The best desert campgrounds near Desert Center, California

Desert camping in Desert Center puts you right in the thick of sand, sun, and open sky. With over 360 desert sites, you’ve got options that range from rugged clearings to spots with showers, toilets, and pet-friendly rules. Expect average prices around $75 a night, but some sites dip as low as $14 if you’re just after the basics. Wildlife-watching, climbing, and hiking are the main draws out here—bring good boots and extra water. Locals rave about Joshua Tree Container Resort (126 reviews) for its unique setup, while De La Luna Reserve (90 reviews) and Joshua Tree Private Campsite (54 reviews) each offer quiet, wide-open views. Nights drop fast; pack layers and a hat. If you’re after long hikes or just want to watch the stars, Desert Center delivers.

98% (632)

Top-rated campgrounds

rock tub #1 with the big pool in the background

Desert camping in Desert Center puts you right in the thick of sand, sun, and open sky. With over 360 desert sites, you’ve got options that range from rugged clearings to spots with showers, toilets, and pet-friendly rules. Expect average prices around $75 a night, but some sites dip as low as $14 if you’re just after the basics. Wildlife-watching, climbing, and hiking are the main draws out here—bring good boots and extra water. Locals rave about Joshua Tree Container Resort (126 reviews) for its unique setup, while De La Luna Reserve (90 reviews) and Joshua Tree Private Campsite (54 reviews) each offer quiet, wide-open views. Nights drop fast; pack layers and a hat. If you’re after long hikes or just want to watch the stars, Desert Center delivers.

98% (632)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

99%

(223)

28mi from Desert Center · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bombay Beach, CA

The desert is really lovely right now, and so are the mineral baths. We have no lodging here, so park your RV or car or set your tent up right next to outdoor hot mineral baths where pure water flows from under the desert at 124 degrees then we let it cool down to whatever temperature feels right. Only 1 group (max 6) at a time so it will always be private, and we are very conscientious of our guest's privacy, but are always available for questions via text or phone. Check out our IG here! https://www.instagram.com/hotspringsorganicfarm/ Located in a rural desert setting 1 hour south of Indio, in the morning shadow of the Chocolate Mountains, this is a working farm growing 7 varieties of organic dates: medjool, barhi, khadrawi, halawi, khalas, dayri and zahidi. Ideal bath times are nighttime and early morning, and day soaks are an option too if you live locally and just want to spend a few hours soaking. We have a private driveway and fenced property and there are no nearby homes. It is an extremely safe neighborhood here...never having a single incident of theft, vandalism or intrusion in the 19 years of residence. This is where the beautiful natural hot healing waters flow out of the earth as described in the famed "Desert Magazine" article of November 1956 "Little Yellowstone on the Salton Shores". A very remarkable but little-known secret in the California desert. 18 years of date harvests have made life and residence purposeful here on this 7-acre flank of the Chocolate Mountains. Desert Magazine (1956) describes the hot water here to be "richer in mineral content than any spa water in the United States excepting those in the Yellowstone Park area. Here then was mineral water rivaling that of Spa Royat in France; Bad-Nauheim in Germany; and Marianbad in Czechoslovakia. Here was water superior to that which the royal heads of Europe had paid princely sums to use." 2-wheel drive vehicles, including cars are all one needs to reach the farm. Some wild deer in the neighborhood, but also bighorn sheep, fox, coyote, bobcat, hawks, owls, lizards, geckos and rabbits. Native artifacts have been discovered on the property and our desert nights are free of light pollution. Private hot springs on small farms are extremely rare anywhere in America, but especially within 2 and 1/2 hours of greater Los Angeles. This is a really great place to empty your head out and enjoy the lovely weather and an even better place to get and stay healthy in these unpredictable times. This place is ideally suited for health-oriented folks. No tobacco, alcohol, vaping, cannabis or drugs allowed. And in the pools no lotions, perfume, hair care products, makeup, or sunscreen. No food or glass near the pools, and we are not set up for small kids or pets. Cookstoves are okay here, just no campfires due to an excess of brush in the region. Verizon and AT&T and T Mobile phone service all work well here. We are 4 miles from Bombay Beach, 35 minutes from Mecca, 1 hour and 20 minutes from Palm Springs, 1 hour from the Coachella Music Festival location, in the direction with light traffic. 1 hour and 30 minutes from Joshua Tree south entrance, 1 hour and 10 minutes from La Quinta and 2 hours and 30 minutes from Los Angeles area and 2 hours 30 minutes from San Diego area. We are 30 minutes to Salvation Mountain/The Slabs and 1 hour 10 minutes to Painted Canyon (The Slot Canyons in the Mecca Hills). The last half mile before our gate is a dirt road that can have seasonal ruts and washboard surface from off-roaders, so passenger cars will need to take it slow but can still make it. We are not a posh resort, and because it's a farm there are a few odd structures and tools on the property, but that's just part of the art. The rock pools and hot water baths are lovely at night under the stars near the palms, and that's what this place is all about. This farm is in the low (elevation) desert, where the winter days are warm with springtime-like weather from November - March. The colder high desert areas in the Morongo Basin (Joshua Tree, 29 Palms etc.) are more popular tourist destinations, but sometimes they are so popular that the traffic can be as bad as any city, with no flowing water and the Bighorn Sheep are hiding away deep in the boulders. The low desert has nicer winter days, hot springs, flowing water, far less traffic and more places to observe wildlife. Bring flip flops, towels and flashlights.

2. Joshua Tree Container Resort

97%

(189)

49mi from Desert Center · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

3. Salton Ocotillo Dunes

100%

(5)

49mi from Desert Center · 1 site · Tent, RV · Thermal, CA

Private quarter acre campsite with a large fire pit, paved road to the entrance and access to Truckhaven and Ocotillo Wells State Vehicle Recreation Area directly from the property. Surrounded by picturesque beach sand dunes, mountains, canyons and some of the state’s best off-roading, you can park your vehicle around the fire ring and set up a group camp with friends or book for some peaceful family time under the stars of the lower Colorado Desert. If you are in the area to see the Salton Sea, this site is 7 miles to the water.

4. Joshua Tree National Park

98%

(710)

493 sites · Joshua Tree, California

Joshua Tree camping offers access to a desert wonderland of crooked trees and boulders, where hiking and rock climbing sublime.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. The Invisible Bus in Bombay Beach

100%

(3)

34mi from Desert Center · 3 sites · Lodging · Niland, CA

Learn more about this land:Beautiful beach front and comfortable vintage trailer right next to the Monopoly board art piece in this eclectic town. Hot springs, slab city, 4x4, salvation mountain, sunsets, ART< ART >ART, photographers dream, insane stars and sunsets. Utopian dystopia.

6. Our Desert Domestead

99%

(49)

46mi from Desert Center · 2 sites · Lodging · 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.

7. Bohio Retreat Glampsite

100%

(7)

43mi from Desert Center · 2 sites · Lodging · Twentynine Palms, CA

Access to a 1 bed 1 bath and entire 5 acres. Located in 29 Palms, just 5-8 mins from the north entrance of Joshua Tree and downtown Twentynine Palms, CA. Home is situated on 5 secluded acres in peaceful Wonder Valley. Whether you're looking for remote work-friendly place to boost creativity or go on your JT camping adventure this is the space for you or do both! Why settle? Soak in the beauties of the Mojave Desert desert and mountain views.

8. Mojave Country Club

100%

(3)

49mi from Desert Center · 4 sites · Lodging · Twentynine Palms, CA

Mojave Country Club - Escape to five acres of fun, family-friendly, and pet-friendly luxury glamping just minutes from Joshua Tree National Park. Tucked away in a secluded nook, five minutes from Twentynine Palms, and 10 minutes away from Joshua Tree National Park...the Mojave Country Club blends comfort, convenience, and high-desert wonder into one unforgettable stay. Come relax, recharge, play, explore, hike, wander hidden trails, stargaze under endless skies, sip a cold beer in the sun, or sink into a hammock and let time slow down. Our clubhouse (open daily from 6 a.m. to midnight) is the heart of MCC life, with a full indoor kitchen, two private bathrooms, a cozy TV lounge, indoor dining area, with plenty of space for you and your crew to hangout, and an outdoor bbq and a 6-person hot tub to soak in. Amenities include: - 3-person driving range - 6-person hot tub - Private bathrooms - Hot showers - High-speed WiFi - Horseshoe pits - Hammocks - Hanging chairs - Shady spaces to unwind Surrounded by hundreds of acres of open land, it’s easy to explore right from camp or venture further with one of our golf cart rentals ($100/day). For added ease, guests can book our private shuttle service for local drop-offs, pick-ups, or tours through town or scenic drives through the national park. Come glamp with us for a real high-desert experience...exclusive, adventurous, and endlessly welcoming.

9. Stars and Valley Boondock Campsite

100%

(24)

44mi from Desert Center · 1 site · RV · 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.

10. 5+ Acres near Joshua Tree NP

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(23)

39mi from Desert Center · 3 sites · Lodging · Twentynine Palms, CA

Immerse yourself in the boundless beauty of the Mojave Desert at our property—two private campsites nestled just a stone’s throw 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, stretches of desert land, framed by breathtaking mountains 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. Please note: This is the desert, so be alert for wildlife, and be aware that sandstorms can occur without warning. While we take pride in keeping the space clean and well-organized, nature has a way of making spontaneous appearances—thank you for understanding. We have two beautiful and comfortable campsites on this property, with over 700 feet of separation. You won’t have to worry about sharing any spaces with other guests—your privacy and comfort are very important to us.

11. 40 Acres Of Open Desert Oasis

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(2)

47mi from Desert Center · 1 site · Tent, RV · Twentynine Palms, CA

40 acres of open desert above a water gully. Perfect for off-road vehicles and true off grid camping. The acreage is mostly untouched the only things on the property are two trailers with fences, a water tank and a dumpster. There are two small roads that cars can use but there is no paved spot to turn around so be ready to reverse, do a 8 point turn or off road through soft sand(experienced off roaders only-very soft sand you will get stuck if not careful). You can park on the roads or our single car parking spot by the dumpster to avoid getting stuck and RVs should stay by the entrance because there is more room to maneuver where the roads are connected. The property runs from the dumpster(entrance) to the bottom of the slope(there is a pink marker). Camp/off road anywhere in between but be wary of going off the roads because the sand is very soft and you will get stuck if you don’t have experience with this type of terrain or an improper vehicle. We have a picnic table and rock fire pit near the parking spot at the dumpster. This property is truly for off-grid campers, there are no facilities so bring every thing you need and enjoy the nature

12. Nikki's Love Shack

100%

(1)

41mi from Desert Center · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Twentynine Palms, CA

We Started off on AirBNB under Nikki's Terrenito. Check out our reviews :) Ready for a total off the grid, basic, bare bone experience? Love the great outdoors, that beautiful desert sky and ready to unplug from the world? Welcome to my land in Twenty Nine Palms. I have 5 acres of raw land for you to enjoy. Neighbors are scarce, the land is abundant and the views are magnificent! My unfinished cinder block cabin provides shade when needed, a place to have lunch or a cool backdrop for some awesome photos! (the kitchen) Plenty of space for a tent, yurt, camper/RV, or tiny house. The space -Please read all instructions, house rules and description 5 Acres of raw land in 29 Palms! Camping SEASON!!!! The sunrise is like a painting, the mountain views are beautiful and the night sky is littered with stars. Because of its remote location, you'll enjoy peace and quiet and Million Dollar views. Just a 15 min drive to Tortoise Rock casino and the Oasis Visitor Center at Joshua Tree. Explore other famous sites such as the Integratron, Giant Rock and Pappy & Harriets Palace just under an hour away. Google the King of Hammers when they are in town, super cool event! Please walk and drive around the property carefully as the land is unkempt and wildlife is present. We are not liable for your adventures, please use your best judgment. The roads are unpaved so we suggest high clearance, 4 x 4 type vehicles. Please keep to the already traveled roads and paths, be respectful not to drive over plants, trees etc. Do not disturb the beauty of our land. Although unkempt, its raw nature is beautiful and meaningful to us. Access our property and all access roads at your own risk. Use your best judgement. We are not responsible for any damages to and/or loss of your vehicle(s) at any time and will not cover the towing cost if you get stuck in the dirt. This is raw land, I repeat, raw land. Meaning, no water or power, no facilities. Please clean up after yourselves! Total off the grid experience! Guest access You can access all five acres which are marked with green stakes at 4 corners. Other things to note No running water or electricity Guests are responsible for their own garbage Dirt roads, please use best judgment as we are not liable for towing Check weather and book at your own risk

13. Spacious Desert Camp By Joshua Tree

100%

(3)

47mi from Desert Center · 1 site · Tent, RV · Twentynine Palms, CA

Welcome to Bethel's Desert Escape! Nestled in the heart of Twentynine Palms, just 15 minutes away from the iconic Joshua Tree National Park Visitors Center, our serene 2.7-acre flat desert land offers the perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you’re here to explore the park’s breathtaking landscapes, stargaze under the crystal-clear desert skies, or simply unwind in peace, this location is your home base. With plenty of open space for tents, RVs, or campers, Bethel’s Desert Escape provides an authentic desert camping experience. Wake up to the stillness of the desert, enjoy the picturesque mountain views, and spend your days hiking, rock climbing, or sightseeing in the nearby Joshua Tree National Park. Our campsite is easily accessible and offers the tranquility of the desert while being close to all the local attractions, making it an ideal spot for a weekend escape or extended stay. Book your stay and create unforgettable memories under the stars at Bethel's Desert Escape.

14. Salton Sea Sanctuary

90%

(5)

44mi from Desert Center · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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.

15. Bombay Beach

34mi from Desert Center · 4 sites · Lodging · Niland, CA

Various unique homes and trailers are spread throughout Bombay Beach. Bombay Beach, California, is a tiny, offbeat community on the eastern shore of the Salton Sea. Once a mid-century vacation hotspot, it now stands as a surreal desert outpost where the decaying remnants of its glamorous past meet striking, experimental art installations. Known for its haunting beauty, stark landscapes, and vibrant creative scene, Bombay Beach attracts artists, dreamers, and curious travelers seeking an otherworldly blend of nostalgia and avant-garde culture.

16. Joshua Tree Private Campsite

98%

(65)

24mi from Desert Center · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

17. Lucky Star Farms

100%

(1)

41mi from Desert Center · 1 site · RV · Twentynine Palms, CA

Located 20 miles from the north entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. Come boondock in the heart of beautiful Wonder Valley. Watch the sunset in complete peace and serenity

18. Wonder Valley Ranch

98%

(42)

45mi from Desert Center · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Twentynine Palms, CA

A private 5 acres of desert wilderness, bordering thousands of acres of BLM land and the Cleghorn Wilderness area. It offers immense seclusion, 360 degrees of uninterrupted desert vistas, yet only 20 mins away to an entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. This secluded corner in Wonder Valley is perfect to socially distance, stargaze, recharge, or do nothing at all. The nearest neighbors are at least 200 yards away.

19. Forsythe Equestrian Club

94%

(16)

50mi from Desert Center · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Vista Santa Rosa, CA

20 acre Horse Facility located just 2.7 miles away from the Coachella Music festival grounds and 3.1 miles from Desert International Horse Park. RV parking is easy to access. The evening sunsets are beautiful. Very peaceful and quiet. We have 30amps, water and septic hookups available at each site.

20. White Sands Camp

100%

(1)

46mi from Desert Center · 1 site · Tent, RV · Twentynine Palms, CA

Great site for star gazing and enjoying the night skies. Please be sure to carry plenty of water and avoid the sun during the day time. I recommend visiting the campsite during sunrise or sunset. Be sure to also fuel up before arriving. It’s not recommended using tents and be sure to stay hydrated. Some of the things you can do here. Exploring the Desert and Joshua Tree National Park: Hiking and rock climbing: Twentynine Palms is near the eastern entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, renowned for its hiking and rock climbing opportunities. Guests are near the park and can easily access these activities. Off-roading: Some Hipcamp properties offer access to off-roading trails in the desert. Guests at Vanishing Rock Ranch, for example, can explore the desert terrain on side-by-sides or dirt bikes. Stargazing: The clear desert skies provide excellent opportunities for stargazing. Some locations even offer telescopes for guests to use. Wildlife sightings: Guests can enjoy seeing desert wildlife like rabbits, coyotes, and birds. Visiting nearby attractions: Guests can easily visit attractions like the Sky's the Limit Observatory, Pappy and Harriet's, or the Integratron.

Camper favorites near Desert Center

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Salton Sea Sanctuary

90%

(5)

44mi from Desert Center · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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.

Bombay Beach

34mi from Desert Center · 4 sites · Lodging · Niland, CA

Various unique homes and trailers are spread throughout Bombay Beach. Bombay Beach, California, is a tiny, offbeat community on the eastern shore of the Salton Sea. Once a mid-century vacation hotspot, it now stands as a surreal desert outpost where the decaying remnants of its glamorous past meet striking, experimental art installations. Known for its haunting beauty, stark landscapes, and vibrant creative scene, Bombay Beach attracts artists, dreamers, and curious travelers seeking an otherworldly blend of nostalgia and avant-garde culture.

Joshua Tree Private Campsite

98%

(65)

24mi from Desert Center · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

Lucky Star Farms

100%

(1)

41mi from Desert Center · 1 site · RV · Twentynine Palms, CA

Located 20 miles from the north entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. Come boondock in the heart of beautiful Wonder Valley. Watch the sunset in complete peace and serenity

Wonder Valley Ranch

98%

(42)

45mi from Desert Center · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Twentynine Palms, CA

A private 5 acres of desert wilderness, bordering thousands of acres of BLM land and the Cleghorn Wilderness area. It offers immense seclusion, 360 degrees of uninterrupted desert vistas, yet only 20 mins away to an entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. This secluded corner in Wonder Valley is perfect to socially distance, stargaze, recharge, or do nothing at all. The nearest neighbors are at least 200 yards away.

Forsythe Equestrian Club

94%

(16)

50mi from Desert Center · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Vista Santa Rosa, CA

20 acre Horse Facility located just 2.7 miles away from the Coachella Music festival grounds and 3.1 miles from Desert International Horse Park. RV parking is easy to access. The evening sunsets are beautiful. Very peaceful and quiet. We have 30amps, water and septic hookups available at each site.

White Sands Camp

100%

(1)

46mi from Desert Center · 1 site · Tent, RV · Twentynine Palms, CA

Great site for star gazing and enjoying the night skies. Please be sure to carry plenty of water and avoid the sun during the day time. I recommend visiting the campsite during sunrise or sunset. Be sure to also fuel up before arriving. It’s not recommended using tents and be sure to stay hydrated. Some of the things you can do here. Exploring the Desert and Joshua Tree National Park: Hiking and rock climbing: Twentynine Palms is near the eastern entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, renowned for its hiking and rock climbing opportunities. Guests are near the park and can easily access these activities. Off-roading: Some Hipcamp properties offer access to off-roading trails in the desert. Guests at Vanishing Rock Ranch, for example, can explore the desert terrain on side-by-sides or dirt bikes. Stargazing: The clear desert skies provide excellent opportunities for stargazing. Some locations even offer telescopes for guests to use. Wildlife sightings: Guests can enjoy seeing desert wildlife like rabbits, coyotes, and birds. Visiting nearby attractions: Guests can easily visit attractions like the Sky's the Limit Observatory, Pappy and Harriet's, or the Integratron.

Vista Del Mar

90%

(10)

44mi from Desert Center · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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 :)

Public campgrounds near Desert Center

On a spontaneous weekend trip to Joshua Tree, we arrived after dark and woke up to a magical desert sunrise.

94%

(34)

Cottonwood Campground

26mi from Desert Center · 62 sites · in Joshua Tree National Park

Exploring the arch under the Milky Way. Moonless nights are the best.

99%

(45)

White Tank Campground

41mi from Desert Center · 15 sites · in Joshua Tree National Park

94%

(17)

Belle Campground

42mi from Desert Center · 18 sites · in Joshua Tree National Park

Jumbo Rocks is super ideal, great location very close to the Skull Rock and launching points for good day hikes. It's tucked between gigantic rocks giving you windproof and sunproof shelter during the day.

97%

(284)

Jumbo Rocks Campground

44mi from Desert Center · 124 sites · in Joshua Tree National Park

Great spot for star gazing and long exposures

98%

(26)

Sheep Pass Group Campground

47mi from Desert Center · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Joshua Tree National Park

100%

(51)

Ryan Campground

48mi from Desert Center · 31 sites · in Joshua Tree National Park

99%

(62)

Hidden Valley Campground

50mi from Desert Center · 44 sites · in Joshua Tree National Park

Stories from the community

R

Richard

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

Gordon was a knowledgeable and accommodating host. The camp is clean and well maintained. Gordon's recommendation for hiking and sightseeing was spot on.

G

Gabriella

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Joshua Tree Container Resort

This oasis was a wonderful getaway from the city to enjoy the stars, the desert and the rain. My friend and I stayed, got rained on pretty heavily in our tent & the host was very accomodating. Even in the rain, there are plenty of common space to enjoy from the hot tub to the sauna. We were able to enjoy some sunshine as well between down pours. I will definitely be back again!

N

Nate

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Joshua Tree Container Resort

My friend and I had a great time here! Though the weather was bad (cold & rainy) the hot tub & sauna were amazing! We were able to cook food under shelter, play games, paint, etc and enjoy being outdoors while avoiding the rain. We spent majority of our time hanging out in the common areas and loved the hot tub in the rain! The host was incredibly kind and accommodating.

C

Cole

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at White Sands Camp

Site was great. Stargazing was top-tier and the mountains in the distance are a great site to see. Not to far from the Joshua tree entrance. Seats, table, and campfire are great!

K

Kimberly

November 2025

1 night at Our Desert Domestead

The dome was such a fun experience! The bed was really comfortable, a nice selection of amenities yet still felt like you were “roughing it” a bit with the wholistic setup. We were greater as soon as we arrived and got a quick tutorial which was appreciated after a long drive and arriving in the dark. The view at night and sunrise was spectacular!

Mallory

November 2025

24 ft Class C

1 night at Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

Gordon was extremely accommodating throughout the whole experience. Even when our arrival continuously got delayed due to significant traffic getting out of LA. The location is very magical and the hot springs are healing. He has created a beautiful space and harvest the best dates I have ever eaten. (Which he happily shared) Couldn’t recommend a better spot. Grata experience all around!

L

Lisa

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Joshua Tree Container Resort

We really enjoyed our one night stay at Steve’s “resort”. The space was very comfortable and private. Unfortunately, we weren’t there long enough to take advantage of the pool, hot tub, or sauna, but we did get a beautiful night of stargazing on the upper deck! And we loved his recommendation to eat at The Palms. We highly recommend his place.

A

Alexandra

October 2025

5 nights at 5+ Acres near Joshua Tree NP

We absolutely loved our stay! It was beautiful and perfect for stargazing. Martha has everything you could possibly think of and was so helpful during our stay. We will come back!

J

Jonathan

October 2025

18 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Stars and Valley Boondock Campsite

Rebecca was a great host. I arrived at 1:30am and it was hard to find the location but Rebecca gave me multiple pictures of the campsite so I was able to find it. I will definitely camp here again. The stars are amazing at night.

P

Patrick

October 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Wonder Valley Ranch

My son and I rented a camper van and spent the weekend on Dave's land. The views are amazing. If you angle your tent/van just right, you've got a 180 degree view of a small nearby mountain range (about 20 min walk to the foot of the mountains) and in the distance, what I believe are the Bullion Mountains. It's pretty quiet and though there are homes somewhat nearby, it feels isolated and private. Dave is super friendly and responsive.

j

jason

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mojave Country Club

Great vibe tons of things do on-site. My kids got to Daynes pigs and went i night hike too. The spa was great. BBQ and clubhouse was amazing. Highly recommend this campsite. Excellent view of stars as well.

J

Jen

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Mojave Country Club

Great stay! Everything was as described and clean. Would recommend 10/10!

Susan

October 2025

22 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Joshua Tree Container Resort

We loved everything at this ranch! The spa, pool, sauna, gym. They even had a blues jam around the firepit! Clean facilities and rooms. It was great relaxing with private and beautiful views! The host was really helpful, even recommending an incredible restaurant with band. Very fun visit! We are definitely going back!

Brendan

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

Spending time at Gordon’s property with the hot springs is quite special and always makes me feel lucky. It’s a quiet peaceful place to contemplate the stars and experience desert life. We saw foxes, bats and heard the cries of coyotes.

K

Kelly

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

We absolutely loved staying at Gordon’s spot. This is our second trip and we will definitely return again! It is so peaceful and Gordon, the host, is very kind and accommodating. A perfect place to relax in hot baths and watch the stars!

T

Tanisha

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Mojave Country Club

I highly recommend staying here! The host Dayne is very friendly, he provided some recommendations for us to do w/ our dogs. The whole campground was clean, from the bathrooms, kitchen, tent, and beds. We could charge our devices in the tent and there was a fan or heater if we needed it. It's a quiet & safe area. You're close to the park and good restaurants!

R

Rikart

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Joshua Tree Private Campsite

We really enjoyed the solitude and beauty of this camp. It was a fun drive (in the 4W). We were there in Oct and at dusk a lot of flies appeared, but after 40 min they kind of all died of somehow.

W

William

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Joshua Tree Container Resort

The property was beautiful to camp on especially at night being able to look up at the stars! You are located right next to Joshua Tree National Park making it easy to visit throughout the day, but enjoy your nights around 29 Palms watching the stars. Definitely had a great stay at El Ranchito!

Lisa

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at 40 Acres Of Open Desert Oasis

I loved my stay here on Jacob’s property ! I did tent camping and loved the amazing view of the mountains and the vast desert landscape ! This is for those who can appreciate off-grid camping! It was just a plot of land, but the night before Jacob had dropped off a really super nice metal picnic table and made a fire pit for me! Jacob responded in a timely manner and was super nice. The weather was pretty good for the most part, and Joshua Tree National Park was 20 minutes away. Also, the grocery store was about the same distance. There are a few local thrift stores and boutiques, and the national park building is in the same location where you can buy Joshua Tree souvenirs.

A

Alex

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Joshua Tree Container Resort

Steve was great hosting my family while I was out working my mom and daughter had fun swimming and exploring around the desert also had the opportunity to relax my self after work thank you