Best Campgrounds near Indian Wells, CA

Indian Wells camping areas include William Heise County Park, which has plenty of room for family and group sites with basic facilities like bathrooms and picnic tables. Joshua Tree National Park's Hidden Valley Campground is a bit rougher but puts you right next to cool rock formations that many climbers come to tackle. Spring and fall are the best seasons to camp here since the weather is mild. You'll want to avoid summer unless you can handle serious heat. Make reservations ahead of time, especially on weekends and holidays when spots fill up fast. Keep in mind that fire rules change throughout the year, so double-check what's allowed before you go. Most campsites let you stay up to two weeks at a time. You generally don't need special permits for regular sites, though group areas might work differently. The booking system opens months in advance and weekend dates disappear quickly. If you're looking for fewer crowds, try camping on weekdays. Indian Wells has both fully-equipped and basic campsites depending on what kind of camping trip you want.

Best Camping Sites Near Indian Wells, California (327)

    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

    116 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."

    "bathrooms but no water access and the main entrance is about 45 drive, so come prepared. great access to climbing walking distance or short drive. stunning rock formations and sunrise/sunsets."

    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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Showing results 1-10 of 327 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Indian Wells, CA

1734 Reviews of 327 Indian Wells Campgrounds



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 327 campgrounds and RV parks near Indian Wells, CA and 44 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 44 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 Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.