Desert camping near Bermuda Dunes offers diverse terrain ranging from 600 feet below sea level at the Salton Sea to over 10,000 feet in the San Jacinto mountains. The area experiences extreme temperature variations, with winter nights often dropping below 40°F despite warm daytime temperatures. Campgrounds in the region feature distinctive desert landscapes dominated by boulder formations, Joshua trees, and palm oases that create natural microclimates.
What to do
Night sky viewing at high elevation sites: Jumbo Rocks Campground in Joshua Tree National Park offers exceptional stargazing opportunities away from light pollution. "I recommend visiting during a new moon. The sunsets and night sky have to be some of the best in the world," notes camper Chance C. from Jumbo Rocks Campground.
Desert hiking on varied terrain: Black Rock Campground provides direct access to multiple trails without driving. "Trails run right out of camp...lots of them...of all different difficulty levels. Something for everyone, and each of the trails we hiked, or came across were very well signed, which in the desert is appreciated," according to Ryan W. at Black Rock Campground.
Rock climbing for all skill levels: The massive boulder formations provide natural climbing opportunities. "I love this spot specifically because it is a great place to climb. It's conveniently located close to skull rock and discovery trail," shares Andrea C. about her experience at Jumbo Rocks Campground.
Lake fishing near campsites: Lake Cahuilla offers fishing access directly from shoreline campsites. "Many people were fishing. Our site backed up to the road through the campground and cars traveled well above the 15 mph limit," reports Kellie from Lake Cahuilla.
What campers like
Mineral hot springs for relaxation: Sky Valley RV Resort features natural hot spring pools. "We didn't plan to stop here. After we were driving for over 10 hours. We found this location online. And WOW!!!! Great experience.. the Mineral water pool's was a great refresher after long day!!!" shares Carlos D. at Sky Valley RV Resort.
Spacious sites with lake views: Lake Cahuilla offers waterfront camping with generous spacing. "Wide gravel sites, most with 50/30 amp service and water, many right on the small fishing lake. No trees or other screening between sites although not packed in like a standard RV park," notes Patrick M. from Lake Cahuilla.
Boulder formations for natural privacy: Indian Cove Campground features sites tucked between rock formations. "The sites are tucked into the rocks which block wind and kept us nice and warm at night. Bats flew just overhead for a couple hours and I thought it was magical!" explains Heather L. about her experience at Indian Cove.
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Bermuda Dunes: Multiple pet-friendly camping options exist throughout the region. "This is a very family friendly resort so on the weekends there are lots of families with kids. There are lots of activities such as mini golf, pickle ball, and shuffle board, just to name a few, but the main draw is definitely the pools," says Emma J. about Catalina Spa and RV Resort, which also welcomes pets.
What you should know
Desert wind conditions: Wind can be intense and unpredictable in the area. "Way too windy. We had tents and trailers. None of us slept. The trailer rocked horribly and the tents were filled with dirt," cautions theresa O. about her experience at Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA.
Limited water access in national park: Most Joshua Tree campgrounds lack water sources. "Jumbo Rocks Campground is an absolute gem for anyone looking to experience the surreal beauty of Joshua Tree. The campsites are tucked between massive granite boulders, offering natural windbreaks and a sense of privacy that's hard to find elsewhere," notes Jama A., adding that "facilities are basic but well-maintained: clean pit toilets, potable water stations."
Seasonal camping availability: Several campgrounds operate limited seasons due to extreme heat. "This campground was amazing. It was very hot in July so I went into town during peak afternoon hours but the morning and evenings at Jumbo Rocks are amazing!" advises Luc R. about summer camping at Jumbo Rocks.
Pet-friendly campground restrictions: While many campgrounds welcome dogs, trail access is limited. "This place was the perfect campground as far as I'm concerned. It wasn't busy at all when we were there in May. What I loved best was that it was pet friendly! My dog loved it as much as I did!" shares Heather L. about Indian Cove Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenity options: Multiple campgrounds offer specific family activities. "There is a pool in the summer and enough shade to stay as cool as the desert allows without A/C. There is a bike trail around the lake and fishing. Playgrounds and other child friendly activities available upon request," reports Sam T. about Lake Cahuilla.
Safety considerations for children: Open desert terrain requires supervision. "We did have a coyote visitor twice in the morning, so don't forget to keep your food/trash locked up from critters!" warns Sierra T. from Jumbo Rocks Campground.
Educational opportunities at campground centers: Some locations offer nature programs. "There is a small gift store in the DOI building that is accompanied by an excellent little art gallery. The featured artist was Diane Best. It was clearly inspired by the park. The ranger and host at the store were very helpful with information about the surrounding area," notes Ryan W. about Black Rock Campground.
Off-site excursions for heat relief: Consider trips to higher elevations during hot days. "We can take the tram up majestic Mt. San Jacinto, about 1/2 hour away, and hike in the cool forest there. Joshua Tree entrances are within the hour to get to," suggests Tracy K. from Catalina Spa and RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Campgrounds vary significantly in accommodating large vehicles. "Sites on the east side have 50 and 30 amp and most are quite large. Clean laundry area, dog bark and a clubhouse with activities for the kids," advises Bryan S. about Palm Springs RV Resort.
Utility hookup accessibility: Pay attention to placement of connections. "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)," notes Cindy B. about Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA.
Parking considerations for towed vehicles: Some sites have constraints for multiple vehicles. "We were in site #3. Sites are W/E only. Dump station on site. The park has a campground feel, with a bit more space between spots than most rv parks. Sites are gravel and easy to get into," reports Kellie from Lake Cahuilla.
Campground access constraints: Entry points can present challenges. "The entrance into the KOA - if coming in and making a right - be careful as you essentially end up making a U-turn around a rock wall and into the park. Just a funky entrance," warns Cindy B. about Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA.
