The best camping near Desert Center with hiking

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Desert Center delivers for hikers—over 440 campsites put you right in the heart of the terrain, with trails twisting through open desert, scattered boulders, and Joshua trees that catch the last light of dusk. Expect the basics: toilets, showers, and pet-friendly spots are common, so you won’t be roughing it too hard. Campsites cater to every budget, with options starting at $15 a night and an average around $75. Top picks? Joshua Tree Container Resort (126 reviews) puts you in repurposed shipping containers with wide desert views. De La Luna Reserve (90 reviews) draws stargazers and early risers. Joshua Tree Private Campsite (54 reviews) is all about privacy and sunrise hikes. You’ll find wildlife-watching, swimming holes, and plenty of quiet out here—just bring sun protection and plenty of water.

97% (359)

Top-rated campgrounds near Desert Center

8. De La Luna Reserve

100%
(217)
38mi from Desert Center · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
De La Luna Reserve is a nature reserve and respite for people to exist between spaces, places, and categories of belonging and identity. Here, people can be, create and/or become outside of the dominant landscape of society. camp, rest, and explore Learn more about this land: De La Luna Reserve nests on a spacious slice of open desert and features six reservable campsites. Sites are available to tent campers, self contained mobile units such as camper vans, vehicles with small trailers, and adventure vehicles (motorcycles too). Guests have access to an outdoor bathroom - flush toilet (with optional bidet), fulled heated shower and sink. Care is being taken to disinfect shared surfaces. Come enjoy the raw desert - the views are gorgeous. It is a quiet place, this Wonder Valley. Come think, write, and make art - star gaze, and sit around the campfire. Hike nearby at Joshua Tree National Park (or Bureau of Land Management areas). Socialize and listen to live music at The Palms Restaurant, the local watering hole. When booking, select the site that best suits your needs: 1) and 2) - best for vans and adventure rigs 3) - best for car and tent 4) - Pool Side Sunset VIP Site (RV/Small Trailer/Car/Tent) 5) - best for vehicles with small trailers 6) - park near the shelter and walk in to pitch tent We look forward to hosting you.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$54
 / night

9. 5+ Acres near Joshua Tree NP

100%
(22)
39mi from Desert Center · 3 sites · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$144
 / night

10. Nikki's Love Shack

100%
(1)
41mi from Desert Center · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night

12. Vista Del Mar

90%
(10)
44mi from Desert Center · 1 site · Tent, RV
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 :)
Pets
Campfires
from 
$14
 / night

15. Bee Land! True Off-Grid Camping

100%
(4)
32mi from Desert Center · 5 sites · RVs
Learn more about this land: Welcome to Bee Land! 5 acres of off-the-grid earth: desolate, empty and stunning! This is a property for those who really want to experience the desert at night. Camp under the stars, near the Salton Sea. You will be surrounded by the mountains and endless sky. There is nothing else except the stark beauty of this completely undeveloped landscape. However, you are 5 miles from Bombay Beach, 8 miles from Niland and Slab City. Take a day trip to Palm Springs , Joshua Tree, or the other side of the Salton Sea. Go off roading! Hike the Chocolate Mountains! Lay on one of the beaches along the Salton Sea. There’s so much do if you are open to the total experience of what desert life can provide. You never know who you will meet! Perfect alternative to the over-priced airbnbs for the Bombay Beach Biennale. Update: There is now a clearcut, straight path leading out to the property directly from the main road. There is also an entrance and property markers. All details and directions will be provided after booking is formalized.
Pets
from 
$36
 / night

17. Glamis North Hot Springs Resort

29mi from Desert Center · 3 sites
Glamis North Hot Springs Resort stands out as a unique destination where adventure meets tranquility in the stunning California desert. Spanning over 1,500 acres of untouched desert beauty, this resort promises guests an extraordinary experience that combines outdoor excitement with serene relaxation. For those who thrive on adventure, the surrounding Algodones Dunes Wilderness Area is a true off-road enthusiast's dream. This region boasts some of California's most challenging and picturesque terrains, making it an ideal playground for off-road vehicle enthusiasts. Additionally, the resort provides convenient access to the renowned Glamis Sand Dunes, further enhancing the opportunities for exploration and thrill-seeking. If relaxation is what you seek, the resort's natural hot spring oasis is an essential stop. With a pool featuring multiple soaking areas heated between 99 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, it offers the perfect environment to unwind while soaking in the breathtaking desert views. Guests can also indulge in a variety of spa treatments, including massages, facials, and body scrubs, all delivered by skilled professionals. Accommodations at Glamis North Hot Springs Resort cater to every type of traveler, offering cozy cabins, spacious RV sites, and tent camping options. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a blend of both, this resort has everything you

Desert Center delivers for hikers—over 440 campsites put you right in the heart of the terrain, with trails twisting through open desert, scattered boulders, and Joshua trees that catch the last light of dusk. Expect the basics: toilets, showers, and pet-friendly spots are common, so you won’t be roughing it too hard. Campsites cater to every budget, with options starting at $15 a night and an average around $75. Top picks? Joshua Tree Container Resort (126 reviews) puts you in repurposed shipping containers with wide desert views. De La Luna Reserve (90 reviews) draws stargazers and early risers. Joshua Tree Private Campsite (54 reviews) is all about privacy and sunrise hikes. You’ll find wildlife-watching, swimming holes, and plenty of quiet out here—just bring sun protection and plenty of water.

97% (359)

Top-rated campgrounds near Desert Center

8. De La Luna Reserve

100%
(217)
38mi from Desert Center · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
De La Luna Reserve is a nature reserve and respite for people to exist between spaces, places, and categories of belonging and identity. Here, people can be, create and/or become outside of the dominant landscape of society. camp, rest, and explore Learn more about this land: De La Luna Reserve nests on a spacious slice of open desert and features six reservable campsites. Sites are available to tent campers, self contained mobile units such as camper vans, vehicles with small trailers, and adventure vehicles (motorcycles too). Guests have access to an outdoor bathroom - flush toilet (with optional bidet), fulled heated shower and sink. Care is being taken to disinfect shared surfaces. Come enjoy the raw desert - the views are gorgeous. It is a quiet place, this Wonder Valley. Come think, write, and make art - star gaze, and sit around the campfire. Hike nearby at Joshua Tree National Park (or Bureau of Land Management areas). Socialize and listen to live music at The Palms Restaurant, the local watering hole. When booking, select the site that best suits your needs: 1) and 2) - best for vans and adventure rigs 3) - best for car and tent 4) - Pool Side Sunset VIP Site (RV/Small Trailer/Car/Tent) 5) - best for vehicles with small trailers 6) - park near the shelter and walk in to pitch tent We look forward to hosting you.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$54
 / night

9. 5+ Acres near Joshua Tree NP

100%
(22)
39mi from Desert Center · 3 sites · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$144
 / night

10. Nikki's Love Shack

100%
(1)
41mi from Desert Center · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night

12. Vista Del Mar

90%
(10)
44mi from Desert Center · 1 site · Tent, RV
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 :)
Pets
Campfires
from 
$14
 / night

15. Bee Land! True Off-Grid Camping

100%
(4)
32mi from Desert Center · 5 sites · RVs
Learn more about this land: Welcome to Bee Land! 5 acres of off-the-grid earth: desolate, empty and stunning! This is a property for those who really want to experience the desert at night. Camp under the stars, near the Salton Sea. You will be surrounded by the mountains and endless sky. There is nothing else except the stark beauty of this completely undeveloped landscape. However, you are 5 miles from Bombay Beach, 8 miles from Niland and Slab City. Take a day trip to Palm Springs , Joshua Tree, or the other side of the Salton Sea. Go off roading! Hike the Chocolate Mountains! Lay on one of the beaches along the Salton Sea. There’s so much do if you are open to the total experience of what desert life can provide. You never know who you will meet! Perfect alternative to the over-priced airbnbs for the Bombay Beach Biennale. Update: There is now a clearcut, straight path leading out to the property directly from the main road. There is also an entrance and property markers. All details and directions will be provided after booking is formalized.
Pets
from 
$36
 / night

17. Glamis North Hot Springs Resort

29mi from Desert Center · 3 sites
Glamis North Hot Springs Resort stands out as a unique destination where adventure meets tranquility in the stunning California desert. Spanning over 1,500 acres of untouched desert beauty, this resort promises guests an extraordinary experience that combines outdoor excitement with serene relaxation. For those who thrive on adventure, the surrounding Algodones Dunes Wilderness Area is a true off-road enthusiast's dream. This region boasts some of California's most challenging and picturesque terrains, making it an ideal playground for off-road vehicle enthusiasts. Additionally, the resort provides convenient access to the renowned Glamis Sand Dunes, further enhancing the opportunities for exploration and thrill-seeking. If relaxation is what you seek, the resort's natural hot spring oasis is an essential stop. With a pool featuring multiple soaking areas heated between 99 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, it offers the perfect environment to unwind while soaking in the breathtaking desert views. Guests can also indulge in a variety of spa treatments, including massages, facials, and body scrubs, all delivered by skilled professionals. Accommodations at Glamis North Hot Springs Resort cater to every type of traveler, offering cozy cabins, spacious RV sites, and tent camping options. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a blend of both, this resort has everything you

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field