The desert terrain surrounding Palm Desert ranges from 100 feet below sea level to 4,700 feet above. Temperatures fluctuate dramatically with summer highs regularly exceeding 100°F while winter nights can drop below 40°F. Camping conditions vary throughout the year, with October through March offering the most comfortable temperatures and lower chance of extreme heat or flash floods that can occur during summer monsoon season.
What to do
Hiking trails year-round: Access Borrego Palm Canyon in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, featuring a moderately difficult 3-mile round trip hike to a desert oasis with native palms. "The palm canyon hike is really nice. The sites aren't huge and it's definitely desert camping," notes a visitor to Borrego Palm Canyon Campground.
Mountain biking: From Lake Skinner Recreation Area, bikers can access miles of flat terrain ideal for beginners or families. "Far enough to feel like your away but close enough to grocery stores and towns. Right outside the Temecula Wine Country and Old Town Temecula," according to one camper at Lake Skinner Recreation Area.
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies above the desert create prime conditions for astronomy. "I come here mostly for the dark skies for astrophotography. It's a nice campground, clean bathrooms and showers. There's some nice hiking as well," writes a reviewer about camping at Borrego Palm Canyon.
What campers like
Natural hot springs: The mineral springs provide therapeutic relaxation after a day of exploring. A visitor at Catalina Spa and RV Resort shared, "We stayed for 2 and a half months and enjoyed the amenities daily. 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."
Diverse accommodation options: From basic tent sites to full hookup RV spots and glamping close to Palm Desert, California, there's something for every camping style. At Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA, one visitor mentioned, "Had a wonderful time with the kids and our two doggos here! Great dog park, family friendly and the hot springs was just perfect for all of us."
Wildlife viewing: The desert ecosystem supports diverse animal species visible from campsites. "We got a site across from the laundry/pool/bathroom which was also not far from the dog park. Lots of activities such as mini golf, pickle ball, and shuffle board, just to name a few, but the main draw is definitely the pools," notes a camper at Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Desert Hot Springs and surrounding areas experience frequent strong winds. "Way too windy. We had tents and trailers. None of us slept. The trailer rocked horribly and the tents were filled with dirts," warns a visitor to Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have water quality issues. At Oasis Palms RV Resort, a camper noted, "The water is NOT SAFE to drink or cook with due to excessive arsenic and fluoride. There are however 3 locations in the park with reverse osmosis filters to fill water jugs."
Seasonal crowds: Winter months bring high occupancy rates at most campgrounds near Palm Desert. "This is a state run campground. Plenty of loops. All under trees (as far as we could see). We managed to find a spot but they do take reservations and that's your best bet," advises a visitor to Serrano Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pads for kids: When temperatures climb, water features provide much-needed cooling. "They have a super nice splash pad park that's no additional cost! There are lots of walking trails," reports a camper at Lake Skinner Recreation Area.
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Several sites offer safe cycling opportunities for children. "We loved camping here. Beautiful, pristine campground with bike trails/walking paths around the lake. The town is bike friendly. Some road noise but quiet over night," mentions a visitor to Serrano.
Wildlife education: Take advantage of nature programs at visitor centers. "Serrano is right across from the Discovery Center in Big Bear, which is where a couple fun hiking trails begin. The campground itself is very clean," notes a camper at Serrano Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many desert campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Sites are not level. 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. Side to side level took one board under left side," warns a visitor to Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Wind protection: Position your RV strategically during windy seasons. "Upper section is exposed to the frequent high winds. Lower section is blocked by trees and bushes which block you from your neighbors," advises a camper at Catalina Spa and RV Resort.
Privacy between sites: Look for campgrounds with natural barriers between spaces. At Happy Traveler RV Park, a visitor noted, "Each space is surrounded by 15ft hedges to provide privacy so don't have to worry about closing the blinds and you can use your patio as you please without people bothering you."
