Black Rock Campground offers convenient camping access to Joshua Tree National Park with 99 campsites located at the northwest corner of the park near Yucca Valley. The area typically experiences high winds, cold nights in winter, and warm days in summer with an elevation of 4,000 feet influencing temperature variations. Most campsites accommodate both tents and RVs with fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, though campers should come prepared with extra water storage.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: At Black Rock Campground, numerous trails lead directly from the camping area. "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," notes one camper who found the location ideal for hikers.
Stargazing from your site: The clear desert skies at Jumbo Rocks Campground provide exceptional night sky viewing. A visitor comments, "We spent our days scrambling across the rock formations—each turn revealing a new panorama—and our nights marveling at the Milky Way in one of the best dark-sky locations in California." The lack of light pollution and elevation make for optimal star viewing conditions.
Boulder climbing for beginners: The rock formations throughout campgrounds offer natural climbing opportunities for all skill levels. "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 a climber who frequented the area. Most climbing areas require no specialized equipment for basic scrambling.
What campers like
Natural hot springs access: Catalina Spa and RV Resort provides mineral pools that many campers consider the highlight of their stay. One visitor explains, "We wanted to escape the rain and cold and hit the jackpot with this location. The pools are fed by natural hot springs and warmer than most hot tubs." The mineral content leaves skin feeling soft and rejuvenated.
Desert wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer glimpses of native wildlife throughout the camping areas. "The park has its own lake with an abundance of wildlife. There are black swan and cranes, as well as plenty of ducks, fish, and turtles in the water in a beautiful setting," reports a visitor to Sam's Family Spa. Many campgrounds have resident quail families, as noted by one camper: "Quails running around everywhere, cool little spot at JTree."
Walkable access to town: Idyllwild Campground provides a rare combination of wilderness camping with town amenities nearby. A camper shares, "Great campground within 5 minute walk of downtown idyllwild. Plus less than 2 hours from drive to Palm Spring Tram up to Mt. San Jacinto and a great way to cool off in the summer or see snow in the winter."
What you should know
Wind conditions can be extreme: Most Desert Hot Springs area campgrounds experience significant wind events. A camper at Sky Valley RV Resort notes, "Nice place with hot spring pools. Lots of amenities. Close to downtown Palm Springs. Only issue is it is terribly windy most of the time." Prepare with extra tent stakes and secure loose items.
Temperature variations: Daily temperature swings can exceed 40 degrees. "We visited in January, and should have been better prepared! I know better, but we didn't check the conditions well enough, and froze our butts the first night! Make sure to check the low and high temps to plan accordingly," warns a winter camper at Joshua Tree.
Water availability varies: Not all campgrounds offer potable water sources. "Planning for water is needed, there is only a pit toilet," explains a camper at Jumbo Rocks. Bring 1-2 gallons per person per day, plus extra for pets, especially during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple pool options: Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA offers family-friendly mineral pools at different temperatures. A visitor with children shares, "Had a wonderful time with the kids and our two doggos here! Great dog park, family friendly and the hot springs was just perfect for all of us. Even have 3 temperatures so the kids can enjoy hot springs too!"
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas and activities. "Many activities for kids miniature golf, jump board, play ground. Many activities for adults as well," reports a camper at Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA, noting that structured recreation keeps children engaged during downtime.
Wildlife education opportunities: The unique desert ecosystem offers natural learning experiences. "The campground was beautiful, and the desert at Joshua Tree and around is really special. Beware of the Chollo! The 'jumping cactus' have been known to cause severe pain to those who don't pay attention to their surroundings!" warns a visitor, highlighting the importance of teaching children desert safety.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs equally. "Sites are good, bathrooms are always cleaned. Close to amenities if you need it (we travel with small children so that's a plus) compared to the more remote stays inside the national park," notes an RVer at Black Rock Campground.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites with reliable utilities are limited. A long-term camper at Catalina Spa and RV Resort reports, "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. The sites are spaced moderately with easy access to hookups and shrubbery between each site. We have a 39ft DP towing a car, and both fit nicely."
Desert driving precautions: RVs should exercise caution on approach roads. "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 an RVer about access challenges when pulling larger vehicles.
