Best Campgrounds near La Quinta, CA

The Coachella Valley surrounding La Quinta, California features a diverse range of camping environments within a 50-mile radius. Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area offers developed sites with full hookups directly in La Quinta, while Joshua Tree National Park's iconic boulder-strewn landscapes lie just 45 minutes northeast. Between these destinations, campers find luxury RV resorts like Shadow Hills in nearby Indio and Thousand Trails Palm Springs in Palm Desert, catering primarily to motorhomes with amenities such as swimming pools and organized activities. For those seeking more primitive experiences, BLM dispersed camping at Joshua Tree South provides free, no-reservation desert camping with minimal facilities but expansive views of the surrounding mountains.

Desert climate considerations significantly impact camping experiences near La Quinta. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F from June through September, making fall through spring the primary camping seasons for most visitors. As one camper noted, "It was very windy and we had to leave one day early because we didn't want to travel back in a high wind advisory." Winter nights can drop below freezing at higher elevations in nearby mountains, while remaining mild in the valley. Many RV resorts operate seasonally, with peak season running October through April. Water availability varies dramatically between developed and primitive sites, with Joshua Tree campers frequently mentioning the importance of bringing adequate supplies: "Bathrooms but no water access and the main entrance is about 45 minute drive, so come prepared."

Stargazing opportunities rank among the most frequently praised aspects of camping in this region. Borrego Springs, about an hour south, maintains dark sky community status, with one visitor noting, "Sunsets and sunrises were incredible and even though you're just off the highway you don't hear any noise." Campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park receive consistently high ratings for their unique landscapes and night sky viewing. Wind protection becomes a critical consideration, with experienced campers recommending sites "situated between HUGE boulders so they're nicely tucked away from high winds that can sometimes pick up." Recreation options vary seasonally, with hiking trails throughout the area, rock climbing in Joshua Tree, and nearby off-road vehicle areas at Ocotillo Wells where visitors can "make your campsite anywhere" with restrooms nearby.

Best Camping Sites Near La Quinta, California (322)

    1. Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    118 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    26 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."

    2. Thousand Trails Palm Springs

    18 Reviews
    Bermuda Dunes, CA
    7 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. Lake Cahuilla

    12 Reviews
    La Quinta, CA
    2 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. 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."

    5. Lake Hemet Campground

    39 Reviews
    Mountain Center, CA
    23 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. Shadow Hills RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Bermuda Dunes, CA
    6 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!"

    7. Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed

    59 Reviews
    Mecca, CA
    27 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."

    "This is a great free site right at the edge of Joshua Tree National park. Spots are far apart and you don’t have to worry about other people. Area is flat and easy to set up and park on."

    8. Catalina Spa and RV Resort

    21 Reviews
    Desert Hot Springs, CA
    19 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."

    9. Emerald Desert RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Thousand Palms, CA
    9 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."

    10. Coachella Lakes RV Resort

    4 Reviews
    Indio, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (442) 325-9292

    $52 - $113 / night

    "This place is huge and so are the sites. 2 pools but of course as luck would have it one pool that’s about 20 steps from our campsite is closed! Office staff were friendly as were workers."

    "I believe the spots that will be opening up that are further away from all the amenities will be cheaper."

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Showing results 1-10 of 322 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near La Quinta, CA

1684 Reviews of 322 La Quinta Campgrounds



Guide to La Quinta

Camping near La Quinta, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning desert landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several 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. The high desert is fascinating."
  • Rock Climbing: If you're into climbing, Hidden Valley Campground is a hotspot. A visitor noted, "The rocks are great to boulder, scramble, or climb on."
  • Stargazing: The clear desert skies make for incredible stargazing. A camper at Hidden Valley Campground mentioned, "DARK DARK DARK sky.....wonderful."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Many campers appreciate the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer 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 visitor at Black Rock Campground shared, "The sites are nicely spread out. Bathrooms are extremely clean."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like William Heise County Park are noted for being great for families. One reviewer stated, "Definitely was a nice stay and will be going back."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Joshua Tree South, lack basic facilities. A camper mentioned, "No facilities but good cell service."
  • Busy Seasons: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A visitor at Indian Cove Campground warned, "The site is very popular so finding an open site to book can be difficult."
  • Weather Variability: Be prepared for temperature changes. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground noted, "It does get extremely hot as it’s in the desert and there’s little to no shade."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like William Heise County Park that offer spacious sites and activities for kids. One family shared, "The park was clean and well-maintained, and the staff was friendly and helpful."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Jumbo Rocks Campground suggested, "Numerous hikes are nearby for numerous outings and is very family friendly."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring plenty of water and snacks. A visitor at Lake Hemet Campground advised, "Bring your own shade for this campsite, your own water too."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have size restrictions. A reviewer at Indian Cove Campground mentioned, "Smaller rigs only. Not very level sights."
  • Be Prepared for Off-Roading: Roads can be bumpy. A camper at Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping noted, "The road was quite bumpy, but we managed with a campervan."
  • Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A visitor at Black Rock Campground shared, "The campground while on the edge of Joshua Tree is not really inside the park. You don't pay park fees, but you can't go directly into the rest of the park from the campsite."

Camping near La Quinta, CA, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful desert landscape!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near La Quinta, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, La Quinta, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 322 campgrounds and RV parks near La Quinta, CA and 49 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near La Quinta, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near La Quinta, CA is Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 118 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near La Quinta, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 49 free dispersed camping spots near La Quinta, CA.

What parks are near La Quinta, CA?

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