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Best Campgrounds near Whitewater, CA

1,731 Reviews

Camping areas around Whitewater, California include established campgrounds in nearby mountain and desert environments. The San Jacinto Mountains feature several developed campgrounds including Marion Mountain and Boulder Basin, both offering tent and RV sites with varying levels of amenities. Desert camping options extend into Joshua Tree National Park's Black Rock Campground and several RV resorts in Desert Hot Springs. Most sites provide some combination of picnic tables, fire rings, and toilet facilities, while developed RV parks like Catalina Spa and RV Resort and Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA offer full hookups and cabin accommodations.

Road conditions vary significantly between campground locations, with some requiring high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. Boulder Basin Campground, located about 5 miles off the main highway, requires careful navigation. "The road up there is not the best and I'd recommend a vehicle with 4wheel/AWD and/or something with at least 8-9 inches of ground clearance," noted one visitor. Seasonal closures affect many campgrounds in the region, with mountain sites like Boulder Basin typically open from early June through late August, while desert campgrounds often close during the hottest summer months. Water availability is inconsistent at primitive sites, so campers should bring their own supply or check current conditions before arrival.

Campers rate mountain campgrounds highly for their scenic views and recreational opportunities. Boulder Basin earns praise for its relative solitude and bouldering opportunities right in the campground. "The campground has garbage cans and pit toilets. There were water spouts around the campground, but they were all turned off. Each site has a table and a fire pit," according to one review. Sites in the San Jacinto Mountains provide access to the Pacific Crest Trail and other hiking opportunities. RV parks in the Desert Hot Springs area offer more amenities including hot spring pools, while maintaining proximity to Joshua Tree National Park. Bathroom facilities at primitive campgrounds receive mixed reviews, with several campers mentioning the need to bring additional supplies or prepare for rustic conditions at more remote locations.

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Best Camping Sites Near Whitewater, California (367)

    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

    20 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. Marion Mountain

    10 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."

    9. Boulder Basin

    8 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."

    10. 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."

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Recent Camping Photos near Whitewater, CA

786 Photos of 367 Whitewater Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Whitewater, CA

1731 Reviews of 367 Whitewater Campgrounds

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    serrano camp grounds

    Great place

    I stayed for one night Wednesday just to try the showers. The showers were perfect! Hot water even! So clean and beautiful. Recommend!

  • B
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    Stunning but Safety Concerns

    I’ve camped at the Keller Peak yellow post sites more than two dozen times over the years and, at their best, they’re incredible. The scenery and isolation are superb—starry skies, quiet nights, and that deep-woods stillness that’s getting harder to find. For years this was my go-to spot. 

    Unfortunately, I’ve also watched trash and waste increase. Please, pack it out—these sites only stay special if we treat them with care. 

    My last trip was frightening enough that I haven’t returned. Late at night a group of locals came to the edge of my site, yelling and using threatening language. They assumed I was homeless despite my SUV and proper camping setup. I was using a portable propane fire pit—which is allowed—and I calmly explained that. I can understand why fire is an issue to locals.  I only felt safe because my small dog has a very loud bark, which kept them from coming closer. They said they were calling a ranger. I left the next morning, shaken. On my way out, I spoke with a park ranger who confirmed propane fire pits are permitted and told me they don’t patrol up there at night because of recurring issues like this. She also mentioned they were trying to move the site to a reservation system to deter homeless use; I’m not sure if that has happened yet. 

    It’s a shame, because this area is one of the best around. I’m sharing this so others can make an informed choice.  

    Pros - Spectacular views and true solitude Cool nights, dark skies, classic forest feel

    Cons -  Rising litter and human waste Nighttime safety concerns due to occasional rowdy visitors Limited ranger presence after dark

     I hope increased stewardship and enforcement can restore the magic here.

  • j
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Lake Henshaw Resort

    My stay review

    This place is pretty. The staff is nice and not too strict. The place can definitely need a lil tlc but for the price per dayits nothing too complain too much. The pool is cool the showers and bathroom are all functional. Wich is a good thing. I was told to pick any spot i liked wich made my stay even better. No hookups at all i had my rv/camper but that was no problem i took my generator. Place is definitely recommended if you're a not too picky person.😉

  • Elise F.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Fry Creek Campground

    Loved it

    We absolutely loved Fry Creek. It might be our favorite place to camp so far. Our site was removed from others so we weren’t bothered by neighbors. It was a nice large site next to the bathrooms (which were very clean and well maintained) and close to a water spigot and trash can. This campground is definitely a birder’s paradise. We were constantly surrounded and graced by the sounds of woodpeckers, pigeons, mountain quail, bluebirds, jays, and more. One important note though is this entire area is swarmed with flies. We brought nets to put around our faces and without these, I don’t think I would have survived. So definitely bring nets for your face, bug spray, and citronella. Despite this, it was a lovely place. Will be returning one day.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    East Flats

    Nice Peaceful Area

    Wasn’t hard to find a little rough but fairly easy to reach with our Sedan. Couldn’t find too much to do but if you’re looking for a weekend getaway to relax it’s a nice spot.

  • Nickchris G.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Horsemen's Center

    Horseman's center!

    Beautiful views of the entire city and never bothered by anyone, can do bonfires, and even camp right out my car.

  • DeWayne G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Giant Rock Dispersed

    Big Rock camping

    Came out to Big Rock for the meteor shower in August. Yes, it was hot, but I like the heat. We set up our two-day camp along the ridge about 300 yards past Big Rock. Verizon Cell service was non-existent at our site, but we would get 5G at the Rock.

    Other than some graffiti the area was clean and well-kept.

  • Julie
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bogart County Park

    Bogart Regional park

    It was okay for a last minute camping idea.

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 367 campgrounds and RV parks near Whitewater, CA and 34 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 34 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 San Bernardino National Forest and Cleveland National Forest.

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