August 31, 2020
As California mitigates health risks during the COVID-19 pandemic, some travel restrictions may remain in certain communities. Call the local and regional tourism offices to learn more about the restrictions in your intended destination. Thank you for reading, and stay safe.
Rugged terrain, sundry desert landscapes, cotton-candy sunsets, and starry skies (hello, romantic stargazing nights for two) are the perfect backdrop for camping in the Golden State. Pitch your tent anywhere in the SoCal desert for an unforgettable experience in nature.
Whether it's a weekend trip with the family or a solitary journey backpacking through the wilderness, California’s deserts have it all. So, for your next outdoor rendezvous, stop by one of these top-tier desert camping spots.
California’s Best Desert Campgrounds
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Campgrounds

With no shortage of campsites in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park—one of the best places to see in the deserts of California—this hot spot is a camper's paradise. Anza-Borrego camping is an experience of its own and is home to 175 sites. There are a total of four developed campgrounds and eight primitive campgrounds. Primitive campgrounds are free of charge, while developed campgrounds charge fixed rates per night.
Borrego Palm Canyon Campground
Location: 200 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs
Amenities: Water, restroom, showers, picnic tables, and fire rings
Activities: Biking, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing
Dogs allowed: No
Fees: $25–$80 per night
Reservation required: Highly recommended from October 1–April 30
The Borrego Palm Canyon Campground has 122 campsites with five group sites. Although there is plenty of spots, the campground books up pretty quickly. The grounds accommodate smaller groups of campers, with a maximum of eight people per site. Since the campground is perched at an elevation of 775 feet, you will have to hike your way up to your sweet slumber spot (pack extra water because the trail is very sunny). Start your trek at the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail or Panoramic Overlook Trail for exquisite scenic views. Upon reaching the campground, seek shade under one of the ramadas found on site.
Tamarisk Grove Campground
Location: 5960 Yaqui Pass Road, Julian
Amenities: Water, restroom, showers, picnic tables, fire rings
Activities: Biking, bird watching, cultural sites, hiking
Dogs allowed: Yes
Fees: $25 per night
Reservation required: Reservations are accepted from October 1–April 30
Tamarisk Grove Campground, found at an elevation of 1,400 feet, is home to 11 cabins (glamp away in the Golden State) and 16 campsites. The plentiful towering trees create optimal shade—an ideal solution for the desert heat. Set up camp before adventuring off to hike the Cactus Loop Trail or Yaqui Well Trail.
Palm Springs Campgrounds

Nothing beats a Palm Springs getaway, so pack your bags—it's time to explore this desert oasis and stargaze under the stellar night sky. Admire the mountain views and stunning landscape as you walk through Palm Springs, before relaxing as the cool evening breeze brushes against your face. When you are in need of an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Palm Springs has many options for your desert camping adventure.
Palm Springs Oasis RV Resort
Location: 36100 Date Palm Drive, Cathedral City
Amenities: Water, restroom, and showers
Activities: Water aerobics, dance hall with stage, line dancing, creative arts, and crafts classes
Dogs allowed: Yes
Fees: Call (877) 570-2267
Reservation required: Yes
For a wonderful night of desert camping, park your RV at the Palm Springs Oasis RV Resort—which has 140 sites with full hookups—and take in nature’s beauty. Found at the base of the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains, this Palm Springs RV Resort offers majestic views from every side and is conveniently located near entertainment centers for all ages. Ride the famous Palm Springs Aerial Tramway or catch a play at the theater. For retail therapy, stop by the nearby shops and boutiques. After a long day of shopping, theater shows, and golfing, stop by AJ’s On The Green for a scrumptious lunch or dinner before returning to camp.
Lake Cahuilla Camping
Location: 58075 Jefferson Street, La Quinta
Amenities: Water, restroom, showers, barbecue grills, campsite tables, electrical hookups, and fire pits
Activities: Fishing, horseback riding, hiking, barbecue areas, camping, biking, and bird watching
Dogs allowed: Yes
Fees: $20–$35 per night
Reservation required: Yes
Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area is found in the Greater Palm Springs region, offering 710 acres of greenery and blissful mountain views. The campground provides 91 campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Situated at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, Lake Cahuilla is an optimal destination to fish and host an outdoor family barbecue. For those of you who can't tear yourselves apart from the virtual world, the campground offers Wi-Fi stations to satisfy your needs.
Joshua Tree National Park Camping

For one of the best California desert road trips, head to Joshua Tree National Park and admire the obscure Joshua trees, aromatic wildflowers, stellar skies, and extraordinary rock formations. With over 10 miles of hiking trails and 8,000 climbing routes to choose from, you won't be bored for a second. Set up camp in one of nine campgrounds. Keep in mind that during the summer, several campgrounds are closed due to the sweltering heat.
Jumbo Rocks Campground
Location: Twentynine Palms
Amenities: Restroom, picnic tables, and fire rings
Activities: Hiking, camping, wildlife, viewing, and climbing
Dogs allowed: Yes
Fees: $10 per night
Reservation required: Reservations are accepted September–May. Otherwise, it's on a first-come, first-served basis.
At an elevation of 4,400 feet, Jumbo Rocks Campground is Joshua Tree's biggest campground. It features 124 campsites, is equipped with picnic tables, and accommodates RVs and trailers. This kid-friendly campground is surrounded by striking rock formations, too. Make sure to bring plenty of water because water isn't available at this campground (and trust us, you'll need a lot).
Palm Springs / Joshua Tree KOA
Location: 70405 Dillon Road, Desert Hot Springs
Amenities: Free parking, public Wi-Fi, showers, restrooms, and electrical plugs,
Activities: Pool, tennis court, pool tables, putt-putt golf courses, pickleball, basketball, and hiking
Dogs allowed: Yes
Fees: $45 (average price)
Reservation required: Yes
Situated just outside of Joshua Tree National Park, not very far from the town of Palm Springs, Palm Springs / Joshua Tree KOA boasts a landscaped resort-style setting with plenty of amenities. Guests also have their pick; whether you want to come in an RV, pitch a tent, or stay in a cabin, Joshua Tree KOA has it all. Lounge by the campground's pool (open year-round) or pick a trail and start your hike—the Palm Springs Indian Canyon Trail is a great place to kick-off your adventures. The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens is situated nearby, along with putt-putt golf courses, pickleball courts, and basketball courts.
Infatuated with the desert and in need of something more extreme? Go on an adventure and traverse the trails of Death Valley National Park.
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