Best Campgrounds near Morongo Valley, CA

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 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 Reviews near Morongo Valley, CA

1591 Reviews of 330 Morongo Valley Campgrounds


  • Elijah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Big Pine Flat Campground

    50/50

    Sites are nice, there is potable water and toilets BUT there is also a OHV staging area directly across from the campsites. The occasional dirt bike is fine right? So I thought. There was a group of 20+ people partying and playing corridos so loud I couldn’t fall asleep. They had a side by side with large speakers facing the campsite :/ I wouldn’t be annoyed if it was free but I paid $30 to camp and the camp host said this is their turf and there is nothing he can do.

  • andrew The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Twentynine Palms Resort

    Perfect for Vets and Golfers

    Awesome location. Joshua tree is very close. The MCCC base is about 3 miles away with exchange, commissary and golf course. We had the base course to ourselves on a Sunday afternoon. The RV park is just fine. Must be seasonal spot. Pretty empty in September. We had a nice pull through. Laundry room is fine and uses an app I could not get to work. $2, 2.25 per load in washer and dryer. They gave credit card readers on the machines so that’s what I used. Pool is open to the sun. Maybe they put the roof on in the winter. Very comfortable and quiet. We arrived on a Saturday and the office person recommended the Dark Skies program at the observatory near by. But it was sold out for the next three months so if you are going to be here maybe you should plan ahead if you want to experience the observatory program. I would stay again.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    serrano camp grounds

    Great place

    I stayed for one night Wednesday just to try the showers. The showers were perfect! Hot water even! So clean and beautiful. Recommend!

  • 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.


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?

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.