The Twentynine Palms area sits at approximately 1,988 feet elevation in the Mojave Desert, experiencing temperature extremes that can range from below freezing in winter to well above 110°F in summer. Cell service remains generally reliable throughout the region's rv campgrounds, though quality varies based on specific location and carrier. Desert winds can be significant, particularly during seasonal transitions in spring and fall.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing away from city lights. "This is the most beautiful place to watch sunrise and sunset and stars. So peaceful," notes camper Robbin C. The open desert setting provides minimal light pollution for astronomical observation.
Desert art exploration: Shadow Hills RV Resort puts you near unique environmental art installations. "Desert X environmental art installations are nearby," mentions James W., highlighting cultural options beyond the national park. These temporary installations change annually, offering new experiences each season.
Lake fishing access: For those seeking water recreation, Joshua Tree Lake provides fishing for a small fee. "Has a lake to fish for a nominal price. Spaces are nice and wide some have full hookups others are just electric & water," reports John M. The lake attracts various birds, adding wildlife viewing opportunities.
Migratory bird watching: Small water features at several campgrounds attract desert birdlife. "There is a nice little pond with lots of birds that my daughter loved," shares Jennifer O. about Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground. Spring and fall migrations bring additional species through the area.
What campers like
Natural hot springs: Catalina Spa and RV Resort offers mineral spring pools that maintain natural warmth. "They are fed by natural hot springs and warmer than most hot tubs," explains Emma J. The therapeutic mineral content leaves skin feeling noticeably softer after soaking.
Dark sky views: Many campers specifically mention the astronomical viewing opportunities. "We booked and traveled here to show the kids the stars from a desert view, and it did not disappoint! My camera couldn't capture the magnificent view from just our site," shares Jason M. about Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Desert camping often includes wildlife observations right from campsites. "There's also a small dog run behind the bathrooms with a nice grassy area," notes Derek & Alex W. about Palm Springs Oasis. Many campers report rabbit and bird sightings throughout the camping areas.
Privacy between sites: Several rv parks near Twentynine Palms feature natural screening. "The sites were all concrete but we unfortunately got one that was an end spot so it angled down to one side quite a bit," mentions Kelsey B. about Palm Springs Oasis RV Resort, detailing site configuration considerations.
What you should know
Wind protection considerations: Desert winds can significantly impact camping comfort. "I would give this 5 stars if we had been given the option to move to one of the tent sites that had more of a wind block. Instead the campground was pretty empty but they put us at the back of the campground completely exposed to the wind," explains Brooke R. at Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground.
Reservation timing restrictions: Some parks enforce minimum advance reservation windows. "You cannot do same day booking so remember to book 15 hours before," advises Michelle S. about Joshua Tree RV & Campground. Planning accordingly prevents arrival disappointments.
Site leveling challenges: Unlevel sites can create setup difficulties for some rigs. "The sites are oriented north so all slope up. It might limit your levelers or tongue jack," notes a visitor about site orientation considerations.
Seasonal crowding patterns: Occupancy varies dramatically by season. "We stayed for a couple of nights and the staff was super friendly and helpful. Full hook up sites, pull through and back on," reports Lindsay K. about Thousand Trails Palm Springs. Winter weekends typically reach capacity while summer weekdays have abundant availability.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Catalina Spa and RV Resort provides dedicated spaces for kids. "There is plenty of space for kids to play, with lawns and a little playground. 2 pools both with shower rooms and 2 separate laundry rooms," shares Ashley M. The mini golf course, though showing age, offers additional entertainment.
Educational night programs: Planning evening activities around astronomical events enhances family camping. "My boyfriend and I stayed here for about a week and we absolutely loved our stay! The staff was very friendly and hard working. They ran an easily accessible store on the campgrounds that had lots of last minute necessities," mentions Ava C. about Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground.
Temperature management strategies: Extreme desert temperatures require family-specific planning. "We stayed three nights and had two perfect days, but the final full day was filled with wind, as expected in this part of the desert. No worries, though—explore the town and escape the wind," suggests Jason M. Maintaining hydration and planning indoor activities during peak heat helps with younger campers.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer exceptional value for families. "Large campground, not very busy in the weekend in October when we were there. 4 adults, 2 kids, 1 trailer, 1 tent & 2 cara on a dry RV site with room to spare and that for only 40 bucks. Good deal!" reports Hans V.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Navigating palm tree-lined roads requires attention. "Palm Springs Oasis is very small but it was a great place to stay with just a 5-10 minute drive to downtown! We had originally intended to be here for 2 weeks, go to the other Palm Springs Thousand Trails park for 2 weeks, then come back to Oasis for another 2 weeks," shares Derek & Alex W. Site width matters when dealing with slideouts.
Weather monitoring importance: Desert conditions can change rapidly. "It can be windy at times, so you need to mind your awnings. It's is warm during the day but cools at night. No wood burning firepits, but you can bring your own propane pit," advises scott G. from Catalina Spa and RV Resort.
Alternative water refill locations: Finding affordable potable water matters for longer stays. "For RVs needing water refills, Joshua Tree RV/Camp charges approximately $3 for 45 gallons of potable water," notes one RVer about resources in the area.
Low-cost overnight alternatives: Some locations permit free short-term parking. "The Tortoise Rock Casino permits free overnight RV parking for up to 72 hours with proper registration at security, though unhooking trailers is prohibited," explains a frequent visitor to the area.
