The San Jacinto Mountains rise dramatically from Palm Springs to elevations above 10,000 feet, creating a diverse climate zone where temperatures can vary by 30 degrees between mountain camps and desert floor locations. Most dog friendly campgrounds near Palm Springs experience significant seasonal shifts, with summer highs reaching 110°F in desert locations while mountain sites stay 20-30 degrees cooler. Winter camping often brings frost to higher elevations while desert campgrounds maintain comfortable daytime temperatures in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Hiking the California Riding & Hiking Trail: Black Rock Campground in Joshua Tree National Park serves as an endpoint for the California Riding & Hiking trail. "There are also great hiking trails right next to the campground. The campground is also super close to the towns of Yucca Valley and Joshua Tree for picking up supplies," notes Sierra T. about Black Rock Campground.
Mountain biking at Hurkey Creek: The extensive trail system surrounding Hurkey Creek Park provides excellent terrain for mountain bikers of all skill levels. "We hiked around and explored and wished we brought our mountain bikes, lots of good riding around the area," shares Lindsey W. about Hurkey Creek Park.
Winter snow activities: Lake Hemet Campground offers proximity to higher-elevation winter recreation. "We were able to get a first come first serve site on a Saturday in October. Most sites were reserved but not everyone showed up," notes Isabelle S. about Stone Creek Campground, adding, "it was nice being off the main road a bit and right off the Marion Mountain Trail."
What campers like
Natural hot springs pools: The mineral springs at Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA provide a relaxing experience after exploring. "3 hot spring tubs. Pool is warm and wall stops wind. Many activities for kids miniature golf, jump board, play ground. Many activities for adults as well," reports Cheryl T. about Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Marion Mountain Campground offers frequent wildlife sightings. "We enjoyed the size and feel of the campground. Well, every campground has ups and downs. This one literally has slopes. Hahah some sites were more slope-y than others, but most had a flat spot for a tent in for the picnic bench," explains Brittany N. about Marion Mountain.
Proximity to small mountain towns: Stone Creek Campground provides easy access to Idyllwild's charming downtown. "We stayed here last summer. It was out first camping trip to Idyllwild. The drive up to the campground is very pretty. We loved stopping in the town and checking out all the little shops. The campground itself was only about a ten min drive from town," shares Krystle L.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring additional equipment. "Our site was not level at all. 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," reports Time4Dirt about Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Variable wind conditions: Desert campgrounds often experience strong winds that can impact tents and awnings. "Way too windy. We had tents and trailers. None of us slept. The trailer rocked horribly and the tents were filled with dirts. The yurts walls were impacted by the wind and the maintenance people were out trying to fix them," warns theresa O. about Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA.
Seasonal water availability: Water access varies throughout the year at certain campgrounds. "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," notes Julie K. about Black Rock Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly trail access: Lake Hemet Campground offers excellent dog-walking opportunities. "We spent the Memorial Day weekend attending a Scottish festival at Orange County Fairgrounds. Camped in the overflow parking amidst land yachts and other tenters. After way too much partying with the Scots and drum and bagpipe competitions, we needed a day to decompress before getting home," shares Kim F. about Hurkey Creek Park.
Kid-friendly amenities: Lake Hemet Campground provides water activities that children enjoy. "We had the best time here! The lake with all the blow up toys was a blast! The section we were in only had a volt potty but there were showers there in another section. Every site has a picnic table and fire ring," says Jennifer D.
Easy access campsites: Some campgrounds offer more accessible sites for families with young children. "Stone Creek has about 35 sites. The outer ring sites are huge, and most of them are fairly private especially the loop to the right of the entry. Our site was #7, and after thoroughly campsploration it is unquestionably the best for individuals," advises Ryan W.
Tips from RVers
Navigating tight access roads: Several campgrounds have challenging entry points for larger rigs. "We tent camped 3 days 2 nights during Memorial weekend with 3 other families. 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," notes Angela about Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Best approach routes: Mountain campgrounds may require specific access routes for RVs. "I recommend coming in and out from Anza passing by lake Hemet, if your towing towards your max capacity. Gradual straight climb through 75% of the way. Takes about 20-30 minutes longer then the other ways but work the saving the strain on your truck and drive," advises Peter R. about Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Hook-up considerations: Many pet-friendly Palm Springs area campgrounds have varying hook-up availability. "The entrance into the KOA - if coming in and making a right - be careful as you essentially end up making a U-turn around a rock wall and into the park. Just a funky entrance," warns Cindy B. about Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA.
