Best Campgrounds near Whitewater, CA

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Whitewater. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Whitewater. Discover great camping spots near Whitewater, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Whitewater, California (358)

    1. Idyllwild Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    29 Reviews
    Idyllwild, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 659-2607

    $25 - $45 / night

    "Kinda close to main road. But, store close by. Around the corner next to the village."

    " Kings Canyon is one of the coolest places I've been in a long time and Southern California"

    2. Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    48 Reviews
    Yucca Valley, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-5554

    $35 / night

    "Originally booked this site because it is a good endpoint for the California Riding & Hiking trail though the national park, so if you’re looking to run or complete the traverse, it is a good spot"

    "The ranger and host at the store were very helpful with information about the surrounding area.

    • Trails run right out of camp...lots of them...of all different difficulty levels."

    3. Lake Hemet Campground

    39 Reviews
    Mountain Center, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 659-2680

    $45 / night

    "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."

    "I've been camping at Lake Hemet since I was a kid, and absolutely love it there."

    4. Catalina Spa and RV Resort

    21 Reviews
    Desert Hot Springs, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 329-4431

    $22 - $44 / night

    "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."

    "You don’t get many good views inside the RV park gates, but once you walk out there driveway and along the street you can actually get some good mountain views on clear days."

    5. Stone Creek Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    15 Reviews
    Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 659-2607

    $20 - $35 / night

    "Located near Idyllwild, this is the smaller, less rowdy campground associated with the tourist town."

    "I was really excited to head out to this campground/ site because it was a close drive from my home, but far enough away to get up in the mountains."

    6. Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA

    21 Reviews
    Desert Hot Springs, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 251-6555

    "The KOA is reasonably priced for KOA and California. 3 hot spring tubs. Pool is warm and wall stops wind. Many activities for kids miniature golf, jump board, play ground."

    "Plenty of stuff to do behind the walls, mini golf, dog kamp, pool, hot tubs, games, game room... Nice shower house and bathrooms. Camp store is a little small but has the essentials."

    7. Heart Bar Campground

    19 Reviews
    Big Bear City, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8550

    $29 - $58 / night

    "The first thing to mention is the location. The back of the campground faces west where the rolling mountains seem to part in a way that showcases the beautiful California sunset."

    "second reason; there are many many sites to choose from. this camp ground has several loops that each contain roughly 20 campsites, sometimes more. on any given day you should be able to drive up, though"

    8. Banning Stagecoach KOA

    12 Reviews
    Banning, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 849-7513

    "Bathrooms were clean considering there is only one location for bathrooms. Not much space for tents but lots of sites if you have a trailer or motor home."

    9. Marion Mountain

    9 Reviews
    Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2922

    $10 - $34 / night

    "Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, within the San Jacinto District, Marion Mt. Campground is one of the best camping sites in Southern California."

    "It was close to Idyllwild, which was convenient when we ran out of ice. There are no bear boxes, not sure if it was needed though. For the best spots, make sure to reserve."

    10. Boulder Basin

    7 Reviews
    Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2922

    $10 - $34 / night

    "The bumpy six mile drive up a dirt road to reach this campground is well worth it. The campground has garbage cans and pit toilets."

    "The Campground is set off the main highway about 5 miles and only accessible if have a suv or truck as it is a switchback dirt road. Trailers would not be able to make this trek."

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Showing results 1-10 of 358 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Whitewater, CA

1696 Reviews of 358 Whitewater Campgrounds



Guide to Whitewater

Camping near Whitewater, California, offers a unique blend of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to hike, rock climb, or just relax under the stars, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Campers rave about the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer mentioning, "Numerous hikes are nearby for numerous outings and is very family friendly" at Jumbo Rocks Campground.
  • Rock Climbing: If you're into climbing, the rock formations are a big draw. One camper at Hidden Valley Campground said, "The rocks are great to boulder, scramble, or climb on."
  • Stargazing: The clear desert skies make for incredible stargazing. A visitor at Ryan Campground noted, "Climb up on the rocks at night for some awesome stargazing."

What campers like:

  • Privacy and Space: Many campers appreciate the spacious sites. One reviewer at Indian Cove Campground mentioned, "Nice site with some shade from the rocks," highlighting the campground's layout.
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained sites are a common theme. A camper at Black Rock Campground said, "Bathrooms are extremely clean," which adds to the overall experience.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Jumbo Rocks are noted for being family-friendly, with one reviewer stating, "The site is very popular so finding an open site to book can be difficult, but not impossible."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, such as Hidden Valley, do not offer drinking water or showers. A camper pointed out, "The Campground offers the most basic accommodations as toilets; no water or showers."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Some sites operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A visitor at Ryan Campground advised, "Once you claim your site, you now have to travel back to an entrance station to pay."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. One camper at Indian Cove shared, "Talk about waking up with the sound of coyotes in your camp, it was so peaceful."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Jumbo Rocks that are known for being family-friendly. A reviewer mentioned, "The campground is very family friendly."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring climbing gear for the kids. A camper at Hidden Valley suggested, "Bring your climbing gear if you’re interested!"
  • Stay Safe: Keep an eye out for wildlife. One camper at Ryan 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 noted, "If you have a RV/Trailer/Van you may want some block to help get you level."
  • Be Prepared for Weather Changes: The desert can get cold at night. A camper at Indian Cove mentioned, "It does get extremely hot as it’s in the desert and there’s little to no shade."
  • Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A visitor at Jumbo Rocks said, "Finding an open site to book can be difficult, but not impossible if you check every day."

Camping near Whitewater, California, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of options for families, RVers, and adventurers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Whitewater, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Whitewater, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 358 campgrounds and RV parks near Whitewater, CA and 30 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Whitewater, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Whitewater, CA is Idyllwild Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park with a 4.4-star rating from 29 reviews.

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

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 30 free dispersed camping spots near Whitewater, CA.

What parks are near Whitewater, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Whitewater, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.