Relocating for NAWS China Lake? Living Guide for New Hires

Updated on:
May 27, 2025

🎯 Operation: Move to Ridgecrest for Base Work

How to thrive in Ridgecrest, CA while working at China Lake—without melting in the desert or dying of boredom.

So, you've got orders (or a shiny new job offer) at Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, and you're eyeing Ridgecrest, CA, as your new home base.

First off—congrats. You’re about to join a community that’s equal parts desert charm and defense-tech hub. Let’s break down everything you need to know to make your move smoother than a stealth bomber.

🛬 Welcome to Ridgecrest: The Mojave's Best-Kept Secret

Nestled in the Indian Wells Valley, Ridgecrest is surrounded by four mountain ranges and offers a rare blend of small-town calm and top-secret innovation.

Read more: About Ridgecrest

🏠 Housing: Where to Hang Your Hat

10 Best trails and hikes in Ridgecrest | AllTrails

🛏️ On-Base Living

If you’re eligible, Liberty Military Housing has move-in-ready spots with no out-of-pocket costs, included utilities, and no hidden fees. Basically, it's plug-and-play living.

👉 Check it out here

🏡 Off-Base Living

Prefer to keep things civilian? Ridgecrest offers everything from studio apartments to family homes with yards big enough for weekend cornhole tournaments.

  • Buying? Median home price is ~$263,000 — nearly half the CA average

Browse listings

💼 Jobs: Beyond the Base

While NAWS China Lake is the MVP of local employment, Ridgecrest has a solid supporting cast:

🎓 Education: Schools That Make the Grade

Aerial Views of Cerro Coso Community College - YouTube

If you’ve got kids—or are planning to earn a degree while stationed—Ridgecrest delivers:

Check the full schools guide here

🛒 Amenities: Small Town, Big Perks

Worried about shopping? Ridgecrest has what you need.

  • Groceries: Walmart, Albertsons, Stater Bros.
  • Dining: Try Mon Reve (French café), Tokyo House, or Casey’s Steaks
  • Healthcare: Ridgecrest Regional Hospital has over 20 specialty clinics and urgent care options

Explore more on where to shop and eat

🌄 Recreation: Weekend Warrior Central

Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake - Présentation

Ridgecrest is surrounded by adventures:

  • Hiking: Check out Rademacher Hills or Indian Wells Canyon
  • Off-Roading: Jawbone Canyon and Trona Pinnacles are nearby
  • Petroglyphs: Seriously—ancient rock art older than your clearance

Plan a trip: The Great Outdoors Near Ridgecrest, CA

📅 Community Events: Plug Into the Culture

Ridgecrest punches above its weight when it comes to fun:

  • Petroglyph Festival – Parades, tours, food, and Native American art
  • Ridgecrest Cinemas – Recliner chairs and newly released movies
  • Ridgecrest Night Out – Food trucks, games, live music, and beer

See the event calendar
Or check out our top picks for a night out

📝 Final Checklist: Ridgecrest Move-In Ops

✅ Pick your housing (on or off base)
✅ Research schools and enroll early
✅ Set up your utilities and internet (yes, we have fiber)
✅ Hit the DMV (but bring snacks—it’s still the DMV)
✅ Introduce yourself at a community event (we don’t bite)

Welcome to Ridgecrest, where the sky is clear, the missions are critical, and the burritos are massive. Whether you're here for a tour or planning to plant roots, we’ve got what you need to land on your feet.

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