Tent camping near Palm Springs, California offers a stark contrast of environments, from hot desert lowlands to cool alpine forests above 9,000 feet. The San Bernardino Mountains provide relief from summer desert temperatures, which regularly exceed 100°F between June and September. Winter camping at higher elevations requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, with snow common from December through March.
What to do
Hiking the San Jacinto Peak trail: From Round Valley Campsite, campers can tackle the summit trail. "We took the tram up from palm springs and backpacked to the campground before summiting up San Jacinto peak. The views were breathtaking and the elevation was a killer. It took us longer than we expected," notes a camper.
Explore Thomas Mountain trails: The Romona Trail starts directly behind the washhouse at Tool Box Springs Yellow Post Campground. One visitor mentioned, "If you're looking for things to do while up there, the Romona trail starts/ends directly behind the washhouse."
Wildlife observation: Many tent sites offer opportunities to see local wildlife. One camper at Tool Box Springs reported, "Lots of wildlife. Raccoons in the night, gray squirrel, other squirrels, many birds."
What campers like
Isolation from crowds: Primitive tent sites provide solitude away from developed areas. A Tamarack Valley Campground visitor noted, "We stayed at group sites and man, it was unreal. We came here once a month last year and had the time of our lives."
Accessibility via aerial tramway: The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway provides an alternative access point to high-elevation tent camping. "Permits are only $5 per person but the tram is like $25," reports a Round Valley camper.
Natural water sources: Some higher elevation sites have seasonal streams. A camper mentioned Round Valley had "flowing water for easy drink refills and the amazing hike to and from the tram station."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Most backcountry tent sites require permits that must be reserved well in advance. "Reservations go fast so you need to submit your permit starting 8 weeks before your trip, however waiting until 4 weeks may be too late," warns a Round Valley visitor.
High clearance vehicles needed: Many yellow post sites require rough road driving. A Little Round Valley camper advised, "Take the Marion Mtn Trail that goes from Marion Mtn & Fern Basin Campgrounds and spend the night here at Little Round Valley."
Insects can be problematic: Summer months bring insect challenges at some sites. "This site would've been perfect, and I mean perfect, but the flies were unbearable. I planned to stay two nights but I couldn't make it past the next morning," reported a Tool Box Springs camper.
Elevation considerations: The significant elevation change affects both temperature and physical exertion. "The elevation was a killer. It took us longer than we expected," noted a Round Valley camper.
Tips for camping with families
Group camping options: Yucaipa Regional Park offers designated group sites for family tent camping. "We stayed in group campsite A. Tent camping is only allowed in group sites. The tent camping sites come with plenty of space for group camping," shared a visitor.
Water activities: Some campgrounds feature lakes or water features. "Park is small, very family friendly, clean and well managed. Lots of places to walk/hike, large sites," noted a Yucaipa Regional Park camper.
Multiple recreation options: Families can enjoy various activities beyond just camping. "There's a lot to do here, including fishing, playgrounds, and even a waterpark in the summer. There's no larger wildlife, like bears, so less stressful when you have pets or kids," shared a Yucaipa camper.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV tent camping options: Most primitive sites are tent-only, but some allow both. At Santa Rosa Springs Campground, "Campsite had fire ring with grill and a wood table that gave out splinters every time I touched it," mentioned a visitor who stayed at campsite 6.
Seasonal road closures: Winter conditions can make access difficult for tent campers and impossible for RVs. "Drove up on Saturday and saw probably 6-7 other vehicles total. Some just off-roading and a few camping. Road was not too bad. Definitely want clearance but I did most in rwd," reported a Santa Rosa Springs visitor.
Utilities at developed sites: For tent campers wanting more amenities, some regional parks offer electric hookups. "Excellent campground. Well maintained. Large concrete pads that can handle any rig. Does get very cold, was in the teens overnight when I was there in Feb. Fires allowed which is nice," noted a Yucaipa Regional Park visitor.
