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Best Campgrounds near Morongo Valley, CA

1,588 Reviews

Camping options around Morongo Valley range from established campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park to RV resorts in nearby Desert Hot Springs. The area's developed campgrounds include Black Rock Campground, offering tent and RV sites with drinking water and restrooms, and Indian Cove Campground with picnic tables and fire rings nestled among dramatic rock formations. Joshua Tree National Park features several campgrounds within 30 minutes of Morongo Valley, while commercial options like Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA and Catalina Spa and RV Resort provide full hookups and amenities for RV travelers.

Road conditions and seasonal considerations impact camping experiences throughout the region. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F in lower elevations, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. As one camper noted, "The views from some of the sites are gorgeous and there is very light traffic. There is water at one of the sites that is shared with all of them." Winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional freezing conditions at higher elevations like Black Rock Campground. Many campgrounds require reservations, particularly during peak spring wildflower season when Joshua Tree's campgrounds fill quickly. Cell service varies significantly, with better coverage at campgrounds closer to towns.

The high desert landscape delivers striking scenery and stargazing opportunities at most campgrounds. Joshua Tree's Jumbo Rocks Campground receives consistently high ratings for its unique setting among massive granite boulders. A review described it as having "sites tucked between HUGE boulders so they're nicely tucked away from high winds that can sometimes pick up." Campgrounds at higher elevations like Heart Bar offer cooler temperatures and mountain views. Desert wildlife sightings are common, with several campers mentioning coyote encounters. Facilities vary widely, from primitive sites with vault toilets to full-service RV resorts with hot springs access. The proximity to rock climbing, hiking trails, and desert botanical features makes the area particularly popular with outdoor enthusiasts looking for developed campgrounds that provide access to wilderness experiences.

Map showing campgrounds near Morongo Valley, CaliforniaExplore the Map

Detours Nearby

Joshua Tree, Palm Springs, Coachella Adjacent

Joshua Tree, Palm Springs, Coachella Adjacent

21 min away

San Gorgonio Summit Camp

San Gorgonio Summit Camp

2 hrs 1 min away

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Best Camping Sites Near Morongo Valley, California (330)

    1. Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    48 Reviews
    Yucca Valley, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-5554

    $35 / night

    "Originally booked this site because it is a good endpoint for the California Riding & Hiking trail though the national park, so if you’re looking to run or complete the traverse, it is a good spot"

    "The ranger and host at the store were very helpful with information about the surrounding area.

    • Trails run right out of camp...lots of them...of all different difficulty levels."

    2. Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA

    21 Reviews
    Desert Hot Springs, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 251-6555

    "The KOA is reasonably priced for KOA and California. 3 hot spring tubs. Pool is warm and wall stops wind. Many activities for kids miniature golf, jump board, play ground."

    "Plenty of stuff to do behind the walls, mini golf, dog kamp, pool, hot tubs, games, game room... Nice shower house and bathrooms. Camp store is a little small but has the essentials."

    3. Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    62 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-5554

    $55 / night

    "Cons: no park entrance from here. You have to drive 20/30 minutes out to the main road and back in to get to the main area of the park. The campsite next to us had some nasty anthills."

    "Indian Cove is on the Northern side of the park, and you will use a different entrance than the main park entrance."

    4. Catalina Spa and RV Resort

    21 Reviews
    Desert Hot Springs, CA
    14 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."

    5. Heart Bar Campground

    20 Reviews
    Big Bear City, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8550

    $29 - $58 / night

    "The first thing to mention is the location. The back of the campground faces west where the rolling mountains seem to part in a way that showcases the beautiful California sunset."

    "second reason; there are many many sites to choose from. this camp ground has several loops that each contain roughly 20 campsites, sometimes more. on any given day you should be able to drive up, though"

    6. Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    118 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    29 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."

    7. Hidden Valley Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    39 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-3001

    "The entire campgrounds are surrounded in a wall of boulders varying in shales and sizes. Tons of fun to scramble and boulder on. We wenf in July and the evening temps were fantastic."

    "Location is great and close by to al the main attraction!"

    8. Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping

    34 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    21 miles
    Website

    "Free camping just outside Joshua Tree. No amenities or designated campsites. Large open area where you can camp wherever you'd like."

    "As others have noted, this a giant dry lake bed. There is tons of space, plenty of room to spread out and not be near other campers, which there are many on the weekends."

    9. Sam's Family Spa RV Resort & Motel

    11 Reviews
    Desert Hot Springs, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 329-6457

    $60 / night

    "Mail delivery is convenient, but the lack of security at the campground entrance feels like a gap."

    "With snow in the surrounding mountains. It seems to be surrounded by mountains in the winter months."

    10. Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

    27 Reviews
    Landers, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 366-1213

    $15 - $55 / night

    "A great spot away from the main Joshua Tree strip. We visited for one night during the waning height of COVID and staff was taking all the necessary precautions."

    "Away from highway noise a place to recharge."

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Recent Camping Photos near Morongo Valley, CA

725 Photos of 330 Morongo Valley Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Morongo Valley, CA

1588 Reviews of 330 Morongo Valley Campgrounds

  • B
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    Stunning but Safety Concerns

    I’ve camped at the Keller Peak yellow post sites more than two dozen times over the years and, at their best, they’re incredible. The scenery and isolation are superb—starry skies, quiet nights, and that deep-woods stillness that’s getting harder to find. For years this was my go-to spot. 

    Unfortunately, I’ve also watched trash and waste increase. Please, pack it out—these sites only stay special if we treat them with care. 

    My last trip was frightening enough that I haven’t returned. Late at night a group of locals came to the edge of my site, yelling and using threatening language. They assumed I was homeless despite my SUV and proper camping setup. I was using a portable propane fire pit—which is allowed—and I calmly explained that. I can understand why fire is an issue to locals.  I only felt safe because my small dog has a very loud bark, which kept them from coming closer. They said they were calling a ranger. I left the next morning, shaken. On my way out, I spoke with a park ranger who confirmed propane fire pits are permitted and told me they don’t patrol up there at night because of recurring issues like this. She also mentioned they were trying to move the site to a reservation system to deter homeless use; I’m not sure if that has happened yet. 

    It’s a shame, because this area is one of the best around. I’m sharing this so others can make an informed choice.  

    Pros - Spectacular views and true solitude Cool nights, dark skies, classic forest feel

    Cons -  Rising litter and human waste Nighttime safety concerns due to occasional rowdy visitors Limited ranger presence after dark

     I hope increased stewardship and enforcement can restore the magic here.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    East Flats

    Nice Peaceful Area

    Wasn’t hard to find a little rough but fairly easy to reach with our Sedan. Couldn’t find too much to do but if you’re looking for a weekend getaway to relax it’s a nice spot.

  • Nickchris G.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Horsemen's Center

    Horseman's center!

    Beautiful views of the entire city and never bothered by anyone, can do bonfires, and even camp right out my car.

  • DeWayne G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Giant Rock Dispersed

    Big Rock camping

    Came out to Big Rock for the meteor shower in August. Yes, it was hot, but I like the heat. We set up our two-day camp along the ridge about 300 yards past Big Rock. Verizon Cell service was non-existent at our site, but we would get 5G at the Rock.

    Other than some graffiti the area was clean and well-kept.

  • Julie
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bogart County Park

    Bogart Regional park

    It was okay for a last minute camping idea.

  • Julie
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bogart County Park

    Yucaipa Regional park

    Great customer service, easy access, restrooms, fishing, swimming and paddle boats.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Sheephole Valley Wilderness

    Shooting stars

    Is August and we wanted to see the Perseid meteor shower. I know, desert, summer, super hot. It was 100° when we got to our area. By 10 pm it was in the 80’s. I don’t think it got to the 70’s.

  • A
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    Bobcat Campsite

    Awesome campsite. Free showers. Electrical outlets by the restrooms at a handicap site. Water spigots scattered around the bobcat site. Dumpsters within walking distance from your site. The locals in the area will take your site if you arrive late. Just head back to the campground entrance and they will send a park ranger to remove them. The restrooms get cleaned daily around 8-10am. More than enough room at site 380

Guide to Morongo Valley

Camping near Morongo Valley, California, offers a unique blend of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Campers love the hikes around Jumbo Rocks Campground, with one reviewer noting, "So much exploring to be had right from your campsite."
  • Rock Climbing: If you're into climbing, Hidden Valley Campground is a hotspot. A visitor shared, "The campground flanks some large rock formations that host rock climbers during the day."
  • Stargazing: The clear desert skies make for incredible stargazing. One camper at Indian Cove Campground mentioned, "The skies were awesome!"

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Black Rock Campground states, "This campground is very nice. The roads could use some work, but the sites are nicely spread out."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of the campgrounds. One camper at Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed said, "Very quiet, but we went in July so it was miserably hot."
  • Family-Friendly: Campgrounds like Lake Hemet Campground are great for families. A visitor noted, "Great place for family and kids. Affordable."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Hidden Valley Campground, have basic facilities. A camper mentioned, "The campground offers the most basic accommodations as toilets; no water or showers."
  • Busy Seasons: Popular spots can fill up quickly. One reviewer 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 said, "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 spots like Lake Hemet Campground, which has amenities for kids. A review highlighted, "The swim zone isn't too far from this campsite."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One camper at Jumbo Rocks Campground mentioned, "We had a ton of privacy and fun rocks to climb on."
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids, especially around wildlife. A visitor at Indian Cove Campground shared, "Talk about waking up with the sound of coyotes in your camp."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds, like Black Rock Campground, have sites that may not accommodate larger RVs. A reviewer noted, "Tent campers or class B campers might be alright but I didn't like it."
  • Leveling Your RV: Be prepared to level your RV at sites like Indian Cove Campground. One camper said, "We had a hard time to level our trailer though."
  • Cell Service: Check for cell service availability. A camper at Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed mentioned, "Cell service for Xfinity was great."

Camping near Morongo Valley, California, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Morongo Valley, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Morongo Valley, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 330 campgrounds and RV parks near Morongo Valley, CA and 35 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Morongo Valley, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Morongo Valley, CA is Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park with a 4.2-star rating from 48 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Morongo Valley, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 35 free dispersed camping spots near Morongo Valley, CA.

What parks are near Morongo Valley, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Morongo Valley, CA that allow camping, notably San Bernardino National Forest and Mojave River Dam.

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