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upscale Rv resort with pool, hot tub, sauna, laundry, game room.
Camping near Morongo Valley, CA
13 campgrounds with availability next weekend
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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.
Best Campgrounds near Morongo Valley (410)
1. Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
"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."
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $35 / night
2. Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA
"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."
"ALSO not the parks fault but 2 small trailers pulled in next to us around 10 pm and had lots of people and lots of kids."
3. Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
"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."
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $55 / night
4. Catalina Spa and RV Resort
"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."
Check Availabilityfrom $22 - $44 / night
5. Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
"They're situated between HUGE boulders so they're nicely tucked away from high winds that can sometimes pick up."
"It’s very close to fascinating hiking trails."
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $30 / night
6. Heart Bar Campground
"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"
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $29 - $58 / night
7. Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground
"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."
Check Availabilityfrom $15 - $55 / night
8. Sam's Family Spa RV Resort & Motel
"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."
Check Availabilityfrom $60 / night
9. Hidden Valley Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
"Rangers comes around several times per day to collect camping fees. Have credit card ready to pay. Honor system upon exit if you miss them. Easy walk to Hidden Valley loop trail."
"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."
10. Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
"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."
Drive Time
- 1 hr 50 min from Los Angeles, CA
- 1 hr 54 min from El Centro, CA
- 2 hrs 6 min from San Diego, CA
- 2 hrs 56 min from Lake Havasu City, AZ
Recent Camping Photos near Morongo Valley, CA
734 Photos of 410 Morongo Valley Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Recent Reviews near Morongo Valley, CA
1779 Reviews of 410 Morongo Valley Campgrounds
Matthew E.ScoutBelle Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
A Good Campground During the Week
I discovered this campground in Joshua Tree when the campground I had grown used to staying at (Ryan) went reserved only. Belle is on a first come, first serve basis, so there's no reservations involved. Roughly east of the campground is a trail that leads to the next one down, White Tank, which is popular because of the natural arch that can be found a short distance from the campsites. Belle itself has 18 campsites which are mostly empty during the week. Weekends are busy though as campers are usually jockeying for a site starting on Thursday nights. All in all, a beautiful place that offers splendid views and clear, crisp nights. Campers beware as it can get very windy at times. Vault toilets and campfire rings, but no accessible water.
Aaron S.
RangerRound Valley Campsite — Mount San Jacinto State Park
Gooseberry Site, Alpine Wilderness & A Critical Backcountry Safety Wake-Up
Reviewed by: The Crew at Hitched4fun.com
If you are looking for a true alpine backcountry adventure right in Southern California, backpacking into Round Valley Primitive Campsites inside the Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness is an incredible experience. By pairing the world-famous Palm Springs Aerial Tramway with a weekend wilderness trek, you can leave the scorching low desert and step into sub-alpine granite peaks within minutes. Our crew recently packed our gear, caught the tram, and set up basecamp at the Gooseberry site for a Friday-to-Saturday summit push of Mount San Jacinto.
The scenery and wilderness delivered on every level—but the trip also served as a stark reminder that high-altitude nature commands respect.
The Route & Camp Setup (Gooseberry Site)
Taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway bypasses thousands of vertical feet of grueling desert switchbacks, depositing you at Mountain Station:
- The Trek into Round Valley: From the tram station, it is a scenic~2.5-mile backpack into Round Valley, which sits at an elevation of roughly 9,100 feet.
- The Gooseberry Campsite: Gooseberry is a fantastic primitive backcountry site. Tucked among the lodgepole pines and granite boulders, it offers great shelter, peace, and that genuine wilderness seclusion you crave.
- The Summit Push: We spent Friday night acclimating and resting at basecamp. Early Saturday morning, we pushed for the summit of Mount San Jacinto Peak(10,834 feet). After taking in the panoramic views stretching from the Pacific to the Salton Sea, we descended back to Round Valley, packed up camp, and made the return trek to the tram for the ride down.
The October Shoulder Season: Nature Changes in Minutes
We chose to hike late in the season during October, and anyone heading up during shoulder months needs to understand high-elevation weather:
- T****he Forecast Mirage: On the morning of our summit push, the official forecast predicted clear, sunny skies by noon.
- The High-Alpine Reality: Noon rolled around, and the weather did the exact opposite—we were hit with biting snow flurries and temperatures plunging straight into the 20s.
- Within just two hours, a crisp autumn morning morphed into full-blown freezing winter conditions.
A Serious Backcountry Advisory: 50 Years on the Trail Speaks
As someone with over 50 years of hiking and backpacking experience spanning every corner of the American West, what we witnessed on the trail between Round Valley and the peak was alarming.
We encountered dozens of hikers completely unprepared for foul weather:
- The Outfit: People trekking toward a 10,834-foot alpine peak in short shorts, cotton t-shirts, light sneakers, and carrying little more than a tiny hydration bladder with a couple of snack bars. No insulation, no wind protection, no emergency gear.
- Missing Essentials: Not a single one of the Ten Essentials in sight.
- The Dangerous Mindset: Yes, 99% of the time, casual hikers get lucky and escape without incident. But cell service, 911, and volunteer Search& Rescue teams are not your personal safety net—preparedness and basic common sense are.
- The Golden Rule: Any hiker stepping foot into this wilderness must carry the gear to survive an unexpected night out in freezing conditions. An ankle sprain, altitude sickness, or a sudden squall can turn a fun day hike into hypothermia, acute suffering, or worse. Don't be that guy or gal.
The Hitched4fun Verdict
Mount San Jacinto Wilderness and Round Valley’s Gooseberry site delivered everything an outdoor enthusiast could want: pristine trails, incredible pine-scented air, and raw wilderness beauty. Just never forget that nature can bite hard if you let your guard down. Pack your layers, bring your essentials, respect the mountain, and you will have an unforgettable journey.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars— Highly Recommended by the Hitched4fun.com crew!
Kimberly E.ScoutBear Lake
Exceptional camping experience. Beautiful, secluded, but not far from town. Would recommend a vehicle you feel comfortable with off roading terrain.
- EEric P.
LegendBelle Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
This was our first trip to Joshua Tree. We thoroughly enjoyed this first come first serve campground. The awesome walks into the park and desert landscape make this a place we will definitely return to. Beautiful night sky and stars . The Granite boulders are beautiful!
Hans V.RangerSouth Ridge Yellow Post Sites
The first two spots are close together. First one a bit small but better cover from Santa Anna winds. Nicely in the forest and close to the village.
Robyn C.
TravelerStone Creek Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park
Nice stay
Had a nice stay here twice so far this year. Nice place. Quiet and clean.
FiftysevenNine T.
GuideDesert Rose Collective RV Parking
functional
Nice place, rustic, unpublicized, congenial host. It can accommodate a number of vans and RVs, but I was the only guest. There is water and nothing else that is stated in the blurb. A self-contained rig is recommended.
As I explored the premises, I imagined that a small traveling couple or group could enjoy the camp as a peaceful alternative to Joshua Tree or Desert Hot Springs. There is evidence that guests stayed there before, with ample communal space for a campfire experience possibly with libations.
The camp might not be a priority business for the host, thus a work-in-progress or attempted endeavor. It has potential to be a stellar and successful camp if kempt.
Security was my concern, being solo, so I locked down more than usual when I left during the day for a music festival. No issues. I stayed three nights. The location is four miles from Morongo Valley Covington Park and the Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, a hiking attraction.
A bumpy dirt road to get to camp. Unsure if a large RV can traverse it. Call or text is the only way to book. The cellphone number is on Google Maps.
Dick T.GuideMarion Mountain
Laid-Back campground
This is my go-to campground. I live in the San Diego area. It's designed for your season camper that prefers tranquility over business. It's not recommended during the weekend.
Guide to Morongo Valley
Morongo Valley serves as a strategic gateway to camping destinations ranging from high desert plateaus at 2,600 feet to nearby mountain terrain reaching 8,500 feet in elevation. This dramatic elevation change creates diverse microclimates, with temperature differences of up to 20°F between camping areas. Winter lows can drop below freezing at higher elevations while summer highs regularly exceed 100°F at lower sites.
What to do
Stargazing from exposed sites: At Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, campers access prime night sky viewing without light pollution. "This is the most beautiful place to watch sunrise and sunset and stars. So peaceful," notes Robbin C., while another camper adds, "We booked and traveled here to show the kids the stars from a desert view, and it did not disappoint!"
Rock climbing adventures: Indian Cove Campground provides direct access to climbing routes suitable for various skill levels. "The sites are tucked into the rocks which block wind and kept us nice and warm at night. Bats flew just overhead for a couple hours and I thought it was magical!" shares Heather L. Sites positioned among rock formations create natural climbing areas within walking distance of camp.
High mountain hiking trails: For cooler summer camping options, Heart Bar Campground at 6,900 feet elevation offers trails with alpine views. "Topography-wise this camp sits right over a small meadow that boarders the San Gorgonio wilderness... this spot is excellent for wildlife viewing and entry to the wilderness for hiking and exploring," says Nick L. The adjacent meadow area features deer sightings in evenings and connects to wilderness trails.
What campers like
Hot mineral springs access: Sam's Family Spa RV Resort features natural hot springs with multiple temperature options. "Four mineral water small pools set to different temperatures. The hottest is 104 degrees. These pools are powered by natural hot springs no added chemicals!" explains one reviewer. The resort drains and refills pools nightly for cleanliness.
Desert wildlife encounters: Jumbo Rocks Campground offers frequent wildlife sightings among its distinctive rock formations. "We did have a coyote visitor twice in the morning, so don't forget to keep your food/trash locked up from critters!" warns Sierra T. The campground's position among massive boulder formations creates microhabitats attracting desert animals.
Protection from desert winds: Boulder-ringed campsites provide natural windbreaks at certain campgrounds. "The sites are tucked between massive granite boulders, offering natural windbreaks and a sense of privacy that's hard to find elsewhere," reports one camper. Wind protection becomes crucial during spring when gusts regularly exceed 30 mph in exposed areas.
What you should know
Varying road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds require careful driving. "Roads are rough...like falling apart rough. Not an issue for most unless you were in a small or low vehicle," notes Christopher D. about Black Rock Campground.
Water planning requirements: Most desert campgrounds have limited or no water sources. "Planning for water is needed, there is only a pit toilet," advises Robert about Jumbo Rocks. At Indian Cove, "you can only fill up with water at the small ranger entrance building. It takes a little bit of planning but wasn't a big deal to us," explains Christine S.
Cell service variability: Reception ranges from excellent to nonexistent depending on campground location. "Verizon access is excellent; T-mobile not so much (1-2 dots)," reports Kurt P. about Sam's Family Spa, while another camper notes Jumbo Rocks has "no cell service at all at this campground."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with kid-friendly features: Hidden Valley Campground offers rock scrambling opportunities perfect for children. "A lot of the campsites are pretty close together... but be prepared for close proximity to neighbors in most sites," advises Christopher D. The campground's proximity to beginner-friendly climbing areas makes it ideal for families with active children.
Plan for extreme temperature swings: Desert camping requires preparation for both hot days and cold nights. "We visited in January, and should have been better prepared! I know better, but we didn't check the conditions well enough, and froze our butts the first night!" recalls Justin L. Temperature drops of 30-40°F between day and night are common.
Consider wind exposure when choosing sites: Protected sites make family camping more comfortable. "I would give this 5 stars if we had been given the option to move to one of the tent sites that had more of a wind block. Instead the campground was pretty empty but they put us at the back of the campground completely exposed to the wind," shares Brooke R. about Joshua Tree Lake RV Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many RV sites require equipment to level. "The sites were close together, narrow roads and the sites were not level. We found a rock to level our van which helped, but flat spots were expected," notes Julie K. about Black Rock Campground.
Hot springs options for longer stays: Several RV resorts offer thermal pools as amenities. "Monthly stays are very economical ($580/$605+electricity) which includes daily (9am-9pm) access to the four hot pools at different temperatures, the swimming pool, gym, dry sauna, wet sauna, etc," explains Kurt P. Long-term rates at hot springs resorts provide significant discounts compared to daily rates.
Wind protection considerations: RVers should secure awnings and select sheltered sites when possible. "Way too windy. We had tents and trailers. None of us slept. The trailer rocked horribly," reports theresa O. about Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA, highlighting the importance of wind preparation when choosing camping spots near Morongo Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Morongo Valley, CA?
What camping is available near Morongo Valley, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Morongo Valley, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 410 campgrounds and RV parks near Morongo Valley, CA and 98 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Morongo Valley, CA?
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 56 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Morongo Valley, CA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Morongo Valley, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 98 free dispersed camping spots near Morongo Valley, CA.
What parks are 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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