Cabin camping near Thermal, California offers diverse lodging options within a high desert environment at elevations ranging from 150 to 400 feet. The region experiences extreme temperature variations, with summer highs often exceeding 110°F and winter nights dropping to 40°F. Winter months (November-April) represent peak season when cabins book quickly due to mild daytime temperatures and the influx of seasonal visitors.
What to do
Hot springs access: At Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA in Desert Hot Springs, cabin guests can enjoy the geothermal pools year-round. "Geothermal pool and spas. 90, 100 and 104 degrees heated in December!!" notes reviewer Michael C. The three different temperature options make the hot springs accessible for all ages.
Museum exploration: When staying at a cabin near Chiriaco Summit, plan a visit to the General Patton Memorial Museum. "Tomorrow we will tour, The General Patton Memorial Museum before we head towards Arizona. The tanks look amazing and my kids are so excited," shares reviewer lauralee H. The museum displays historic military vehicles and offers educational exhibits about WWII.
Fishing opportunities: Cabin accommodations at Lake Hemet Campground provide access to trout fishing. One visitor reported, "Hemet Lake itself is beautiful and the view while fishing was amazing. I was able to catch one trout during our four night stay..good eatin lol." The lake requires a fishing permit, available at the campground store.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Coachella Lakes RV Resort impresses visitors with its generous cabin and RV accommodations. "Amazing staff. Amazing HUGE sites. Clean. Lots of planned activities. Great for families," says Travis M. Another camper notes, "This place is huge and so are the sites," highlighting the extra room compared to other desert resorts.
Privacy features: At Shadow Hills RV Resort in Indio, cabin sites include landscaping for separation between units. "Semi private spaces, plenty of grass, very nice pool & spa, and friendly staff," mentions David B. The hedges between sites create natural barriers that many cabin campers appreciate.
Natural mineral water: The mineral content in the water at natural hot springs resorts provides health benefits many visitors seek. "We stayed for 2 and a half months and enjoyed the amenities daily," reports a guest at Catalina Spa and RV Resort. The pools "are fed by natural hot springs and warmer than most hot tubs," according to another reviewer.
What you should know
Water quality issues: Several desert cabins rely on well water with mineral content. One reviewer at Oasis Palms RV Resort cautions, "The water is safe for bathing and dishes but does have a large amount of sediment and discoloration." Bring drinking water or use the reverse osmosis stations available at some resorts.
Wind conditions: Desert wind can impact cabin stays significantly. "The one knock, other than the freeway is that it has been some increased homeless activity in the tree line that flanks the park," notes a visitor about one location, while another mentions, "Way too windy. We had tents and trailers. None of us slept."
Temperature fluctuations: Cabins with air conditioning become essential during summer months. "It can be windy at times, so you need to mind your awnings. It is warm during the day but cools at night," explains a winter visitor to Catalina Spa. Proper clothing layers and bedding are necessary regardless of season.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin amenities variation: Each property offers different cabin furnishing levels. "There is a large dog run but it was VERY overgrown and we felt not usable due to insect and flea/tick concerns," notes one family about a basic cabin setup. Always confirm what items you need to bring, including linens.
Scheduled activities: Emerald Desert RV Resort provides family programming throughout peak season. "Lots of amenities and activities. There's also free wifi, download/upload was pretty slow but streaming and browsing was good," reports Laura M. Weekend activities often include organized games and social gatherings.
Off-season benefits: Visiting during shoulder seasons can mean more privacy. "We visited in May and the park was 90% empty. We enjoyed our stay here and relax in the spa!" shares Christian D. about Indian Waters RV Resort, highlighting how timing affects experience.
Tips from RVers
Extended stays: Many cabin rentals offer weekly and monthly rates substantially lower than daily fees. "The weekly rate is much better than daily. It is a nice resort with clean amenities. The gym was great and the pool was not busy which made it a nice place to work from," mentions Lauren K. from Emerald Desert RV Resort.
Road noise: Highway proximity affects cabin selection. "Close to I-10, but a private property with designated spots right next to a local diner and truck stop," notes Kevin H. about Chiriaco Summit's location. Properties further from interstate highways offer quieter experiences.
Gated security: Many cabin resorts provide controlled access. "Lovely campground and quiet. This place is huge and so are the sites. Very clean and gated," explains Roxanna L. about Coachella Lakes RV Resort, noting the security measures that appeal to those traveling with valuables.
