Cabin camping near Idyllwild, California offers year-round options at elevations between 5,000 and 7,000 feet in the San Jacinto Mountains. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night, while summer days typically reach 80-90°F with cool evenings. Cabins in this mountainous region range from rustic accommodations to more modern facilities with varying amenities depending on location and season.
What to do
Hiking and mountain biking trails: Numerous trails surround Idyllwild cabins, providing access to San Jacinto wilderness areas. "The campground is close to the Lassen Volcanic National Park. We took a drive there for a visit and it was spectacular," noted one visitor at Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Mineral hot springs: After a day of mountain activities, relax in natural hot springs. At Sky Valley RV Resort, "There are two locations in the park with mineral Pools and mineral hot tubs. There is a large grass area with ponds and black swans. This is a great location to relax by the pool with a short drive to Palm Springs or Joshua tree."
Recreational activities on-site: Many cabin locations offer recreational amenities. "Free mini golf, horseshoes, disc golf and pool area with 3 pools, one specific for kids. Golf cart friendly. This park is very large and has a very good, outdoorsy feel," according to a visitor at Temecula-Vail Lake KOA.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: The mountain forest setting provides a cooler climate than nearby desert areas. A camper at Thousand Trails Idyllwild shared, "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. Surrounded by spruce trees, pine trees, and scotch pines reminded me of being Back East."
Lake access: Some cabin locations offer water recreation opportunities. "We had the best time here! The lake with all the blow up toys was a blast! Every site has a picnic table and fire ring. We rented a boat and went out on the lake to do some fishing. We didn't catch anything but we did see some bald eagles which was super cool!" reported a visitor at Lake Hemet Campground.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Cabin camping often caters to families with children. "We loved the pool. That was the main attraction. After a week of boon docking in the desert, this resort was a nice respite. The dog park was ok, dusty and small but the other campers were super nice so it was a fun way to meet people and their fur babies," noted a guest at Catalina Spa and RV Resort.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most cabin locations require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "We tent camped during Memorial weekend with 3 other families. We really enjoyed the drive up Idylwild, beautiful scenery," shared one camper at Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Temperature variations: The mountain location creates significant temperature drops at night, even during summer. "Weather was cold and windy but not too bad. Bring insulation for your water hose or have some type of method that will keep your water lines from freezing. Our water hose froze the first night," warned a visitor at Lake Hemet Campground.
Distance to amenities: Some cabin locations are remote from stores and services. "It's a bit far from anything but other than that a great place to stay," noted a camper at Catalina Spa and RV Resort, while another mentioned "Palm Springs is 20 minutes south" from their location.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment options: Some locations have limited activities for children. "The sites are a bit too close to each other, but it's a quiet campground, everyone goes to sleep early around 10pm," shared a visitor about Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Consider pool options: Swimming facilities vary by location. At Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA, "3 hot spring tubs. Pool is warm and wall stops wind. Many activities for kids miniature golf, jump board, play ground. Many activities for adults as well."
Check quiet hours: Cabin locations have varying noise policies. "It was a little loud our first night from other campers and dogs, but the second night was much quieter," noted a visitor at Catalina Spa and RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At cabin locations that also accommodate RVs, site placement affects experience. "Upper section is exposed to the frequent high winds. Lower section is blocked by trees and bushes which block you from your neighbors," advised an RVer at Caliente Springs RV Resort.
Verify hookup availability: Cabin sites often share amenities with RV areas. "Sites are pretty close together but divided by tall hedges that make for good privacy. It was a little loud our first night from other campers and dogs, but the second night was much quieter," reported a visitor at Catalina Spa and RV Resort.
Weather preparedness: Mountain locations experience wind and temperature extremes. "Way too windy. We had tents and trailers. None of us slept. The trailer rocked horribly and the tents were filled with dirts. The yurts walls were impacted by the wind and the maintenance people were out trying to fix them," warned a visitor at Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA.
