The best hot spring campgrounds near Imperial, California

Looking to go camping near Imperial, California? Hipcamp has over 670 options for you to choose from, with prices starting as low as $10 per night. Whether you prefer a rustic experience or a more luxurious stay, you'll find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Check out top campsites like Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), THE PRESERVE (274 reviews), and The Castle House Estate (276 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities such as potable water, trash disposal, and campfires. And if you're into fishing, horseback riding, or climbing, you'll have plenty of opportunities to indulge in your favorite activities.

97% (264)

Top-rated campgrounds

rock tub #1 with the big pool in the background

Looking to go camping near Imperial, California? Hipcamp has over 670 options for you to choose from, with prices starting as low as $10 per night. Whether you prefer a rustic experience or a more luxurious stay, you'll find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Check out top campsites like Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), THE PRESERVE (274 reviews), and The Castle House Estate (276 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities such as potable water, trash disposal, and campfires. And if you're into fishing, horseback riding, or climbing, you'll have plenty of opportunities to indulge in your favorite activities.

97% (264)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

99%

(222)

42mi from Imperial · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bombay Beach, CA

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.

2. In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat

99%

(115)

34mi from Imperial · 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.

3. DeAnza Springs Resort

94%

(18)

38mi from Imperial · 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.

Stories from the community

R

Richard

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

Gordon was a knowledgeable and accommodating host. The camp is clean and well maintained. Gordon's recommendation for hiking and sightseeing was spot on.

Mallory

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

1 night at Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

Gordon was extremely accommodating throughout the whole experience. Even when our arrival continuously got delayed due to significant traffic getting out of LA. The location is very magical and the hot springs are healing. He has created a beautiful space and harvest the best dates I have ever eaten. (Which he happily shared) Couldn’t recommend a better spot. Grata experience all around!

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!

Brendan

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

Spending time at Gordon’s property with the hot springs is quite special and always makes me feel lucky. It’s a quiet peaceful place to contemplate the stars and experience desert life. We saw foxes, bats and heard the cries of coyotes.

K

Kelly

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

We absolutely loved staying at Gordon’s spot. This is our second trip and we will definitely return again! It is so peaceful and Gordon, the host, is very kind and accommodating. A perfect place to relax in hot baths and watch the stars!

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!!

J

Jenny

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

Amazing stay, such a great host… welcomes you into his home for the bathroom. So many different pools… you can’t find this anywhere else.

Rose

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

This was an incredibly serene site, and Gordon was an exceptional host. He made sure to have the spring temperature hot when we needed it, and recommended spots in the area to check out. The little cabana offered perfect shelter we didn’t even have to use our tent. Both pools were very clean and refreshing. A bonus, the view of the stars was amazing!

M

Michi

May 2025

20 ft Class C

1 night at Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

Such a beautiful and relaxing stay! The bath was perfect, over looking the desert. We enjoyed three baths and Gordon was so kind to fill them up and adjusted to our preferred temperature. The water is full of minerals and left our skin feeling smooth. Will be back :)

K

Keli

May 2025

21 ft campervan

1 night at Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

We were somewhat skeptical driving out there but once we got there, it was fantastic! We had a lovely evening and Gordon was a great host.

M

Mike

May 2025

24 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

Great place to relax and soak in the amazing pools. Very relaxing and amazing sunsets from the property. Gordon was very accomodative and a great host. Really enjoyed our stay.

Jade

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

All I can say is wow! Thank you, Gordon, for allowing us to enjoy your hot springs. The one night we spent there felt like a week of relaxation. We definitely took advantage of the water, late night and very early in the morning. You are a great host to your land, and we truly hope everyone respects the cleanliness of it all. We would love to come visit again soon, thanks again!

John

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

Gordon is a great host. He made us feel welcome and made sure we were comfortable. We loved the hot spring spa, the stars, and the amazing dates he grows, as well as his deep knowledge of hot springs and hiking spots in the area. Highly recommended.

M

Michele

April 2025

Tent

2 nights at Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

Gordon’s place is excellent, and he is a terrific host. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there and look forward to returning next year. The properly is serene, with a gorgeous view of the sky and the desert. I highly recommend a weekend getaway here, with long soaks in the mineral spring to whomever needs a good dose of therapy.

Sara

April 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

Gordon is a really wonderful host; great communication, thoughtfully laid out accommodations, and the water was perfect. We were just there for a quick overnight but wish we could have stayed longer. Beautiful and very restful spot!

Grace

April 2025

Tent

1 night at Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

Gordon was quick to respond to messages and willing to fulfill requests early morning even though we had arrived fairly late . This is a unique and private place for an outdoor mineral soak .. I loved it !

Mayra

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

The place is very private and relaxing. We had a wonderful time enjoying the hot springs and the night sky. There is plenty of space for a tent and we had no issues setting up camp. Gordon is an excellent host and communicated well with us before and during our stay. We also appreciate him sharing some of the delicious dates he grows!

A

ANDREA

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat

Unfortunately I had to cancel my trip last minute, but I intent on visiting these sacred lands in the near future. Greg was understanding and kind at my last minute cancellation.

a

attilio

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

gordon was most accommodating; his desert oasis is perfectly lovely with fantastic hot mineral-rich spring-water pools that he dials in each guest’s requested temperature of liking.

Erin

April 2025

Tent

1 night at Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

The pool was exactly what I needed after a long flight and the view was incredible. Gordon was a wonderful host! He asked me what time I’d like my evening and morning soak to be ready and showed me around, and he had drinking water available and shared some delicious dates with me! This was a relaxing and perfect way to start my vacation.