Best Tent Camping near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA
Searching for a tent campsite near Idyllwild-Pine Cove? Find the best tent camping sites near Idyllwild-Pine Cove. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your California tent camping excursion.
Best Tent Sites Near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA (46)
1. Yucaipa Regional Park
Yucaipa, California20 Reviews•20 Photos•207 SavesYucaipa Regional Park is a water park based in San Bernardino County beside the San Bernardino National Forest and San Bernardino Mountains. Activities include fishing in three lakes, a water park, and disc golf. Yucaipa Regional Park camping includes primitive sites, picnic tables, fire pits, full hookups for RVs, and large group shelters for up to 350 people.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
2. Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
Anza, California10 Reviews•30 Photos•138 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
3. Round Valley Campsite — Mount San Jacinto State Park
Idyllwild, California4 Reviews•10 Photos•48 Saves- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Toilets
4. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites
Angelus Oaks, California13 Reviews•55 Photos•85 SavesThese five remote camping sites offer locations for tent and car camping. There are some mature shade trees near the sites, but other than a metal fire ring for campfires, these sites do NOT contain the amenities found at developed campgrounds. There is no water, no picnic tables, no restrooms nearby, and no trash containers. Please pack it in - pack it out! All sites are first-come, first-served. Campfire permits are required for any type of fire use - campfires, charcoal BBQ's, or stoves. Campfires may not be allowed certain times of the year. Contact the Mill Creek Ranger Station for current fire restriction information and road conditions. (909) 382-2882 (closed Tues/Wed) These yellow post sites are reached via forest road 1N12 (unpaved, trailers and large RVs not suitable). Please refer to the yellow-post site map available for free at the Mill Creek Ranger Station. High-clearance vehicles are recommended and four-wheel drive vehicles may also be required to reach these sites, depending on current road conditions.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Glamping
5. Tamarack Valley Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park
Idyllwild, California1 Review•39 Saves- Tents
- Group
- Alcohol
$5 / night
6. Little Round Valley — Mount San Jacinto State Park
Idyllwild-Pine Cove, California1 Review•2 Photos•50 Saves- Phone Service
- Tents
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
7. Dry Lake Backpacking Campground
Forest Falls, California3 Reviews•22 Photos•155 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Alcohol
8. Halfway Camp
Forest Falls, California2 Reviews•14 Photos•29 SavesWater available seasonally.
Group size limited to 12 people and 8 pack/riding animals per group. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit.
Limited, but free wilderness permits for day hiking and overnight camping are required for the San Gorgonio Wilderness and the Cucamonga Wilderness Permits – they are issued by the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association, a Forest Service partner. Parts of the San Gorgonio Wilderness, including the San Bernardino Peak Trail, are still closed due to the El Dorado fire.
Upon completion of your reservation request. you will receive a download. Please retain this download as your permit reservation. You may keep a copy on your phone and show it to a ranger as verification of your permit or you can print it out. If you do not receive a permit use the contact link here: https://www.sgwa.org/contact-us
The Vivian Creek Trail is the shortest and the steepest route to the summit of Mt. San Gorgonio, located in the San Gorgonio Wilderness on the Sand to Snow National Monument. One and two-tenths miles from the trailhead is Vivian Creek Camp (7,100'). Campsites are located upslope to the right of the trail after reaching the stream: one is halfway up the slope, and the other is at the top of the slope (no camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek). One and three-tenths miles from Vivian Creek Camp is Halfway Camp (8,100'). Water is obtained from the creek 200 yards before camp. Two and three-tenths miles further is High Creek Camp (water available - 9,200'). The summit of San Gorgonio (11,499') is 3 miles beyond High Creek. The upper end of this trail offers outstanding views of Yucaipa Ridge and Galena Peak, as well as sweeping panoramic views from the top of Mt. San Gorgonio. General info: No water available. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit. No camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek Wilderness Permit Required - this is a very popular trail, especially on summer weekends. It is suggested you request your permit in advance. Wilderness Permit applications are accepted up to 90 days in advance of your trip. Permits can be obtained from sgwa.org. Fee: Adventure Pass Required $5/day or $30/year. Interagency Passes also accepted.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Drinking Water
9. Rancho Capotista
Desert Hot Springs, California1 Review•5 Photos•5 SavesRaw desert camping for tents, rv’s and trailers. Pick your spot anywhere on the property. This is not glamping. Stay for the night and head out to Joshua Tree for some hiking!
- Pets
- Reservable
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
$40 / night
10. Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites
Green Valley Lake, California8 Reviews•19 Photos•368 SavesThese 9 Yellow Post sites are individual camping sites. Each campsite will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis. No reservations. Each site is limited to a maximum of 8 people at any one time. There is limited parking at these Yellow Post Sites for 2 vehicles. Amenities include 1 picnic table and 1 fire ring per site. There are no restroom facilities or drinking water. Please pack it in - pack it out! During winter, Keller Peak Road closes due to snow accumulation, but it is still possible to hike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski to these sites. These sites are near the Children's Forest Visitor Center, the Children's Forest Exploration Trail, and the Keller Peak Fire Lookout. Campfire permits are required for any type of fire use - campfires, charcoal BBQ`s, or gas stoves. Campfires and charcoal BBQ's may not be allowed certain times of the year. Click here for current fire restriction information. Keller Peak Yellow Post Site Map
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Recent Tent Reviews in Idyllwild-Pine Cove
1646 Reviews of 46 Idyllwild-Pine Cove Campgrounds
Dawn S.
Scout
White Tank Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
Big rocks!
We loved camping 🏕 here! Great big rocks, and good trails near by! An arch too!
Paulina B.
Ranger
Sam's Family Spa RV Resort & Motel
Worth it for Long Term Stays
Sam’s Family Spa offers a mixed experience with steep daily rates, decent weekly rates, and an unbeatable deal for monthly stays. The mineral-fed hot springs and heated pool area are highlights, though access requires wristbands and a bathroom code. Mail delivery is convenient, but the lack of security at the campground entrance feels like a gap. The west side of the park boasts stunning views, and the grounds feature a variety of interesting desert plants. However, the overall experience didn’t quite match the polished image portrayed on the website. Still, its proximity to Palm Springs and relaxing hot springs make it a worthwhile option for longer stays
daniel Q.Scout
Pioneertown Corrals
$60 too much
Nice place, beautifull views, good bar. Rustic place for camping. Just to sleep, no services.
Sade H.
Traveler
William Heise County Park
Fun but Dusty
We went in October with our AHG group. It was great and super dog friendly but WOW so much dirt created so much dust in the air and it got on everyone and everything. With that being said… TONS to do! Such beautiful sights to see! The drive up was amazing. They had plenty of water to wash and drink with a lot of bathrooms as well.
You can walk trails, stargaze, take your bikes around and so much more!
Karen M.Scout
Joshua Tree RV & Campground
Clean, safe and friendly spot
Located close to the town of Joshua Tree so you can still grab a bite to eat if you’re not up to cooking. Easy access to the west entry gate but this gate tends to get busy on holiday weekends. Campground is clean and quiet. They rent every other spot so you’re not quite on top of your neighbors. Camp staff super helpful and friendly. Bring your own table as outdoor tables are limited. Nice community area with picnic tables, microwave, bbq, and games.
- Sade H.Traveler
Observatory Campground
Love this place!
I brought my family with our 2 dogs for Thanksgiving and unfortunately we left early because it was a major danger for our dogs with the very bold and brave coyotes.
We tent camped but I feel like if we had an RV it would have been safer for the dogs.. for us alone with out the dogs, tent camping would have been fine!
Other than that. BEAUTIFUL!!! We loved every single moment from the colorful drive up to the stars and checking out the observatory which was also pet friendly. It’s SO FUN to see all the different color leaves and the sunsets, the sunrises, the crisp air, the views on the way up….all of it was so beautiful.
- KKolten J.Traveler
Wildomar Campground
Decent space.
Roads were bumpy but made it in a super low clearance rv (21ft). Had the place all to ourselves. A bit close to the other sites. Not bad
Mark D.Traveler
Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
Limited Space
Campers beware that the sites are close together and have limited space for campers. We have a RTT with a fold out annex. There are boulders along the road side that do not allow you to pull into the sites. This was not obvious from the pictures or descriptions. Beautiful area. Close sites and seems to be a social area and the people were great!
We opted instead for a first come first served site at the Belle campground. TY to the campers that gave us an alternative location!!
- Mark D.Traveler
Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
Easy access
Reservations are required but the park is easily accessible. We picked an easy location for our maiden voyage and the need for cell service for my spouse. Cell service was just adequate. Facilities are clean and well kept. Visitors center staff was friendly and helpful. Sites are decently spaced but there will be sharing with RV’s and generators. I would stay here again but if time permits the sites within Joshua Tree NP would be my preference.
- KKandi R.Traveler
Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
Amazing Joshua Tree Gem
Love, love this campground. Beautiful rock formations set amidst the magical Joshua Tree National Park. RV sites are good size, no hookups, but campground does have vault toilets and endless exploration opportunities!
Kara S.
Guide
Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua tree np without the fee
I’ve camped at Joshua tree national park numerous times but this is the first time at this site. It was great. Lots of climbing at hiking at this spot. Great Joshua tree experience without the long drive and entrance fee.
Jeff T.Traveler
Dixon Lake Campground
Great forestry feel. And good price ($30)
We stayed here multiple times to car camp and have stayed in sites 3, 6, and 28. We really enjoyed site 28 due to the spectacular views of Escondido. The reason I gave it 4 stars is because their can be some creepy people occasionally like some old guy was following my son in his car. But other than that we had a good stay. If you are in a camper I would recommend Escondido RV resort instead due to the more inviting feel (we stayed there in our Coleman travel trailer). But if you car camp a lot like myself I would recommend staying here at Dixon lake. Great stay overall👍😊
Brittany W.Scout
Cherry Valley Lakes
Convenient Location for Seeing Family
Staff all friendly and facilities while dated are kept very clean. Campers are respectful and quit at night but it’s a very noisy location right next to the freeway which took some getting used to the first few days.
Karen D.Traveler
Ryan Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
Beautiful and quiet
We stayed two nights here in a campervan. It's a really great location to explore the park. The rocks give some good shade. Space #9 was shady in the mornings. The toilets were fine. It was really quiet, they're were a few other campers mostly in tents. No sign of any rattlesnakes or other critters either. Except loads of cute squirrels, and some mice and lizards.
- TTony B.Traveler
South Ridge Yellow Post Sites
Awesome dispersed site with amazing views
Very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California elevation is high enough that temperatures were very enjoyable (mid 80's)
- CCharlie W.Scout
Provisions Farm
Delightful Area, Delightful Hosts
Wow, Highland Valley is beautiful! This is a great place to camp your RV - especially if you love the farm vibe. We stayed in the front spot, up against the property line, which felt private.
Carol L.Traveler
Shabby Shanty
cool
What a stunning view from this hillside property! Overlooking the dry lake bed with a neighbor half a mile away sounds like the perfect retreat for those seeking peace and privacy. The proximity to downtown Joshua Tree and JTNP offers the best of both worlds—seclusion and convenience. If you’re considering moving to such a beautiful area, it’s important to communicate your vision clearly. That’s where https://stateofwriting.com/uk/sociology-writing-service comes in. Their expert writing services can help you craft compelling content, whether it’s for a personal blog, a real estate listing, or any other writing project. Enjoy the tranquility of this amazing location!
Annie G.Traveler
Fry Creek Campground
Very beautiful
This is a very nice and quiet campground and everyone there was very respectful of quite hours. The place was very clean and very beautiful. The only con was that there are way too many insects everywhere, My base camp got bombarded with a swarm of wasps, And I was forced to leave a day early, and had to leave my cooking pot behind because of the swarm of wasps... I wish there were some kind of rangers or someone there that I could have asked for help about this, or I wish someone would do something about this issue but I guess it is what it is at this location lol 😆 Other than not being able to cook and eat without wasps in your face and In your food, it was really nice
- MMolly A.Guide
Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
Canpsites a plenty
There’s a few designated camp areas up this way. Went out in early Sept 2024 and the road was fine. I drive a lifted AWD overloaded Honda Element and I had no issue. There were two sections on the final ascent loop to the top of Thomas Mountain that were a little scratchy. You do not need to complete the final ascent to the top to enjoy the camping areas. Although if your car is capable there’s an excellent spot at the very end of the loop.
Kyle F.Scout
Champagne Lakes RV Resort
REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS!
Let's start off with the fact that this"resort" has REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS living there and TWEAKERS SELLING DRUGS. When I mentioned it to the management they could care less, didn't say a word and walked away laughing. They DO NOT perform ANY BACKGROUND CHECKS and especially with children in the park I find that very disturbing. They nickel and dime you for every little thing and the rent has gone up 3x in one year. The water supply smells like sewage when you take a shower. Because they do pump outs the resort smells like human excrement most of the time. The lakes are polluted as well and completely full of cyanobacteria AKA green algae which is a respiratory hazard. POTENTIAL BEWARE.
Laura M.
LegendJumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
We were too big
Heads up about this place if you’re in an RV like we are. We reserved spot #40, we are a 26ft class c (28 ft total length) and the length limit for this spot is 30 ft, and RVs are allowed. But we felt like we barely fit side to side, and definitely wouldn’t have put our slides out. Not to mention it was so unlevel that we wouldn't have wanted to take the slides out anyway. The spot was cute, a little spot by itself between a hill and the “bump out” type parking spot where you’d park your vehicle. There’s a picnic table, a grill, and a fire pit. We ended up parking there for a bit, walking over to skull rock and the discovery trail to face rock (dogs not allowed on trails), walked back, and left. We would have been way too uncomfortable if we’d tried to stay the night. Oh well- we only lost $20.
There are dumpsters throughout the campground, and recycling at the entrance. We didn’t see any hosts or staff. There are pit toilets as well. We did see some other RVs in spots that looked fine, but overall I’d recommend this place for tents only unless you know for sure you’ll fit in the spot. Zero cell service in the entire park.
- Laura M.Legend
Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
Beautiful
This place is reservation only, through recreation.gov. The rangers at the visitor center do not handle anything with reservations whatsoever. We managed to get two nights fairly last minute, only to arrive and find the campground mostly empty. That’s pretty aggravating, probably due to people making reservations and not showing up.
Sites are $25/night, and rec.gov does not charge a processing fee, which is so nice.
The roads throughout the campground are in terrible shape, but we managed in our 26ft class C. The roads and many of the sites are washed out and crumbling. Most sites are not level. Our site,#90, was ok with leveling blocks.
There’s recycling here (no glass accepted), trash dumpsters, flush toilets, and a free dump station with potable water fill. No showers here. There are many hiking trails directly from the campground, which is nice, but dogs are not allowed on the trails.
ATT had good service and Verizon was usable but very weak.
Chris M.Scout
North Shore Campground - Lake Almanor
Filthy, Dusty, Rude, One and Done
Booked this campground for 3 nights, in large part for the hot showers. The showers and bathroom facilities are frankly disgusting and not something we would us, nor would our friends who were there with us. The staff was rude and provided the typical"we don't provide refunds" when we told them respectfully we we're leaving after the first night. The campground was a wierd mix of what looked liked full-time campers but mostly no one was occupying the sites that there campers and belongings were left at. Post apocalyptic vibe, can you say ghost town. North Shore Campground is a dusty one and done for us. Caveat emptor.
Ben M.Scout
The Secret Place
Incredible view
Well secluded sites each with an incredible view!
Rhyn E.GuideTool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
Oasis of calm
Labor Day weekend. We occupied the only spot out of five. Lots of wildlife. Raccoons in the night, gray squirrel, other squirrels, many birds. So much
- Rhyn E.Guide
Pinyon Flat Campground (San Bernardino National Forest) — San Bernardino National Forest
Good Place if Needed
The campsites are fine. Well used. There are pit toilets. Fresh water (you can fill water without camping). Had spaces on Labor Day weekend. It’s cooler than Palm Springs. (It feels like summer, not hell). Fire pits. I guess that works when fire risk is low. Note: I can faintly hear dogs and chickens from nearby houses. Oh, and the road traffic.
- mmelinnaScout
Holcomb Valley Campground
2 nights at Holcomb Valley Ranch campground
Just got back from a 2 night stay with a group of 6 at this camp. Enjoyed the ample space between camps because it allows for extra privacy and less noise from other campers. However, we stayed on a night where a wedding reception was taking place and the DJ sound system was blasting until about 10:15 pm— this is unacceptable for a campground. They should’ve closed the sites all around the wedding area down, we were about a 3 minute walk away and this really tarnished the experience for Saturday afternoon thru evening. Pros- clean accessible bathrooms and showers, gorgeous horse meadow with about 40 horses roaming free. The road into the camp is totally unpaved, so truck & suv recommended. Camp manager Ed was very kind and helpful.
Guide to Idyllwild-Pine Cove
Idyllwild-Pine Cove, California, offers a stunning backdrop for tent camping enthusiasts, with a variety of well-reviewed sites nestled in the mountains.
Tips for tent camping near Idyllwild-Pine Cove
- For a peaceful experience, consider staying at Halfway Camp, where you can enjoy privacy and the chance to spot local wildlife like deer.
- Make sure to secure a permit in advance for Round Valley Campsite — Mount San Jacinto State Park, as reservations fill up quickly due to its popularity.
- Bring a water filtration system when camping at Little Round Valley — Mount San Jacinto State Park to ensure you have safe drinking water, as the availability can be unpredictable.
Local attractions for tent campers
- Explore the breathtaking trails leading to Round Valley Campsite — Mount San Jacinto State Park, where you can hike to the peak of San Jacinto for stunning views.
- Enjoy the serene environment at Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground, which is known for its wildlife sightings and tranquil atmosphere.
- Experience the beauty of the San Bernardino National Forest while camping at Halfway Camp, where you can hike and explore the diverse flora and fauna.
Tent camping features to consider
- At Tamarack Valley Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park, you can enjoy the freedom of alcohol being allowed, making it a great spot for a relaxed camping experience.
- Rancho Capotista offers convenient amenities like water hookups and trash disposal, making it easier to enjoy your stay without the hassle.
- For those looking for a more rustic experience, Black Mountain Group Campground (San Bernardino) allows campfires, providing a cozy atmosphere for evening gatherings under the stars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA is Yucaipa Regional Park with a 4.8-star rating from 20 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 46 tent camping locations near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.