The best star host camping near Idyllwild

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The soaring peaks of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains (as high as 10,834 feet) serve as the backdrop for Idyllwild, a mountain town nearly a mile higher than nearby Palm Springs (set on the other side of the mountains). Camping adventures are abundant here, including rock climbing at premier multi-pitch traditional crags: Tahquitz Rock and Suicide Rock. If belaying is not in your plans, miles of hiking trails, including a segment of the Pacific Coast Trail, pass through the region, and commanding views of the valley are at every turn for mountain bikers, too. The family-run supermarket and well-stocked general store serves as conveniences for campers staying in Idyllwild for a few days.

99% (5.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Birdsong Backcountry Retreat

1. Birdsong Backcountry Retreat

100%
(235)
25mi from Idyllwild · 8 sites · Lodging · Warner Springs, CA
Come experience the best that the San Diego backcountry has to offer on our 85 acre private nature retreat with it's miles of trails which take you thru groves of ancient Oaks, a monumental boulders maze, intoxicating sage, the most incredible sunset vistas and located just a couple miles from the North Mountain Wine Trail. the Pacific Crest Trail and the California Hiking and Riding Trail. The BLUEBIRD TINY HOUSE is one of 4 very private unique artisanal accommodations on the property. This vintage horse trailer was reimagined into a Tiny house by Lane and Laurie as a couples project in 2018 which they completely gutted and remodeled using beautiful natural materials , old fashioned wood cabinetry, handmade ceramic tiles and woven bamboo with fully equipped kitchen, quality linens, fireplace, AC, WIFI, smart TV. Bluebird Tiny House is tucked into a secluded forest meadow, named for the bluebirds that spend part of the year there and is a spacious feeling 320 sq ft. The spa-inspired bathroom features a hand-carved, wood vessel sink, eco-dual flush toilet,rain shower, and free-standing soaking tub with oak canopy view. The 40’ long deck spans the length of the secluded tiny house overlooking the forest to distant mountains and has alfresco dining area and plenty of furniture for cozying as well as hot tub sited for star gazing and firepit seating all within a large fenced yard to keep your fur babies close by. In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 forest therapy audio guide.. If you need to accommodate a larger group, check out Pinky's Nature Hideout which has a full kitchen, spacious living room, fenced yard for pets, corn hole, large deck and hot tub sited for star gazing, and firepit seating which overlooks the forest to distant mountains. It sleeps 4 people but the "Lounge" vintage Spartan trailer which is located behind the bunkhouse can be rented to sleep an additional 2 people and is only available to Pinky's guests. We provide guests the opportunity to really get away from it all in a untouched forest and chaparral setting with all the amenities one needs for a comfortable stay. In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 audio guide. Come getaway alone, with friends or family to our sweet little petfriendly glampsite CAMP CHESTER hidden under the oaks which features a vintage 1949 Canned Ham Tiny Trailer (sleeps 2 in a double and one on couch) , a 10 x 12 safari tent on deck w/queen bed, an outdoor kitchen with dining area and barista bar, bath house with hot water, rain-shower, claw-foot tub , compost toilet looking out to acres of sage and distant mountains and firepit. The owners are artisan builders and seasoned hosts who promise guests privacy and quiet. The camp is totally fenced for the safety of your pets and suitable for up to 6 people but sleeps up to 5 additional person(s) can bring tent. . It offers guests the opportunity to really get away from it all in a untouched forest and chaparral setting but offers all the amenities one needs for a comfortable stay. In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 audio guide. Camp Chester is a seasonal site and closed January thru March.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$105
 / night
Namaste Farms

2. Namaste Farms

99%
(142)
26mi from Idyllwild · 3 sites · Lodging · Temecula, CA
We purchased Namaste Farms in 1997 when I was showing reined cowhorses as well as raising thoroughbred racehorses.  In 2005, I purchased my first wool sheep and fell in love. Today, Namaste Farms is recognized around the globe for raising high quality wool producing sheep.  While sheep are the primary animals at Namaste Farms, there are countless other animals, both four legged and feathered!NOTE: Namaste Farms is a true working farm with copious amounts of sheep, goats, chickens, peafowl, and countless other animals. Along with those, we have free range squirrels, rabbits, flies, dust and yes, even free range spiders. If you're wanting a rustic experience that gives you a break from city life and you can handle dust, dirt, cobwebs (and these can happen over night inside your cottage and WILL be in the common areas), with sounds of animals vocalizing at all hours of the day and night, then Namaste Farms is a perfect fit for you.   Know, you're supporting a 501c3 charity and all the revenue goes to support the animals.This booking is for the Treehouse, and while it's only 1/2 a mile from the city limits, it has a rural feel and is centrally located to all wineries and most of the major equestrian facilities including Galway Downs, Green Acres, and California Ranch Company. For those who are coming to Temecula for horse shows, we also have a large barn with bedded stalls and turnouts (for an additional fee). There are designated horse trails right outside our gates which will even take you to Galway Downs and California Ranch Company. If you're into golf, you can enjoy Temecula's 7 PGA golf courses or Pechanga Casino which are also within a short driving distance to the farm. If horses or golf isn't your thing, you can visit Temecula Valley wineries which are all ~ 1/2-3.8 miles of the cottage gates. The wineries are not within walking distance of each other, UBER is only too happy to come here and pick you up! If you're not interested in any activities and simply want a "staycation," you can hang out here where you're welcomed to walk around the farm and interact with the animals. At night, enjoy the sounds of serenity.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$128
 / night
View of the cabin from the creek

3. Creekside Vintage Cabins w/hot tubs

99%
(139)
26mi from Idyllwild · 3 sites · Lodging · Forest Falls, CA
Two Cabins to choose from, each with its own vintage charm. Both on the same dirt road across the street from each other, separate properties, both with their own private hot tubs, kitchen, claw foot tub in bathroom, heating. Rent separate or rent both and bring your friends! Here are the special additions at each cabin: Creekside Cabin: 468 sq. ft, a beautiful deck backing up to the national forest, with propane fire pit(you supply your own propane tank), and charcoal bbq(you bring your own charcoal), overlooking fresh water creek, outdoor shower, large fireplace, open floor plan, living room with cozy queen bed, open to upstairs loft 2 full beds, and a twin bed. This cabin has the option to add the vintage trailer in the driveway June - October only as an additional space. Does not have electricity, bathroom or heating for $75 per day. Trailer not available other times of the year due to cold night temps. Vintage 1937 Cabin: larger indoor space 1304 sq. ft. , a rock front patio, Wood stove in living room, open to upstairs loft 2 full beds, private large bedroom with another wood stove w/ queen bed and twin fold out couch, laundry room, enclosed patio with gas bbq, and a charcoal bbq on front patio(you supply your own charcoal).. Both cabins: Require 4 wheel drive and chains or two wheel drive and chains during winter storm snow days due to remote location. Big falls waterfall is just a short hike away, as well as the trailhead for Vivian creek Trail. Come spend time nestled in the Coulter Pines, oaks, and maple trees. Your neighbors are raccoons, and bears, property is situated on the edge of the San Bernardino National Forest at the top of the mountain. You truly feel like you're in the high Sierras just 1.5 hours from Los Angeles. Big Bear Lake is a 45 minute drive away. In town you will find Elkhorn General Store and El Mexicano Mexican Restaurant, both close early:). San Bernardino County Short Term Residential Rental Unit Permit CESTRP-2022-00524
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$180
 / night
Tipi Canyon, Joshua Tree Nat’l Park

5. Tipi Canyon, Joshua Tree Nat’l Park

99%
(39)
29mi from Idyllwild · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · CA
{Pack in/ pack out} Your own peaceful, tucked away desert! Enjoy the back country of Joshua Tree National Park at this private property that’s within the edge of the park boundary and overlooks it from several ridges. Surrounded by thousands of acres of park, conservation and private land while only a 10-15 minute drive to the National Park main entrance. Complete privacy nearly 2 miles in from a gated entrance at the base of a small canyon. Walk up to the ridge for panoramic views of JT National Park, Joshua Trees, mountains and valleys highlighted with brilliant greens, yellows and other blooms and a winding graded dirt road up to your exclusive camp site. Town is just a 5 minute drive away, complete with trendy shops, cafes, music venues, sightseeing and more. Note: please be aware there is some several years old fire damage at the site and nearby areas but the lush drive in and long range views remain. 😍
Pets
from 
$35
 / night

The soaring peaks of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains (as high as 10,834 feet) serve as the backdrop for Idyllwild, a mountain town nearly a mile higher than nearby Palm Springs (set on the other side of the mountains). Camping adventures are abundant here, including rock climbing at premier multi-pitch traditional crags: Tahquitz Rock and Suicide Rock. If belaying is not in your plans, miles of hiking trails, including a segment of the Pacific Coast Trail, pass through the region, and commanding views of the valley are at every turn for mountain bikers, too. The family-run supermarket and well-stocked general store serves as conveniences for campers staying in Idyllwild for a few days.

99% (5.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Birdsong Backcountry Retreat

1. Birdsong Backcountry Retreat

100%
(235)
25mi from Idyllwild · 8 sites · Lodging · Warner Springs, CA
Come experience the best that the San Diego backcountry has to offer on our 85 acre private nature retreat with it's miles of trails which take you thru groves of ancient Oaks, a monumental boulders maze, intoxicating sage, the most incredible sunset vistas and located just a couple miles from the North Mountain Wine Trail. the Pacific Crest Trail and the California Hiking and Riding Trail. The BLUEBIRD TINY HOUSE is one of 4 very private unique artisanal accommodations on the property. This vintage horse trailer was reimagined into a Tiny house by Lane and Laurie as a couples project in 2018 which they completely gutted and remodeled using beautiful natural materials , old fashioned wood cabinetry, handmade ceramic tiles and woven bamboo with fully equipped kitchen, quality linens, fireplace, AC, WIFI, smart TV. Bluebird Tiny House is tucked into a secluded forest meadow, named for the bluebirds that spend part of the year there and is a spacious feeling 320 sq ft. The spa-inspired bathroom features a hand-carved, wood vessel sink, eco-dual flush toilet,rain shower, and free-standing soaking tub with oak canopy view. The 40’ long deck spans the length of the secluded tiny house overlooking the forest to distant mountains and has alfresco dining area and plenty of furniture for cozying as well as hot tub sited for star gazing and firepit seating all within a large fenced yard to keep your fur babies close by. In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 forest therapy audio guide.. If you need to accommodate a larger group, check out Pinky's Nature Hideout which has a full kitchen, spacious living room, fenced yard for pets, corn hole, large deck and hot tub sited for star gazing, and firepit seating which overlooks the forest to distant mountains. It sleeps 4 people but the "Lounge" vintage Spartan trailer which is located behind the bunkhouse can be rented to sleep an additional 2 people and is only available to Pinky's guests. We provide guests the opportunity to really get away from it all in a untouched forest and chaparral setting with all the amenities one needs for a comfortable stay. In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 audio guide. Come getaway alone, with friends or family to our sweet little petfriendly glampsite CAMP CHESTER hidden under the oaks which features a vintage 1949 Canned Ham Tiny Trailer (sleeps 2 in a double and one on couch) , a 10 x 12 safari tent on deck w/queen bed, an outdoor kitchen with dining area and barista bar, bath house with hot water, rain-shower, claw-foot tub , compost toilet looking out to acres of sage and distant mountains and firepit. The owners are artisan builders and seasoned hosts who promise guests privacy and quiet. The camp is totally fenced for the safety of your pets and suitable for up to 6 people but sleeps up to 5 additional person(s) can bring tent. . It offers guests the opportunity to really get away from it all in a untouched forest and chaparral setting but offers all the amenities one needs for a comfortable stay. In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 audio guide. Camp Chester is a seasonal site and closed January thru March.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$105
 / night
Namaste Farms

2. Namaste Farms

99%
(142)
26mi from Idyllwild · 3 sites · Lodging · Temecula, CA
We purchased Namaste Farms in 1997 when I was showing reined cowhorses as well as raising thoroughbred racehorses.  In 2005, I purchased my first wool sheep and fell in love. Today, Namaste Farms is recognized around the globe for raising high quality wool producing sheep.  While sheep are the primary animals at Namaste Farms, there are countless other animals, both four legged and feathered!NOTE: Namaste Farms is a true working farm with copious amounts of sheep, goats, chickens, peafowl, and countless other animals. Along with those, we have free range squirrels, rabbits, flies, dust and yes, even free range spiders. If you're wanting a rustic experience that gives you a break from city life and you can handle dust, dirt, cobwebs (and these can happen over night inside your cottage and WILL be in the common areas), with sounds of animals vocalizing at all hours of the day and night, then Namaste Farms is a perfect fit for you.   Know, you're supporting a 501c3 charity and all the revenue goes to support the animals.This booking is for the Treehouse, and while it's only 1/2 a mile from the city limits, it has a rural feel and is centrally located to all wineries and most of the major equestrian facilities including Galway Downs, Green Acres, and California Ranch Company. For those who are coming to Temecula for horse shows, we also have a large barn with bedded stalls and turnouts (for an additional fee). There are designated horse trails right outside our gates which will even take you to Galway Downs and California Ranch Company. If you're into golf, you can enjoy Temecula's 7 PGA golf courses or Pechanga Casino which are also within a short driving distance to the farm. If horses or golf isn't your thing, you can visit Temecula Valley wineries which are all ~ 1/2-3.8 miles of the cottage gates. The wineries are not within walking distance of each other, UBER is only too happy to come here and pick you up! If you're not interested in any activities and simply want a "staycation," you can hang out here where you're welcomed to walk around the farm and interact with the animals. At night, enjoy the sounds of serenity.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$128
 / night
View of the cabin from the creek

3. Creekside Vintage Cabins w/hot tubs

99%
(139)
26mi from Idyllwild · 3 sites · Lodging · Forest Falls, CA
Two Cabins to choose from, each with its own vintage charm. Both on the same dirt road across the street from each other, separate properties, both with their own private hot tubs, kitchen, claw foot tub in bathroom, heating. Rent separate or rent both and bring your friends! Here are the special additions at each cabin: Creekside Cabin: 468 sq. ft, a beautiful deck backing up to the national forest, with propane fire pit(you supply your own propane tank), and charcoal bbq(you bring your own charcoal), overlooking fresh water creek, outdoor shower, large fireplace, open floor plan, living room with cozy queen bed, open to upstairs loft 2 full beds, and a twin bed. This cabin has the option to add the vintage trailer in the driveway June - October only as an additional space. Does not have electricity, bathroom or heating for $75 per day. Trailer not available other times of the year due to cold night temps. Vintage 1937 Cabin: larger indoor space 1304 sq. ft. , a rock front patio, Wood stove in living room, open to upstairs loft 2 full beds, private large bedroom with another wood stove w/ queen bed and twin fold out couch, laundry room, enclosed patio with gas bbq, and a charcoal bbq on front patio(you supply your own charcoal).. Both cabins: Require 4 wheel drive and chains or two wheel drive and chains during winter storm snow days due to remote location. Big falls waterfall is just a short hike away, as well as the trailhead for Vivian creek Trail. Come spend time nestled in the Coulter Pines, oaks, and maple trees. Your neighbors are raccoons, and bears, property is situated on the edge of the San Bernardino National Forest at the top of the mountain. You truly feel like you're in the high Sierras just 1.5 hours from Los Angeles. Big Bear Lake is a 45 minute drive away. In town you will find Elkhorn General Store and El Mexicano Mexican Restaurant, both close early:). San Bernardino County Short Term Residential Rental Unit Permit CESTRP-2022-00524
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$180
 / night
Tipi Canyon, Joshua Tree Nat’l Park

5. Tipi Canyon, Joshua Tree Nat’l Park

99%
(39)
29mi from Idyllwild · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · CA
{Pack in/ pack out} Your own peaceful, tucked away desert! Enjoy the back country of Joshua Tree National Park at this private property that’s within the edge of the park boundary and overlooks it from several ridges. Surrounded by thousands of acres of park, conservation and private land while only a 10-15 minute drive to the National Park main entrance. Complete privacy nearly 2 miles in from a gated entrance at the base of a small canyon. Walk up to the ridge for panoramic views of JT National Park, Joshua Trees, mountains and valleys highlighted with brilliant greens, yellows and other blooms and a winding graded dirt road up to your exclusive camp site. Town is just a 5 minute drive away, complete with trendy shops, cafes, music venues, sightseeing and more. Note: please be aware there is some several years old fire damage at the site and nearby areas but the lush drive in and long range views remain. 😍
Pets
from 
$35
 / night

Stories from the community

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

The best star host camping near Idyllwild guide

Where to go

Mount Jacinto State Park

Most visitors to the area head for Mount Jacinto State Park, which stretches from Idyllwild to Palm Springs. At the base of Mount San Jacinto, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway lifts up and over the sheer eastern face, traveling 2.5 miles while rotating for a one-of-a-kind experience. At the top, 8,516 feet up from the valley floor, visitors arrive at a temperature difference that averages 40°F. The park houses a number of campgrounds for tent and RV campers, and more than 50 miles of hiking, biking and cross-country skiing trails are set just outside.

Idyllwild Nature Center

One mile west of Idyllwild, the Idyllwild Nature Center offers guided tours that focus on mountain ecology, local flora and fauna, Cahuilla Native culture, and the history of the San Jacinto Mountains. Nearby, Hidden Valley Nature Center opens onto 25 miles of hiking and equestrian trails.

Tahquitz Rock and Suicide Rock

Idyllwild is the hub for explorers seeking to climb Tahquitz Rock and Suicide Rock. If you do not have climbing gear at hand, bouldering is a mellower way to explore the crags. Both rocks are accessible via hiking trails from Idyllwild.

When to go

Winter conditions can be variable—passes can close without warning—and weather can change suddenly even in summer.