Camping opportunities near Indio, California range from high desert terrain to mountainous environments with elevations varying from 11 feet below sea level at the Salton Sea to over 6,000 feet in nearby mountain campgrounds. The region experiences extreme seasonal temperature shifts, with summer highs regularly exceeding 110°F while winter nights can drop to near freezing. Most campgrounds remain open year-round but campers should prepare for windy conditions, particularly at desert locations.
What to do
Mountain hiking access: Lake Hemet Campground sits at higher elevation about an hour from Indio, providing cooler temperatures and trail access. "We have just camped to relax, Kayak, fish, and play Disk Golf. They always keep their bathrooms and porta potties clean! Their campsites are well maintained and clean as well!" writes Christina R.
Desert exploration: Borrego Palm Canyon Campground offers proximity to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park's unique landscapes. A camper shares: "This campground felt more like I was glamping. Everything was easily accessible and by that I mean; a toilet, running water, and showers. We slept in our tent which felt pretty amazing being that the weather was perfect."
Wildlife viewing: Twentynine Palms Resort provides access to Joshua Tree National Park with its distinctive plant life. "Location near Joshua tree NP. Great guest service. Full hookups sites. Propano fill available. We had a problem with our RV and got great and fast service!" notes Milagros B.
Yurt camping exploration: For those seeking yurt camping near Indio, California, several campgrounds offer these structures as alternatives to traditional tent camping. Yurt accommodations provide comfort while maintaining the outdoor camping experience that draws visitors to the region.
What campers like
Natural hot springs: Catalina Spa and RV Resort features mineral pools that campers consistently praise. "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," notes Vera S.
Varied temperature pools: Marion Mountain campground offers a different experience with cooler temperatures. "We decided 4 stars because the forest service failed to post our reservation for site #06 (which has the best view but not much shade). We were here mid July on a Thursday and there were only 2 other sites occupied. Beware the unreal amount of mosquitos," reports Collier T.
Private sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at Thousand Trails Idyllwild. "We tent camped 3 days 2 nights during Memorial weekend with 3 other families. We really enjoyed the drive up Idylwild, beautiful scenery. I think the sites are a bit too close to each other, I would prefer more space between sites. But it's a quiet campground, everyone goes to sleep early around 10pm," notes Angela.
Yurt rental options: Specialized yurt camping in Indio and surrounding areas provides an alternative for those wanting structure without hauling an RV. These accommodations typically include solid floors, beds, and weatherproof coverings.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some resorts in the desert regions have water issues. At Oasis Palms RV Resort, one reviewer cautions: "The water is sourced from a well and is NOT SAFE to drink or cook with due to excessive arsenic and fluoride. There are however 3 locations in the park with reverse osmosis filters to fill water jugs."
Wind conditions: Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA can experience significant wind issues. "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," warns theresa O.
Site leveling: Many campgrounds have uneven sites. At Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA, Cindy B. notes: "Where it is lacking and needs some work: Sites are not level. Our dump hookup ended up being uphill so one has to milk the house to empty (our neighbors had the same situation)."
Seasonal availability: For specialized accommodations like yurt camping in California's Indio area, reservations are essential as these structures are limited and highly sought after, particularly during peak season from October through April.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Lake Skinner Recreation Area offers family-friendly water features. "Nice relaxing weekend get away, most of the full hook up spots are next to nice grass areas. The park is well maintained, multiple trails for biking, running or just taking a nice walk," writes Timothy A.
Activities beyond swimming: Family camping near Indio should include alternatives to water recreation. "We had the best time here! The lake with all the blow up toys was a blast! The section we were in only had a volt potty but there were showers there in another section. Every site has a picnic table and fire ring," shares Jennifer D. about Lake Skinner.
Temperature management: Happy Traveler RV Park offers amenities for temperature control. "Nice rv park, mostly long termers but it was clean and quiet. Spots were very close together but they all have 10 to 15 ft hedges on the sides so very private. The pool and hot tub were clean," reports Pam A.
Yurt camping for families: Families considering yurt camping in the Indio area benefit from the stability these structures provide against desert winds while offering more space than standard tents for children's gear and activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At campgrounds near Indio, RV site selection matters. Peter R. advises: "Staying at site #421 which I think is the best one here because none parked to the immediate sides and has a big hill on the side for exercise and adds privacy. Some sites looked uneven but this one was surprisingly even."
Road access considerations: Access to some mountain campgrounds requires planning. "I recommend coming in and out from Anza passing by lake Hemet, if your towing towards your max capacity. Gradual straight climb through 75% of the way. Takes about 20-30 minutes longer then the other ways but worth saving the strain on your truck and drive."
Entrance challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult entrances. "The entrance into the KOA - if coming in and making a right - be careful as you essentially end up making a U-turn around a rock wall and into the park. Just a funky entrance."
