- Cave Camping
The best cave camping near Indian Wells
96% (425) • 499 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Indian Wells
Granite Mountain
1. Granite Mountain
100%
(173)
29mi from Indian Wells · 3 sites
Looking for a getaway that blends rugged mountain beauty with upscale luxury and comfort? Welcome to your private luxury escape—where the stars shine brighter, the air feels cleaner, and every detail is designed to help you unplug, unwind, and reconnect.
Tucked into the hills, each cabin is surrounded by breathtaking views of towering peaks and wide open valleys. Wake to golden light pouring over the ridges and fall asleep to the sound of crackling fire and distant owls. This is more than a place to sleep- it’s a destination made for connection, reflection, and adventure.
Whether you’re planning a surprise getaway, celebrating a special occasion, or chasing peace in the wild, our mountain sanctuary gives you the space and luxury to make it unforgettable.
Spend your days exploring nearby hiking trails, tasting your way through award-winning wineries, or visiting the renowned local olive oil farm just minutes away—offering free daily tastings of oil made fresh on site. When night falls, cook dinner under the stars, sip wine by the fire, and let the stillness wrap around you.
🌟 And yes—you’ll have great cell service 📱 if you need it (or want to post that amazing view).
🚗 Easy access by car—no 4WD required
⸻
At each private site, you’ll enjoy:
🛏️ A plush queen memory foam bed for a luxurious night’s sleep
💧 A private hot rain shower
🚽 A modern composting toilet—clean, comfortable, and private
😊 Stay Cozy with Cold A/C on those warm days and Warm Heat on those cold winter nights
🔥 A personal fire pit and string-lit seating area for evening magic
🧊 A mini fridge to keep your food and drinks cool
🍳 A private outdoor kitchen with:
• A 2-burner propane stove
• Fresh water for cooking and cleanup
• Complimentary coffee to start your mornings right ☕
• Basic cookware, pots, pans, dishes, and utensils
⸻
This is luxury redefined—immersed in nature but full of thoughtful touches that make your stay effortless. 🌲 ⛺️
🔥 Book your escape today and discover why couples and adventurers call this their favorite off-grid luxurious getaway!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Vista Del Mar
2. Vista Del Mar
90%
(10)
34mi from Indian Wells · 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 :)
Pets
Campfires
Boulder Gardens Sanctuary
3. Boulder Gardens Sanctuary
98%
(156)
38mi from Indian Wells · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our gorgeous natural desert landscape with a quiet atmosphere and vast views. Guests are welcome to hike and explore our extensive land, which includes over 500 acres of primitive hiking trails, meditation gardens, and secret caves. This is an incredible place for stargazing and views of the milky way. The landscape is similar to the national park, though guests at Boulder Gardens will have a secluded place to set up camp, away from the crowds. Pioneertown, home to the famous venue Pappy and Harriets, as well as Red Dog Saloon is within a short drive.
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic table
San Bernardino National Forest
4. San Bernardino National Forest
94%
(151)
National forest 13mi from Indian Wells · 863 sites
Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Cleveland National Forest
5. Cleveland National Forest
93%
(85)
National forest 64mi from Indian Wells · 436 sites
Hike, camp, or gaze up at the Milky Way in California’s southernmost national forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Joshua Tree Container Resort
6. Joshua Tree Container Resort
96%
(201)
40mi from Indian Wells · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
96% (425) • 499 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Indian Wells
Granite Mountain
1. Granite Mountain
100%
(173)
29mi from Indian Wells · 3 sites
Looking for a getaway that blends rugged mountain beauty with upscale luxury and comfort? Welcome to your private luxury escape—where the stars shine brighter, the air feels cleaner, and every detail is designed to help you unplug, unwind, and reconnect.
Tucked into the hills, each cabin is surrounded by breathtaking views of towering peaks and wide open valleys. Wake to golden light pouring over the ridges and fall asleep to the sound of crackling fire and distant owls. This is more than a place to sleep- it’s a destination made for connection, reflection, and adventure.
Whether you’re planning a surprise getaway, celebrating a special occasion, or chasing peace in the wild, our mountain sanctuary gives you the space and luxury to make it unforgettable.
Spend your days exploring nearby hiking trails, tasting your way through award-winning wineries, or visiting the renowned local olive oil farm just minutes away—offering free daily tastings of oil made fresh on site. When night falls, cook dinner under the stars, sip wine by the fire, and let the stillness wrap around you.
🌟 And yes—you’ll have great cell service 📱 if you need it (or want to post that amazing view).
🚗 Easy access by car—no 4WD required
⸻
At each private site, you’ll enjoy:
🛏️ A plush queen memory foam bed for a luxurious night’s sleep
💧 A private hot rain shower
🚽 A modern composting toilet—clean, comfortable, and private
😊 Stay Cozy with Cold A/C on those warm days and Warm Heat on those cold winter nights
🔥 A personal fire pit and string-lit seating area for evening magic
🧊 A mini fridge to keep your food and drinks cool
🍳 A private outdoor kitchen with:
• A 2-burner propane stove
• Fresh water for cooking and cleanup
• Complimentary coffee to start your mornings right ☕
• Basic cookware, pots, pans, dishes, and utensils
⸻
This is luxury redefined—immersed in nature but full of thoughtful touches that make your stay effortless. 🌲 ⛺️
🔥 Book your escape today and discover why couples and adventurers call this their favorite off-grid luxurious getaway!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Vista Del Mar
2. Vista Del Mar
90%
(10)
34mi from Indian Wells · 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 :)
Pets
Campfires
Boulder Gardens Sanctuary
3. Boulder Gardens Sanctuary
98%
(156)
38mi from Indian Wells · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our gorgeous natural desert landscape with a quiet atmosphere and vast views. Guests are welcome to hike and explore our extensive land, which includes over 500 acres of primitive hiking trails, meditation gardens, and secret caves. This is an incredible place for stargazing and views of the milky way. The landscape is similar to the national park, though guests at Boulder Gardens will have a secluded place to set up camp, away from the crowds. Pioneertown, home to the famous venue Pappy and Harriets, as well as Red Dog Saloon is within a short drive.
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic table
San Bernardino National Forest
4. San Bernardino National Forest
94%
(151)
National forest 13mi from Indian Wells · 863 sites
Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Cleveland National Forest
5. Cleveland National Forest
93%
(85)
National forest 64mi from Indian Wells · 436 sites
Hike, camp, or gaze up at the Milky Way in California’s southernmost national forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Joshua Tree Container Resort
6. Joshua Tree Container Resort
96%
(201)
40mi from Indian Wells · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Carrie
2 weeks ago
1 night at Granite Mountain
Beautiful, clean and comfortable accomodations with all the comforts of home! We loved the porch with rockers and fire pit. Private and wonderful view!
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Catherine
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Granite Mountain
Amazing views, comfortable stay, romantic and private. Had everything we needed to cook & be comfortable - I'm buying that 3n1 coffee - yum! Loved the en-suite composting toilet and full shower - very convenient. Ken was communicative and accommodating. We would definitely stay again!
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Whitney
2 weeks ago
Tent
This was such an amazing experience! Waking up to the sunrise was the cherry on top. It was so beautiful and I felt safe as a solo female traveler. Shayna was so kind as well! I highly recommend.
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Stacey
3 weeks ago
27 ft Class C
With pets
Lovely place to stay. Nice and quiet. The hot tub was quite relaxing.
See more
R
Rocio
March 2026
Tent
Absolutely beautiful, peaceful, serene, and just what I needed for this past weekend. My father’s 10th year deathversay and late mother’s birthday was this past weekend. I needed solitude and to just be with my emotions. Staying at Buddha Cave gave me just that. The space I needed to just be. Shayna & the other folks I saw drive by were extremely friendly, and kind. They gave me my space but reassured me that they were close if I needed anything. I slept one night in the cave and the second night I camped outside the cave just to see more of the stars. Both places were magical. Thank you Shayna again, for allowing me to stay here. I will be back to show off your space with my family. 🩷
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J
Joaquin
March 2026
Tent
The campsite was great! It was beautiful with the giant boulders surrounding it. There were a few other people hiking around but it was still peaceful and quiet. Would definitely return!
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N
Nic
March 2026
Tent
Beautiful spot, friendly folks, mostly quiet. Loved it and had a great time.
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H
Hannah
March 2026
Tent
What a special place! Such wonderful hospitality by the hosts - so happy with our stay. Beautiful sunset and sunrise. Quiet, still, peaceful and comfortable. Cannot recommend enough.
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A
Albert
March 2026
With pets
Granite Mountain was an incredible escape! The views, sunrise, and sunset were breathtaking. So much so I proposed here. The cabin is easy to access from where you park and has everything you need. Ken was an excellent host, he was very responsive and made sure everything was taken care of. I would highly recommend!
See moreJ
Jay
March 2026
Tent
Absolutely beautiful area! Great views and well maintained area
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G
Guy
March 2026
Tent
Nice campsite in a rock enclosure - if you pitch a tent it needs to be small and self standing. The Sanctuary is great - super friendly chill people and a pretty interesting history. The location is also really cool - lots of giant boulder mounds to explore and some nice walks on the property which is over 600 acres and similar in landscape to the north end of the Joshua Tree reserve. Campsites are private and spaced out - you won’t have to worry about loud neighbours. All in all I’d recommend it - it’s quirky and unique and beautiful.
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Benjamin
March 2026
Tent
Peaceful, serene, and tranquil are the first words that come to mind, but these words are still nowhere close to doing it justice. This is my second trip back here and both of them have been meaningful ones. This is a place you come to escape from people, your everyday routine lives, the hustle and bustle, and more importantly, a place where you come to find yourself among the endless sea of boulders. Can't wait for my next trip back here.
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E
Edelyn
March 2026
2 nights at Granite Mountain
We loved our stay on Ken's land. The cabin was clean and well-stocked. The environment was peaceful and serene with gorgeous views. We also couldn't have asked for a better host. Ken was communicative, warm and welcoming and offered fabulous recommendations for nearby attractions. We are grateful for Ken's hospitality and our time at Granite Mountain. We can't wait to return!
See moreK
Kate
March 2026
20 ft Class C
Our rv spot at Overlook had the most spectacular view across the hills and distant mountains. It was very private and so peaceful.
We arrived late in the evening and missed the sunset but the full moon, night stars and sunrise were amazing.
We were greeted by a lovely young woman who drove ahead of us to take us to the site. The dirt road was pretty bumpy so beware if your vehicle is low slung!
All in all we loved it. Thank you hosts. We highly recommend a visit!
See moreJ
Jenny
March 2026
With pets
This was a wonderful stay! Ken really thought of everything with the cabin design, outdoor kitchen, and cozy fireside seating. It’s convenient for passers through; close to the road, but also very private. Gorgeous mountain views from bed!
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Theodore
March 2026
Tent
Had a wonderful relaxing weekend among the boulders. As I was told Shayna met me on arrival and showed me to the site.
The weather was fine, bugs buzzing, and the wind blowing. Barely saw another person on this solo trip and that’s just fine with me. Tested out some new gear, made some meals, had a few beers and walked around the rocks and hills.
Truly a beautiful place! It’s sort of like what the park wants to be but better and less people. Had a random visit from an old dog. He was pretty amiable and after I gave him some water he stuck around half the day napping in my shade and even followed me on one of my walks. Will definitely remember this one and next time maybe return with family and friends.
Go till the pavement stops and then go some more….
Thank you Shayna…
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J
Joe Joe
March 2026
Tent
With kids
The views were spectacular! It can get pretty windy sometimes at Overlook so be prepared. Shayna was very welcoming and communication was excellent. Porta potty was very clean and well maintained. No water available but we brought our own. If you’re used to Overlanding and not on a budget this would be the perfect place for you!
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J
John
February 2026
14 ft travel trailer
We had our teardrop trailer in the Overlook campsite. What a beautiful spot! The view was phenomenal, especially during sunrise and sunset. We were there in late February which seemed like a perfect time because the weather was great and there were many wildflowers due to recent rain. We also saw some wildlife, including a cute family of quail. The hosts, Shayna and Robert were very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. We are definitely going back again. We camp in many types of places and this hip camp not only offered a great site, but there was more privacy than any place we’ve been before.
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M
Misa
February 2026
Tent
My stay at the Buddha Cave was a lovely experience. At night, it felt like a beautiful solitude in the middle of the desert. I loved lying out on the boulders and gazing up at the stars. Sleeping in the cave felt so peaceful. Watching the sunrise in the morning was incredible.
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Aija
February 2026
With pets
My mom and I came to relax at Granite Mnt. for two days. Ken was an amazing host, communicated promptly and was extremely responsive. Granite Mnt. cabins are beautiful, set amongst manzanita trees and huge boulders. Although I didn't have my children along, I could imagine that children would have an amazing time climbing boulders and chasing lizards. The site is private (although we were the only visitors there) with a beautiful picnic table in the manzanita trees. As soon as the sun goes down beautiful lights turn on to create a beautiful ambience. We moved from the porch to the table to the fire pit. The bathroom and shower is in the cabin, which was great for my 78 year old mom (who made it up the hill)! The cabin is perfect for two people. As in southern California we could hear traffic from the nearby road at certain times of day. That was the only little bummer, but I am a stressed mom so always looking for quiet. I would return in a heartbeat.
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