Glamping options near Banning, California span across the San Jacinto Mountains at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 8,000 feet, creating distinct climate zones that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Winter nights at higher elevation sites can drop below freezing, while summer daytime temperatures in lower elevation areas regularly exceed 90°F. Most campgrounds in this region remain accessible year-round, though mountain sites may have seasonal restrictions due to snow.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Marion Mountain Campground serves as an excellent basecamp for hikers with the trailhead to Mount San Jacinto starting directly within the campground. "This is a pretty secluded spot. Great hiking or backpacking spots that lead to the peak. We camped for one night... The Exploration trail weaves around them up to the peak and makes a great hike," notes a camper at Marion Mountain.
Water activities: Seven Oaks Lodge offers access to the Santa Ana River with shallow areas ideal for wading on hot days. A visitor reports, "After a quick set up, it was in the river we went. With temperature nearing 90 or at least it dealt like it, the mountain-cooled stream was just what our fam needed to get unbound and grounded." Water levels vary seasonally, with spring typically offering the highest flow rates.
Stargazing opportunities: The Keller Peak Yellow Post Sites provide exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "I've camped at the Keller Peak yellow post sites more than two dozen times over the years and, at their best, they're incredible. The scenery and isolation are superb—starry skies, quiet nights, and that deep-woods stillness that's getting harder to find," shares a regular visitor to Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Marion Mountain offers well-spaced campsites with natural buffers between them. "Awesome quiet campground for a more 'dispersed' camping feel. We took site #20, it was little bit of a trek from the parking spot to our camp, but the site was extremely spacious and secluded," explains a visitor who appreciated the privacy.
Mineral hot springs: Catalina Spa and RV Resort features natural hot spring-fed pools that many campers consider the highlight of their stay. According to a camper, "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." The pools maintain consistent temperatures year-round regardless of outside weather conditions.
Fishing opportunities: Fisherman's Retreat maintains three stocked lakes that attract anglers throughout the year. "There are 3 lakes that are stocked weekly or bi weekly. It's fun to watch the ducks & the pelicans flying around and landing & swimming on the water," explains a regular visitor who enjoys both the fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Campsite reservations: Most glamping accommodations require advance booking, especially during peak season (May-September). At Lake Hemet Campground, a visitor notes, "I took my boys camping for the weekend and Lake Hemet campground where we had a good time, but wish we would have gone during the week. There was a large group blasting their stereo with a DJ and they set off fireworks."
Wind conditions: Desert-adjacent glamping locations often experience significant wind events. One camper at Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA warns, "Way too windy. We had tents and trailers. None of us slept. The trailer rocked horribly and the tents were filled with dirt. The yurts walls were impacted by the wind and the maintenance people were out trying to fix them."
Fire restrictions: Many glamping sites near Banning enforce seasonal fire bans. "There are fire rings but fires are not always permitted so be sure to check with the station just at the bottom of Keller Peak road," advises a camper. Some locations like Thousand Trails Idyllwild prohibit wood fires completely but allow propane fire pits as alternatives.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Cherry Valley Lakes offers family-friendly pool facilities that provide relief from summer heat. A visitor mentions, "This Park has bathrooms, showers, a laundry facility, a heated pool and spa, a playground, two catch and release fishing ponds (no license required, but only barbless hooks are allowed), and a youth center."
Activity planning: Glamping close to Banning, California often includes organized recreation programs at larger resorts. "We visited this campsite with 4 other families. We thoroughly enjoyed the stream, the trails, the pool and all the good times," shares a family who stayed at Seven Oaks Lodge.
Campsite selection: At Lake Hemet, certain areas provide better family experiences than others. "The only negative is the crowds for the water park area on the weekends. Don't want a spot too close," advises a camper with children. Request sites away from high-traffic amenities when booking if you want a quieter experience.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many glamping sites near Banning require significant leveling equipment. "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," reports an RV owner at Thousand Trails Idyllwild. Bring extra leveling blocks when camping in mountain locations.
Hookup conditions: Sewer connections at some locations require extra attention. One RVer at Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA noted, "Sites are not level. Our dump hookup ended up being uphill so one has to milk the house to empty (our neighbors had the same situation)." Extended sewer hoses and supports can help manage these situations.
Weather preparation: RVers need to prepare for rapid temperature changes, especially at higher elevations. "Weather was cold and windy but not too bad. 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," advises a visitor to Lake Hemet Campground.
