The best campgrounds near El Centro, California with climbing

If you're looking for a camping adventure near El Centro, California that combines stunning climbing terrain with a variety of accommodation options, look no further than The Lovelight Ranch (532 reviews), Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch (518 reviews), and Whiteside Mountain (248 reviews). With over 880 available options specifically tailored to climbers in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your outdoor getaway. Whether you prefer a rustic tent site or a cozy cabin, Hipcamp has got you covered. And don't just take our word for it - check out the top-rated campsites with hundreds of reviews. With popular amenities like trash disposal, potable water, and pet-friendly policies, and activities such as boating, swimming, and exploring historic sites, Hipcamp has everything you need for an unforgettable camping experience. Plus, with options starting as low as $10 per night and an average price of $60 per night, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. So grab your gear and get ready to embark on your next climbing adventure with Hipcamp!

98% (605)

Top-rated campgrounds

#1 Home Base - Potluck after a Meditation & Yoga hike with Jacumba Hikers

If you're looking for a camping adventure near El Centro, California that combines stunning climbing terrain with a variety of accommodation options, look no further than The Lovelight Ranch (532 reviews), Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch (518 reviews), and Whiteside Mountain (248 reviews). With over 880 available options specifically tailored to climbers in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your outdoor getaway. Whether you prefer a rustic tent site or a cozy cabin, Hipcamp has got you covered. And don't just take our word for it - check out the top-rated campsites with hundreds of reviews. With popular amenities like trash disposal, potable water, and pet-friendly policies, and activities such as boating, swimming, and exploring historic sites, Hipcamp has everything you need for an unforgettable camping experience. Plus, with options starting as low as $10 per night and an average price of $60 per night, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. So grab your gear and get ready to embark on your next climbing adventure with Hipcamp!

98% (605)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat

99%

(115)

34mi from El Centro · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Jacumba Hot Springs, CA

Property is located in the High Desert area of E. San Diego County in the In-Ko-)Pah Mountains. 5 camp sites to choose from and one (1) glamping unit "Casa Agave" which is a small home the sleeps four (4). One queen bed, 1 single and a sofa bed that sleeps one. To the west is Table Mountain a sacred Native American Ceremonial Ground that is on BLM land. The Northern boundary is the beginning Anza Borrego State Park. The East and South borders are private land. There is much evidence of campsites and artifacts that the land used to be inhabited by the Kumeyaay Nation. Mica and Garnets used to be mined in this area as well. The property is a transitional area where agave, juniper and scrub oak thrive. Wildlife in the area includes: Quail, Rattle Snakes, Lizards, Ravens, Roadrunners, Tarantulas, Rosy Boa, Mule Deer, Pack Rats, Bob Cats, Coyotes and at times Bighorn Sheep are spotted by Table Mountain. I have 10 chickens, 2 cats and my dog Bosco.

2. DeAnza Springs Resort

94%

(18)

37mi from El Centro · 65 sites · Tents, RVs · Jacumba, CA

DeAnza Springs Resort is a family friendly resort in North America. Situated on more than 500 private acres of high desert (2600 feet above sea level) in Eastern San Diego County, it is ideal for year-round vacationing. The Resort is comprised of 311 spacious RV sites, most with full hookups, (30/50 amps) and unlimited tent sites for camping. Comfortable rental units consist of fully furnished tiny homes and motel rooms. Centerpiece to the Resort is a 7500 square foot clubhouse. It is home to the Oasis Lounge/Bar and cafe. There is also a computer area for public internet access. No matter what activities you enjoy, you’ll probably find them available at DeAnza Springs Resort. Surrounded on three sides by the wilderness of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the resort grounds include grassy lawns, shade trees, two sparkling swimming pools and a hot tub with access to hiking trails in every direction. Amenities include two swimming pools open year round (one indoor heated and one outdoors), an outdoor hot tub, tennis/pickle ball courts, shuffle-board courts, fitness center with sauna, and laundry facilities. There is also a large enclosed pet park and WiFi broadband internet access.

3. The Desert View Tower

98%

(261)

33mi from El Centro · 3 sites · Tents · Jacumba, CA

Loaded with history, and set on the "La Posta Pluton," we are 3000 feet above the California's Imperial Valley. Sitting on this land is the historic Desert View Tower, which will turn 100 years old in 2020. The view of the tower couldn't be in a more epic setting. The sunsets, stars and views are world class. Tent camping in the area doesn't get much better than this.Learn more about this land:PLEASE CHECK IN BEFORE DARK.***If you are showing up after dark, we unfortunately cannot accommodate you. Must arrive before 4 in the winter months, 7pm in the summery months.***Winds here can be ferocious. A day ahead of time check the weather for Boulder Park CA (That's us). We will happily change for another date.No road access to the camp sites. Tent camping only. No RV spaces available.The Desert Tower is a 93 acre property in the midst of a great field of boulders on a hillside cliff overlooking California's Imperial Valley. One can camp anywhere in the rocks you like...there are tons of hidden gems out there with some great views. There is a sandy area in front of the tower that is very nice and close to the bathrooms -- Enjoy the views and the nighttime stars!

4. Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

98%

(446)

41mi from El Centro · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Jacumba Hot Spring, CA

Sagewinds Farm is the first certified organic white sage farm in the world. Located in the high desert of San Diego county, between 3500 feet and 3800 ft. this beautiful 40 acres features caves, massive boulders to climb, views, flat land and privacy. At night the stars are magnificent and the milky way is visible...there are meteor showers several times a year. Permanent residents in the barn are the 2 mini horses to visit and four wonderful dogs. The nights are always cool and usually below 60% so be prepared to sleep well, even if the days are hot. There is almost always a breeze and sometimes a wind, so bring your kites. There are visiting animals that past thru and could include, coyotes, bobcats, Coatis, foxes, rabbits, quail, hawks and mountain lions. There are also some snake and lizards. We do have rattlesnakes. To make up for the rattlers we offer two flush toilets! Camp on the healthy, beautiful and first Certified Organic White Sage Farm in the World. I like to tell people that this is sacred land and it is. Come see the magnificent boulder formations. Come for the quiet. Come for the stars. Remember that the Jacumba Hotel Hot Springs and restaurant is 5 minutes away and the food is exceptional. The place to heal Beautiful high desert,(3500') with boulders, boulder mountains, caves and views. Rolling southern California terrain, home to all kinds of birds and wild life. Camp on top of the mountain, or camp in a cave or anywhere in between. See the Milky way on most nights, all have incredible stars. 40 acres. Visit our the little town of Jacumba Hot springs down the road. Exciting things are happening there. The Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel, really good food, organic produce, and of course the Water! They offer day passes. Weekend music events at the Hotel or the The Old Bathhouse where you listen under the most incredible stars. Bazaar at the Bathouse the first Saturday of the month. This is the prettiest property in east county! And the healthiest! It is a Certified Organic White Sage farm. This is the old west! Come in the spring for the wild flowers on the land. Come for the dark skies. Come for the very occasional snow. Most definitely come for all the Meteor showers.. You can see the Milky way on most nights

5. Oasis Ranch

96%

(86)

25mi from El Centro · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Westmorland, CA

Our Rural location is set in the Imperial Valley within driving distance to Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, Bombay Beach, Los Angeles, and San Diego. The Oasis Ranch offers multiple locations on the property including: Pond Site surrounded by +35 year old oak trees. Desert terrain along with river washes lined with desert Cedar. Beautiful one of a kind locations are very accessible, we are happy to help facilitate and coordinate where appropriate and needed.

6. Bee Land! True Off-Grid Camping

100%

(4)

38mi from El Centro · 5 sites · RVs · Bombay Beach, CA

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.

Stories from the community

A

Avery

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat

Great off grid place to stay. Beauty all around. Greg is very accommodating and makes sure you are good. Thank you!

g

gabriel

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Beautiful views, good trails and fun dogs. Hopefully we can camp in this spot again.

Jay

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat

Hi Greg. It was great to meet you. Thanks for hosting our stay at Site 4. It was just what my boys and I were looking for in a weekend campout under the stars. We look forward to coming back again in the future!

E

Elisa

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Amazing views and Ellen was so helpful. We loved meeting all of their animals and exploring the property. Cute tie-dye too!

R

Russell

August 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

This property is magical. So is Ellen. I was looking for a place to sleep before crossing into Mexicali and then found it very hard to leave. So much to explore on the property and surrounding area. I highly recommend staying here - just make sure you make some time to take it in!

J

Julia

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Wonderful camping experiencing on Ellen’s land. There were amazing views, short fantastic hikes, and the sweetest animal friends. I would love to visit again!

A

Amir

July 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to DeAnza Springs Resort

It's a relaxing place to camp, with plenty of hiking trails and open space to walk. The community is very welcoming to campers. We had a great time enjoying the pool! Thank you—we’ll definitely be back!!

Shelby

June 2025

12 ft campervan

2 nights at Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

We loved the beautiful landscape and Ellen’s charm!

S

Sam

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Its Ellens world and you get to experience it. Camping is raw but the nature is special. I will return. Cheers

J

May 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Oasis Ranch

Beautiful site, very private. There are two camp sites side by side but the area is wide enough to not be crowded. Camp site was nicely shaded and flat so it was easy to set up our tent. There were areas we could drive up and unpack the cars directly in to camp. The ad says no potable water but there is a hose with water which was convenient for other uses. Tubing was fun but we did find used fishing line wrapped around a branch near the bank. That was a little gross and dangerous. Definitely recommend river shoes. Our pups were happy running around and also enjoyed the water but there is a resident peacock that although gorgeous, does make a lot of noise. Our pups were curious so we had to keep an eye on them and make sure they stayed close to camp. At night, Mr. Peacock likes to perch on a tree near the restrooms so be prepared for the giant bird silhouette looming over you! It's beautiful! There were a lot of sounds at night, machines, vehicles, and wildlife. If you're a light sleeper, may not be easy to ignore but otherwise it was very relaxing. Julian was quick to respond to any questions. This is definitely our new favorite camp spot.

C

Christian

May 2025

13 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Beautiful land and views; great hiking adventures from camp and enjoyed host Ellen's green thumb sage fields and flowers and the two ponies. Such a great stay. Loved the boulder mountains - beautiful sunrise hikes!

K

Kelsey

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Ellen has a magical property and space in a sacred area. I appreciated her tour and background so much. The camping site was great, and I did little hikes around the property that filled my cup up. I would definitely recommend to anyone! Easy to pair with Jacumba hot springs hotel day pass as well :)

T

Teresa

May 2025

Tent

2 nights at Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Kind hosts provide a private, beautiful, and tranquil location for tent camping.

N

Nikki

April 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

This land is so special and sacred!! There are so many little nooks to explore. I return to this sweet little sage farm every year, and I'm so appreciative of Ellen's hospitality & spunk. It is also very close to the new Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel.

W

Wendi

April 2025

16 ft car

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Oasis Ranch

The site's description is precisely what it is! It is peaceful and isolated. Plus, there were trees that provided shade for us. The weather was perfect when we went. Please check the weather and prepare for a windy stay. Overall, it was an amazing experience!

W

Wendi

April 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Oasis Ranch

It was an excellent place for group camping! The camp had great amenities such as a portal toilet (spotless!), tables and stools, water (not for drinking), and trash bins. Since the weather was projected to be very windy, it wasn’t! Which I was very grateful for! I would say the two campsites are not far apart. For reference, the space between the two campsites is four trucks parked next to each other. Since I came with a big group, I got both campsites for more privacy. It was only 35-40 minutes from Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Overall, the campsite was perfect!

T

Tyler

April 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Desert View Tower

Awesome stay. Ben and his family were warm and hospitable. Doggos were great company. Will be back for sure. Definitely a hidden gem of San Diego and should be on everyon’s bucket list to camp at the Desert View Tower.

Clarissa

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

10/10!! Ellen’s organic farm is an oasis and we are so lucky that she allows folks in to experience its magic. Solo camped here and felt totally safe and comfortable the whole time. Will be back soon ❤️

M

Mathew

April 2025

Tent

1 night at Oasis Ranch

Great clean place with a wonderful host, the pond is nice I would bring a float if you want to get in but wash yourself off with the hose if you do, peacock was really cool and the place was easy to get to.

E

Erika

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Desert View Tower

This spot is magical…the energy is so peaceful and healing and Ben is the most wonderful and hospitable host. Everyone who works there is amazing. We will be going back asap!