per pet per day—the cheapest pet fee in the area. There’s no breakfast here despite some past confusion—the hotel confirmed they don’t serve it. The 7.5 comfort score is decent for the price. No pool or fitness center, so this is strictly a sleep-and-go operation.
Choose this if: You need the earliest check-in or the latest check-out, or you’re traveling with a pet on a tight budget.
11. SpringHill Suites Ridgecrest
The Vibe
This is the newly renovated standout for comfort (8.8) and value (8.7). Guests rave about the “heated pool” and spa, plus the “great location near Death Valley National Park.” The 8.5 facilities score is second only to the Holiday Inn Express in this list.
What You Actually Get
Free bikes are available for guests, plus an outdoor heated swimming pool, fitness center, and a bar. The exceptional breakfast is included and gets strong marks. Free parking at the hotel and free Wi-Fi (7.5) come standard. Pets are not allowed. Groups booking more than 9 rooms face different policies. The 12 PM check-out gives you a relaxed morning.
Choose this if: You want resort-style amenities (heated pool, spa, bar) and an exceptional breakfast after a day at Death Valley.
12. America Inn & Suites
The Vibe
The staff here goes above everything else—one guest recount says the manager personally helped arrange transport when there was no Uber or taxi in town. The 8.3 Wi-Fi is good for the area, and the 8.2 value and location scores make it a solid budgetary pick.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking on site and free Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included. Pets are not accepted (service dogs only). There’s a $100 damage deposit, which is higher than the typical $50. The property has cameras for security and a fixed-chair setup in the rooms—no recliners. No pool. Children all ages welcome, no age restriction for check-in.
Choose this if: You prioritize genuinely helpful staff who solve real problems over pool access.
13. Hampton Inn & Suites Ridgecrest
The Vibe
The newest addition with the highest cleanliness score in the entire guide at 9.2. Guests call it a “perfect place to stay” with “big and convenient rooms” and “a great value for money.” The 9.1 staff and 8.9 facilities scores back up the hype.
What You Actually Get
You get an indoor heated swimming pool—rare for this desert area—plus a fitness center and an on-site restaurant. The very good breakfast is included. Free parking and free Wi-Fi come standard. Pets are not allowed. No rooms with Jacuzzi tubs per the hotel’s response to guest questions. Check-out is at 12 PM, giving you a relaxed morning.
Choose this if: Cleanliness is your #1 priority—this scores 9.2, the highest on the list—and you want a heated indoor pool.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#6 Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ridgecrest
Top overall rating at 8.6/10, highest comfort (9.4) and Wi-Fi (9.8) scores—it’s the complete package for China Lake stays.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ridgecrest – China Lake by IHG →
💰 Best Value
#2 Days Inn by Wyndham Ridgecrest
8.2 score with cleanliness at 8.5, value at 8.6, and a staff score of 8.9—all at a budget-friendly price with pool access.
Check Tonight’s Price for Days Inn by Wyndham Ridgecrest near China Lake Naval Station →
🐕 Best Pet-Friendly
#7 Red Roof Inn Ridgecrest
One free pet, spacious rooms, an elevator, and an 8.0 overall score—the best balance for travelers with dogs.
How We Ranked These Ridgecrest Hotels
We combed through 13 properties in the Ridgecrest and Inyokern corridor, cross-referencing 5400+ verified guest reviews against policy details and amenity listings to find the most reliable hotels in Inyokern and the surrounding China Lake area.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 7.0+ overall and 100+ verified reviews to ensure statistical reliability
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and staff scores—the three categories that predict repeat bookings
- Amenity verification: Checked each property’s advertised facilities (pool, pet policy, breakfast) against actual guest review confirmations
- Location signals: Proximity to China Lake Naval Station, Death Valley access routes, and the Ridgecrest Town Center for dining
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these Ridgecrest hotels?
Yes, most properties in this area are pet-friendly. The Red Roof Inn Ridgecrest (#7) offers one free domestic pet, with a second pet at $15/night. Hotel Europa (#10) charges the lowest fee at $10/pet/night. The Holiday Inn Express (#6) charges $25/pet/night, and the Quality Inn (#8) charges $29/pet/night. Only the Best Western (#5), A Nights Inn (#9), SpringHill Suites (#11), America Inn (#12), and Hampton Inn (#13) do not allow pets.
Which hotels offer free cancellation?
Most properties in this list have cancellation and prepayment policies that vary by room type and rate. The Baymont (#1), Days Inn (#2), Howard Johnson (#3), Clarion (#4), Holiday Inn Express (#6), Red Roof Inn (#7), A Nights Inn (#9), Hotel Europa (#10), SpringHill Suites (#11), and Hampton Inn (#13) all have variable cancellation policies. You’ll need to enter specific dates to see each option’s conditions. The Best Western (#5), Quality Inn (#8), and America Inn (#12) require checking dates directly. We recommend booking refundable rates when possible.
Which hotels have the best breakfast?
The SpringHill Suites (#11) serves an exceptional included breakfast with strong reviews from guests. The Holiday Inn Express (#6) offers a good breakfast with vegetarian options and egg choices. The Baymont (#1) serves breakfast at the attached Denny’s with coupons from the front desk (5-9 AM). The Best Western (#5) and Hampton Inn (#13) include hot breakfast. The Howard Johnson (#3) has a Belgian waffle station that guests love. A Nights Inn (#9) and Hotel Europa (#10) do not offer breakfast.
How close are these hotels to Death Valley National Park?
All Ridgecrest hotels are roughly a 1-hour drive (about 75 miles) from the Furnace Creek area in Death Valley National Park. The SpringHill Suites (#11) and Hampton Inn (#13) on East Sydnor Avenue offer the easiest access to the Death Valley route via Highway 178. If you’re visiting Death Valley from Ridgecrest, the Holiday Inn Express (#6) or Hampton Inn (#13) make the best starting points given their comfort and early breakfast hours.
Which hotel has the fastest Wi-Fi?
The Holiday Inn Express & Suites (#6) has by far the fastest Wi-Fi in the area, scoring 9.8/10 from guest reviews. The Clarion Inn (#4) and Quality Inn (#8) both score 9.0/10. The Red Roof Inn (#7) and Days Inn (#2) both score 8.5/10. If internet speed is critical for remote work, choose the Holiday Inn Express — its 9.8 score is unmatched.
What’s the most walkable area in Ridgecrest?
The Ridgecrest Town Center area along China Lake Boulevard is the most walkable zone. A Nights Inn (#9) is directly across from the Town Center with shops and restaurants within walking distance. The Baymont (#1) and Howard Johnson (#3) are also on China Lake Boulevard with easy access to dining. The Quality Inn (#8) and America Inn (#12) on South China Lake Boulevard are near several restaurants. Properties on Norma Street (Red Roof Inn) and East Sydnor Avenue (SpringHill Suites, Hampton Inn) are quieter but require a short drive to restaurants.