Cabin camping near Landers, California offers access to the Mojave Desert ecosystem at elevations ranging from 2,500-3,500 feet. Located approximately 15 miles north of Joshua Tree National Park's northern boundary, this high desert region experiences temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night. Winter nights regularly drop below freezing while summer temperatures typically exceed 100°F during daytime hours.
What to do
Hot springs access: Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA offers three natural hot springs tubs with different temperature settings (90°, 100°, and 104°F). A visitor noted, "The hot springs was just perfect for all of us. Even have 3 temperatures so the kids can enjoy hot springs too!"
Outdoor activities: Catalina Spa and RV Resort provides multiple recreation options within the property. "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."
Dark sky viewing: The Desert Dome provides excellent stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution in the area. Located east of Landers, the site offers unobstructed views of constellations and celestial events throughout the year. Many visitors bring personal telescopes to take advantage of the clear desert nights.
What campers like
Mineral pools: Sky Valley RV Resort features natural mineral water pools that provide therapeutic benefits. One camper shared, "We didn't try the spring-fed pools until second trip - wow! So soothing and temperature slightly varies but not too hot or too cold. Swimming felt really good."
Community atmosphere: Van Life Campground: Joshua Tree creates a social environment for travelers. A visitor mentioned, "I prefer to stay on BLM, but every once in a while I boondock at VLC for a hot shower and intentional socialising. I really dig the hostel vibes and communal activities."
Clean facilities: Twentynine Palms Resort maintains high standards for their amenities. According to reviews, "Amenities like restrooms and showers are very clean!" Another visitor confirmed, "Clean, super easy online payment. We arrived late and packet and spot number ready for us at the desk."
What you should know
Wind conditions: Desert locations near Landers frequently experience high winds that impact camping comfort. At Catalina Spa and RV Resort, a reviewer warned, "It can be windy at times, so you need to mind your awnings. It's is warm during the day but cools at night."
Distance considerations: Most cabin accommodations require driving to reach attractions. As one camper at Sky Valley RV Resort observed, "This park is 25min from anything but that's one reason I like it. Lots of exploring within a hours drive to great sights like Joshua Tree NP, Palm Springs, Salton sea, Idlewild, Borrego Springs, etc."
Booking requirements: Cabin availability varies seasonally with peak demand during winter months (November-March). Most sites require advance reservations, especially on weekends. A visitor to Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA noted their observatory program was "sold out for the next three months so if you are going to be here maybe you should plan ahead."
Tips for camping with families
Pool temperature options: Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA offers family-friendly water facilities. A parent reported, "Pool is warm and wall stops wind. Many activities for kids miniature golf, jump board, play ground. Many activities for adults as well."
Space considerations: Cabin layouts vary significantly between properties. Catalina Spa and RV Resort provides more separation between sites, as one reviewer mentioned: "Lower section is blocked by trees and bushes which block you from your neighbors."
Weekday vs. weekend stays: Family noise levels differ throughout the week. One camper shared their experience: "We arrived on a Tuesday, so we got to spend a few quiet days before the weekend campers showed up which was nice. This is a very family friendly resort so on the weekends there are lots of families with kids."
Tips from RVers
Site access: Caliente Springs RV Resort presents challenges for larger vehicles. A camper with a 45-foot motorhome cautioned, "The biggest problem with this place is the exit area. There is a huge dip in the road. We scraped a bit and I saw many other TTS and 5th wheels scrape bottom."
Site levelness: Many cabin camping areas have uneven terrain. One visitor to Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA observed, "Sites are not level" while another at Twentynine Palms Resort had a different experience: "Hookups well placed and site level."
Age restrictions: Some cabin accommodations have demographic limitations. A reviewer noted about Caliente Springs, "This park looks nice, we were unable to say due to age restrictions. Park is a 55+ park."
