The Anza region sits at elevations between 3,900-4,100 feet in Southern California's high desert, creating a distinct climate that transitions from hot summers to cool winters with occasional snow. Desert terrain dominates the southern portions while pine forests cover the northern mountains, offering campers diverse landscapes within a relatively small area. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing during December through February.
What to Do
Stargazing opportunities: At Borrego Palm Canyon Campground, the dark skies provide exceptional astronomy experiences. "I've camped here a couple of times. I come here mostly for the dark skies for astrophotography. It's a nice campground, clean bathrooms and showers," notes reviewer Melissa O.
Desert hiking trails: The Palm Canyon area offers multiple trail options within walking distance of campsites. "The palm canyon hike is really nice. The sites aren't huge and it's definitely desert camping," explains Joanne P., who visited during cooler months.
Mountain hiking routes: At Marion Mountain Campground, hikers can access trails directly from camp. "This is a great place to camp if you plan to hike Mount San Jacinito via the Marion Mountain trail because the trailhead starts in the campground," shares Shannon C. Another visitor mentions, "Great area to explore and hike around right off the campground! The trails were relatively quiet."
What Campers Like
Natural hot springs: At Catalina Spa and RV Resort, the mineral pools provide unique relaxation. "The main draw is definitely the pools. They're fueled by the hot springs, so the pool is at about 90 degrees and the hot tub a bit hotter," explains Emma J. Another camper added, "We hit the jackpot with this location. The pools are fed by natural hot springs and warmer than most hot tubs."
Water recreation: Summer visitors enjoy tubing and water activities at La Jolla Indian Campground. "We love taking the kids near the end of summer for tubing," shares Monica M. The campground sits alongside the San Luis Rey River, providing access to water-based recreation, though conditions vary seasonally.
Wildlife viewing: The forested campgrounds near Palomar Mountain offer excellent bird watching opportunities. "We were constantly surrounded and graced by the sounds of woodpeckers, pigeons, mountain quail, bluebirds, jays, and more," reports Elise F. about Fry Creek Campground. At Wilderness Lakes RV Resort, campers observe waterfowl: "Nice canals running through the park, with ducks and their ducklings trailing behind."
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: Mountain camping near Anza requires preparation for winter conditions. "Bring insulation for your water hose or have some type of method that will keep your water lines from freezing. Our water hose froze the first night," warns Donovan at Lake Hemet Campground.
Insect activity: Several campgrounds report significant bug populations. At Fry Creek, a camper warns: "Beware the unreal amount of mosquitos." Another camper at Marion Mountain confirms: "One important note though is this entire area is swarmed with flies. We brought nets to put around our faces and without these, I don't think I would have survived."
Wind exposure: Desert campgrounds experience frequent strong winds. A camper at Borrego Palm Canyon notes: "Beautiful in a desert way. Can get super duper windy." Similarly, at Catalina Spa, a reviewer mentioned: "Only issue is it is terribly windy most of the time."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water features for kids: Lake Skinner Recreation Area offers family-friendly splash pads. "They have a super nice splash pad park that's no additional cost! There are lots of walking trails," reports Jennifer D. Another visitor adds: "Splash pad open during the summer which is great for kids and adults alike."
Recreational amenities: Several campgrounds provide activities specifically designed for children. "We enjoyed the pool, watching the ducks in the pond, and the kids loved the basketball court," writes a camper about Wilderness Lakes. Catalina Spa offers "mini golf, pickle ball, and shuffle board, just to name a few."
Site selection for families: When booking at Marion Mountain, consider site layout. "We did find that the spots in the center lacked privacy. And the spots to the East/backside of the campground were our least favorites," advises Brittany N. who recommends sites 6-9 or 22-24 for group camping.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: At Thousand Trails Idyllwild, RVers face navigation issues. "Very steep and tight roads throughout campground, but gorgeous once you're done navigating. Most sites are electric and water only," reports Matt. Another camper cautions: "Site 414 had no cell coverage for our Verizon phones. After a drive through the park we found cell coverage only works in lower part of the park."
Leveling considerations: Uneven sites present challenges at several campgrounds. "Our site was not level at all. We carry a lot of leveling blocks and are not even close to level still nose down with 4 2x8s and Jack at max extension," notes a visitor to Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Hookup limitations: Wilderness Lakes RV Resort visitors report electrical system concerns. "They don't have enough 50amp sites and not all of them are always working. This park is first come/first served and they don't prohibit a 30amp rig from taking a 50amp site," explains david N., who recommends planning accordingly.
