Mountain Center, CA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Mountain Center is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Discover great camping spots near Mountain Center, reviewed by campers like you.
Lake Hemet is surrounded by the majestic beauty of the San Jacinto Mountains, in Mountain Center, near the charming town of Idyllwild. The scenery is splendid no matter which direction you look. Tall pines, manzanitas, sage, and giant oaks abound!
Lake Hemet is one of the most popular spots in Southern California for camping and fishing. The recent additions of the Soaring Pines Cafe serving delicious food and Splashing Eagle Swim Zone have made Lake Hemet the vacation spot to be during the spring and summer months.
Remember to pack a camera and binoculars, and keep a watchful eye as majestic eagles, hawks, and other wildlife are often seen soaring throughout the forest and campground. Come and enjoy camping, fishing, boating and the breathtaking scenery all year round.
DAY USE: In addition to camping, Lake Hemet offers public access to the campground for day use guests daily (hours vary by season). Day use is $25 per vehicle and affords guests with the opportunity to picnic, shoreline fish, launch personal boats or kayaks (additional fees apply) and rent boats or kayaks from our marina. If you are visiting other guests who are overnight camping with us, the $25 fee still applies. NOTE: DAY USE WILL BE CLOSED FOR ALL SUMMER HOLIDAY WEEKENDS FROM FRIDAY TO SUNDAY for Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day weekends. Only guests with previously purchased annual day use or launch passes will be allowed as our campground will be fully booked and activities are planned for our guests.
$45 / night
Idyllwild Campground
$25 - $45 / night
Download the NPS app prior to visiting the park trail maps and more! Jumbo Rocks Campground lies amid the huge, steep rock formations for which Joshua Tree National Park is known. Close proximity to many boulders and rock formations, it is a popular camping location for families with kids. Jumbo Rocks is one of four campgrounds in the park that requires reservations year-round. To get the most out of your visit Plan Like a Park Ranger Travelers who enjoy warm, dry winters flock to Joshua Tree from October through May, when temperatures hover between 70-90 degrees during the day and drop to a 40-60 degree range at night. Summer is the park's off-season due to the uncomfortably-high desert heat. Jumbo Rocks is at an elevation of 4,380 feet.
Rock scramblers flock to Jumbo Rocks Campground for the variety of geological formations and warmer temperatures that can be found in the interior of the park. Several hiking trails also leave from the campground. There is a short interpretive nature trail and plenty of rocks and canyons to explore within the facility. Clear desert skies are perfect for star-gazing.
Campsites are nestled on a flat, sandy surface between large boulders that tower in unique shapes over the campground and rise up from the otherwise uniform desert landscape. The rocks were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago and have been exposed and shaped by wind and water over time. They brighten with soft pastel hues during the morning and evening sunlight and low with campfire light by night. Visitors may want to keep their eyes out for typical desert inhabitants such as lizards, rattlesnakes, scorpions, ravens, squirrels and desert tarantulas during the cooler months of the year. Bobcats and mountain lions do live in the park, however they are rarely seen near humans.
Reservation Cancellations & Changes Cancelling a Reservation: Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. Depending on when you cancel in relation to your arrival day, it may be considered a late cancellation (see below). Changing an Existing Reservation: When changes are made prior to the cut-off window: If a customer wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation dates, there is a $10 change fee. There is no change fee if a customer extends or shortens a reservation, as long as the change includes dates from the original reservation. If they choose to depart early, they may forfeit the recreation fee for the day of departure. There is no change fee if the customer wants to switch sites that are the same price with the same reservation dates in the same facility. If a reservation is made that includes dates beyond the maximum booking window, that reservation cannot be changed until 18 days have passed from the original booking date. Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window Individual Campsites: A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. Changes or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window: Once a reservation date has begun, customers cannot change a reservation using the online system or through the Call Center (see below for early departures). If the location is staffed, on-site personnel may or may not be able to assist with changes or cancellations (check with local staff). No-Shows Overnight Facilities: A no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out (noon) time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time (noon) on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first nights recreation fee for a campsite. *Note: the entire reservation will be cancelled for no-shows.
$30 / night
Beautiful Hurkey Creek Park, located off of Hwy 74 in the San Jacinto Mountains just 4 miles southeast of Mountain Center, is the perfect locale for reconnecting with nature and our local mountain ecology. This idyllic getaway boasts a seasonal creek, majestic pine trees, awe-inspiring mountain views, and all the charms and tranquility of a classic woodland recreation area. The park’s rustic but well maintained campground offers 130 individual campsites for overnight or extended stays of up to 14 days, as well as large group camping areas in 5 separate loops that can accommodate 80-100 campers each. Popular activities for both campers and day-use guests include picnicking, BBQ, hiking, biking and bird-watching. The meadow offers a large area for outdoor games or group gatherings. For the younger set, there is a fun modern playground.
$30 - $35 / night
Download the NPS app prior to visiting the park trail maps and more! Black Rock Campground lies among one of the thickest Joshua tree forests in Joshua Tree National Park. Its location on the park's northern perimeter makes it a popular rest stop for hikers, birders, horseback riders and RV campers. Black Rock is one of four campgrounds in the national park that requires reservations year-round. To get the most out of your visit, Plan Like a Park Ranger Travelers who enjoy warm, dry winters flock to Joshua Tree from October through May, when temperatures hover between 70 to 90 degrees during the day and drop anywhere between 40 to 60 degrees at night. Summer is the park's off-season due to uncomfortably high desert heat. Black Rock is at an elevation of 4,000 feet and has a mix of both sun and shade.
There are many great hiking trails around Black Rock, including some with spectacular views of the low desert and high peaks around Palm Springs. Popular rock climbing sites are within a half-hour drive from the campground.
The unique shape of Joshua trees and the huge rocks that surround them draw tourists and scientists alike to the national park. Within the Black Rock facility, the surrounding trees form silhouettes against the landscape during sunrise and sunset and display bunches of blooming white flowers in early spring. Campers staying at Black Rock may have the chance to view the elusive desert tortoise, found only in the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. Visitors may also want to keep their eyes out for more typical desert inhabitants such as lizards, rattlesnakes, scorpions, coyotes, ravens and desert tarantulas during the cooler months of the year. Bobcats and mountain lions do live in the park, however they are rarely seen near humans. Birders may also be pleasantly surprised at the variety of species found around the campground.
This location is staffed. Please call (760) 367-3001 to speak with local staff.
Reservation Cancellations & Changes Cancelling a Reservation: Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. Depending on when you cancel in relation to your arrival day, it may be considered a late cancellation (see below). Changing an Existing Reservation: When changes are made prior to the cut-off window: If a customer wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation dates, there is a $10 change fee. There is no change fee if a customer extends or shortens a reservation, as long as the change includes dates from the original reservation. If they choose to depart early, they may forfeit the recreation fee for the day of departure. There is no change fee if the customer wants to switch sites that are the same price with the same reservation dates in the same facility. If a reservation is made that includes dates beyond the maximum booking window, that reservation cannot be changed until 18 days have passed from the original booking date. Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window Individual Campsites: A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. Changes or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window: Once a reservation date has begun, customers cannot change a reservation using the online system or through the Call Center (see below for early departures). If the location is staffed, on-site personnel may or may not be able to assist with changes or cancellations (check with local staff). No-Shows Overnight Facilities: A no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out (noon) time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time (noon) on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first nights recreation fee for a campsite. *Note: the entire reservation will be cancelled for no-shows.
$35 / night
$25 - $45 / night
Stone Creek Campground
$20 - $35 / night
$22 - $44 / night
Owl Loop (sites 203-220, 283-317)
$300 / night
Download the NPS app prior to visiting the park trail maps and more! Indian Cove Campground lies amid the huge, steep rock formations for which Joshua Tree National Park is known. Because of its proximity to many rock climbing routes, it is a popular camping location for climbers. Indian Cove Group is one of three group campgrounds in the park that can be reserved year round. To get the most out of your visit Plan Like a Park Ranger Travelers who enjoy warm, dry winters flock to Joshua Tree from October through May, when temperatures hover between 70-90 degrees during the day and drop to a 40-60 degree range at night. Summer is the park's off-season due to the uncomfortably-high desert heat. Indian Cove is at an elevation of 3,200 feet.
Rock climbers flock to Indian Cove Campground for the variety of routes and warmer temperatures that can be found in the interior of the park. Several hiking trails also leave from the campground. There is a short interpretive nature trail and plenty of rocks for the non-climber to explore within the facility. Clear desert skies are perfect for star-gazing and night photography.
Campsites are nestled on a flat, sandy surface between large boulders that tower in unique shapes over the campground and rise up from the otherwise uniform desert landscape. The rocks were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago and have been exposed and shaped by wind and water over time. They brighten with soft pastel hues during the morning and evening sunlight and glow with campfire light by night. Visitors may want to keep their eyes out for typical desert inhabitants such as lizards, rattlesnakes, scorpions, ravens, squirrels and desert tarantulas during the cooler months of the year. Bobcats and mountain lions do live in the park, however they are rarely seen near humans.
Individual Site: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change your reservation. Cancellations more than 48 hours in advance of arrival date incur a $10 cancellation fee. Within 48 hours of arrival, a $10 cancellation fee and the first night's fee are charged. Group Site: Customers who cancel a group overnight reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee. No-Shows Overnight Facilities: A no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out (noon) time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time (noon) on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first nights recreation fee for a campsite. *Note: the entire reservation will be cancelled for no-shows.
$55 / night
Traveler
The best road into the area is Sunfield to 4th then left at Cascade (t intersection). Cascade is lumpy with dips & such but it’s a short drive to the entrance. You’ll see a wide open area to your right (NE) & choose a way in. Some are horrendous paths-especially after a rain-if you stay right it is better. We didn’t continue north on Cascade - that might be a decent way to get to the back. Coyote Lake is dry but probably is a muddy mess after a rain so avoid it. It can be spotted before you reach it & on satellite view. The official JTNDCamping area is NNE of that intersection. We quit driving before we got there. We were in line with the off road area but we’ll out of their way. Some reviews have mentioned a lot of possibly permanent people here, there must have been a clean up because there were only a couple that we suspected. Negative-if you are disturbed by semi/automatic rifles being shot off, this might deter you from here. We think it’s from the other side of the hills due north of Cascade. We stayed Saturday to Sunday (8days) & on the weekend it seemed endless. During the week there were a couple of days without the tat tat tat. It is loud.
Guide
Amazing area! So many places to camp. Road in is unpaved but not too bumpy. Once you get to the canyon area it’s deeper sand, so 4WD is advised. The road says mandatory but we saw many 2WD cars there.
Scout
Easy travel dirt roads. There are only 3 actual sites with fire rings, but there is plenty of room to camp without rings. 5g Verizon works great.
Traveler
There's indeed plenty of room, but come during daylight hours. Otherwise, you might encounter some unpleasant surprises with the nails and other debris (shell casings, broken glass, metal fragments) scattered across the field. We'll thank the neighbors for the use of their generator all over the night…
Legend
This is a great example of a park that should get the 1/2 star. If an option, I'd give it 4.5 stars, and nick it only because of the minimal bathroom maintenance done after a weekend. I'd note, I think that is more due to staffing than care.
The campground was lightly populated during our February visit, which was a bit surprising considering the other JTree camps inside the park were full. I chose our site online only knowing that it was on the outer ring of sites. It turned out to be a huge site with great views of the CA hiking and riding trail (out the back of the site).
Other pros:
Not so good notes:
This has nothing to do with campground operations, but remember this is the high desert! There is wind—gusty wind. There is sun. Nights get cold. Be aware of the weather and the surroundings.
We had a lovely campfire on night one. The second night was windier at about 15mph with gusts and we chose not to light one, but there wasn't a red flag warning or restriction. Another site nearby (upwind) had a big campfire and were definitely not safe about it. It was a bit nerve-wracking being down the hill from them.
In the morning, asked the park ranger what would cause them to institute a warning, and he said the call wasn't made by the rangers on-site, but rather someone in admin elsewhere. That was surprising, and he commented that it is a challenge they've been working to change because all the rangers were up all night waiting for the call that a fire had started. I relay that to say, that when starting a fire please use common sense and caution. That completes my after school special.
I would definitely recommend this campground if you're looking for access to hiking, Joshua Tree NP but away from the core tourist areas, and also wanting to dip into town. It is conveniently located with lovely scenery.
Scout
Tidy, with all amenities. Away from highway noise a place to recharge.
Ranger
This is a good spot if you are willing to g to drive the 5 miles on the dirt road. Very sandy. Recommend 4 wheel drive but doable without if you are careful. Lots of spots to pullout while heading into the canyon. Several people in the area the night I was there but plenty is space and solitude. Did the ladder canyon hike the next day. Decent cell service unless you go far the up the canyon then none.
Traveler
This place was nice. Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes. Lots of food spots within 10 minutes. Spaces are one of the cleanest I seen. Ranger is on constant patrol. Low-key felt like bikini bottom. Only knock is… no wifi. Great spot overall though
Guide
Amazing what a delightful place to stay! Very unique with stunning boulders through your the camp ground! Clean bathrooms too!! No showers or hook up if any kind! We have a 29ft trailer with truck got in and out ok much bigger you would have a problem many tight spaces .
GuideI like this campground the best because the road is paved and that cuts down on the desert dust. Only drawback is there is no cell service at all at this campground. Its very picturesque against the unique Joshua Tree rocks.
Guide
Unpaved so a bit dusty. Each site has a picnic table and a firepit with grill. Camosite is right against the cool Joshua Tree rock formations.
Guide
Spent a night here on the way to Joshua tree. It’s close to the park would be a good alternative to staying in the park. Wide open and flat ( like a dry lake bed ) . I found it to be very windy and lots of dust storms, could have used some goggles. Spent all my time in the van. A harsh environment but tons of space. Welcome to mars.
Traveler
The "Airport Fire" burned through the area and their website says they are temporarily closed.
TravelerMy boyfriend and I stayed here for about a week and we absolutely loved our stay! The staff was very friendly and hard working. They ran an easily accessible store on the campgrounds that had lots of last minute necessities. Not to mention the ducks! This RV park is also in super close proximity of the National Park. I would definitely visit again. Also, Rue loved it. 🦆👍🏼🤠
Legend
I really have come to love Dripping Springs campground. There's a great hike right out the end of the campground, although it gets HOT because this is more desert land than forest. I've stayed in a few sites and I think 14 has become my favorite even though you are kind of exposed, it's huge and it's away from all the other sites. I did see a baby scorpion in the bathroom once, so beware. There's a nice little cafe down the road and a winery a bit further that I like with a beautiful view.
Traveler
The camping spots were close to each other but no one else was there so it didn't matter. The stars and sunrise were amazing! Will definitely go again!
Traveler
Grateful for free camping sites. Just outside of Julian which is a charming little town.
Decent for some seclusion/isloation as the road through is winding.
When in early January. 65-70 during the day. ~45 at night.
The quiet was my favorite part.
GuideThe CG was very well maintained in that the bathrooms were clean, not much trash and very nice camp hosts. However, 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. The price per night increased on 1/1/25 which was the night we arrived.
NOTE: after visiting JTNP I learned that many campgrounds in the main part of the park had no water so extra props to this CG for water.
Traveler
Nice place to visit in early January. With sunshine and daytime temperatures of 60s and 70s. Most sites are suitable for tent camping or small campers.
Would be a 5 star if it had water, a dump station or electric.
Scout
Dry lake bed. Lots of room and easy to park with ability to put a lot of space between you and others.
Pros: free, close to the park.
Cons: people are clearly living here. Drug deals going down at night with people sitting on the edges with high beams on. Peoplenliving here running generators from 8 pm until they run out of gas at 3 am. 230 am donuts in a pickup followed by screaming for his dogs he let out of his trailer.
We stayed on the south side of the park first and that was much better.
GuideEnjoyed staying at this campground. Each site is different, but the information on reservation site contains all details.
Planning for water is needed, there is only a pit toilet.
Scout
Amazing staff. Amazing HUGE sites. Clean. Lots of planned activities. Great for families. Excellent for big rigs of any size.
Scout
We loved camping 🏕 here! Great big rocks, and good trails near by! An arch too!
Ranger
Thousand Trails Palm Springs offers a great pool and hot tub area with a lively, mixed-age crowd—perfect if you’re in your 30s and looking for variety. The bathrooms and laundry facilities are well-maintained, and the location is unbeatable for exploring Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley, conveniently situated right off the highway. However, the park is busy and crowded, with plenty of palm trees and tight spots that can be tricky for larger rigs. Electrical maintenance during our stay further limited site availability, adding to the congestion. Despite the challenges, the proximity to local attractions makes it a convenient option.
Make sure you have your registration and insurance handy when you arrive.
Ranger
Sam’s Family Spa offers a mixed experience with steep daily rates, decent weekly rates, and an unbeatable deal for monthly stays. The mineral-fed hot springs and heated pool area are highlights, though access requires wristbands and a bathroom code. Mail delivery is convenient, but the lack of security at the campground entrance feels like a gap. The west side of the park boasts stunning views, and the grounds feature a variety of interesting desert plants. However, the overall experience didn’t quite match the polished image portrayed on the website. Still, its proximity to Palm Springs and relaxing hot springs make it a worthwhile option for longer stays
ScoutI followed the coordinates provided and it took us right to the trailhead. We saw a few other campers but overall, the campground was ours for the weekend. We did some light hiking and exploring but otherwise took advantage of the peace and quiet that was available to us. Gorgeous sunsets and sunrises and epic star gazing! Being a dark sky community, we were able to see so many stars and constellations. We saw shooting stars nearly every minute and we were also able to find Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune all with the naked eye! Next time we will pack a small telescope and I'm sure we will see more!
Watch out for cactus and needles that are buried in the sand. It is not recommended to bring dogs or walk barefoot for this reason. Our sandals and boots both had many needles stuck in the rubber soles after the trip. Being in the valley, the winds were very light but there is a possibility of strong winds and sand storms so be prepared. Temps averaged 70-75 during the day and dropped to 38-42 at night but with a small fire and proper gear, we were plenty comfortable. Fire rings are provided at some locations however the ranger informed us we could build a rock ring and line it with tin foil which worked great.
The road in was a bit rough in some areas. Wash out and silty sand could pose problems for smaller vehicles or campers so use your best judgement. Single track roads in/out so you will need to yield off the main road when encountering larger oncoming vehicles, which could also be difficult for inexperienced offroad drivers.
Traveler
Nice place, beautifull views, good bar. Rustic place for camping. Just to sleep, no services.
Camping near Mountain Center, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.
Camping near Mountain Center, California, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Mountain Center, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Mountain Center, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 393 campgrounds and RV parks near Mountain Center, CA and 37 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Mountain Center, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mountain Center, CA is Lake Hemet Campground with a 4-star rating from 38 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mountain Center, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 37 free dispersed camping spots near Mountain Center, CA.
What parks are near Mountain Center, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Mountain Center, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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