Best Campgrounds near Indio, CA

Indio, California has several good camping options in the surrounding area. Jumbo Rocks Campground in Joshua Tree National Park stands out with its distinctive rock formations and hiking trails. Indian Cove Campground, also in Joshua Tree, sits among large boulders that create a striking natural setting. Hidden Valley Campground gives campers easy access to climbing spots and good views of the landscape. Spring and fall are the most comfortable times to visit these sites, as summer brings intense heat that can make camping tough. Winter camping is possible but nights get very cold in the desert, so pack warm gear. Most roads to these campgrounds are in good condition, though some might need vehicles with higher clearance. You'll likely see wildlife like coyotes and desert tortoises, so store food properly. It's smart to make reservations, particularly during busy seasons when sites fill quickly. You can book up to six months ahead to get the spot you want. These campgrounds have basic facilities, but you'll need to bring water and other supplies. Always check current conditions and any closures before heading out to make your trip go smoothly.

Best Camping Sites Near Indio, California (304)

    1. Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    116 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    20 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."

    2. Thousand Trails Palm Springs

    18 Reviews
    Bermuda Dunes, CA
    5 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!"

    3. Hidden Valley Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    39 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    19 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!"

    4. Ryan Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    30 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    17 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.

            "

    5. Lake Cahuilla

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

    "Stayed at the start of May as I had appointments in Indio. Wonderfully quiet, hardly anyone else here. If I’d visited in the busy season I think the closeness of the sites would have bothered me."

    "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."

    6. Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

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

    $55 / night

    "Cons: no park entrance from here. You have to drive 20/30 minutes out to the main road and back in to get to the main area of the park. The campsite next to us had some nasty anthills."

    "Indian Cove is on the Northern side of the park, and you will use a different entrance than the main park entrance."

    7. Catalina Spa and RV Resort

    21 Reviews
    Desert Hot Springs, CA
    16 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."

    8. Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed

    59 Reviews
    Mecca, CA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 833-7100

    "Absolutely love staying just outside the park. Easy access to some beautiful trails and you can easily fill up with water, dump out, and use the garbage from your vehicle."

    "The highway noise is rarely noticeable. The site we found was more level than some campgrounds we’ve been in. It’s 100% boondocking, but it’s also 100% free. About 23 miles from Indio/Coachella."

    9. Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA

    21 Reviews
    Desert Hot Springs, CA
    17 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."

    10. Painted Canyon

    17 Reviews
    Mecca, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 833-7100

    "We love hiking the rope/ladder trail loop during the day and star gazing at night. No bugs and the weather is amazing if you’re at the base of the canyon."

    "Watch the corners when driving/ walking on the road- some people drive quick around the blind corners.

    AWD recommend in the least to get all the way to the trail head."

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Showing results 1-10 of 304 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Indio, CA

1554 Reviews of 304 Indio Campgrounds



Guide to Indio

Camping near Indio, California, offers a unique blend of desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. With several campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature and unwind.

What to do:

  • Explore Joshua Tree National Park: This park is famous for its stunning rock formations and hiking trails. One camper mentioned, “So much exploring to be had right from your campsite. The high desert is fascinating” at Jumbo Rocks Campground.
  • Rock Climbing: If you’re into climbing, Hidden Valley Campground is a great spot. A visitor shared, “The campground flanks some large rock formations that host rock climbers during the day” at Hidden Valley Campground.
  • Fishing at Lake Hemet: This campground is perfect for fishing enthusiasts. One reviewer said, “The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time” at Lake Hemet Campground.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One person noted, “What a beautiful place. It was really quiet when we were there and saw a beautiful sunset” at Indian Cove Campground.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many campgrounds cater to families. A reviewer mentioned, “The site is very popular so finding an open site to book can be difficult, but not impossible if you check every day” at Jumbo Rocks Campground.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Campers enjoy spotting local wildlife. One visitor shared, “Talk about waking up with the sound of coyotes in your camp, it was so peaceful” at Indian Cove Campground.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Hidden Valley Campground, don’t have water or electric hookups. A camper pointed out, “The Campground offers the most basic accommodations as toilets; no water or showers.”
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Some sites operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A visitor at Hidden Valley noted, “Filled up by 4 PM in mid-May. NO water, no electric, no internet.”
  • Busy Seasons: Expect crowds during peak times. One camper at Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed said, “I arrived at 5 PM and already almost all spots were taken.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities for kids. A reviewer at William Heise County Park said, “Definitely was a nice stay and will be going back.”
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. One family shared, “The park was clean and well-maintained, and the staff was friendly and helpful” at William Heise County Park.
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on children, especially near water or rocky areas. A camper at Indian Cove Campground mentioned, “The sites are pretty big and there’s many different campgrounds.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Black Rock Campground noted, “The roads could use some work and if you have a RV/Trailer/Van you may want some block to help get you level.”
  • Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast. One camper at Jumbo Rocks Campground said, “Finding an open site to book can be difficult, but not impossible if you check every day.”
  • Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially in the desert heat. A visitor at Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping mentioned, “Clean and quiet. Cell reception was okay.”

Camping in Indio, CA, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re hiking, climbing, or just enjoying the scenery, there’s something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Indio, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Indio, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 304 campgrounds and RV parks near Indio, CA and 44 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Indio, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Indio, CA is Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 116 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Indio, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 44 free dispersed camping spots near Indio, CA.

What parks are near Indio, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Indio, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.