Best Campgrounds near Morongo Valley, CA

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its vast wilderness areas, with developed campgrounds situated near scenic lakes, glaciers, and mountains. Campgrounds like Homer Spit Campground along the coast and Eklutna Lake Campground in Chugach State Park provide options for tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and even cabin accommodations. The region includes both established state park facilities with amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and toilets, as well as more remote backcountry sites for those seeking solitude.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping in Alaska, with most campgrounds operating from May through September. Winter camping is available at select locations like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park, which remains open year-round. Many campgrounds require advance reservations during peak summer months when tourism surges. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly in mountainous areas, requiring proper preparation. Cell service varies significantly throughout the state, with many campgrounds having limited or no connectivity. A visitor noted, "This is a great, smaller campground to choose when the popular nearby spots fill up with anglers. For some reason, this spot is not as in demand as the Russian River campground, despite having many of the same amenities."

Waterfront camping locations receive consistently high ratings from visitors, with several campgrounds situated along lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. Mendenhall Lake Campground offers views of the famous Mendenhall Glacier, while Seward City Campgrounds provides oceanfront RV sites. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout Alaska's campgrounds, with bears, moose, and various bird species frequently spotted. According to one camper, "Exit glacier is an amazing destination for all ages and capabilities. Although dogs are not welcome on the hike, it is short enough that you won't be missed long." Mosquitoes and other insects can be problematic during summer months, particularly in areas near water, so proper insect protection is essential. Many campgrounds feature spacious sites with ample privacy, though proximity to highways can create noise issues at some locations.

Best Camping Sites Near Morongo Valley, California (331)

    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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Showing results 1-10 of 331 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Morongo Valley, CA

1592 Reviews of 331 Morongo Valley Campgrounds



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 331 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.