Best Campgrounds near Thermal, CA

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Thermal, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Thermal is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Thermal, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Thermal, California (272)

    1. Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed

    59 Reviews
    Mecca, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 833-7100

    "Absolutely love staying just outside the park. Easy access to some beautiful trails and you can easily fill up with water, dump out, and use the garbage from your vehicle."

    "This is a great free site right at the edge of Joshua Tree National park. Spots are far apart and you don’t have to worry about other people. Area is flat and easy to set up and park on."

    2. Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    116 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-5554

    $30 / night

    "They're situated between HUGE boulders so they're nicely tucked away from high winds that can sometimes pick up."

    "bathrooms but no water access and the main entrance is about 45 drive, so come prepared. great access to climbing walking distance or short drive. stunning rock formations and sunrise/sunsets."

    3. Painted Canyon

    17 Reviews
    Mecca, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 833-7100

    "We love hiking the rope/ladder trail loop during the day and star gazing at night. No bugs and the weather is amazing if you’re at the base of the canyon."

    "Easy to find a place to tuck away in a tent or truck at night and enjoy hiking again in the AM."

    4. Lake Cahuilla

    12 Reviews
    La Quinta, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 564-4712

    "Lake Cahuilla has a lot to offer, including a playground, lake for fishing only (no swimming), and a pool that was closed while we were there, and somewhat spacious sites."

    "Great view of the lake from most of the tent sections. Access to showers and restrooms. There is a pool in the summer and enough shade to stay as cool as the desert allows without A/C."

    5. Mecca Hills Wilderness

    10 Reviews
    Mecca, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 833-7100

    "I didn’t have high expectations but after going, it’s perfect for any off-roader. We travel in large groups so this site is ideal for us!"

    "I researched this spot a ton and was hesitant to go - mostly because my 1987 VW Westfalia isn’t 4WD, and everything I read said you must have an off road vehicle, but the area looked beautiful and we didn"

    6. Thousand Trails Palm Springs

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

    "The 30 Amp side is pull through so we decided to set up at site 61 further away from the Highway because it is a bit noisy from road noise."

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

    7. Cottonwood Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    26 Reviews
    Mecca, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-5554

    $55 / night

    "Water was a little tricky to find at first because it was tucked next to a campsite that had an RV parked out front.

    Wildflowers were blooming all around in mid-spring. "

    "Had great hikes on the many paths. Drove through Joshua Tree National forest, through Cholla and Ocotilla gardens. Saw Skull rock and the fabulous gigantic rock formations."

    8. Painted Canyon

    6 Reviews
    Mecca, CA
    8 miles

    "Recommend driving off to the sides were you will find event more tucked away campsites with fire rings around them. Only 1 bathroom near the beginning the the road."

    "The main road was a super easy drive, definitely doable 2 wheel drive but 4 wheel is recommended."

    9. Oasis Palms RV Resort

    10 Reviews
    Coolidge Springs, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 397-1011

    "The only challenge was the highway noise. But it’s a sweet spot."

    "Very friendly staff and a great location to live."

    10. Coachella Lakes RV Resort

    4 Reviews
    Indio, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (442) 325-9292

    $52 - $113 / night

    "This place is huge and so are the sites. 2 pools but of course as luck would have it one pool that’s about 20 steps from our campsite is closed! Office staff were friendly as were workers."

    "I believe the spots that will be opening up that are further away from all the amenities will be cheaper."

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Showing results 1-10 of 272 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Thermal, CA

1485 Reviews of 272 Thermal Campgrounds



Guide to Thermal

Camping near Thermal, California, offers a unique blend of desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature and make lasting memories.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Campers rave about the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer from Jumbo Rocks Campground saying, "Numerous hikes are nearby for numerous outings and is very family friendly."
  • Rock Climbing: If you're into climbing, Hidden Valley Campground is a hotspot. A visitor noted, "The rocks are great to boulder, scramble, or climb on" at Hidden Valley Campground.
  • Stargazing: The clear desert skies provide excellent stargazing opportunities. One camper at Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed mentioned, "DARK DARK DARK sky.....wonderful."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the stunning landscapes. A review from Indian Cove Campground highlights, "What a beautiful place. It was really quiet when we were there and saw a beautiful sunset and sunrise."
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer a sense of seclusion. A visitor at Blair Valley Primitive Campground said, "Didn’t even know I had neighbors until I walked around in the morning."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like William Heise County Park are noted for being great for families, with one reviewer stating, "Definitely was a nice stay and will be going back."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, such as Black Rock Campground, have basic facilities. One camper mentioned, "The roads could use some work and if you have a RV/Trailer/Van you may want some block to help get you level."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Some sites operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, like Hidden Valley Campground. A visitor noted, "Filled up by 4PM in mid May."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A camper at Indian Cove Campground shared, "Talk about waking up with the sound of coyotes in your camp."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like William Heise County Park, which offers various activities for kids. One family said, "The park was clean and well-maintained, and the staff was friendly and helpful."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. A reviewer at Jumbo Rocks Campground mentioned, "We had a ton of privacy and fun rocks to climb on."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone hydrated and fed. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground advised, "Bring your own shade for this campsite, your own water too."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Black Rock Campground noted, "The sites are nicely spread out. Bathrooms are extremely clean."
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Roads can be bumpy. One RV traveler at Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed mentioned, "The road was quite bumpy, but we managed with a campervan."
  • Bring Leveling Blocks: Many sites may not be perfectly level. A camper at Indian Cove Campground suggested, "Smaller rigs only. Not very level sights."

Camping near Thermal, California, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or family fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Thermal, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Thermal, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 272 campgrounds and RV parks near Thermal, CA and 40 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Thermal, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Thermal, CA is Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed with a 4.3-star rating from 59 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Thermal, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 40 free dispersed camping spots near Thermal, CA.

What parks are near Thermal, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Thermal, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.