Cabin rentals near Mecca, California provide climate-controlled options for travelers exploring the southern edge of California's Coachella Valley. Located approximately 140 feet below sea level, this desert region experiences temperature extremes with summer highs frequently exceeding 110°F and winter overnight lows dipping into the 40s. Cabins often serve as a basecamp for regional exploration, with Joshua Tree National Park located about 45 minutes from most accommodations.
What to do
Explore General Patton Museum: Located adjacent to Chiriaco Summit Dry Camp Area, this historical museum displays military memorabilia and tanks from WWII. "See the museum while you're there. It's a fascinating piece of history," notes one visitor who stayed at Chiriaco Summit Dry Camp Area.
Visit mineral springs: Natural hot springs draw many travelers to the region. "Luxurious amenities and nice grassy site. Visited in May and the park was 90% empty. We enjoyed our stay here and relax in the spa!" shares a guest at Indian Waters RV Resort, which features multiple pools fed by natural springs.
Fishing opportunities: Several cabin properties offer fishing access. "The location is unbeatable for exploring Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley, conveniently situated right off the highway," explains a visitor at Thousand Trails Palm Springs, where stocked ponds provide recreational fishing.
Desert hiking trails: Cabin accommodations place visitors near multiple desert trail systems. "We spent a week in one of their dog friendly cabins and had such a good time. The resort is in the perfect location for hiking along the San Andreas Fault, visiting Joshua Tree National Park," writes a guest who stayed at Coachella Lakes RV Resort.
What campers like
Spacious cabin layouts: Many cabin rentals offer more room than expected. "Amazing staff. Amazing HUGE sites. Clean. Lots of planned activities. Great for families," comments a visitor at Coachella Lakes RV Resort, which provides both standard and premium cabin accommodations.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean, well-kept amenities receive frequent praise. "Four pickleball courts. Clubhouse with lots of activities. Near Palm Springs and lots to explore in the area," notes a visitor at Indian Waters RV Resort, highlighting the property's recreational facilities.
Security features: Gated access and visible staff presence make families feel secure. "It is gated but you will need to pay a $20 CASH deposit for a key card," explains a visitor at Oasis Palms RV Resort, where after-hours access requires planning ahead.
Extended-stay options: Cabin accommodations often support longer visits. "We stayed for 2 and a half months and enjoyed the amenities daily. There is plenty of space for kids to play, with lawns and a little playground," mentions a guest who stayed at Catalina Spa and RV Resort.
What you should know
Water quality varies: Several properties utilize well water with mineral content. "Beware, the pictures and term resort are misleading. You get what you pay for and this park is adequate at best for the price," cautions a reviewer at Oasis Palms RV Resort, adding that "the water is NOT SAFE to drink or cook with due to excessive arsenic and fluoride."
Noise considerations: Highway and rail proximity affects some properties. "The only downside is the noise from the freeway, train and airport," mentions a camper at Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA, advising light sleepers to request sites furthest from transportation routes.
Weather preparedness: Wind conditions can significantly impact cabin camping experiences. "Bring insulation for your water hose or have some type of method that will keep your water lines from freezing. Our water hose froze the first night," shares a winter visitor at Lake Hemet Campground.
Seasonal availability: Some cabin properties operate on limited schedules. "Park is seasonal and not open year round," notes a camper at Thousand Trails Palm Springs, which typically closes during summer months from mid-May through mid-September.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Properties with multiple recreation options work best for families. "There is mini golf, pickle ball, and horseshoes. The kids loved the pool. That was the main attraction," shares a visitor at Catalina Spa and RV Resort, where various amenities keep children engaged.
Cabin selection considerations: Family size determines appropriate cabin choice. "We spent a week in one of their dog friendly cabins and had such a good time," reports a camper at Coachella Lakes RV Resort who traveled with pets, noting the importance of specific cabin designation.
Festival timing awareness: Avoid major event weekends when seeking family accommodations. "This is my favorite spot to camp for Stagecoach. The staff is wonderful and organized," mentions a visitor at Shadow Hills RV Resort, highlighting how music festivals significantly impact availability.
Storage capacity: Cabin space limitations require planning. "It is what it is, but way too pricey for us!" notes a visitor to Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA who recommends bringing compact storage solutions for extended stays.
Tips from RVers
Placement challenges: Some cabin areas share challenges with RV sites. "Parking big rig between the palm trees can be a challenge," advises a visitor at Thousand Trails Palm Springs, noting similar concerns apply to cabin access roads.
Reservation timing: Advance planning is essential during peak seasons. "We stayed for a weekend and had no reservations and there was plenty of room in November," shares a camper at Emerald Desert RV Resort, highlighting the lower occupancy during shoulder seasons.
Temperature management: Cooling systems become critical during warmer months. "The pool is warm and wall stops wind," explains a visitor at Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA, emphasizing the importance of climate control both inside and outside accommodations.
Long-term stay discounts: Extended cabin rentals often qualify for reduced rates. "The weekly rate is much better than daily. It is a nice resort with clean amenities," notes a visitor who spent two weeks at Emerald Desert RV Resort.
