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Best Campgrounds near Palm Springs, CA

1,905 Reviews

Several campgrounds near Palm Springs give you access to Joshua Tree National Park, with Jumbo Rocks being particularly good for hikers who want to explore the boulder formations. Many campers also head to Indian Cove for desert views and climbing opportunities. The night skies in Joshua Tree are incredibly clear, making any campground in the park worth considering if you like watching stars. Spring and fall bring the most comfortable weather for camping in this area. You'll need to prepare for extreme heat if camping during summer months, bringing extra water and sun protection. If you camp during winter, pack warm clothes as desert nights get cold. Most popular campgrounds fill quickly during busy seasons, so making reservations ahead of time is smart. The campgrounds typically have basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, but you might need to bring your own water depending on the site. Keep food secured properly since coyotes and desert tortoises live in the area. You can drive right up to most camping areas on good roads, though at some sites you'll need to carry your gear a short distance from where you park. The Palm Springs area works well for both new and experienced campers looking to spend time in the desert.

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Best Camping Sites Near Palm Springs, California (385)

    1. Lake Hemet Campground

    39 Reviews
    Mountain Center, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 659-2680

    $45 / night

    "You can fit two 10' x10' canopies to cover the bench table, and fit 2 individual tents (4-6 person) OR a bigger 12p tent however you decide to position it. It has its own Fire pit."

    "I've been camping at Lake Hemet since I was a kid, and absolutely love it there."

    2. Idyllwild Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    29 Reviews
    Idyllwild, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 659-2607

    $25 - $45 / night

    "Great campsite within 5 minute walk of downtown idyllwild. Plus less than 2 hours from drive to Palm Spring Tram up to Mt."

    "3 minute walk into downtown idyllwild, with its great bars and restraunts. Strangely also seems seculed from downtown and quiet."

    3. Hurkey Creek Park

    21 Reviews
    Mountain Center, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 659-2050

    $30 - $35 / night

    "This is one of our family's favorite campgrounds because it's a quick drive from San Diego (and OC) and it gives us our "mountain fix" when we don't have time to drive to the Sierra Mountains."

    "It's a lovely campground, and our spot wasn't too far away from the restrooms or the creek. Once Friday afternoon hit though, it did fill up to what felt like near full capacity. "

    4. Catalina Spa and RV Resort

    21 Reviews
    Desert Hot Springs, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 329-4431

    $22 - $44 / night

    "Close to downtown Palm Springs. Only issue is it is terribly windy most of the time."

    "Palm Springs is 20 minutes south. Spent 2 weeks and will return."

    5. Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA

    21 Reviews
    Desert Hot Springs, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 251-6555

    "This campground is in a great location between Joshua Tree and Palm Springs. The site was large and we had no one around us, though there is no privacy."

    "Near and clean campground with clean restrooms requiring a key code to enter. Two laundry rooms."

    6. Stone Creek Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    15 Reviews
    Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 659-2607

    $20 - $35 / night

    "It's also a lovely little town to hang out, wander around, get some lunch/dinner if you don't feel like camping.  There's an awesome brewery there as well! "

    "Located near Idyllwild, this is the smaller, less rowdy campground associated with the tourist town."

    7. Thousand Trails Palm Springs

    18 Reviews
    Bermuda Dunes, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "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 is a beautiful Thousand Trails RV Resort in Palm Springs, California! The park is large, very spacious and so clean!"

    8. Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    48 Reviews
    Yucca Valley, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-5554

    $35 / night

    "There are great hiking trails around Black Rock which provide great views of the low and high peaks around Palm Springs."

    "Originally booked this site because it is a good endpoint for the California Riding & Hiking trail though the national park, so if you’re looking to run or complete the traverse, it is a good spot"

    9. Thousand Trails Idyllwild

    10 Reviews
    Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Plus, there are a lot of open spaces in the campground and some small trails with cool views and lots of amenities."

    "We really enjoyed the drive up Idylwild, beautiful scenery. I think the sites are a bit too close to each other, I would prefer more space between sites."

    10. Marion Mountain

    9 Reviews
    Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2922

    $10 - $34 / night

    "Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, within the San Jacinto District, Marion Mt. Campground is one of the best camping sites in Southern California."

    "It was close to Idyllwild, which was convenient when we ran out of ice. There are no bear boxes, not sure if it was needed though. For the best spots, make sure to reserve."

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Recent Camping Photos near Palm Springs, CA

830 Photos of 385 Palm Springs Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Palm Springs, CA

1905 Reviews of 385 Palm Springs Campgrounds

Guide to Palm Springs

Camping near Palm Springs offers a unique blend of desert landscapes, stunning rock formations, and a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Campers rave about the hikes near Jumbo Rocks Campground, with one reviewer noting, "So much exploring to be had right from your campsite."
  • Rock Climbing: If you’re into climbing, Hidden Valley Campground is a hotspot. One visitor shared, "The campground flanks some large rock formations that host rock climbers during the day."
  • Stargazing: The clear desert skies make for incredible stargazing. A camper at Hidden Valley Campground mentioned, "DARK DARK DARK sky.....wonderful."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Indian Cove Campground said, "What a beautiful place. It was really quiet when we were there and saw a beautiful sunset and sunrise."
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A camper at Jumbo Rocks Campground expressed, "We had a ton of privacy and fun rocks to climb on."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Black Rock Campground are noted for being family-friendly. One visitor shared, "The site is very popular so finding an open site to book can be difficult, but not impossible if you check every day."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Indian Cove Campground, do not have showers or water hookups. A camper noted, "The sites are pretty big and there’s many different campgrounds with 20-180 sites in each."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Campgrounds like Hidden Valley Campground operate on a first-come, first-served basis. One reviewer mentioned, "Filled up by 4 PM in mid-May."
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. A camper at Indian Cove Campground shared, "Talk about waking up with the sound of coyotes in your camp, it was so peaceful."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like William Heise County Park that cater to families. A reviewer said, "Definitely was a nice stay and will be going back."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One camper at Jumbo Rocks Campground mentioned, "Numerous hikes are nearby for numerous outings and is very family-friendly."
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids, especially around wildlife. A camper at Indian Cove Campground advised, "It does get extremely hot as it’s in the desert and there’s little to no shade."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Black Rock Campground noted, "The roads could use some work and if you have an RV/Trailer/Van you may want some block to help get you level."
  • Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A camper at Jumbo Rocks Campground mentioned, "Finding an open site to book can be difficult, but not impossible if you check every day."
  • Bring Your Own Water: Many campgrounds lack drinking water. A visitor at Indian Cove Campground reminded, "Bring your own water too."

With so many options for camping near Palm Springs, you’re bound to find a spot that fits your style. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful desert scenery!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Palm Springs, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Palm Springs, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 385 campgrounds and RV parks near Palm Springs, CA and 46 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Palm Springs, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Palm Springs, CA is Lake Hemet Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 39 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Palm Springs, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 46 free dispersed camping spots near Palm Springs, CA.

What parks are near Palm Springs, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Palm Springs, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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