Looking for the best campgrounds near Idyllwild, CA? Idyllwild is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.
$45 / night
"Really a fun lake to actually catch some fish. Kayaking, biking & boat rentals. Busy on weekends and empty during the week; it’s a great place to bring a tent or RV."
"You can fit two 10' x10' canopies to cover the bench table, and fit 2 individual tents (4-6 person) OR a bigger 12p tent however you decide to position it. It has its own Fire pit."
$25 - $45 / night
"Idyllwild County campground is not that easy to find, but when you finally find it you will be glad you did. It is dog friendly, clean restrooms, showers and very friendly staff."
"Nice quiet campground within walking distance to downtown Idyllwild. Water available near sites. We were in a pop up camper."
$30 - $35 / night
"Lots of trails nearby and close to Idyllwild CA. Free entry into a few other attractions with camping, Idyllwild Nature Center is one."
"This is one of our family's favorite campgrounds because it's a quick drive from San Diego (and OC) and it gives us our "mountain fix" when we don't have time to drive to the Sierra Mountains."
$20 - $35 / night
"My sister, her 3 kids, and 2 dogs jumped into the car and headed out towards Idyllwild, CA."
"Located near Idyllwild, this is the smaller, less rowdy campground associated with the tourist town."
$10 - $34 / night
"It was close to Idyllwild, which was convenient when we ran out of ice. There are no bear boxes, not sure if it was needed though. For the best spots, make sure to reserve."
"Marion mountain is located about 6 miles north of the town of Idyllwild and offers shaded campsites and basic car camping amenities."
"We stayed at the Idyllwild RV Resort over Labor Day weekend 2020 and we had a great time."
"When I first got to Idyllwild, a little heat wave was hanging around, but by the 2nd week, the weather was beautiful. They have plenty of spots for tents, RV’s, and cabins."
$10 - $34 / night
"The bumpy six mile drive up a dirt road to reach this campground is well worth it. The campground has garbage cans and pit toilets."
"The Campground is set off the main highway about 5 miles and only accessible if have a suv or truck as it is a switchback dirt road. Trailers would not be able to make this trek."
"I had service up there, not to crowded and the spots are a good ways away from each other!"
"This campsite is about 45 minutes down a 4 wheel drive only dirt path. Pot toilets and trash cans available at the site. Nothing else much around to do other than hang out at the campground or hike."
"A very moderate hike from the aerial tram that put us in the heart of the San Jacinto Mountain just hours away from the peak!"
"it is a well traveled trail year round but weather is unpredictable."
$22 - $44 / night
"This gem is located on the outskirts of Desert Hot Springs, CA. With two hot spring-fed pools and hot tubs (one of which is massive and SO luxe), we didn’t want to leave. Like, ever."
"You don’t get many good views inside the RV park gates, but once you walk out there driveway and along the street you can actually get some good mountain views on clear days."
GuideVery nice campground. Camping spots are spacious and clean. They do offer showers, but they are pay showers and only take quarters. They were doing some construction on a playground while we were there, but it didn’t bother anything. Overall a nice campground
GuideThis is a unique spot to camp, because you’re met with people backpacking the summit and people going through the PCT! There is plenty of space along the trail and it is just a GORGEOUS area to wake up to. Can’t believe it’s in southern California
GuideDefinitely recommend staying here when it’s dry. Huge open space. Very hot, no shade in the area. We moved to the Walmart nearby when it rained and came back, some spots were tough to navigate around and got stuck. Overall good camp sites. No dumpster or services. Locals frequent with OHV so gets loud on the weekends.
LegendOur friends just bought a camper van and wanted to test the systems on it while having a weekend getaway and this was a great spot for it! All hookups PLUS dump out in each spot (so convenient, loved this!). It’s right in the middle of the city but they did a great job making it feel like you were out in nature. Great walking around the trails and lake. 8 minutes from a super Walmart if you need anything. Other campers are next to you, but not right on top of you. The camp hosts were friendly and do a great job of keeping the sites and bathrooms super clean! Fire pits and picnic tables in each spot as well. One of the hosts offered us some leftover firewood, but we had a propane pit we were using. It’s not a “must come back to” spot but great for a last minute camping experience!
LegendWe took 2 vans up for just one night and it really was a great time! The campsite itself is no frills. Basically a huge dirt lot. Each spot has a picnic table. No hookups. There was 2 toilets near by which were clean! The price is steep for what it is, but you’re paying for the convenience of being literally in the town. We had a great dinner at Pappy & Harriet’s and then watched live music at the Red Dog Saloon. Red Dog is pet friendly, we could bring our dog right to the bar - the breakfast there is also awesome! It was fun to walk around the town at night!
TravelerThere was abundant firewood for purchase at the gate. There is a nice bathroom with flushing toilets and sinks with soap closer to spot #41, but we were at #19, so it was a small walk to get there. However, there was a portopotty right near our site if the walk is too inconvenient.
Our site was flat, and it was easy ground for stakes. Although keep an eye out for critter holes. Tons of little animals hanging out (rabbits, birds, chipmunks). Those chipmunks will definitely go for your stuff if you don't pack it away.
We did see that someone had to be rescued from the riverbed while we were there, so be careful if you plan to climb down into it.
The only bummer was that in some cases, you had to drive to get to other trails, or walk on the road.
TravelerStunning canyons to explore! They are marked and theres also pit toilets halfway through the main road to turnaround point. Hummingbirds came right up to my face! Didn’t even know they lived out here also saw whiptail lizard. Cell AT&T spotty to none the further you go in but theres random places with 2bars or more. Says mandatory 4WD but your fine with 2WD as long as you stick to main road or the pullouts that look like firm like the main road.
ScoutOther reviews have to be A.I. generated. Had every reason to believe there were electrical hookups, but when you show up they say there are no electrical hookups and it’s a dark park so have fun with that experience. It’s no wonder no one actually goes here. You get what you pay for. Not worth the drive.
TravelerA nice campground close to the park and hiking trails. Clean restrooms and desert light.
Camping near Idyllwild, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.
Camping near Idyllwild, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're with family or exploring solo. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, Idyllwild, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 397 campgrounds and RV parks near Idyllwild, CA and 37 free dispersed camping spots.
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Idyllwild, CA is Lake Hemet Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 39 reviews.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 37 free dispersed camping spots near Idyllwild, CA.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Idyllwild, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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