Cabin camping near Calipatria, California provides access to the unique ecosystem of the Imperial Valley and Salton Sea region. Located at an elevation of 180 feet below sea level, the area experiences extreme summer temperatures often exceeding 110°F, making winter and early spring the primary camping seasons. The region's mineral hot springs are a distinctive natural feature that attracts visitors to several cabin rental facilities.
What to do
Desert hiking trails: Several trails are accessible from Tamarisk Grove Campground, located about an hour northwest of Calipatria. "Cool campground, quiet but busy with day use visitors and hikers, host available with lots of info at kiosk. Just about no cell service here. Very nice short loop trail just across the street, bursting with flowers in the spring," notes a visitor. The Cactus Loop trail is particularly recommended during sunset hours.
Fishing opportunities: Some resorts offer fishing ponds where guests can enjoy catch-and-release fishing. A visitor to The Springs at Borrego RV Resort mentions, "Catch and release fishing pond, pool, hot mineral spas, tennis, lawn bowling, big and little dog parks. The stargazing is amazing!" The resort is about an hour's drive from Calipatria and makes a good day trip.
Military history exploration: Visit the General Patton Memorial Museum near Chiriaco Summit. "Tomorrow we will tour The General Patton Memorial Museum before we head towards Arizona. The tanks look amazing and my kids are so excited," shares one camper. The museum is located about 90 minutes from Calipatria and offers insights into desert warfare training during World War II.
What campers like
Natural hot springs access: The mineral hot springs are a major draw for visitors to cabin accommodations. At Glamis North Hot Springs Resort, a visitor reports, "What an amazing place with friendly staff. The bathrooms and showers are very clean and the hot springs tubs are nice and comfortable. There are also 3 pools, 1 hot springs and the other 2 are cold. It's definitely nice in the winter because you can do a cold soak then warm up in the hot springs."
Dark sky stargazing: The remote desert location offers exceptional night sky viewing. One camper at The Springs at Borrego notes, "As a Designated Dark Sky Community, this is a great place to do some stargazing as well." Light pollution is minimal throughout the region, creating ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
Winter climate: The moderate winter temperatures make this area popular when northern regions are experiencing cold weather. "We have stayed here a few times now. The best times are during the fall and winter months as the park welcomes back its community of Snow Birds coming from Canada and the northern US. During those times the atmosphere in the evening is always festive, often with live music and an outdoor bar," shares a visitor about Rio Bend RV Resort.
What you should know
Water considerations: Non-potable water is common at many sites, requiring visitors to bring their own drinking water. At Tamarisk Grove, a camper notes, "No water here for drinking, but there are spigots throughout the campground." Plan to bring sufficient water for your stay, especially during warmer months.
Summer heat limitations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F, making cabin accommodations with air conditioning essential during hot months. "It's best to avoid the summer unless you're a fan of extreme heat. The rest of the year pleasant, with similar weather to other low desert areas of California," advises a visitor to The Springs at Borrego.
Primitive cabin features: Most cabins in the region are basic structures. At Agua Caliente County Park Campground, visitors appreciate the clean but simple accommodations. "2 outdoor pools and an indoor adult spa (102 degrees), RV sites with Power, Water and Sewer as well as tent sites. Flush toilets and hot/cold showers. This place is well maintained and the cleanest campground I have ever stayed at," reports one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Choose cabin accommodations with swimming pools for family-friendly cooling options. "Really nice and clean facility with tons of amenities for families," notes a visitor to The Springs at Borrego. During summer months, pools provide essential relief from desert heat.
Educational opportunities: The desert environment offers unique learning experiences for children. "We stayed for a long weekend here and had a blast. There are 3 pools heated by the geothermal natural hot springs, one is adults only so you're not stuck hanging with the littles! Great hikes, shorter in length but plenty challenging and gorgeous views," shares a visitor about Agua Caliente County Park.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning offers opportunities to see desert wildlife. "Waking up to a gathering of big horn sheep atop a ridge with a bright colorful sunrise set behind as backdrop as they stand there stoic against it all, was by far one my favorite ways to wake up ever!" reports an Agua Caliente visitor. Consider bringing binoculars for optimal wildlife spotting.
Tips from RVers
Extended stay options: Many cabin campgrounds in the region also accommodate RVs with full hookups for longer stays. At Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort, a visitor mentions, "We only stayed one night in a pull through but enjoyed the facilities. Park is very clean and has a good restaurant. Laundry and bathrooms were very clean. Pool area and restaurant, bar area is nice."
Site selection strategies: When booking cabin accommodations, request specific sites for the best experience. At Chiriaco Summit Dry Camp Area, a visitor advises, "Sites: 1 designated spot for 40 ft and over, several tent only sites and many back in spots that are plenty big enough for large fifth wheels or RVs. We could have backed into a spot with our 36 ft Fifth wheel and kept our truck hooked up easily."
Seasonal availability: Check operating seasons before planning a trip. "It can be hot and there are not amenities at the campground itself but restaurants, gas, and a convenience store are close by," notes a camper about Chiriaco Summit. Some facilities operate only during winter months when temperatures are more moderate.
