Discover the best campgrounds near Desert Center, California with campfires

United States
—
California
—
Desert Center

83% (283 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Desert Center

Star Hosts in Desert Center

Available this weekend

Booked 2 times

Salton Sea Sanctuary

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Thermal, CA

Feel the sand beneath your feet at this private campsite with a large fire pit, paved road access and the Salton Sea shoreline in walking distance! This property is at the north end of Salton City and has unique trails to explore with views of the mountains to the west and water to the east. Walk to the north end of Camino Dr to find the new Vegetation Enhancement program using hay bales to control dust and hold moisture for new plant life. Or pull up a lounge chair and watch powered paragliders flying along the shoreline of the Salton Sea.

Joshua Tree Container Resort

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

Custom designed by artist John Henry Jones, the Ranch House is the largest and most private suite at the Joshua Tree Container Resort, and has a large screened in front porch giving our guests a safe way to recreate in the outdoors in Theis desert wilderness area. Two queen beds are available inside the history-laden ranch house (originally homesteaded during the WWI era). It is steps away from the hot tub, pool, gym, hammock palapa and great lounging spots on the ranch.

94%

(9)

Vista Del Mar

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Thermal, CA

Learn more about this land:READ ALL (SOFT GROUND!!!) 1/2 acre flat desert primitive campground with soft course sand and rocks in Salton City. Nearby attractions are Salton Sea Beach, Coachella, Palm Springs, Anza Borrego (International Dark Sky Park), J-Tree, Slab City, Bombay Beach, and the off-roading Mecca of Ocotillo Wells OHV. Walking distance to Johnson’s Landing Cafe and the powered para-glider glide port in Salton City. 1 mile to fuel and eateries. Perfect for those accessing Truck Haven and Tierra Del Sol, and other off-road events. No shade provided on property. Nearest neibor is 1/4 mile away. Keep an eye on your pets, as there may be predators and stray dogs in the area. SOFT GROUND, if unaccustomed to driving on sand, save yourself a recovery and park on the street. AWD does not mean you won’t get stuck. Otherwise, use 4 wheel drive if on the property, minimum 8” ground clearance for rocks, alley access is recommended. Air down tires for traction (aggressive tread recommended) and do not enter from Sea Wind Ave to avoid sinking. Otherwise, street parking okay to prevent unnecessary vehicle recovery. All proceeds go to organizations with efforts in saving the Salton Sea, local wildlife habitats, and preserving bird sanctuaries. NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THEFT, PETS, BELONGINGS, VEHICLE DAMAGE or INJURIES. Congrats to you though, camping here donates $$$ to organizations with efforts in wildlife refuges, preserving bird sanctuaries, and migration routes. Such as Ducks Unlimited, the Audubon Society, and the Nature Conservancy. See patches, stickers, and certificate in the photos representing the $$ donated out of proceeds from campers like you :)

91%

(17)

Fireside Nomad Outpost

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

Fireside Nomad Outpost is your perfect retreat for the ultimate offgrid experience. With parking sites and multiple van life glamping experiences, we offer accommodations for whatever your outdoor retreat or adventure may hold! Our site is 100% off grid with total solar power, outdoor shower and restroom, multiple desk working stations with starlink wifi for hispeed internet, community indoor and outdoor gathering areas, art supplies, board games, and even an outdoor work out area!

Stars and Valley Boondock Campsite

1 site · RV5 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

Park your vehicle under the stars looking over the Morongo Basin with the Joshua Tree National Park mountains at your back. Enjoy a campfire. Enjoy meals on the picnic table. Smell the fresh desert air. Wake to sunrise views and enjoy the changing colors with your morning brew. In the evening relax to the even more colorful sunset. Restroom available. Trash Dumpster available. RV/vehicle boondock only. No tent camping at this time. Only 5 minutes away from the Starbucks or the National Park entrance on Utah Trail, yet the sites lie on the more wild side of town and offers substantial seclusion. Two campsites available. Book both campsites for a discount and guarantee your seclusion.

12 top campgrounds near Desert Center with campfires

97%

(150)

Joshua Tree Container Resort

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

Custom designed by artist John Henry Jones, the Ranch House is the largest and most private suite at the Joshua Tree Container Resort, and has a large screened in front porch giving our guests a safe way to recreate in the outdoors in Theis desert wilderness area. Two queen beds are available inside the history-laden ranch house (originally homesteaded during the WWI era). It is steps away from the hot tub, pool, gym, hammock palapa and great lounging spots on the ranch.

Salton Sea Sanctuary

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Thermal, CA

Feel the sand beneath your feet at this private campsite with a large fire pit, paved road access and the Salton Sea shoreline in walking distance! This property is at the north end of Salton City and has unique trails to explore with views of the mountains to the west and water to the east. Walk to the north end of Camino Dr to find the new Vegetation Enhancement program using hay bales to control dust and hold moisture for new plant life. Or pull up a lounge chair and watch powered paragliders flying along the shoreline of the Salton Sea.

Joshua Tree Private Campsite

21 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Coachella, CA

One mile from Joshua Tree National Park southern entrance. Beautiful desert landscape nestled in by mountains. Private serene and spiritual land. Come get enlightened.

Vista Del Mar

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Thermal, CA

Learn more about this land:READ ALL (SOFT GROUND!!!) 1/2 acre flat desert primitive campground with soft course sand and rocks in Salton City. Nearby attractions are Salton Sea Beach, Coachella, Palm Springs, Anza Borrego (International Dark Sky Park), J-Tree, Slab City, Bombay Beach, and the off-roading Mecca of Ocotillo Wells OHV. Walking distance to Johnson’s Landing Cafe and the powered para-glider glide port in Salton City. 1 mile to fuel and eateries. Perfect for those accessing Truck Haven and Tierra Del Sol, and other off-road events. No shade provided on property. Nearest neibor is 1/4 mile away. Keep an eye on your pets, as there may be predators and stray dogs in the area. SOFT GROUND, if unaccustomed to driving on sand, save yourself a recovery and park on the street. AWD does not mean you won’t get stuck. Otherwise, use 4 wheel drive if on the property, minimum 8” ground clearance for rocks, alley access is recommended. Air down tires for traction (aggressive tread recommended) and do not enter from Sea Wind Ave to avoid sinking. Otherwise, street parking okay to prevent unnecessary vehicle recovery. All proceeds go to organizations with efforts in saving the Salton Sea, local wildlife habitats, and preserving bird sanctuaries. NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THEFT, PETS, BELONGINGS, VEHICLE DAMAGE or INJURIES. Congrats to you though, camping here donates $$$ to organizations with efforts in wildlife refuges, preserving bird sanctuaries, and migration routes. Such as Ducks Unlimited, the Audubon Society, and the Nature Conservancy. See patches, stickers, and certificate in the photos representing the $$ donated out of proceeds from campers like you :)

Fireside Nomad Outpost

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

Fireside Nomad Outpost is your perfect retreat for the ultimate offgrid experience. With parking sites and multiple van life glamping experiences, we offer accommodations for whatever your outdoor retreat or adventure may hold! Our site is 100% off grid with total solar power, outdoor shower and restroom, multiple desk working stations with starlink wifi for hispeed internet, community indoor and outdoor gathering areas, art supplies, board games, and even an outdoor work out area!

Sunkissed

21 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

The best place you've never heard of, reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape on 5 acres. Located 15 min from the Joshua Tree National Park North Entrance (entrance with least amount of wait time). With no neighbors and views for miles in every direction, Sunkissed gives you a truly incomparable experience. Enjoy BBQ'ing by the fire pits or a nap in the hammocks, and don't forget to look up at the stars at night!

100%

(36)

Our Desert Domestead

2 sites · Lodging5 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

Learn more about this land: Inspired by our love of the desert fauna and the night sky, the Kosmic Tortoise dome tent is located in Wonder Valley, 20 mins from the east entrance of Joshua Tree National Park. We are one of only two inspected and permitted glamping sites in the Joshua Tree area. The tent is situated at the rear of our property with a private road and unobstructed mountain views. Can’t decide between sunrises and sunsets, well here you don’t have to. On any given day they range from spectacular to mind-blowing. If stargazing is your thing, you won’t be disappointed, on a good night you can see the Milky Way. This is the perfect desert escape to unwind, explore or just relax while having access to a safe, air conditioned, solar powered bedroom, private bathroom, mini fridge, gas grill, gas fire pit, outside dining area, outlets for charging and much more. This listing includes the queen bed for up to 2 people. We live on the property and consider The Kosmic Tortoise an extension of our home so please reach out if you need any assistance. The site includes 2 domes on opposite sides of our fenceline. WiFi is available for guest use.

6+ Acres near Joshua Tree NP

3 sites · Lodging7 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

Immerse yourself in the boundless beauty of the Mojave Desert at our property, nestled just a stone's throw away from the entrance of Joshua Tree National Park. The expansive desert landscape offers an unparalleled canvas for hiking enthusiasts and rock collectors alike. Venture out on foot to explore the vast, untouched stretches of desert land, framed by breathtaking mountain vistas in every direction. Discover the allure of our surroundings as you embark on scenic hikes, where not only the natural wonders but also a myriad of artistic expressions await your exploration. The perfect blend of serenity and adventure, our property invites you to experience the unique charm of the Mojave Desert, where each step unveils a new facet of this captivating landscape.

Stars and Valley Boondock Campsite

1 site · RV5 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

Park your vehicle under the stars looking over the Morongo Basin with the Joshua Tree National Park mountains at your back. Enjoy a campfire. Enjoy meals on the picnic table. Smell the fresh desert air. Wake to sunrise views and enjoy the changing colors with your morning brew. In the evening relax to the even more colorful sunset. Restroom available. Trash Dumpster available. RV/vehicle boondock only. No tent camping at this time. Only 5 minutes away from the Starbucks or the National Park entrance on Utah Trail, yet the sites lie on the more wild side of town and offers substantial seclusion. Two campsites available. Book both campsites for a discount and guarantee your seclusion.

100%

(1)

Rancho de la Libertad

3 sites · Tents6 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

Come pitch your tent under the stars at Rancho de la Libertad! Located in the spectacular panoramic landscape of Wonder Valley, California, we're 15 miles from the East entrance of Joshua Tree National Park and all of the shopping and amenities of Twentynine Palms and Joshua Tree, California. Enjoy hiking, stargazing, birdwatching, mountain biking, or just relax on the property: a regenerative agricultural project in its infant stages that attracts songbirds and other fun wildlife rare in the surrounding desert. This is a functioning albeit young ranch, home currently to 21 chickens (and a rogue pigeon), with plans to include goats and sheep in the next year. Our ultimate goal is desert restoration, so please come with the intention of respecting and enjoying this beautiful land! In the morning and evening, you'll be met with stunning 360 degree sunrises like nowhere else. We're just North of the Old Dale mines, and set between incredible ancient volcanic mountains. Wonder Valley is an International Dark Sky Community. Book your trip during the new moon to see the Milky Way like you've never seen it before! This site is best enjoyed as a relaxing, rejuvenating getaway. Fully immerse yourself in the sanctuary that is Rancho de la Libertad and find yourselves among artists, writers, and seekers of all kinds. *Rancho de la Libertad has a resident dog, Diego, who works hard keeping us safe from coyotes and who absolutely loves to play and be loved. If you love animals, this is a great site for you! If you are fearful of or dislike dogs, it may not be a perfect fit. We'll manage him, but he will undoubtedly come say hi at some point during your stay. Please treat him with respect and reach out to us if you have any questions!

100%

(5)

A Drifter's Dwellin'

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

A Drifter's Dwellin' is jus what it sounds like. Surrounded by beautiful, ever-changing desert skies, starry nights. Nestled behind my home, this cozy, vintage camper trailer has everything you could need. (water, power, blankets, pillows, toilet, shower). Jus 15 mins from the North Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park. Pets welcome. Come relax, drift away! THE SPACE: The Drifter's Dwellin' is quiet and cozy, it's perfect for lonesome drifters, solo wanderers and carefree couples. The Dwellin’ trailer is positioned on 2.5 acres, behind my home in beautiful Desert Heights, 29 Palms. Use of this Vintage Camper Trailer includes: two cozy cots with warm blankets, extra pillows, running water in kitchen, a modern compost toilet, a portable shower for indoor/outdoor use, an indoor/outdoor dining area, an electric hotplate stove, a non working, air tight, refrigerator used for pantry and dry food, provisions, potable water, hot water kettle, French press, dishes, silverware, glassware outdoor bonfire pit and a JBL bluetooth speaker.

83%

(9)

StarBase Nights

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

Welcome to Star Base Nights Our cozy Cosmic Zen-inspired cabin sits on 5 acres of desert flat land. The house is fenced-in and is surrounded by panoramic mountain views. This cabin is 100% OFF-GRID (electricity & water), fully remodeled with a separate bathroom, and has endless places to lounge while enjoying the modern Japanese zen vibe. The perfect place to escape everyday chaos, get lost under the stars and soak in the Milky Way.

Under $50

91%

(17)

Fireside Nomad Outpost

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

Fireside Nomad Outpost is your perfect retreat for the ultimate offgrid experience. With parking sites and multiple van life glamping experiences, we offer accommodations for whatever your outdoor retreat or adventure may hold! Our site is 100% off grid with total solar power, outdoor shower and restroom, multiple desk working stations with starlink wifi for hispeed internet, community indoor and outdoor gathering areas, art supplies, board games, and even an outdoor work out area!

Salton Sea Sanctuary

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Thermal, CA

Feel the sand beneath your feet at this private campsite with a large fire pit, paved road access and the Salton Sea shoreline in walking distance! This property is at the north end of Salton City and has unique trails to explore with views of the mountains to the west and water to the east. Walk to the north end of Camino Dr to find the new Vegetation Enhancement program using hay bales to control dust and hold moisture for new plant life. Or pull up a lounge chair and watch powered paragliders flying along the shoreline of the Salton Sea.

Rancho de la Libertad

3 sites · Tents6 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

Come pitch your tent under the stars at Rancho de la Libertad! Located in the spectacular panoramic landscape of Wonder Valley, California, we're 15 miles from the East entrance of Joshua Tree National Park and all of the shopping and amenities of Twentynine Palms and Joshua Tree, California. Enjoy hiking, stargazing, birdwatching, mountain biking, or just relax on the property: a regenerative agricultural project in its infant stages that attracts songbirds and other fun wildlife rare in the surrounding desert. This is a functioning albeit young ranch, home currently to 21 chickens (and a rogue pigeon), with plans to include goats and sheep in the next year. Our ultimate goal is desert restoration, so please come with the intention of respecting and enjoying this beautiful land! In the morning and evening, you'll be met with stunning 360 degree sunrises like nowhere else. We're just North of the Old Dale mines, and set between incredible ancient volcanic mountains. Wonder Valley is an International Dark Sky Community. Book your trip during the new moon to see the Milky Way like you've never seen it before! This site is best enjoyed as a relaxing, rejuvenating getaway. Fully immerse yourself in the sanctuary that is Rancho de la Libertad and find yourselves among artists, writers, and seekers of all kinds. *Rancho de la Libertad has a resident dog, Diego, who works hard keeping us safe from coyotes and who absolutely loves to play and be loved. If you love animals, this is a great site for you! If you are fearful of or dislike dogs, it may not be a perfect fit. We'll manage him, but he will undoubtedly come say hi at some point during your stay. Please treat him with respect and reach out to us if you have any questions!

Vista Del Mar

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Thermal, CA

Learn more about this land:READ ALL (SOFT GROUND!!!) 1/2 acre flat desert primitive campground with soft course sand and rocks in Salton City. Nearby attractions are Salton Sea Beach, Coachella, Palm Springs, Anza Borrego (International Dark Sky Park), J-Tree, Slab City, Bombay Beach, and the off-roading Mecca of Ocotillo Wells OHV. Walking distance to Johnson’s Landing Cafe and the powered para-glider glide port in Salton City. 1 mile to fuel and eateries. Perfect for those accessing Truck Haven and Tierra Del Sol, and other off-road events. No shade provided on property. Nearest neibor is 1/4 mile away. Keep an eye on your pets, as there may be predators and stray dogs in the area. SOFT GROUND, if unaccustomed to driving on sand, save yourself a recovery and park on the street. AWD does not mean you won’t get stuck. Otherwise, use 4 wheel drive if on the property, minimum 8” ground clearance for rocks, alley access is recommended. Air down tires for traction (aggressive tread recommended) and do not enter from Sea Wind Ave to avoid sinking. Otherwise, street parking okay to prevent unnecessary vehicle recovery. All proceeds go to organizations with efforts in saving the Salton Sea, local wildlife habitats, and preserving bird sanctuaries. NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THEFT, PETS, BELONGINGS, VEHICLE DAMAGE or INJURIES. Congrats to you though, camping here donates $$$ to organizations with efforts in wildlife refuges, preserving bird sanctuaries, and migration routes. Such as Ducks Unlimited, the Audubon Society, and the Nature Conservancy. See patches, stickers, and certificate in the photos representing the $$ donated out of proceeds from campers like you :)

Stars and Valley Boondock Campsite

1 site · RV5 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

Park your vehicle under the stars looking over the Morongo Basin with the Joshua Tree National Park mountains at your back. Enjoy a campfire. Enjoy meals on the picnic table. Smell the fresh desert air. Wake to sunrise views and enjoy the changing colors with your morning brew. In the evening relax to the even more colorful sunset. Restroom available. Trash Dumpster available. RV/vehicle boondock only. No tent camping at this time. Only 5 minutes away from the Starbucks or the National Park entrance on Utah Trail, yet the sites lie on the more wild side of town and offers substantial seclusion. Two campsites available. Book both campsites for a discount and guarantee your seclusion.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

98%

(590)

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree, California

80%

(7)

Salton Sea State Recreation Area

North Shore, California

Camping near Desert Center with campfires guide

Overview

If you're looking for a camping adventure near Desert Center, California, Hipcamp has over 860 options for you to choose from. With options as low as $10 per night and an average price of $45 per night, there's something for every budget. Check out some of the top campsites with rave reviews, like Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), The Desert Rose Collective (378 reviews), and DESERT DAISY - Joshua Tree rural (295 reviews). And if you're into campfires, trash facilities, and showers, you're in luck - these amenities are popular among campers. Plus, you can enjoy activities like surfing, paddling, and fishing. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your camping trip now!