Cabin accommodations near La Quinta range from primitive structures to resort-style lodgings across multiple campgrounds. Situated in California's Coachella Valley at 40 feet below sea level, the area experiences minimal rainfall (less than 5 inches annually) and extreme summer heat often exceeding 110°F. Winter temperatures moderate to 70-80°F daytime highs, making November through March the prime cabin camping season.
What to do
Morning hikes and exploration: Catalina Spa and RV Resort offers easy access to natural attractions. "Joshua Tree entrances are within the hour to get to. The Coachella Valley preserve is just a few minutes drive from Sky Valley and is a delightful walk among Palm trees and springs," notes Tracy K., who recommends early day adventures before temperatures rise.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Hemet Campground provides fishing access approximately 45 minutes from La Quinta. "Hemet Lake itself is beautiful and the view while fishing was amazing. I was able to catch one trout during our four night stay," shares Donovan. The lake stocks trout regularly during cooler months.
Hot spring soaking: Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA features geothermal pools for relaxation after activities. "Geothermal pool and spas. 90, 100 and 104 degrees heated in December!!" reports Michael C., highlighting the year-round appeal of these mineral springs, which offer therapeutic benefits not available at standard cabin locations.
Desert wildlife viewing: Trails near many cabin sites offer opportunities for viewing native species. Black swans inhabit the pond at Sky Valley Resort, while bald eagles can sometimes be spotted at Lake Hemet according to Jennifer D. who reports, "We rented a boat and went out on the lake to do some fishing. We didn't catch anything but we did see some bald eagles which was super cool!"
What campers like
Clean facilities: Lake Hemet Campground maintains well-kept bathrooms and showers. "Free showers, and good bathrooms," mentions Ken B., addressing a common concern for cabin campers who may not have private facilities.
Spacious sites: Thousand Trails Palm Springs offers cabin accommodations with adequate spacing. "Spots on the east side have 50 and 30 amp and most are quite large," notes Bryan S., whose observation applies to adjacent cabin areas as well.
Recreational variety: Beyond standard amenities, Catalina Spa and RV Resort provides diverse activities. "There is plenty of space for kids to play, with lawns and a little playground... Pickleball with daily games, a small and run down mini golf course. There is also shuffle board, cornhole and horseshoes," reports Ashley M., who stayed for over two months.
Proximity to attractions: Shadow Hills RV Resort places cabin guests near regional points of interest. "This is a great location if you are a Thousand trails member well worth it... Lots of stuff to do/see in surrounding areas," mentions Tyler V., referencing the convenience for day trips to Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, and other destinations.
What you should know
Weather challenges: Wind conditions affect many cabin sites in the area. "The wind pretty much stopped, and I'll use the awning, but bring it in at night. Why take a chance," advises Tom W. at Thousand Trails Palm Springs, sharing practical experience about managing desert wind conditions.
Reservation timing: Booking early is essential for cabin accommodations throughout the area, particularly during winter months. According to Jennifer D., "We were there the weekend before Easter and they did an Easter Egg hunt so that was super fun," highlighting both the need to reserve holiday weekends well in advance and the special events that make planning worthwhile.
Water quality concerns: Oasis Palms RV Resort alerts guests about local water issues. "The water (sourced from a well) 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," warns Dawn J. Similar water concerns may affect other properties in the desert region.
Highway noise: Several cabin locations sit near Interstate 10 or major roads. "The only reason I'm giving 4 stars is because the sites are super super close together," mentions Jennifer D. about Thousand Trails, while other reviewers note traffic noise from adjacent highways affects sleep quality at multiple properties.
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA organizes family-oriented events. "They even had a haunted house and hayride for the kids. Super cool spot," reports Heather K., indicating the resort's commitment to family entertainment beyond standard amenities.
Pool features: Coachella Lakes RV Resort provides water recreation for children. "Amazing staff. Amazing HUGE sites. Clean. Lots of planned activities. Great for families," states Travis M., emphasizing the family-friendly atmosphere that extends beyond the accommodation itself.
Holiday celebrations: Special events occur regularly at cabin campgrounds near La Quinta. Christina R. notes about Lake Hemet: "My friends and I have been camping here for New Years and other random summer/holiday weekends for about 5 years now," demonstrating the consistency of programming that families can depend on when planning stays.
Timing considerations: Thousand Trails Palm Springs experiences varying crowd levels by season and day of week. "We arrived on Thursday and there were plenty of spaces open to pick from on the 50 Amp or 30 Amp side," reports Gustavo C., suggesting mid-week arrivals provide more options for families requiring specific cabin locations or amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Shadow Hills RV Resort offers cabin guests insights about positioning. "Our space was adjacent to Jefferson Street which is a bit noisy but tolerable," mentions David B., providing guidance applicable to cabin selection at this property.
Facility maintenance: Emerald Desert RV Resort maintains high standards for all accommodations. "The resort is extremely clean, well-maintained, and quiet," writes David, who appreciates "full hookups, daily trash pickup, and all the rest of Emerald Desert's amenities such as sparkling swimming pools, daily activities, free Saturday Continental Breakfast."
Seasonal awareness: Sky Valley Resort operates with varying attendance patterns. "We stayed at Sky Valley in January, February, April and May. It's a lovely location with almost perfect weather in the winter. April very windy and May, it starts getting hotter," reports Tracy K., providing guidance useful for cabin guests planning longer stays.
Community engagement: Long-term cabin guests find social connections at area campgrounds. "The weekly rate is much better than daily. It is a nice resort with clean amenities. The gym was great and the pool was not busy which made it a nice place to work from," shares Lauren K. about Emerald Desert RV Resort, highlighting amenities that benefit extended stays in cabin accommodations.
