Best Dispersed Camping near Palm Desert, CA

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Palm Desert, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Palm Desert is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Discover great camping spots near Palm Desert, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Palm Desert, California (46)

    1. Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed

    59 Reviews
    Mecca, CA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 833-7100

    "This campground (and I use the term loosely) is everything that I love about BLM land - dispersed, quiet, and FREE!"

    "This area is managed by BLM, which means it's free to use for up to 14 days at a time. 

    There are no hookups or facilities, and it's pack it in, pack it out. "

    2. Mecca Hills Wilderness

    10 Reviews
    Mecca, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 833-7100

    "I researched this spot a ton and was hesitant to go - mostly because my 1987 VW Westfalia isn’t 4WD, and everything I read said you must have an off road vehicle, but the area looked beautiful and we didn"

    "At the end of the dirt road through the winding rocks we nestled into a campsite closed to the trailhead. We barely had any neighbors it was so quiet."

    3. Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping

    34 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    31 miles
    Website

    "Free camping just outside Joshua Tree. No amenities or designated campsites. Large open area where you can camp wherever you'd like."

    "It's free camping so be respectful and clean up after yourself. That said, there are no facilities so pack it in and pack it out."

    4. Painted Canyon

    6 Reviews
    Mecca, CA
    23 miles

    "We went past the main part and went towards the end of the dirt road. With a 4WD you can easily make it through the thick sand."

    "They are marked and theres also pit toilets halfway through the main road to turnaround point. Hummingbirds came right up to my face! Didn’t even know they lived out here also saw whiptail lizard."

    5. South Ridge Yellow Post Sites

    2 Reviews
    Idyllwild, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2921

    "Very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California elevation is high enough that temperatures were very enjoyable (mid 80's)"

    6. Joshua Tree North BLM

    19 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 252-6000

    "As another reviewer noted - this spot is huge so make sure you are staying on BLM land. There is a lot of trash in some areas and there was some dirt bikes but they didn’t bother me."

    "My favorite place to camp near Joshua Tree. Lots of space."

    7. Strawberry Junction — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    1 Review
    Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA
    20 miles
    Website

    $5 / night

    "This campsite is located at the junctionof the Deer Springs Trail and the PCT, and is breathtaking."

    8. Chinouapin Zone San Bernardino National Forest

    1 Review
    Idyllwild, CA
    20 miles

    "There is plenty of space along the trail and it is just a GORGEOUS area to wake up to. Can’t believe it’s in southern California"

    9. Box Canyon Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    Mecca, CA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 833-7100

    "this is a dispersed location on box canyon in Mecca. the road is loose sand and is possible by most vehicles as long as you stay on the road."

    "Great boondocking spot at the bottom of the canyon at the turn off to the painted cliffs."

    10. Joshua Tree South Dispersed Camping

    16 Reviews
    Mecca, CA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 833-7100

    "I didn't originally want to stay here; it wasn't that far off the highway, there was lots of trash along the main road, and the immediate landscape was pretty barren."

    "This is a lovely, free, no hookups, no oversite, BLM. As you drive down the dirt road there are numerous gravel/sand/dirt sites. Each with at least one rock circle fire ring."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Palm Desert, CA

279 Reviews of 46 Palm Desert Campgrounds



Guide to Palm Desert

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Palm Desert, California, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of stunning landscapes and unique experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.

Stunning Sunrises at Mecca Hills Wilderness

  • Experience breathtaking sunrises while camping in the serene environment of Mecca Hills Wilderness, known for its beautiful trails and quiet atmosphere.
  • This area allows for fires, making it perfect for cozy evenings under the stars after a day of exploration.
  • With no permits required and the freedom to camp wherever you choose, you can truly embrace the spirit of adventure.

Thrilling Hikes and Scenic Views at Painted Canyon

  • Hikers will find Painted Canyon to be a paradise, featuring diverse rock formations and stunning vistas that change with elevation.
  • The area is ideal for tent camping, providing a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature.
  • As night falls, the starry sky offers a spectacular view, making it a perfect spot for stargazing enthusiasts.

Unique Wildlife Encounters at Box Canyon Dispersed

  • Box Canyon is known for its unique wildlife, including playful foxes that may visit your campsite, adding a touch of excitement to your stay.
  • The sandy terrain can be challenging, so a 4WD vehicle is recommended for those looking to explore deeper into the canyon.
  • This area is perfect for boondocking, allowing you to set up camp in a secluded spot while enjoying the natural beauty surrounding you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Palm Desert, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Palm Desert, CA is Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed with a 4.3-star rating from 59 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Palm Desert, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 46 dispersed camping locations near Palm Desert, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.