Tent camping near La Quinta, California offers sites from the valley floor at 40 feet below sea level to mountain camps at 9,100 feet elevation. Temperature differences between these locations can reach 40°F during summer months. The camping season varies dramatically by elevation, with desert sites most comfortable from November through April while higher mountain camps remain accessible only from May through October.
What to do
Explore slot canyons: Box Canyon Dispersed camping area provides direct access to narrow slot canyons with distinctive geological features. "Shear cliffs that are heavily eroded. Very distinct layers of floods. Nice hikes up thin canyons," notes Kenny W. about Box Canyon Dispersed.
Hike mountain trails: Campers at high-elevation sites can access extensive trail networks. "The permit only reserves your space on the mountain you will need to selected your exact campsite once you get to the ranger station after getting off the tram. Permits are only $5 per person but the tram is like $25," explains Cody B. about Round Valley Campsite.
Off-road adventures: Many dispersed camping areas double as OHV recreation zones. "Great place to camp and offroad. Maps are easy to get and trails are well posted. Avoid big weekends and pack 3 times the amount of water that you think you would need," advises Kris K. about Ocotillo Wells.
What campers like
High-elevation escapes from desert heat: Mountain camping offers significant temperature relief during warmer months. "A very moderate hike from the aerial tram that put us in the heart of the San Jacinto Mountain just hours away from the peak! We didn't mind our 30 pound packs knowing we would enjoy the beautiful trails and streams that lead to our site," shares Johnny H. about Round Valley.
Secluded yellow post sites: Forest service roads lead to designated sites with basic amenities. "There are 16 yellow post sites along the Santa Rosa Truck Trail (7S02) from hwy 74. Most of the sites are beyond the springs that are flowing through a faucet at Santa Rosa Springs," reports Andrew D. about San Bernardino National Forest Santa Rosa Springs Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Higher elevation camps offer opportunities to observe local fauna. "Labor Day weekend. We occupied the only spot out of five. Lots of wildlife. Raccoons in the night, gray squirrel, other squirrels, many birds," reports Rhyn E. about Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements vary significantly: Many tent camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. "Need high clearance vehicle for some of the ruts, or be VERY experienced driving through rough roads," warns Jake P. about Tool Box Springs.
Water availability is extremely limited: Most desert sites require carrying all water needs. "This Campsite is only about 2 miles from the tram but the elevation of Round Valley is 9,100 ft. Reservations go fast so you need to submit your permit starting 8 weeks before your trip," advises Cody B.
Seasonal insects can be problematic: Summer camping at some sites means dealing with flies. "This site would've been perfect, and I mean perfect, but the flies were unbearable. I planned to stay two nights but I couldn't make it past the next morning. If I stood still even for a second I was swarmed," reports Steve H.
Tips for camping with families
Choose mountain sites during summer: The extreme heat makes desert camping dangerous for children in summer months. "We stayed at group sites and man, it was unreal. We came here once a month last year and had the time of our lives. This place is gorgeous," says Taylor about Tamarack Valley Campground.
Plan for sand challenges: Desert tent camping requires additional preparation for sand management. "Deep sand - would recommend 4wd but i suspect you could get in without. got my jeep deep into the canyon between coachella weekends and was the only person there," advises Joe C. about Box Canyon.
Seek out geocaching opportunities: Some sites offer additional activities for children. "We had a great time. The kids did some exploring. Found a Geocache… we had two foxes come and visit the campsite," shares Nick A.
Tips from RVers
Sand driving techniques: Desert camping with RVs requires specific driving skills. "Sandrails, dirt bikes, quads, jeeps- Oh My! I've mostly rv camped here during the annual Jeep event in March/April. we get there early to get a prime uncrowded spot for our caravan. obv no rv hookups and no shade as it's the desert. Fwd isn't required, I made it with my 4cyl Toyota RAV4," shares Jennifer D. about Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area.
Limited level sites at forest locations: Finding flat parking for larger vehicles can be challenging. "Getting up Thomas Mountain is good fun. This Campground is about 8mi up the ridge along a sometimes washed out road. The site itself was peaceful and quiet, but entirely left to run away. Not a lot of level ground," reports TR about Tool Box Springs.
Seasonal road conditions: Access to many campgrounds changes dramatically with weather. "Awesome spot! Just got back this past weekend and the service road to get up was absolutely covered in mud and snow. Would 100% recommend it, but if it's been snowing or raining, you'll need high clearance and 4x4," advises Kyle M.