The Idyllwild area sits at elevations between 5,000 to 7,000 feet in Southern California's San Jacinto Mountains. Winter camping often requires preparation for temperatures dropping below freezing, while summer brings relief from the desert heat found in nearby communities. The surrounding mountains feature pine, cedar, and oak forests with numerous hiking trails connecting to both wilderness areas and developed campgrounds.
What to do
Explore local waterways: At Rancho Jurupa RV Park, families can enjoy fishing in the small lake. "Lots of families with children, fishing for catfish in the little lake which is shaded with trees and plenty of tables to picnic by the lake," notes reviewer Jody R. The park also features grassy areas for relaxation.
Visit nearby cultural attractions: The location provides access to historical sites within a short drive. "We drove over to the Mission Inn (8 min drive) enjoyed lunch. Their is a pedestrian only shopping area with a Saturday farmer's market plus lots of restaurants," shares Jody R. about their stay at Rancho Jurupa.
Try pickleball: Catalina Spa and RV Resort offers organized pickleball events for beginners and experienced players. "We've enjoyed learning and playing pickleball. The pools are warm and well maintained," explains Scott G. Courts are maintained year-round for guest use.
Enjoy mini-golf: Multiple resorts provide family mini-golf courses. "We enjoyed the mini golf (probably our favorite TT mini golf so far)," mentions Tina M. about her experience at Wilderness Lakes RV Resort, which maintains a course suitable for all ages.
What campers like
Hot spring pools: The mineral water pools are a major attraction. "The spring leaves your skin oh so soft and rejuvenated. The entire grounds were recently renovated and it shows," writes Jordan W. about Catalina Spa. Another visitor notes, "The pool/spa is currently open, which is a little surprising considering pandemic restrictions."
Mountain retreat climate: The elevated location of Thousand Trails Idyllwild provides relief from desert heat. "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," shares Tom W., who appreciated the change from summer temperatures.
Privacy between sites: Many campers value the landscaping that creates personal space. "The sites were all pretty spacious. Plenty of room to park your rig and vehicle," reports Derek & Alex W. At Cathedral Palms, Summer E. highlighted "the thought put into giving each of the spaces a feeling of privacy using mature shrubs."
Winter desert escape: The Palm Springs area campgrounds serve as popular winter destinations. According to J W., "Pretty steep rates if not a Thousand Trails Trails Collection member. 2 pools (1 adults only & hot tub, other for families), shuffle board, access to neighboring upscale mobile home park amenities."
What you should know
Elevation challenges: Idyllwild RV campgrounds sit at higher elevations requiring preparation. "Steep and tight roads throughout campground, but gorgeous once you're done navigating," advises Matt. Site selection matters as "Our Site was not level at all. We carry a lot of leveling blocks and are not even close to level still."
Strong winds: Desert locations experience significant wind events. "It can be windy at times, so you need to mind your awnings. It's is warm during the day but cools at night," warns Scott G. about Catalina Spa. Seasonal wind patterns affect most area campgrounds.
Cell service variability: Coverage changes dramatically with location and elevation. "After a drive through the park we found Cell coverage only works in lower part of the park," notes Time4Dirt about Thousand Trails Idyllwild. Wilderness Lakes visitors report "absolutely no cell coverage for our Verizon phones" in certain sections.
Airport noise: Some parks experience aircraft disturbance. At Cathedral Palms RV Resort, a camper observed "It is in the landing flight path for the airport but very little traffic." Proximity to transportation corridors affects noise levels throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Several parks maintain water attractions beyond standard pools. "Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities," mentions Marcella D. about Rancho Jurupa Park. The splash pad provides cooling recreation during hot months without requiring swimming skills.
Security considerations: Most parks maintain safety measures. "The entrance security kiosk is staffed 24/7, and they'll even help spot you while parking your rig," reports Jason M. about Golden Village Palms RV Resort. However, at Rancho Jurupa, a camper noted "the ranger said to lock up bikes and be careful leaving out items."
Age demographics: Some resorts cater to older visitors while welcoming families. At Cathedral Palms, Summer E. observed "This is a Resort that seems to have many older patrons, but we felt very welcome with my 3 kids (10,12 and16)." Understanding the typical guest profile helps set expectations.
Seasonal activities: Many parks organize special events for holidays. At Emerald Desert RV Resort, visitors enjoy "sparkling swimming pools, daily activities, free Saturday Continental Breakfast." Nicole R. noted Veterans Day events at another park were "awesome."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: RVers should come prepared with leveling equipment. "Most sites looked uneven but this one was surprisingly even," noted Peter R. about Thousand Trails Idyllwild. Another camper mentioned "We had to get more lumber in town to level travel the trailer from front to rear."
Maintenance limitations: Aging infrastructure affects some experiences. One camper described "50 year old buildings in need of repairs as well as the electric wires (OLD aluminum)" at an Idyllwild campground, while others mentioned periodic electrical issues at Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.
Limited sewer connections: Full hookup availability varies significantly. At Wilderness Lakes, a visitor noted "They don't have enough 50amp sites and not all of them are always working." Some parks offer honey wagon service for an additional fee.
Site selection strategy: Different sections of parks offer varying amenities. "The park is split in half with one side has 30 amp FHU sites and the other half has 50 amp FHU sites," explains Time4Dirt about one park. Getting to parks early improves chances of securing preferred locations.
