Several cabin rental options exist near Palm Desert, California, where winter temperatures average 70-75°F during the day and 40-45°F at night. The Coachella Valley region receives less than 5 inches of annual rainfall, making cabin rentals popular year-round despite summer temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F between June and September.
What to do
Explore Joshua Tree National Park: 45 minutes from Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA. The park features unique desert landscapes with iconic Joshua trees and massive boulder formations. "The location is unbeatable for exploring Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley, conveniently situated right off the highway," notes one visitor.
Visit natural hot springs pools: 20 minutes north in Desert Hot Springs. Several campgrounds offer mineral pool access for relaxation. At Catalina Spa and RV Resort, "There is plenty of space for kids to play, with lawns and a little playground. 2 pools both with shower rooms and 2 separate laundry rooms."
Try water activities: Seasonal options available at Lake Hemet. During warmer months, rentals include boats and water toys. "We rented a boat and went out on the lake to do some fishing. We didn't catch anything but we did see some bald eagles which was super cool!"
What campers like
Mineral hot springs: Natural healing waters available at multiple locations. The therapeutic mineral pools vary in temperature and are popular with visitors year-round. "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," notes one guest at Caliente Springs RV Resort.
Well-maintained common areas: Clean facilities throughout campgrounds. Many properties feature recently renovated grounds and buildings. At Coachella Lakes RV Resort, "Everything was new and sleek and modern and well designed. Their club house has a nice pool, 2 hot tubs, a nice gym, and really nice and open hangout area."
Recreation activities: On-site options beyond swimming. Cabin guests can participate in scheduled activities or use sports facilities. According to visitors at Thousand Trails Palm Springs, "The rows are lined with palm trees and full of walkers, joggers and slow time strollers. The park offers a variety of social events including line dancing, swap meets, ice cream socials and more."
What you should know
Winter reservations require advance planning: 3-6 months recommended. The peak season from November through March fills quickly with snowbirds and holiday travelers. "We were originally going to stay for 1 month but felt so relaxed and loved the hot tubs/pool. Very comfortable and very roomy spots," notes a guest at Sky Valley RV Resort.
Wind conditions can be challenging: Prepare accordingly. The valley experiences strong wind patterns, especially in spring months. "It was very windy and we had to leave one day early because we didn't want to travel back in a high wind advisory," reports one camper at Lake Hemet Campground.
Linens and kitchen supplies: Confirm what's provided before arrival. Most cabin rentals include basic furniture but vary greatly in kitchen and bathroom provisions. At Shadow Hills RV Resort, cabins include "Full hookups, pull through and back on. I will be back!"
Tips for camping with families
Reserve cabin locations strategically: Request sites away from common noise sources. Families with young children should consider placement relative to activity centers. "We arrived on Thursday and there were plenty of spaces open to pick from. We decided to set up further away from the Highway because it is a bit noisy from road noise."
Check activity schedules: Many properties offer organized family events. Holiday weekends often include special programming for children. "The park is super convenient for exploring Palm Springs. There is a pool, laundry facilities, family lodge, and a camp store. We were there the weekend before Easter and they did an Easter Egg hunt so that was super fun."
Consider cabin size needs: Space varies significantly between options. Family-sized cabins typically accommodate 4-6 people but layouts differ. At Emerald Desert RV Resort, "We upgraded to the 'luxury' site which meant that the spacing between sites was a bit greater and we had a lovely patch of green grass between us and our neighbors."
Tips from RVers
Electrical requirements: Bring appropriate adapters and extension cords. Some cabin sites have specific power configurations. "The 30 Amp side is pull through so we decided to set up at site 61 further away from the Highway. After two rounds around outer two lanes we found a good spot close to restrooms."
Temperature management: Prepare for extreme seasonal variations. Summer visitors need reliable cooling systems while winter guests should bring appropriate bedding. "Weather was cold and windy but not too bad. Bring insulation for your water hose or have some type of method that will keep your water lines from freezing. Our water hose froze the first night."
Site selection considerations: Cabin locations vary significantly in quality. Request specific areas based on your priorities when booking. "Lower section is blocked by trees and bushes which block you from your neighbors. Lower mineral pool is more adult friendly."
