RV camping near Morongo Valley sits at an elevation of around 2,600 feet where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet. Winter temperatures typically range from 35-65°F while summer days often exceed 100°F with nighttime cooling to 65-75°F. Cell service varies throughout the region, with stronger coverage in established RV parks and limited connectivity in more remote camping locations.
What to Do
Hiking at Joshua Tree National Park: Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground provides convenient access to the park's west entrance. "Our site was on the end next to the BLM land and we had nice views of the mountains over Joshua Tree and the stars at night," notes one visitor who appreciated the prime location.
Water activities in Desert Hot Springs: Catalina Spa and RV Resort features natural mineral pools. "They're fueled by the hot springs, so the pool is at about 90 degrees and the hot tub a bit hotter," shares a camper who enjoyed the therapeutic waters during winter months.
Outdoor recreation for all ages: RV parks in the area offer various on-site activities. "There's a little dog run in the back corner behind the bathrooms too," mentions a visitor at Palm Springs Oasis RV Resort, highlighting pet-friendly amenities not found at all locations.
What Campers Like
Natural hot springs: Visitors consistently rate the mineral pools as a top attraction. "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. The spring leaves your skin oh so soft and rejuvenated," explains a camper at Catalina Spa and RV Resort.
Stargazing opportunities: The desert sky offers excellent viewing conditions. "We booked and traveled here to show the kids the stars from a desert view, and it did not disappoint! My camera couldn't capture the magnificent view from just our site," reports a visitor at Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground.
Recreation facilities: Many parks offer organized activities and sports. "Pickleball with daily games, a small and run down mini golf course. There is also shuffle board, cornhole and horseshoes," notes a long-term guest describing the amenities at Catalina Spa and RV Resort.
What You Should Know
Wind conditions: Desert areas experience frequent high winds. "The main issue is it is terribly windy most of the time," warns a visitor about Emerald Desert RV Resort, advising travelers to secure awnings and loose items.
Noise considerations: Proximity to highways and rail lines affects some locations. "It's close to the freeway and the road noise is loud and never stops. There is also a freight train that frequently runs along behind the park, and it's very loud," reports a guest about Emerald Desert RV Resort.
Seasonal availability: While most RV parks operate year-round, facilities may be limited in summer. "Seasonal market and such open May 1st," notes a visitor at Thousand Trails Idyllwild, indicating that some amenities follow seasonal schedules.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water features for kids: Swimming pools provide relief from desert heat. "LOTS of activities for families (splash pad)," writes a camper about Rancho Jurupa RV Park, highlighting one of many family-friendly water features in the area.
Safety considerations: Secure campgrounds offer peace of mind. "Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes," mentions a recent visitor to Rancho Jurupa RV Park, noting the security measures that help families feel comfortable.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing enriches the camping experience. "The Joshua Tree Lake Camping has a nice little pond with lots of birds that my daughter loved," shares a parent who found natural learning experiences while staying near the national park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Many parks offer varying levels of privacy. "We unfortunately got one that was an end spot so it angled down to one side quite a bit. It was difficult for us to get level and costs us our 'patio' area," cautions a visitor about site selection at Palm Springs Oasis RV Resort.
Navigation challenges: Palm tree-lined parks require careful maneuvering. "Very steep and tight roads throughout campground, but gorgeous once you're done navigating," warns an RVer about Thousand Trails Idyllwild, suggesting larger rigs proceed with caution.
Leveling preparation: Terrain varies significantly between parks. "Our Site was not level at all. We carry a lot of leveling blocks and are not even close to level still nose down with 4 2x8s and Jack at max extension," reports a camper at Golden Village Palms RV Resort, suggesting extra leveling equipment for certain locations.
