Yurt camping near Pioneertown, California offers access to the diverse Mojave Desert landscape at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet. The region experiences extreme temperature variations with summer days often exceeding 100°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Seasonal winds can reach 50+ mph during certain months, requiring campers to secure equipment properly.
What to do
Hiking trails access: The area around Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA provides several hiking options accessible from camp. "Close to shopping and hiking," notes a reviewer about the trails within walking distance of some campgrounds.
Hot springs mineral pools: Three different temperature hot springs pools at Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA accommodate different comfort levels. "3 hot spring tubs. Pool is warm and wall stops wind. The pools and hot tubs are great," mentions a camper who appreciated the geothermal amenities.
Boating at Lake Hemet: Lake Hemet Campground offers boat rentals for fishing and recreation. "We rented a boat and went out on the lake to do some fishing. We didn't catch anything but we did see some bald eagles which was super cool!" shares one visitor about this unexpected wildlife viewing opportunity.
What campers like
Private yurt accommodations: Catalina Spa and RV Resort offers secluded glamping options with natural privacy barriers. "Sites are pretty close together but divided by tall hedges that make for good privacy," notes one reviewer who appreciated the layout.
Equine interaction: Visitors seeking yurt camping near Pioneertown appreciate the ability to observe wild horses. "Cascade Trails is a unique experience created by impassioned owners who are personally committed to saving the wild mustangs," mentions one visitor.
Geothermal pools: The mineral water at some properties provides therapeutic benefits. "Geothermal pool and spas. 90, 100 and 104 degrees heated in December!!" explains a winter visitor who enjoyed year-round swimming at one location.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Desert Hot Springs area campgrounds can experience intense wind that affects camping comfort. "Way too windy. We had tents and trailers. None of us slept. The trailer rocked horribly and the tents were filled with dirt. The yurts walls were impacted by the wind," reports one camper from their experience.
Site leveling challenges: Some RV sites require additional equipment for proper setup. "Sites are not level. Our dump hookup ended up being uphill so one has to milk the house to empty," explains a camper at Serrano.
Limited availability: Many popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Was able to get a first come first serve site on a Saturday in October. Most sites were reserved but not everyone showed up. For first come first serve you must pay via cash or check using the drop box - no option for credit cards."
Tips for camping with families
Pool activities: Twentynine Palms Resort offers swimming options for children of all ages. "Even have 3 temperatures so the kids can enjoy hot springs too!" mentions a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly pool areas.
Recreation options: Some campgrounds provide organized activities for different age groups. "Many activities for kids miniature golf, jump board, play ground. Many activities for adults as well," notes a reviewer about the structured entertainment options.
Space considerations: For family camping trips, look for sites with adequate room. "We had a double spot and it was very spacious which is what we were looking for because we had 5 kids, 4 dogs, and 7 adults," explains a camper about their group experience at Serrano.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RVs seeking desert yurt camping near Pioneertown, choosing the right location within a campground matters. "Ask for a spot that is not on the hotel side of the property," suggests one RVer at Happy Traveler RV Park.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging entrances for larger rigs. "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," cautions one RVer.
Winter preparations: Freezing overnight temperatures require special precautions. "Bring insulation for your water hose or have some type of method that will keep your water lines from freezing. Our water hose froze the first night," warns a winter visitor at Lake Hemet Campground.
