Chiriaco Summit Dry Camp Area
Free spot
Free for up to 7 days. Dry camping, but spots are level. Just behind the General Payton Museum. Great spot for heading further.
2 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Several campgrounds around Thousand Palms, California provide furnished cabin rentals with varying amenities and comfort levels. Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA offers cabin accommodations with air conditioning, essential during hot desert months. Caliente Springs RV Resort features rental cottages with mineral hot springs access, primarily catering to the 55+ crowd. At Lake Hemet Campground, cabins include picnic tables and fire rings, with one visitor noting, "Different campgrounds for all chosen methods (Tent, RV, Glamping, etc.). There's restrooms you can use. There's showers you can pay per use." Most cabins in the area include electricity and basic furnishings, though amenities vary significantly by location.
Rustic and deluxe cabins are both available throughout the region, with prices typically ranging from $75-150 per night depending on size and amenities. Tamarisk Grove Campground in nearby Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers primitive cabins for around $75 that feature simple sleeping platforms without electricity, water, mattresses, or linens. In contrast, resorts like Thousand Trails Idyllwild provide "beautiful cabins" with more substantial amenities, as one reviewer mentioned. Most cabin rentals are pet-friendly, though specific policies vary by location. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during winter months when snowbirds flock to the desert for milder temperatures. The Palm Springs area cabin rentals typically book months in advance during peak season.
Most cabin camping options require guests to bring their own bedding, pillows, and towels, particularly at more rustic locations. Kitchen facilities vary widely, from no cooking amenities at primitive cabins to basic microwaves and mini-fridges at more developed sites. Visitors should pack drinking water when staying at locations like Tamarisk Grove, where water is non-potable. On-site markets at several resorts provide basic supplies, though selection is limited and prices tend to be higher than in town. The Sky Valley RV Resort features "a great little market with fresh baked goods, soft serve ice cream and other items," according to one visitor. Larger grocery stores can be found in Palm Desert and Desert Hot Springs, making it convenient to stock up before arrival.
"The is a beautiful Thousand Trails RV Resort in Palm Springs, California! The park is large, very spacious and so clean!"
"Thousand Trails Palm Springs offers a great pool and hot tub area with a lively, mixed-age crowd—perfect if you’re in your 30s and looking for variety."
"Near and clean campground with clean restrooms requiring a key code to enter. Two laundry rooms."
"Private hot showers that you accessed with a free code. The wifi was pretty good too. There was a 9 hole mini golf and playground for the kids too. Great views of the mountains."
"This gem is located on the outskirts of Desert Hot Springs, CA. With two hot spring-fed pools and hot tubs (one of which is massive and SO luxe), we didn’t want to leave. Like, ever."
"Sites are pretty close together but divided by tall hedges that make for good privacy. It was a little loud our first night from other campers and dogs, but the second night was much quieter."
from $22 - $44 / night
"It's a lovely location with almost perfect weather in the winter. April very windy and May, it starts getting hotter. However, you can take the tram up majestic Mt."
"The premium RV spots where we stayed near the West Serenity Pool (about 3 blocks away) have a fake grass patch and concrete slab along with a little patio set, which was very nice."
"You can fit two 10' x10' canopies to cover the bench table, and fit 2 individual tents (4-6 person) OR a bigger 12p tent however you decide to position it. It has its own Fire pit."
"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."
from $45 / night
"It's close to the freeway and the road noise is loud and never stops. There is also a freight train that frequently runs along behind the park, and it's very loud."
"We upgraded to the"luxury" site which meant that the spacing between sites was a bit greater and we had a lovely patch of green grass between us and our neighbors."
"We’ll groomed and maintained park. Semi private spaces, plenty of grass, very nice pool & spa, and friendly staff. Our space was adjacent to Jefferson Street which is a bit noisy but tolerable."
"Full hookups, daily trash pickups at each site, cable tv, large level pads with privacy hedge, small dog parks scattered throughout, gated security, nice restrooms w/ showers (free)."
from $42 - $9999 / night
"Had no problem booking it on the internet but the phone numbers provided (especially the one regarding the late check in) kept you either asking to leave a message (that was never acted upon / returned"
"Great clean campground and resort For55+ lots to do Mineral hot springs Rental cottages and some for sale"
Campground full this weekend
"We spent a week in one of their dog friendly cabins and had such a good time."
"Beautiful park with lots of amenities. Unfortunately the restaurant was closed as it is open seasonally. Wifi is the normal bad. Dog park is wonderful as well as the free putting course."
from $52 - $113 / night
"We had booked our site back in March and ran into a small glitch with the online system recognizing our deposit and site request."
"Had two pools and outdoor bar area with fire pit. All spots are paved and easy to access"
Free for up to 7 days. Dry camping, but spots are level. Just behind the General Payton Museum. Great spot for heading further.
Has a security guard that thought she was God or something like that. Never seen anybody or place so petty on the place and still searching for the championship horseshoe pits and I can't stop talking about the dark green of the fishing lakes and the fish swimming on their sides
KOA probably has the best app that indicates availability and precise grand total price. There are bargains under "deals." I've been a Rewards member since June 2024 when I transitioned from a stucco house to a tiny travel trailer fulltime. All my KOA stays were through the app, never a telephone call that is precarious with other RV parks that have hidden charges and deposits seldom refunded.
The Temecula KOA panders to campers with varying finances, but is far from free. While the fluffy class A crowd stays on a picturesque hill-with-a-view under shade, the Lower Merlot section where I docked is a treeless dusty ghetto that has a dilapidated but functional 18th century bathroom. It beats the boondocking bush toilets, and better than an outhouse vault. In fact, it has plumbing and showers that Beethoven probably appreciated.
But still not cheap. During summer Temecula is cooler at 90°s f than Palm Springs at 118° f, but unlike the coast at 70°s f with very high summer site rates and limited availability because of travelers from everywhere. Tent camping and non-air-con RVs in Temecula could be unbearable for the meek in summer.
Check in was a breeze even coming in after hours. Found our park site easily. Lots of amenities, 18 hole putting golf, pools, spas, laundry was easy, game room, 24 hour fitness....VERY NICE FACILITY.
Well kept park, mostly dirt and gravel. Not many trees for shade. Spotty WiFi. There is a pool but I didn't use it. Full hookups $65 a night with a Good Sam discount.
This campground has good amenities, more than most and quite close to shopping and dining. They offer full rv hookups and both 30 and 50 amp sites.
When I booked at the reservation site I screenshot that water and 30 amp power was available at my site. There is NO water hook up. Overall it’s good 7 out of 10. Lots to do within 2 hours of this place. Staying for 6 days.
A Hidden Gem! Phenomenal Staff & Peaceful Stay My husband and I just finished a week-long stay at Indian Waters RV Resort over Memorial Day weekend, and we are absolutely blown away! We are in our late 30s/early 40s and really thrive on peace and quiet, and this place delivered exactly what we were looking for. Right from the start, the customer service was unmatched. We had booked our site back in March and ran into a small glitch with the online system recognizing our deposit and site request. After communicating with Cameron and Rachel in the weeks leading up to our trip, they assured us everything would be handled—and they delivered perfectly. Upon arrival, they proved to be the most amazing, warm, and accommodating property managers you could ever ask for. From our first greeting to random run-ins around the park to our final day, their consistency and hospitality were top-tier. They even stock those must-have amenities in the main office for when you inevitably forget or run out of something, which was incredibly convenient. As for the resort itself? Phenomenal. The grounds are meticulously kept up—the grass sites are lush and green, and the gravel sites are perfectly level. The bathrooms are amazing, and the gym is clean with great, usable equipment. We spent plenty of time enjoying the amenities: The Pool & Jacuzzis: The pool was always sparkling clean (minus a few stray flowers blowing in the desert wind) and kept at a wonderful temperature. The two jacuzzis are absolutely to die for! Outdoor Fun: They have cornhole, pickleball courts, and great lounge chairs situated around multiple firepits. We were honestly shocked that the park wasn’t more crowded for a holiday weekend. It truly feels like a hidden gem right now. There were no loud or rowdy neighbors, no annoying barking dogs, and no screaming children—just pure relaxation. We came here to celebrate our birthdays, and thanks to Cam and Rachel, it was an unforgettable trip. We will absolutely be back time and time again! Wishing you both tons of success!
Beautiful park with lots of amenities. Unfortunately the restaurant was closed as it is open seasonally. Wifi is the normal bad. Dog park is wonderful as well as the free putting course.
Cabin accommodations near Thousand Palms, California range from simple structures to premium rentals with private bathrooms, all situated in the Coachella Valley desert region where summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F. The area's unique location along the San Andreas fault creates natural hot springs that feed mineral pools at several resorts, with the terrain varying from sandy desert floors to mountain foothills depending on the campground location.
Soak in mineral hot springs: At Sky Valley RV Resort, guests can access multiple mineral pools with varying temperatures. "13 pools, 2 clubhouse's. Must stay a few days or longer!" reports Barry, who appreciates the resort's proximity to Palm Springs.
Play pickleball and other sports: Catalina Spa and RV Resort offers organized pickleball sessions, shuffleboard, cornhole, and horseshoes. According to Scott G., "We've enjoyed learning and playing pickleball. The pools are warm and well maintained."
Explore nearby attractions: Many campgrounds serve as central bases for day trips. "Joshua Tree entrances are within the hour to get to. The Coachella Valley preserve is just a few minutes drive from Sky Valley and is a delightful walk among Palm trees and springs," notes Tracy K., highlighting the accessibility of natural attractions.
Mineral pools with different temperatures: The therapeutic mineral waters are a major draw. At Indian Waters RV Resort, campers enjoy "two pools and outdoor bar area with fire pit," according to Thomas K., who appreciated finding the "lowest price in the area."
Weekly activities and social events: Many cabin camping options organize regular community gatherings. Scott G. enjoyed "an informal happy hour Saturday late afternoon (byob)" at Catalina Spa and RV Resort, adding that they "enjoyed a great Thanksgiving dinner where the park supplied turkey, stuffing and gravy and participant's brought potluck for the sides 100+ people."
Dog-friendly facilities: Pet owners appreciate designated areas for their animals. At Coachella Lakes RV Resort, "Dogs get a cute little goodie bag with a little bandana, poop bags and a bag holder for the leash, and a tennis ball," according to Laura M., who adds that "eventually the dog park will have its own section of RV spots called K9 Corner."
Wind conditions can be challenging: The desert location means strong winds are common. At Thousand Trails Palm Springs, Tom W. notes, "I got unlucky and got stuck in a few windy days, where gusts were in the 60's, so took the awning down."
Age restrictions at some resorts: Several cabin camping options cater specifically to older crowds. Tyler V. reports that Caliente Springs "is a 55+ park" that "looks nice and has golf," but visitors under 55 should consider alternative options.
Proximity to transportation routes: Some cabin camping locations experience noise from nearby highways and trains. David mentions that at Emerald Desert RV Resort, "Interstate 10 and a set of major East-West train tracks lie right behind the resort, but neither were very disruptive to us."
Look for campgrounds with designated kid activities: Lake Hemet Campground provides water recreation options for children. Christina R. shares, "My friends and I have been camping here for New Years and other random summer/holiday weekends for about 5 years now. We have just camped to relax, Kayak, fish, and play Disk Golf."
Consider cabin options with kid-friendly amenities: The Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA features multiple recreational facilities. Gina P. reports a "wonderful time with the kids and our two doggos here! Great dog park, family friendly and the hot springs was just perfect for all of us. Even have 3 temperatures so the kids can enjoy hot springs too!"
Reserve weekend spots well in advance: Popular family-oriented cabin sites fill quickly during peak times. At Lake Hemet Campground, some visitors noted crowd challenges, with one mentioning, "The only negative is the crowds for the water park area on the weekends. Don't want a spot too close."
Check site dimensions carefully: Maneuvering large rigs can be challenging at some locations. Nicole R. shares about Thousand Trails Palm Springs: "We got in and checking in was very thorough! We headed to the pull through 30amp sites which are all to the left. Parked in end spot of the first row after the pool in tight spot (palm trees are close) and electric wasn't working."
Book during shoulder seasons for better rates: Many cabin camping options near Thousand Palms offer significant discounts for longer stays during non-peak times. At Sky Valley RV Resort, Corrie L. mentions, "We were originally going to stay for 1 month but felt so relaxed and loved the hot tubs/pool. We decided to stay. Very comfortable and very roomy spots."
Watch for site-specific utilities placement: RVers sometimes encounter hookup challenges. At Emerald Desert RV Resort, David noted, "With so many nearby stores, it just took a quick online order for curbside pickup at Wal-Mart for extra hose and we were good-to-go."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular cabin campsite near Thousand Palms, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near Thousand Palms, CA is Thousand Trails Palm Springs with a 4-star rating from 23 reviews.
What is the best site to find cabin camping near Thousand Palms, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 50 cabin camping locations near Thousand Palms, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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