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Best Campgrounds near Yucca Valley, CA

1,526 Reviews

Camping around Yucca Valley gives you several good options for staying near Joshua Tree National Park. Indian Cove Campground sits among massive rock formations with hiking trails right from your campsite. Hidden Valley Campground draws rock climbers to its boulder fields and has some of the most scenic sites in the park. You won't find water at either campground, so bring all you need, though both have basic restrooms. Jumbo Rocks Campground has great views and easy trail access where you might spot coyotes or jackrabbits during your stay. If you're into climbing, Hidden Valley should be your first choice with routes for various skill levels. The town of Yucca Valley is close enough to grab food, ice, and other supplies without a long drive. Most people camp here in spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable. Summers get brutally hot in the desert, while winter nights can drop below freezing, especially at higher elevations. The park does a good job maintaining the campgrounds, with clean bathrooms and enough space between sites to feel like you have your own area. Hiking, climbing or just sitting under the stars - camping near Yucca Valley puts you right in the middle of desert landscapes.

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Best Camping Sites Near Yucca Valley, California (307)

    1. Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

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

    $35 / night

    "To get to Black Rock Campground in Joshua Tree, you have to take a separate road into it from Yucca Valley."

    "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"

    2. Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    62 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-5554

    $55 / night

    "Cons: no park entrance from here. You have to drive 20/30 minutes out to the main road and back in to get to the main area of the park. The campsite next to us had some nasty anthills."

    "Indian Cove is on the Northern side of the park, and you will use a different entrance than the main park entrance."

    3. Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    118 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-5554

    $30 / night

    "The rocks around the campground are fun to climb on and explore, plus they create an amazing show of light and shadow from sunrise to moonrise."

    "They're situated between HUGE boulders so they're nicely tucked away from high winds that can sometimes pick up."

    4. Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping

    34 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    12 miles
    Website

    "Free camping just outside Joshua Tree. No amenities or designated campsites. Large open area where you can camp wherever you'd like."

    "The entire lake bed area and well beyond into the desert N.E. is dispersed desert camping. This spot specifically is close to the motorcycle track and 4x4 area."

    5. Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

    27 Reviews
    Landers, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 366-1213

    $15 - $55 / night

    "There is a tiny "lake" with reeds and visiting birds who congregate around the water. Fishing offered, but no swimming.

    I spent a very serene time with just myself and my cat."

    "A great spot away from the main Joshua Tree strip. We visited for one night during the waning height of COVID and staff was taking all the necessary precautions."

    6. Hidden Valley Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    39 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-3001

    "The entire campgrounds are surrounded in a wall of boulders varying in shales and sizes. Tons of fun to scramble and boulder on. We wenf in July and the evening temps were fantastic."

    "Location is great and close by to al the main attraction!"

    7. Joshua Tree North BLM

    19 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 252-6000

    "My favorite place to camp near Joshua Tree. Lots of space."

    "We set up fairly close to the paved road by the solar panels. Land was flat, plenty of room for ourselves and quiet."

    8. 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."

    9. Ryan Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    30 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-5554

    $30 / night

    "This camp site was tucked in the back, 12 miles from Joshua Tree park entrance. This site was on the side of the rocks that provided shade for more than 12 hours in the day."

    "Short drive to most of the popular sights / trails in Joshua Tree

    Cons: Some sites are pretty close to each other, can feel crowded.

            "

    10. Catalina Spa and RV Resort

    21 Reviews
    Desert Hot Springs, CA
    16 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."

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Recent Camping Photos near Yucca Valley, CA

696 Photos of 307 Yucca Valley Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Yucca Valley, CA

1526 Reviews of 307 Yucca Valley Campgrounds

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Julie
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bogart County Park

    Yucaipa Regional park

    Great customer service, easy access, restrooms, fishing, swimming and paddle boats.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Sheephole Valley Wilderness

    Shooting stars

    Is August and we wanted to see the Perseid meteor shower. I know, desert, summer, super hot. It was 100° when we got to our area. By 10 pm it was in the 80’s. I don’t think it got to the 70’s.

  • A
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    Bobcat Campsite

    Awesome campsite. Free showers. Electrical outlets by the restrooms at a handicap site. Water spigots scattered around the bobcat site. Dumpsters within walking distance from your site. The locals in the area will take your site if you arrive late. Just head back to the campground entrance and they will send a park ranger to remove them. The restrooms get cleaned daily around 8-10am. More than enough room at site 380

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Indian Waters RV Resort

    Nice resort.

    Stayed here overnight. Clearly off season as only a few campers here. Nice level concrete pads FHU (bring lots of sewer hose).

Guide to Yucca Valley

Camping near Yucca Valley, California, offers a unique blend of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. With several campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Campers rave about the hikes near Jumbo Rocks Campground, with one reviewer noting, "So much exploring to be had right from your campsite."
  • Rock Climbing: If you’re into climbing, Hidden Valley is a hotspot. A visitor mentioned, "The rocks are great to boulder, scramble, or climb on."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at Indian Cove Campground shared, "Talk about waking up with the sound of coyotes in your camp, it was so peaceful."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking views. A review for Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed said, "Absolutely incredible views, in my opinion better than the park itself!"
  • Privacy: Many appreciate the spacious sites. One camper at Black Rock Campground noted, "The sites are nicely spread out."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms are a big plus. A visitor at Lake Hemet Campground mentioned, "The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time."

What you should know:

  • No Water at Some Sites: Many campgrounds, like Hidden Valley Campground, do not have drinking water available. One camper advised, "Bring your own water too."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A visitor at Hidden Valley said, "Filled up by 4 PM in mid-May."
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping lack facilities. A camper noted, "No trash but smelled like urine."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Indian Cove Campground, which is described as "very family friendly."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. One camper at Lake Hemet Campground suggested, "If you have little ones, you can take them with a wagon."
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids, especially near rocks. A visitor at Jumbo Rocks Campground mentioned, "We had a ton of privacy and fun rocks to climb on."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Black Rock Campground said, "If you have a RV/Trailer/Van you may want some block to help get you level."
  • Be Prepared for Dusty Roads: Roads can be rough. One camper at Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed noted, "The road was quite bumpy, but we managed with a campervan."
  • Cell Service Varies: Check your service provider. A visitor at Indian Cove Campground mentioned, "Verizon 5G works great here."

With these insights, you’re all set for an enjoyable experience in the great outdoors around Yucca Valley, CA camping!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at campgrounds in Yucca Valley?

Campgrounds in Yucca Valley offer varying amenities depending on location and type. Jumbo Rocks Campground provides a unique experience with massive boulder formations perfect for climbing and exploring, creating spectacular light and shadow displays from sunrise to moonrise. Basic amenities include vault toilets but no showers or running water. For more facilities, Serrano offers lakeside camping with friendly staff and nearby water access. Several campgrounds like Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA provide full hookups, water, and flush toilets for RVs. Black Rock Campground features running water, flushing toilets, and is conveniently located near town for supply runs. Many campgrounds offer fire rings, picnic tables, and designated tent pads.

Where can I find camping spots in Yucca Valley?

Yucca Valley offers several excellent camping options. Black Rock Campground is accessible via a separate entrance from Yucca Valley and features beautiful Joshua trees and hiking trails. It's an ideal starting point for the California Riding & Hiking trail through Joshua Tree National Park. For RV campers, Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground offers affordable sites at $15 per person nightly, friendly staff, and a small lake with recreational opportunities. Other nearby options include Joshua Tree North BLM for free dispersed camping and Indian Cove Campground within the national park. Most campsites in the area require reservations during peak seasons, so booking in advance is recommended.

What is the best time of year to camp in Yucca Valley?

Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are the ideal seasons for camping in Yucca Valley, offering comfortable temperatures between 70-85°F during the day and 50-60°F at night. These moderate conditions are perfect for hiking and exploring Indian Cove Campground and other areas of Joshua Tree National Park. Winter (December-February) can be enjoyable with daytime temperatures in the 60s, but nights often drop below freezing, as experienced by campers at Hidden Valley Campground. Summer (June-August) brings extreme heat with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F, making camping challenging without proper preparation. If camping in summer, plan activities for early morning or evening and bring plenty of water and sun protection.

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