Best Campgrounds near Twentynine Palms, CA

Camping near Twentynine Palms, California, offers a unique experience with stunning desert landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, rock climb, or just relax under the stars, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in Joshua Tree National Park. Many campers rave about the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer noting, "Numerous hikes are nearby for numerous outings and is very family friendly" at Jumbo Rocks Campground.
• Rock Climbing: The rock formations in the area are perfect for climbing. A visitor at Hidden Valley Campground mentioned, "The rocks are great to boulder, scramble, or climb on."
• Stargazing: The dark skies in this region make for incredible stargazing. One camper at Ryan Campground said, "DARK DARK DARK sky.....wonderful."

What campers like:

• Privacy: Many campers appreciate the spacious sites. A reviewer at Indian Cove Campground shared, "Nice site with some shade from the rocks," highlighting the campground's layout.
• Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A visitor at Black Rock Campground noted, "The bathrooms are extremely clean."
• Wildlife: Campers enjoy the wildlife in the area. One reviewer at Indian Cove Campground mentioned, "Talk about waking up with the sound of coyotes in your camp."

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Jumbo Rocks Campground, do not have drinking water or showers. A camper pointed out, "The site is very popular so finding an open site to book can be difficult."
• First-Come, First-Serve: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A visitor at Hidden Valley Campground advised, "Filled up by 4PM in mid May."
• Weather Variability: Be prepared for temperature swings. One camper at Lake Hemet Campground mentioned, "It does get extremely hot as it’s in the desert and there’s little to no shade."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds that cater to families, like Jumbo Rocks Campground. A reviewer said, "The campground is very family friendly."
• Plan for Activities: Bring along games or activities for kids. One camper at Ryan Campground noted, "It's perfect for families because it’s likely neighbors will have kids."
• Stay Safe: Keep an eye on kids, especially around rocks and trails. A visitor at Indian Cove Campground warned, "Be cautious of rattlesnakes!"

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Black Rock Campground 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."
• Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A camper at Jumbo Rocks Campground advised, "Finding an open site to book can be difficult, but not impossible if you check every day."
• Be Prepared for No Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Indian Cove Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A visitor noted, "Smaller rigs only. Not very level sights."

Camping around Twentynine Palms, CA, is a fantastic way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Just remember to plan ahead and be prepared for the unique desert environment!