- Camping with Swimming
The best camping near Desert Center with swimming
98% (144) • 5 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Desert Center
Joshua Tree Container Resort
1. Joshua Tree Container Resort
96%
(196)
49mi from Desert Center · 13 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$56
/ night
Vanishing Rock Ranch
2. Vanishing Rock Ranch
100%
(8)
30mi from Desert Center · 15 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.
Pets
Campfires
from
$29
/ night
Glamis North Hot Springs Resort
3. 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
98% (144) • 5 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Desert Center
Joshua Tree Container Resort
1. Joshua Tree Container Resort
96%
(196)
49mi from Desert Center · 13 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$56
/ night
Vanishing Rock Ranch
2. Vanishing Rock Ranch
100%
(8)
30mi from Desert Center · 15 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.
Pets
Campfires
from
$29
/ night
Glamis North Hot Springs Resort
3. 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
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
S
Sun-Ho
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
Lovely grounds and host! I went for tent camping and Jonesy really makes this space cozy and special. The camping spot is spacious and open, with firepit and table provided, and it was great to have such well-thought out amenities just a walk away. The provided bathroom was convenient, but when a big party arrived it became very busy so having a backup bathroom plan when tent camping is recommended. Overall would definitely return, especially when the sites at Joshua Tree are all booked up!
See more
Nicholas
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
With pets
Great spot to park your camper van or set up a tent. Quiet, great star gazing, and excellent host. Outdoor showers, sauna, and hot tub! Highly recommended.
See more
Christoph
November 2025
20 ft campervan
With kids
Great place with more space than you can imagine. It's huge! We came back for a second night and couldn't even find our old spot. It is also really close to Joshua Tree, a great alternative if you don't find a place inside or want some real privacy. The host was super nice and brought us a massive amount of firewood, very recommended. There is also a lot of stuff to discover at the ranch, including an old gold mine!
See more
B
Bing
November 2025
23 ft campervan
With kids
Plenty of land and space to choose from. Driving directions were easy to follow and there were plenty of dirt roads to explore.
See moreC
Caroline
November 2025
Tent
My husband and I had a great night tent camping here. The host has been really thoughtful with the amenities and set up and it was just a 10-15 minute drive to the Joshua tree park entrance. We plan to come back and bring friends we liked it so much. Thank you!!!
See more
G
Gabriella
November 2025
Tent
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!
See more
N
Nate
November 2025
Tent
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.
See moreA
Alec
October 2025
Tent
Teala was helpful with getting us our firewood and direction once on the land. We were looking for wide open and not crowded and this site delivered that, being the only ones that night on ~140 acres. Worth noting that there are some well used offroad trails throughout that had nighttime traffic and could be loud but the site certainly checked seclusion and spacious.
See moreW
William
October 2025
Tent
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!
See more
A
Alex
October 2025
Tent
With kids
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
See more
O
Oomar
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
This is the best place I have found the camp in the Joshua Trer area. Secluded and beautiful. Great place to view the sky. Cant wait to visit again soon
See more
Mike
May 2025
Tent
This was my second visit to el ranchito and I’ll be back many times. Steve has created a beautiful oasis in the desert and takes care to make certain everyone is respectful of each other and the land.
Both of my kids came with me this time and they felt the same way. We slept on hammocks and the party that was going on next to us noticed we were going to bed and immediately wound down.
That doesn’t happen at every hip camp or campground one goes to.
The facilities are amazing… Like a spa in the middle of nowhere. The best part is that there is no pretentiousness that comes with typical southern California spas and resorts. Anyone and everyone would feel at home here, whether you’re looking for a wilderness experience or posh glamping.
It is priceless to be able to soak in a hot tub and sauna under pristine skies at night after climbing all day at Joshua tree. Sublime.
See more
Garrett
April 2025
Tent
Our stay was incredible! We stayed on the camp sites. The area is well equipped with an amazing jacuzzi, pool, sauna, bathrooms, and showers. There is a drive-in movie just a few minutes away that I would recommend checking out after a day of hiking/climbing in Joshua Tree.
See moreJ
Jeremy
April 2025
Tent
Great spot for a night of peaceful camping in the desert. Host was friendly and the hot tub was a nice amenity.
See moreH
Hillary
April 2025
Tent
The space was expansive and we really enjoyed the hot tub and sauna every day after hiking. The manager was quick to respond to our messages and had great recs for hikes and dinner spots. Our only negative was the wind. Because it's so open there is nothing to break the wind near the tent sites. Some small windbreaks with rebar and railroad ties could vastly improve the sites so tents were less affected.
See more
Justin
January 2025
13 ft campervan
Beautifully secluded area close to Joshua Tree National Park, but far enough away from the busy season traffic of tourists. Definitely recommend for anyone wanting/needing to camp outside of the park that is secluded yet still accessible with a 2 wheel drive vehicle. I made it just fine in a Ram Promaster 159 wheelbase with no issues at all. I’ll definitely come back soon.
See moreMike
November 2024
Tent
With kids
Steve has created an absolute destination in the container resort. I’m certain the containers would be spectacular as a lodging option, but camping under the stars with coyotes lullabying my daughter and I to sleep was priceless! Steve was awesome, letting us sleep in the hammocks with a star viewing cutout, and was helpful at every turn. The place s immaculate in its design, and the amenities (hot tubs, saunas, and *epic view* showers ) were like an oasis of old in the desert. Steve went above and beyond as a host and we will *definitely* be back soon💜
See more
