Cabins near Apple Valley, California offer shelter from temperature extremes that often reach over 100°F in summer and below freezing in winter. Located in the high desert at approximately 3,000 feet elevation, this region experiences significant temperature swings between day and night. The desert landscape features Joshua trees, yucca plants, and scattered juniper throughout the camping areas.
What to do
Hiking to natural hot springs: Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp Retreat provides access to natural hot springs via trails starting on the property. "The hike to the hot springs was fairly tough, but we found it easily with the trail starting right on the property," notes Jessica B. The hot springs create opportunities for therapeutic hot-cold plunges in the adjacent creek.
Explore mining history: Calico Ghost Town combines camping with historical exploration. "The ghost town is walking distance through a short cut or you can quickly drive over to the parking lot," explains Corey O. The site includes abandoned mines, historical buildings, and organized activities. "This place has cool little mining caves and a cool train for kids to ride on," adds Brittney C.
Desert hiking: Mojave River Forks Regional Park offers hiking trails through desert terrain. "There are easy to make hikes - meaning not necessarily any specific trails at the campground, but there are plenty of places to explore and wander from the campground," explains Bower. The Pacific Crest Trail passes nearby for more serious hikers.
What campers like
Cabin variety: Several campgrounds offer distinct cabin options to match different needs. At North Shore Campground, "They also have cabins if you do not want to use a tent or RV," notes Ed E. Cabins range from basic shelter to more equipped accommodations with varying amenities.
Lake access: North Shore Campground provides direct water access from some cabin sites. "We tent camp by the water! Will definitely recommend to anyone!" shares Sandi B. Other reviewers note the lakefront location as a significant advantage for fishing and kayaking opportunities.
Pet-friendly options: Lone Wolf Colony welcomes pets at their cabin accommodations. "We are a pet friendly facility. 2 pets permitted per RV," explains Sara H. Most cabin locations around Apple Valley have specific pet policies, with many allowing up to two pets per cabin.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Temperature extremes affect comfort at desert campgrounds. "I would avoid camping here during the summer since it does get very hot. It is closed during the winter months, but you can still catch some cooler weather when it first opens during the season," advises Rick S. about Mojave River Forks Regional Park.
Cabin conditions vary significantly: Maintenance and cleanliness can be inconsistent at some locations. "Filthy, Dusty, Rude, One and Done," reports Chris M. about one experience, while others note pleasant stays at the same locations. Recent reviews provide the most current information about specific cabin conditions.
Weekend crowding: Many campgrounds experience heavy weekend use due to proximity to population centers. "Being so close to LA means lots of in and out traffic and it shows," explains Charlie C. about Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground. "Will I go again on a weekend? NO!! Locals go up there to party and we had a group arrive at midnight and started blasting heavy metal music until 3AM!!!!"
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity centers: Barstow-Calico KOA provides dedicated family amenities. "The kids loved the pool and other kids to play with. Great game room with pool, foosball, air hockey etc. big playground and easy campground to bike around," notes Jennifer H. These structured activities help keep children entertained.
Bring supplies for cabin stays: Most cabins provide minimal amenities. "Most sites have tree coverage. Has a fire pit at each spot. Has picnic table, but very splintery, bring covers," advises Katarina A. about Crystal Lake. Kitchen facilities are typically limited or non-existent, requiring campers to bring cooking equipment.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds experience significant noise issues. "The sites are well spaced, good tree cover. Very nice patch of land. Quiet," explains Andrew B. about North Shore Campground. However, locations near highways like Barstow-Calico KOA report traffic noise throughout the night.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Bonita Ranch Campground offers more generous spacing between sites. "Spaces aren't too close together either. The creek running behind the camp is great to explore, and a waterfall is a short hike away," notes Jonathan G. This provides more privacy than tightly packed alternatives.
Hookup availability: Cabin sites often include adjacent RV hookups for hybrid camping options. "We have 3 RV lots; 'A Lot' is for RV's 34' or smaller. 'B Lot' is for RV's 35' or larger 'C Lot' is for RV's large or small," explains a reviewer at Lone Wolf Colony. Many cabin locations offer water and electric connections for portable equipment.
Reservation requirements: Most cabin accommodations require advance booking. "Booked this campground for 3 nights, in large part for the hot showers," shares a reviewer about their stay. Weekend availability is particularly limited during peak seasons from spring through fall.
