The desert region surrounding Bermuda Dunes, California sits at approximately 20 feet below sea level, creating unique camping conditions with dramatic temperature shifts between day and night. The area experiences less than 4 inches of rainfall annually, making it one of the driest camping destinations in California. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F, while winter nights can drop to the low 40s.
What to do
Mineral hot springs exploration: Visit Catalina Spa and RV Resort where natural hot springs offer therapeutic soaking experiences. A reviewer noted, "They are fed by natural hot springs and warmer than most hot tubs. The camp ground was tidy and the sports were separated by shrubbery for privacy."
Mountain hiking: From Marion Mountain, access numerous trails with elevation gains ranging from 800-2,500 feet. "Great location to explore and hike around right off the campground! The trails were relatively quiet so I would recommend taking a hike if you are looking for quiet and solitude," commented a visitor.
Desert wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground offer opportunities to spot desert bighorn sheep, roadrunners, and jackrabbits. "We rented a boat and went out on the lake to do some fishing. We didn't catch anything but we did see some bald eagles which was super cool!" shared a camper.
Stargazing programs: The dark skies near Twentynine Palms Resort provide exceptional night sky viewing. "The Dark Skies program at the observatory near by... was sold out for the next three months so if you are going to be here maybe you should plan ahead if you want to experience the observatory program," advised a recent guest.
What campers like
Natural hot tubs with varying temperatures: The thermal waters at Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA maintain constant heat without chemicals. "3 hot spring tubs. Pool is warm and wall stops wind. Many activities for kids miniature golf, jump board, play ground. Many activities for adults as well," observed a camper.
Private camping spaces: Many glamping sites close to Bermuda Dunes, California feature natural barriers between sites. At Happy Traveler RV Park, "Each space is surrounded by 15ft hedges to provide privacy so don't have to worry about closing the blinds and you can use your patio as you please without people bothering you."
Year-round accessibility: Unlike seasonal mountain destinations, desert camping areas maintain operations throughout the year. Lake Hemet Campground remains open even during winter months. "My friends and I have been camping here for New Years and other random summer/holiday weekends for about 5 years now. It's only 45min. Away from home."
Central location for day trips: The position between Joshua Tree and Palm Springs creates a strategic base for multiple excursions. "The location is fairly central with Palm Springs only minutes away, wine country in Temecula about 1.5 hours and Joshua Tree Park about 45 minutes," mentioned a Catalina Spa visitor.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Several campgrounds use well water with mineral content. At Oasis Palms RV Resort, "The water is NOT SAFE to drink or cook with due to excessive arsenic and fluoride. There are however 3 locations in the park with reverse osmosis filters to fill water jugs."
Wind intensity: Desert wind patterns can disrupt camping equipment and comfort. "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," warned a KOA visitor.
Temperature extremes: Sites near Lake Skinner Recreation Area experience rapid temperature drops after sunset. "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."
Reservation requirements: During peak season (October-March), glamping accommodations near Bermuda Dunes fill quickly. "We were able to get a first come first serve site on a Saturday in October. Most sites were reserved but not everyone showed up. For first come first serve you must pay via cash or check using the drop box."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation alternatives: While many desert lakes prohibit swimming, family-friendly water features exist. "They have a super nice splash pad park that's no additional cost! There are lots of walking trails," shared a Lake Skinner visitor.
Multi-generational activities: Look for campgrounds with structured recreation for different age groups. "Every campsite had a fire pit which was nice. Hemet Lake itself is beautiful and the view while fishing was amazing. The small market had any essentials you may need. Hand scooped ice cream was pretty good..great for the kids."
Protection from elements: Desert camping with children requires additional preparations. "No shade at sites and some are pretty tight. Overall it's a nice place," noted a camper at Lake Skinner. Bringing portable shade structures is essential when camping with children.
On-site amenities: Thousand Trails Idyllwild offers family-friendly alternatives when weather changes plans. "The campground is big with lots of different spaces dedicated to cabins, RV's, tents etc so nothing feels too cramped or noisy. They also recently opened a little convenience store where you can get the necessities."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many desert and mountain campgrounds have uneven parking areas. "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. Side to side level took one board under left side."
Access road considerations: Mountain approaches require planning for larger vehicles. "Windy (paved) road to get in so could be tricky for rigs >25 feet. Water only turned on during weekends while we were there, though water available down the road in another campground."
Storage advantages: Some glamping facilities near Bermuda Dunes offer equipment storage options. "We've been here for about 4 weeks and are going to store our rig and car here for a month before returning for another 3 weeks in Jan-Feb. Staff is outstanding."
Site selection strategy: For the best glamping experience close to Bermuda Dunes, California, request specific site numbers. "We stayed in spot #421 which I think is the best one here because none parked to the immediate sides and has a big hill on the side for exercise and adds privacy. Some sites looked uneven but this one was surprisingly even."
