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Best Campgrounds near Indian Wells, CA

1,763 Reviews

Camping options near Indian Wells, California range from developed RV resorts to primitive sites in nearby Joshua Tree National Park. The area includes several established campgrounds like Lake Cahuilla County Park in La Quinta and Emerald Desert RV Resort in Palm Desert, both within 15 miles of Indian Wells. Accommodation types vary widely, with facilities supporting tent camping, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. The desert landscape provides a distinctive camping experience with access to both luxury amenities and wilderness areas depending on the chosen campground.

Extreme temperature variations characterize the camping experience in this region, with summer highs regularly exceeding 100°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. "The desert here can be VERY intense, especially at night," noted one camper about the Borrego Springs area. Most developed campgrounds near Indian Wells offer water hookups and electrical connections, which are essential during hot months. Joshua Tree National Park campgrounds like Jumbo Rocks and Hidden Valley, located 45-60 minutes from Indian Wells, have more primitive facilities with vault toilets and no water sources. Reservations are strongly recommended for all campgrounds during the peak season from October through April, when the mild weather attracts visitors from colder regions.

The Palm Springs/Indian Wells area draws campers seeking both natural beauty and proximity to urban amenities. Campgrounds in the region receive high ratings for cleanliness and accessibility, with several reviewers highlighting the spectacular desert views and stargazing opportunities. A visitor commented that Joshua Tree campgrounds offer "stunning rock formations and sunrise/sunsets" that make the primitive conditions worthwhile. Many campgrounds in the area serve as convenient bases for exploring attractions like Joshua Tree National Park, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, and the Coachella Valley. Sites with shade are particularly valued given the desert climate, and campgrounds with swimming pools or proximity to golf courses attract those seeking recreational activities beyond hiking and nature observation.

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Detours Nearby

Motorcoach Country Club

Motorcoach Country Club

5 min away

Santa Rosa Yellow Post Sites

Santa Rosa Yellow Post Sites

1 hr 56 min away

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Best Camping Sites Near Indian Wells, California (334)

    1. Thousand Trails Palm Springs

    18 Reviews
    Bermuda Dunes, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "The 30 Amp side is pull through so we decided to set up at site 61 further away from the Highway because it is a bit noisy from road noise."

    "The is a beautiful Thousand Trails RV Resort in Palm Springs, California! The park is large, very spacious and so clean!"

    2. Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    118 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-5554

    $30 / night

    "They're situated between HUGE boulders so they're nicely tucked away from high winds that can sometimes pick up."

    "The campsites are tucked between massive granite boulders, offering natural windbreaks and a sense of privacy that’s hard to find elsewhere."

    3. Lake Cahuilla

    12 Reviews
    La Quinta, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 564-4712

    "Lake Cahuilla has a lot to offer, including a playground, lake for fishing only (no swimming), and a pool that was closed while we were there, and somewhat spacious sites."

    "Great view of the lake from most of the tent sections. Access to showers and restrooms. There is a pool in the summer and enough shade to stay as cool as the desert allows without A/C."

    4. Catalina Spa and RV Resort

    21 Reviews
    Desert Hot Springs, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 329-4431

    $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."

    5. Lake Hemet Campground

    39 Reviews
    Mountain Center, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 659-2680

    $45 / night

    "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."

    "I've been camping at Lake Hemet since I was a kid, and absolutely love it there."

    6. Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA

    21 Reviews
    Desert Hot Springs, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 251-6555

    "The KOA is reasonably priced for KOA and California. 3 hot spring tubs. Pool is warm and wall stops wind. Many activities for kids miniature golf, jump board, play ground."

    "Plenty of stuff to do behind the walls, mini golf, dog kamp, pool, hot tubs, games, game room... Nice shower house and bathrooms. Camp store is a little small but has the essentials."

    7. Hidden Valley Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    39 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-3001

    "The entire campgrounds are surrounded in a wall of boulders varying in shales and sizes. Tons of fun to scramble and boulder on. We wenf in July and the evening temps were fantastic."

    "Location is great and close by to al the main attraction!"

    8. Emerald Desert RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Thousand Palms, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 713-8609

    "It was almost empty which it was a positive for us as we are still facing a pandemic. Installation is pretty cleaned and well kept. They have a variety of RV spaces in size and prices."

    "It's close to the freeway and the road noise is loud and never stops. There is also a freight train that frequently runs along behind the park, and it's very loud."

    9. Shadow Hills RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Bermuda Dunes, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 360-4040

    $45 - $9999 / night

    "Pool, patio with nice furniture, coffee every morning, ridiculously small dog pens but nice walking path around the park."

    "Our space was adjacent to Jefferson Street which is a bit noisy but tolerable. This is a nice place!"

    10. Ryan Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    30 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-5554

    $30 / night

    "This camp site was tucked in the back, 12 miles from Joshua Tree park entrance. This site was on the side of the rocks that provided shade for more than 12 hours in the day."

    "Short drive to most of the popular sights / trails in Joshua Tree

    Cons: Some sites are pretty close to each other, can feel crowded.

            "

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Recent Camping Photos near Indian Wells, CA

748 Photos of 334 Indian Wells Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Indian Wells, CA

1763 Reviews of 334 Indian Wells Campgrounds

  • j
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Lake Henshaw Resort

    My stay review

    This place is pretty. The staff is nice and not too strict. The place can definitely need a lil tlc but for the price per dayits nothing too complain too much. The pool is cool the showers and bathroom are all functional. Wich is a good thing. I was told to pick any spot i liked wich made my stay even better. No hookups at all i had my rv/camper but that was no problem i took my generator. Place is definitely recommended if you're a not too picky person.😉

  • Elise F.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Fry Creek Campground

    Loved it

    We absolutely loved Fry Creek. It might be our favorite place to camp so far. Our site was removed from others so we weren’t bothered by neighbors. It was a nice large site next to the bathrooms (which were very clean and well maintained) and close to a water spigot and trash can. This campground is definitely a birder’s paradise. We were constantly surrounded and graced by the sounds of woodpeckers, pigeons, mountain quail, bluebirds, jays, and more. One important note though is this entire area is swarmed with flies. We brought nets to put around our faces and without these, I don’t think I would have survived. So definitely bring nets for your face, bug spray, and citronella. Despite this, it was a lovely place. Will be returning one day.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    East Flats

    Nice Peaceful Area

    Wasn’t hard to find a little rough but fairly easy to reach with our Sedan. Couldn’t find too much to do but if you’re looking for a weekend getaway to relax it’s a nice spot.

  • DeWayne G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Giant Rock Dispersed

    Big Rock camping

    Came out to Big Rock for the meteor shower in August. Yes, it was hot, but I like the heat. We set up our two-day camp along the ridge about 300 yards past Big Rock. Verizon Cell service was non-existent at our site, but we would get 5G at the Rock.

    Other than some graffiti the area was clean and well-kept.

  • SoCalsAngels
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Niland Marina

    Great solo spot

    Beautiful spot near the lake with gorgeous views. Nobody as far as the eye could see, of course it’s 100 degrees, but I have a trailer and awning with netting.

  • Julie
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bogart County Park

    Bogart Regional park

    It was okay for a last minute camping idea.

  • Julie
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bogart County Park

    Yucaipa Regional park

    Great customer service, easy access, restrooms, fishing, swimming and paddle boats.

  • A
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    Bobcat Campsite

    Awesome campsite. Free showers. Electrical outlets by the restrooms at a handicap site. Water spigots scattered around the bobcat site. Dumpsters within walking distance from your site. The locals in the area will take your site if you arrive late. Just head back to the campground entrance and they will send a park ranger to remove them. The restrooms get cleaned daily around 8-10am. More than enough room at site 380

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Indian Waters RV Resort

    Nice resort.

    Stayed here overnight. Clearly off season as only a few campers here. Nice level concrete pads FHU (bring lots of sewer hose).

Guide to Indian Wells

Camping near Indian Wells, California, offers a unique blend of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Campers rave about the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer from Jumbo Rocks Campground saying, "So much exploring to be had right from your campsite."
  • Rock Climbing: If you're into climbing, Hidden Valley Campground is a hotspot. A visitor mentioned, "The campground flanks some large rock formations that host rock climbers during the day."
  • Stargazing: The clear desert skies make for incredible stargazing. A camper at Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed noted, "DARK DARK DARK sky.....wonderful."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Many campers appreciate the breathtaking views. One happy camper at Indian Cove Campground said, "What a beautiful place. It was really quiet when we were there and saw a beautiful sunset and sunrise."
  • Privacy: Campers enjoy the spacious sites. A reviewer at Black Rock Campground shared, "The sites are nicely spread out. Bathrooms are extremely clean."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families find the campgrounds welcoming. A visitor at William Heise County Park mentioned, "Definitely was a nice stay and will be going back."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Hidden Valley Campground, have basic facilities. A camper noted, "The Campground offers the most basic accommodations as toilets; no water or showers."
  • Busy Seasons: Expect crowds during peak times. A reviewer at Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping mentioned, "There were a lot of people coming in and out as well. I wouldn’t recommend if you’re looking for privacy."
  • Wildlife: Be cautious of wildlife. A camper at Indian Cove Campground shared, "Talk about waking up with the sound of coyotes in your camp, it was so peaceful."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like William Heise County Park, which offers a variety of activities. A family camper said, "The park was clean and well-maintained, and the staff was friendly and helpful."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. A reviewer at Jumbo Rocks Campground mentioned, "We had a ton of privacy and fun rocks to climb on."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep everyone fueled up. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground suggested, "Bring your own shade for this campsite, your own water too."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Black Rock Campground advised, "If you have a RV/Trailer/Van you may want some block to help get you level."
  • Be Prepared for Weather Changes: Desert nights can get chilly. A camper at Indian Cove Campground noted, "It does get extremely hot as it’s in the desert and there’s little to no shade."
  • Use Reservations Wisely: Popular spots fill up fast. A visitor at Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed mentioned, "I arrived at 5pm and already almost all spots were taken."

Camping near Indian Wells, California, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, there’s something for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Indian Wells, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Indian Wells, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 334 campgrounds and RV parks near Indian Wells, CA and 49 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Indian Wells, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Indian Wells, CA is Thousand Trails Palm Springs with a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Indian Wells, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 49 free dispersed camping spots near Indian Wells, CA.

What parks are near Indian Wells, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Indian Wells, CA that allow camping, notably Joshua Tree National Park and Cleveland National Forest.

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