Agua Caliente County Park Campground sits at approximately 1,600 feet elevation in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park region, creating a desert camping experience with dramatic temperature variations. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-70°F while summer can exceed 100°F during the day. The campground's location between two hills creates a natural funnel for spring water that feeds the mineral pools and provides unique camping conditions compared to other desert locations in Southern California.
What to do
Night hiking opportunities: At Agua Caliente County Park Campground, visitors can take advantage of the Dark Sky Zone designation. "We stayed for a long weekend here and had a blast... Great hikes, shorter in length but plenty challenging and gorgeous views. No cell service so you really get to unwind," notes Lindy C.
Wildlife viewing: Morning hours offer the best chance to spot native 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!" shares Ali L. about her experience at Agua Caliente.
Year-round pool access: The three geothermal pools at Agua Caliente remain open throughout the camping season. One camper stated, "2 outdoor pools and an indoor adult spa (102 degrees)... This place is well maintained and the cleanest campground I have ever stayed at." The indoor spa is adults-only, allowing families and couples different relaxation options.
What campers like
Mineral spring pools: The natural hot springs are consistently mentioned as a top feature. "FANTASTIC pools" and "Good clean facilities" writes Tara L. about her stay at Agua Caliente. The pools range in temperature, with the indoor spa maintained at approximately 102°F.
Stargazing conditions: The Dark Sky Zone designation creates exceptional nighttime viewing. According to Shannon W., "this site is a beautiful place to night hike and star gaze. We were in awe when we drove up there and saw that there were so many sites."
Convenience amenities: BOULEVARD / CLEVELAND NATIONAL FOREST KOA HOLIDAY offers many unexpected features. "Amenities include a mini petting Zoo and things like a hayride in warmer weather. The facility is gated which felt like a great thing I didn't know I needed," reports Justin C. This glamping close to El Centro, California provides a balance of nature and comfort.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service is virtually nonexistent at most sites. "No cell service. To get service you have to go to the cell phone lot 4 miles west at Vallecito campground," explains Berton M. about Agua Caliente. This creates a true disconnect from urban life but requires advance planning.
Access challenges: Fountain of Youth Spa RV Resort offers luxury glamping near El Centro but requires careful navigation. "We took the cheapest side for 39. But they also have some with a table and more atmosphere. Dirt camp is 30," advises a camper named Name.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in this region have high visitation during winter months when temperatures moderate. "I've spent many weekends at this resort over the last 15 years or so, visiting my grandparents that lived here in the winter. Tons of activities, clean and quiet, such a wonderful spot!" shares Matt about Fountain of Youth Spa RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Pet precautions: Bringing dogs requires extra attention in desert environments. "Careful if you bring dogs, it's the desert and lots of cactus," warns Lia G. about Agua Caliente. Pack tweezers and pet booties if bringing four-legged family members.
Kid-friendly activities: BOULEVARD / CLEVELAND NATIONAL FOREST KOA HOLIDAY caters specifically to families with children. "This new koa is under new management and they are really trying to make it a memorable experience for you and your kids," notes Justin C. The facility sits at 4,000 feet elevation, providing cooler temperatures than lower desert camping areas.
Swimming options: Multiple pools with varying temperatures accommodate different age groups. "There are 3 pools heated by the geothermal natural hot springs, one is adults only so you're not stuck hanging with the littles!" explains Lindy C. about the family-friendly setup at Agua Caliente.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Many glamping destinations near El Centro offer comprehensive RV services. "RV sites with Power, Water and Sewer as well as tent sites," mentions Alan T. about Agua Caliente's accommodations for various camping styles.
Road access considerations: Some luxury glamping locations have challenging access roads. "To get here you take some very windy roads, bigger rigs will take up most the road," warns Brian B. about Boulevard KOA. "Almost all sites are back-in with little site definition."
Water quality advantage: The mountain locations offer exceptional water quality compared to other desert camping. "This is a quiet well ran facility. It has the best drinking water pumped from the mountain aquifers," shares Robert H. about Boulevard KOA, highlighting an often overlooked aspect of glamping near El Centro, California.
