Camping near Desert Center

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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!

97% (685) 1,467 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Desert Center

Joshua Tree Private Campsite

1. Joshua Tree Private Campsite

98%
(67)
24mi from Desert Center · 1 site · Tent, RV
One mile from Joshua Tree National Park southern entrance. Beautiful desert landscape nestled in by mountains. Private serene and spiritual land. Come get enlightened.
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Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

2. Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

99%
(240)
28mi from Desert Center · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
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5+ Acres near Joshua Tree NP

3. 5+ Acres near Joshua Tree NP

100%
(23)
39mi from Desert Center · 1 site
Luxury Low-Toxin Desert Retreat Near Joshua Tree 🌵✨ Private 5-Star Stay Immerse yourself in the Mojave Desert just minutes from Joshua Tree National Park. This private five acre retreat offers panoramic mountain views, total seclusion, and the perfect blend of serenity and adventure for hiking, rock collecting, and exploring vast desert landscapes. 🌿 Clean Low-Toxin Environment No synthetic fragrances, harsh cleaning chemicals, or conventional laundry detergents. All water is reverse osmosis filtered and remineralized. Natural paper products throughout. A subtle but noticeable difference. ⭐️ “The most peaceful and scenic stay we have ever had. The desert sunrise was magical.” Recent Guest ⸻ 🏕 What Makes This Stay Special ✅ Luxury Lotus Belle tent with queen Tempur Pedic mattress ✅ Private bathroom and outdoor shower ✅ Kitchenette and pizza oven ✅ Gas fireplace and outdoor fire pit ✅ High speed WiFi, projector with Fire Stick, Bluetooth speaker ✅ Telescope and binoculars for stargazing ✅ Outdoor sectional, hammocks, and hanging chair ✅ 10 foot stock tank pool spring through fall ✅ Luxury toiletries, blow dryer, washing machine ✅ Free parking for two cars ✅ Reverse osmosis drinking water with added minerals ⸻ 🌄 Things to Do • Hiking and rock collecting • Yoga and meditation • Photography and wildlife viewing • Stargazing and fireside nights ⸻ 🔒 Privacy Two campsites on five acres with over 1000 feet of separation. No shared spaces. Quiet, private, and uninterrupted. ⸻ ⚠️ Good to Know This is the desert. Wildlife and sudden weather including wind or sandstorms can occur. Nature may appear unexpectedly. No air conditioning. Heating includes fireplace and electric blanket. Pool available for cooling seasonally. PLEASE CHECK WEATHER BEFORE BOOKING ⸻ 🌅 The Experience A refined desert stay designed for comfort, privacy, and connection to the landscape.
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Joshua Tree National Park

4. Joshua Tree National Park

97%
(759)
National park 57mi from Desert Center · 493 sites
Joshua Tree camping offers access to a desert wonderland of crooked trees and boulders, where hiking and rock climbing sublime.
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Salton Sea State Recreation Area

5. Salton Sea State Recreation Area

80%
(7)
State park 35mi from Desert Center · 102 sites
Don't be salty about the Salton Sea. It's the largest lake in California.
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Stars and Valley Boondock Campsite

6. Stars and Valley Boondock Campsite

100%
(27)
44mi from Desert Center · 1 site
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 boondocking encouraged. Tent camping is not as comfortable due to the desert wind and the rocky ground. 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.
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Vista Del Mar

7. 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 :)
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Wonder Valley Ranch

8. Wonder Valley Ranch

97%
(43)
45mi from Desert Center · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
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Desert Gold Camp near JT Ntl Park

9. Desert Gold Camp near JT Ntl Park

98%
(58)
45mi from Desert Center · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land:Best of what the desert offers - rustic and romantic! Three miles to Joshua Tree National Park entrance and town amenities, yet secluded with amazing views over many acres. This 100 yr old property has inspiring landscapes and historic gold mill artifacts, and is used for films, photoshoots, and artist gatherings.
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Our Desert Domestead

10. Our Desert Domestead

99%
(55)
46mi from Desert Center · 2 sites
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.
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Coachella Lakes RV Resort

11. Coachella Lakes RV Resort

100%
(40)
46mi from Desert Center · 360 sites · RVs, Lodging
Experience the Newest Luxury Coachella RV Resort Find yourself experiencing luxury on your next vacation and get closer to what you love. Join us at Coachella Lakes RV Resort, the newest RV Resort in the Coachella Valley. We offer you the time to relax while enjoying modern and luxurious amenities all conveniently located a short drive from both Palm Desert and Palm Springs, without the crowds. Southern California is one of the most beautiful places you can visit and the Coachella Valley is right in the heart of it all. From your base at Coachella Lakes RV Resort, you can easily explore Joshua Tree National Park, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, hiking trails, and hot springs, and then return to your RV site each night for top-notch amenities.
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Joshua Tree Container Resort

12. Joshua Tree Container Resort

96%
(204)
49mi from Desert Center · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Mojave Country Club

13. Mojave Country Club

100%
(13)
49mi from Desert Center · 3 sites
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.
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River Sands/KOA Holiday

14. River Sands/KOA Holiday

96%
(27)
50mi from Desert Center · 253 sites · RVs, Lodging
Nestled in the heart of Arizona’s breathtaking landscape, River Sands KOA Holiday offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and natural beauty. River Sands/ KOA is a sanctuary for those seeking to escape the ordinary and immerse themselves in a world of tranquility and adventure. Here, each day begins with a stunning sunrise over the Colorado River, setting the stage for unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast or looking for a family getaway, River Sands/KOA caters to all. Our proximity to the Colorado River opens up a world of activities, from serene river walks and fishing to exhilarating kayaking. The surrounding desert landscape beckons hikers, bird watchers, and nature lovers to explore its unique beauty. At River Sands/ KOA Holiday, luxury is more than an amenity; it’s a way of life. Our fully-equipped RV sites and beautifully furnished cabins offer a perfect blend of comfort and elegance. With top-tier facilities like a heated swimming pool, hot tubs, and a state-of-the-art fitness center, your stay with us is sure to be a rejuvenating experience.
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Forsythe Equestrian Club

15. Forsythe Equestrian Club

94%
(16)
50mi from Desert Center · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Vanishing Rock Ranch

16. Vanishing Rock Ranch

100%
(9)
30mi from Desert Center · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
Next to Golds Park in the Dale mining district, off of hwy 62 on a well maintain dirt road. You will find a secluded and spacious open desert camping area. Wide open night skies for star viewing, away from the city lights. With a terrific mountain rang in the back round. Great for shooting, hiking, and rock climbing. All off road vehicles welcome. There are more off road trails then you can explore in one trip. So if you're ready for peace and quiet and an amazing sunset and sunrise. Plus some amazing clear night sky's, we would love to have you. There is a little something for everyone. .Close to the Joshua Tree National Park. The road in and out is passable by two wheel drive all the way to the camp area, level ground for Rv or Campers are available. Fire, pets, dirt bikes , side by sides, guns, big groups, kids and events are all welcome. Please bring enough water and sunscreen for your trip. Self contained campers are recommended, but it's also nice in a tent. I rent out tents and sell fire wood on my extra pages. Remember to Always look down where you are stepping. For all extras like fire wood and tents, please message me to confirm around about when you will be arriving and what you ordered to make sure I can have it ready for you. There is an office trailer at the entrance by hwy 62 and a yard with big piles of iron. follow the nice road and signage, Camp wherever you like the best. Looking forward to having you with us.
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Bee Land! True Off-Grid Camping

17. Bee Land! True Off-Grid Camping

100%
(4)
32mi from Desert Center · 5 sites
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.
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Salton Sea Seclusion

18. Salton Sea Seclusion

88%
(4)
33mi from Desert Center · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:It's out there, but that's what you want! The perfect escape from everything. Drive out here, pitch your tent, enjoy the silence, the view of the mountains, and the Salton Sea. The land is practically untouched and the neighbors are far away. So if you are looking for a secluded getaway, this is perfect.
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The Invisible Bus in Bombay Beach

19. The Invisible Bus in Bombay Beach

100%
(3)
34mi from Desert Center · 1 site
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.
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Bombay Beach

20. Bombay Beach

100%
(1)
34mi from Desert Center · 4 sites
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.
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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