Discover the best mountainous campgrounds near Desert Center, California

United States
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California
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Desert Center

76% (167 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Desert Center

Under $50

12 top mountainous campgrounds near Desert Center

98%

(57)

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 :)

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!

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.

Make It Whole 365

10 sites · RVs5 acres · Palo Verde, CA

Learn more about this land:This is primitive camping on open land with rough terrain. We are building a non profit in hopes for humanity. Things will be added to the land as we go, for now this virgin land is his bare awaiting the promise land for the righteous and true . Taking in helpers/volunteers with the true passion to help others in need. Join us in nature, sleep under the stars. Lets build this promise land together. Know this.. No matter what you are going through.,.. (It's OK) we are here waiting to help make it whole 365!

Cotillo Off-road

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Thermal, CA

READ ALL (SOFT GROUND!!!) 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.Learn more about this land:PLEASE READ ALL (SOFT GROUND!!!) 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. Many restaurants near the area and store. Water and bathrooms short 5 minute drive.

De La Luna Reserve

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

Serrano De La Luna 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. In addition to seasonal camping, Serrano De La Luna also hosts artist residencies, workshops, and retreats. camp, rest, and explore Learn more about this land: Serrano De La Luna 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 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 or hang out in the Hammock Hut. 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.

100%

(3)

Godwin Ranch

4 sites · Lodging5 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

This charming equestrian ranch-style compound is filled with character and all the comforts of home. Perfect for outdoor living, this 5-acre property features a gorgeous outdoor stone fireplace, a BBQ and picnic table, and unique swing that’s designed for gazing at the nighttime skies!From shaded, rustic chic patios in both the front and back of the house, Godwin Ranch visitors can soak in breathtaking mountain and Valley views! Created with family gatherings in mind, this home also features Queen bedroom,a Queen detached bunkhouse, a convertible sofa, a large eat-in kitchen, a washer/dryer and dishwasher, a swimming pool, & Jacuzzi for guests.In true ranch style, 2 horse corrals are sheltered from the sun and come with feed bins and watering buckets and offers plenty of room for your Gooseneck or Bumper Pull trailer. House Arrangements as Follows:Queen bedroomOne roll-away bedQueen size pull-out couchOne bathroom in main houseQueen bed in detached house *Federal Holiday’s 3 Night Minimum Bookings – Thanksgiving 4 Night Minimum Bookings**10% off if booked within 5 days of check-in*

Desert by the Sea

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Salton City, CA

Welcome to this scenic 1/3 acre desert campground in Salton City, with panoramic views of the Salton Sea. The soft sand and coarse rocks create a primitive camping experience near majestic natural attractions. Nearby destinations include the beaches of the Salton Sea, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Joshua Tree National Park, and the stargazing haven of the International Dark Sky Park. The campground has a remote, rustic feel, with the nearest neighbor 1/4 mile away. There is no shade cover on the property, so bring your own shelter from the elements. Keep pets leashed and supervised, as local wildlife may roam the area. Street parking is recommended for 2WD vehicles on Coral Sea Ave. Drive slowly and carefully over rocks. The soft ground requires 4WD vehicles with high clearance and aggressive tires for access. Air down tires for traction. Site amenities are primitive, so come prepared for a peaceful desert retreat. Generators allowed from 8am-8pm. No electric/water hookups or restrooms on site. Trash & Waste must be packed out. Leave no trace behind. The owners are not responsible for theft, pets, belongings, vehicle damage or injuries. Have a wonderful time exploring this unique desert landscape! Stay safe and respect this beautiful habitat.

Booked 1 time

Desert Adventure

1 site · RV1 acre · Thermal, CA

PLEASE READ ALL (SOFT GROUND!!!) 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.Learn more about this land:PLEASE READ ALL (SOFT GROUND!!!) 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. Many restaurants near the area. Water and bathroom 5 minute drive.

Salton Ocotillo Dunes

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · 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.

Star Gazing Ranch Wonder Valley

1 site · Tent5 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

✨ Dark Sky Map Area ✨ Remote No Cigarette 5 acre Nature Preserve, perfect for relaxing in the peace and tranquility. Perfect for Stargazing and Camping, located in the beautiful and serene Wonder Valley, California. 360 Degree Mountain Views, with Joshua Tree National Park entrance around 15 minutes away. ✨🌙🌵 Your dreams are calling.

Available this weekend

Booked 3 times

Make It Whole 365

10 sites · RVs5 acres · Palo Verde, CA

Learn more about this land:This is primitive camping on open land with rough terrain. We are building a non profit in hopes for humanity. Things will be added to the land as we go, for now this virgin land is his bare awaiting the promise land for the righteous and true . Taking in helpers/volunteers with the true passion to help others in need. Join us in nature, sleep under the stars. Lets build this promise land together. Know this.. No matter what you are going through.,.. (It's OK) we are here waiting to help make it whole 365!

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!

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 :)

Godwin Ranch

4 sites · Lodging5 acres · Twentynine Palms, CA

This charming equestrian ranch-style compound is filled with character and all the comforts of home. Perfect for outdoor living, this 5-acre property features a gorgeous outdoor stone fireplace, a BBQ and picnic table, and unique swing that’s designed for gazing at the nighttime skies!From shaded, rustic chic patios in both the front and back of the house, Godwin Ranch visitors can soak in breathtaking mountain and Valley views! Created with family gatherings in mind, this home also features Queen bedroom,a Queen detached bunkhouse, a convertible sofa, a large eat-in kitchen, a washer/dryer and dishwasher, a swimming pool, & Jacuzzi for guests.In true ranch style, 2 horse corrals are sheltered from the sun and come with feed bins and watering buckets and offers plenty of room for your Gooseneck or Bumper Pull trailer. House Arrangements as Follows:Queen bedroomOne roll-away bedQueen size pull-out couchOne bathroom in main houseQueen bed in detached house *Federal Holiday’s 3 Night Minimum Bookings – Thanksgiving 4 Night Minimum Bookings**10% off if booked within 5 days of check-in*

Cotillo Off-road

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Thermal, CA

READ ALL (SOFT GROUND!!!) 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.Learn more about this land:PLEASE READ ALL (SOFT GROUND!!!) 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. Many restaurants near the area and store. Water and bathrooms short 5 minute drive.

Dog-friendly getaways

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!

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 :)

Make It Whole 365

10 sites · RVs5 acres · Palo Verde, CA

Learn more about this land:This is primitive camping on open land with rough terrain. We are building a non profit in hopes for humanity. Things will be added to the land as we go, for now this virgin land is his bare awaiting the promise land for the righteous and true . Taking in helpers/volunteers with the true passion to help others in need. Join us in nature, sleep under the stars. Lets build this promise land together. Know this.. No matter what you are going through.,.. (It's OK) we are here waiting to help make it whole 365!

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.

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.

Mountainous camping near Desert Center 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!