The best desert campgrounds near Irvine, California

89% (509 reviews)

Looking for a camping experience near Irvine, California with a desert terrain? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 2,200 options available, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Check out top campsites like Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), The Lovelight Ranch (532 reviews), and The Desert Rose Collective (378 reviews) for highly recommended stays. Enjoy popular amenities such as toilets, campfires, and trash disposal. And if you're up for some adventure, try surfing, boating, or whitewater paddling. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $5, you'll have an affordable and unforgettable camping experience in the desert.

Popular camping styles for Irvine

Top-rated campgrounds

89% (509 reviews)

Looking for a camping experience near Irvine, California with a desert terrain? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 2,200 options available, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Check out top campsites like Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), The Lovelight Ranch (532 reviews), and The Desert Rose Collective (378 reviews) for highly recommended stays. Enjoy popular amenities such as toilets, campfires, and trash disposal. And if you're up for some adventure, try surfing, boating, or whitewater paddling. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $5, you'll have an affordable and unforgettable camping experience in the desert.

Popular camping styles for Irvine

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Vintage Camper In LBC Garden

100%

(2)

1 site · Lodging · Long Beach, CA

This 1968 Shasta Camper, located in a small garden within an urban neighborhood, sleeps up to four people, with additional space to set up tents if desired. It has a few amenities—some more rustic than others—including AC, refrigerator and freezer, stovetop (oven does not work), sinks, shower, internet, and coffee maker. Located just ten minutes from the Port of Long Beach and the Port of San Pedro, it’s a great launch point for cruise-goers. With swimming beaches only twenty minutes away, it’s an ideal option for a low-cost vacation. Help yourself to the freshest fruits, vegetables, and legumes from the garden, and watch the bees, butterflies, and grasshoppers happily pollinate, creating opportunities for new growth. The property is securely locked, and the entrance is video-monitored for your safety (and ours). It’s important to note that the camper (not a glamper) is vintage, and the convenience of the urban neighborhood can sometimes come with a variety of neighborhood sounds—though it can also be extremely quiet at times. Due to the desert climate, ants may accompany the pollinators and enter the camper if food or beverages are left out. The garden is shared with our home, so some privacy may be compromised when we tend to it.

2. Kountry Manor

95%

(20)

6 sites · RVs · Loma Linda, CA

Please call directly before booking 909-363-6310 Long-term possible dry dock-No Hookups for Electric/Water Camp area is behind 110 year old craftsman style home formerly one of the first orange growers in this area. Country like setting with mature trees that are over 100 foot tall and over 100 years old mini or fruit trees. Environmental friendly gardening which includes no pesticides, not manicured natural look preserving nature. we have mini ground squirrels, cottontail bunny rabbits, red tailed hawk, owls and hundreds of birds beautiful. Mountain biking trails regular bike trails lots of walking paths hiking in the nearby foothills. On the other side of Mountain View, which we were right off of is a great Italian restaurant called Sorrentino’s. Everything is delicious there! Great Thi food going west on our street R thi Go on an outing local foothills Oak glen is really beautiful and fun!

3. Rock & Tree

98%

(88)

12 sites · RVs, Tents · Perris, CA

It's so nice to "meet you" my name is Taryn and my hubby's name is Anson. We are parents to two-year-old twins, so saying we have our hands full is an understatement. Anson is a folk and blues musician and has traveled all around the U.S. playing his music and I work for a children's book company. One day, we decided that we wanted to live the rest of our lives hosting live music, and events and that's how Rock & Tree began. As the idea grew, we wanted to create an Open Canvas so that the guest could dream up what they wanted on our stage. We moved to the Inland Empire from Santa Monica, in 2017 with the dream of building an open canvas event space out of sustainable, re purposed and natural materials. Our mission is help enrich the culture of Perris, CA by providing a unique venue that takes you away from the hustle and bustle and takes you to a wonderland of nature surrounded by rocks and eucalyptus trees. Anson and I continue to build everything ourselves with the help of our friends and family every now and again. Our process is that we source as much lumber using the dead Eucalyptus trees we have here on the 36 acre property and we are constantly trying to come up with innovative ways to use recycled and donated materials in the venue. During the pandemic, we turned our venue into a campground so we could open up the venue to people who needed to get out into nature. We are now open for daily camping and private events. You can follow our journey on our Instagram.

4. Rustic Hunting Cabin

1 site · RV, Tent · Piñon Hills, CA

Escape the hustle and reconnect with nature in our charming cabin. This cabin ideal for those who want to be rustic and rough it a bit. Peace , privacy and off grid living. With no running water or electricity you'll experience the true basics surrounded by mountain views. The cabin is only 2 miles from the town of wrightwood where you can find a market , restaurants , shops and ice cream parlors. It has new siding, new roofing and new windows. There are a few chairs and a table. You will need a portable sleeping Cot. You will use the restroom as if you were camping so you can bring a potty with you. so Bring water and camping gear :)

5. Fallbrook View Glamping Tent

94%

(9)

1 site · Lodging · Rainbow, CA

Hi I have a glamping tent fully furnished with power, toilets, heated shower, propane heater with great views and privacy. You’ll enjoy huge views and 32 acres to explore. We do have chickens and there is wildlife like coyote so please be careful and aware if you bring your pets. Also you’ll need to bring your own bedding. Let me know if you have any questions.

6. Cold Creek Homestead

93%

(22)

5 sites · RVs · San Bernardino, CA

Cold Creek is a unique 112-acre property in the San Bernardino National Forest. Because of its location in a 3,200 foot elevation, it's colder than the Southern California deserts and warmer than the cold mountains above us. Our temperatures rarely exceed 90F and rarely drop below 40F. We have plenty sun and about two to three days of snow every winter. A year-around creek keeps everything green and fresh around the year. We are the second owners since 1913, and operate a small organic orchard on the property. We are most famous for our honey, peaches and figs, but also grow apples, pears, persimmon, blackberries, greens, bay leaf, white sage and more.For years , we were WWOOF hosts (look it up ;-) and resisted opening up Cold Creek to traffic associated with daily camping arrivals, but we finally found the perfect spots for visitors to park their RVs, spend a quiet night and visit the orchard by foot.We are now excited by the prospect of focusing on expanding our micro-farming and inviting campers to look over our shoulders.

7. Nalas Lake Play

77%

(13)

1 site · RV, Tent · Lake Elsinore, CA

Welcome to Lake Elsinore!! Im excited to be your host and help you make some great memories! This land does have a slope. But it also has a flap spot ontop perfect for camping with some amazing lake views and some gorgeous night skys. The stars feel so close to you that you think you can just reach out and grab them! There is a paved road that leads to the top of the street which is the most recommended way to get to this property since the road that google maps gives you is not paved and its too narrow for some cars. You are close to homes and stores. But your also secluded away to give you some privacy. Making you feel at one with nature. This small town is sourrended by loving people making it a jewel not just for the views and lake. This land is perfect for camping tents, Glamping tents, 4x4 Car Campers, and even small RVs(There is a small slope to get up into the property so make sure your RV is capable). The Property is just 3 minutes away from Lake Elsinore, here you can fish, swim, BBq, and many more activity that the lake offers. Being so close to it makes you want to be out there all day and come back at night to enjoy your night shows on the property with the stars. The property seize is 0.11 acres which is 4,791sq Feet. Only about 800sq Feet has a slope the rest is just flat land ontop. That gives you 3,800+ sq feet of land to just enjoy and have fun on!

8. The Green Ravine & Trails in SoCal

94%

(33)

1 site · RV, Tent · Fallbrook, CA

Learn more about this land: A relaxing 20 acres nestled within breathtaking mountain views, overlooking a lush ravine, rolling hills, and ocean breezes this Temecula community is a nature lovers dream. Endless natural terrain, pleasantly quiet for connecting with nature and rejuvenating your spirit. Santa Rosa Plateau trails for hiking, walking, and biking literally 7 minutes away! Only 20-25 minutes from the Temecula valley Famous Old Town, Shopping, Temecula Wineries, and California's largest Natural Lake, Lake Elsinore. Quiet, Secluded and Relaxing!! Thank you and enjoy our Lovely Southern California campsite! Cheers.

9. SoCal Double D Farm

93%

(15)

1 site · RV · Calimesa, CA

OUR STORY Our farm story began in 2018, when on a whim and a prayer we purchased a rundown home and land. After years of acquiring many blisters, animals, plants and weird suntans, we eventually created the home and farm of our dreams. Our emphasis in the beginning of this journey was to create a space in which our children (along with ourselves) learned the value of producing our own food, fiber, meat and eggs. We challenged ourselves to learn sustainable and organic farming practices, and the emphasis soon changed to how can we share this journey and all that we have learned with more than just our children. So…..here we are, sharing our hard work and ambition with you. For now, this ambition is in the form of HomeMade Jams, Jellies, Teas, Seasonings and Confections that is procured from our own organically grown gardens and trees along with HandMade fiber creations from our small Alpaca herd. I would like to be able to say that we grew everything that goes into our ingredients, but we are not that good at everything yet! So to keep in the spirit of ethical sustainability along with ensuring a high quality and great tasting product, we purchase ingredients from local organic farmers and shelf products that not only have the USDA Organic seal, but are non-GMO, ethically harvested and in some cases certified Kosher. One day we hope to meet you and share our story with you by introducing you to the fruit trees my father grew from seed and let you feel the soft fiber of our eclectic herd of misfit Alpacas while you watch the glorious Southern California sunset touch the hot desert horizon we call home. Cheers!

10. Skyline Mountain

97%

(45)

2 sites · RVs, Tents · CA

This little farm is being brought back to life! Once part of an 160 acre avocado farm now it is a 15 acre little slice of heaven purchased in 2019. Previously the farm had been let go and now our duty is to get it back in shape. We are making steady progress and fall in love with the land more everyday. Currently we are also planting about an acre of lavender which should be a beautiful backdrop come 2024. Time up here gives you a chance to unwind, unplug, and explore some remaining wildlife in southern California. Come and join us!

11. Wine Country Olive & Vine Acres

96%

(26)

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Temecula, CA

Escape to our charming hobby farm, just one mile from the Temecula wineries! Enjoy a night under the stars in your own private camping space, perfect for families and adults alike. Unwind in our game room and bar for some happy hour fun, and experience the beauty of farm life with all the comforts of a unique getaway. The site is equipped with : Beds to sleep 5, electricity, kitchenette in the tenet trailer, bathroom, outdoor picnic table, fire pit, and bbq, game room, and bar area to relax at. We are conveniently located near 40 wineries, Lake Skinner recreation, Pechanga Casino, Old Town Temecula, and hiking trails. There is something for everyone! Highlights: Private campsite with plenty of space and shade. Fully stocked tent trailer - just bring your clothes and food. Fire pit and outdoor seating. Clean restroom access. Game room and bar area. Come enjoy simple living, beautiful views and peaceful rest - the perfect getaway for nature lovers and wine sippers alike! We'd love to host you!

12. Bierbaum Pepper Farm w/Goats!

98%

(536)

7 sites · RVs, Tents · Hemet, CA

We are a small homestead/farm just outside Temecula Valley Wine Country in California. Primarily we raise our mini dairy goats and host BYO Tent or RV camping.In October of 2016 we began our journey to create our small farm/homestead. With absolutely no experience and coming from a tiny condo in the city we decided to leave that life behind and buy 11 acres in the middle of no where!We weren't sure what to do with 11 acres. We don't come from a farming family but we had the drive to learn. With the help of YouTube, books, blogs, vlogs and friendly neighbors we began to teach ourselves how to run a small farm, inching into the lifestyle a little at a time.We started off with 15 chickens, many failed gardens and then fell in love with Nigerian Dwarf Goats!We found Hipcamp over a year later and in April 2018 opened up our home to strangers wanting to camp on private property.Since we are in the middle of Temecula Wine Country we figure that our farm is the perfect family friendly environment to relax in nature but still be close to some great attractions. Play with baby goats, chickens and rabbits. Explore the property and star gaze at night without light pollution from the city!This was an empty lot that was first purchased in 2014. We are the second owners of the property and want to be as self sustaining as possible. We are on a well and have converted to solar power. We will be building up the camp sites as well, gradually adding more amenities as we go to create a unique experience for our guests.More about me:I had a great and successful career at a very large CPA firm in San Diego but with city living comes pressure and stress. Due to deadlines and even more stress created by the partners of the firm, I ignored what my body was telling me. I put off going to the doctor for months telling myself I didn't have time and, after this next deadline I'll get a check up.I knew that I needed to change my lifestyle but I wasn't doing it fast enough. We closed escrow on the property in October of 2016 and that November I was in the ER. I almost died. Spent my birthday and Thanksgiving in the hospital.Soon after that I quit my job at the CPA firm and started working from home. Still suffering from complications, that summer in June/July I ended up in the ER again. Even closer to death this time. Since then I've turned around my health. Focused on life on the farm. Raising my animals, my garden and creating a unique experience with the campers. I enjoy sharing this life and my home with like-minded people who want to escape the city and feel a little closer to nature.

13. Elysian Groves

96%

(12)

5 sites · RVs, Tents · Valley Center, CA

Welcome to Elysian Groves, a stunning property nestled in the rolling hills of Valley Center. With 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, Palomar Mountain, and the ocean, Elysian Groves is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, Elysian Groves offers ample space for all your camping needs. Our property features flat, grassy areas that are ideal for pitching a tent, as well as spacious parking areas for RVs. And with our commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the land, you can rest assured that you'll be camping in a pristine, unspoiled environment. But that's not all that Elysian Groves has to offer. As a working avocado and citrus grove, our property is surrounded by acres of lush fruit trees, providing a picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure. And with easy access to nearby hiking trails, beaches, and other outdoor activities, you'll never run out of things to do. At Elysian Groves, we're committed to providing a peaceful, relaxing, and memorable camping experience. Come experience the beauty of our grove for yourself and create memories that will last a lifetime. We can't wait to welcome you!

14. Royal Diamond Alpaca Ranch

100%

(2)

1 site · RV · Murrieta, CA

Royal Diamond is a Western theme ranch with 20 Alpacas, 12 llama, 10 Nubian goats, 2 Draft horses, 1 quarter horse and 2 mini horses. Guided tours available daily. Visitor can enjoy our exotic animals Pet and Play with animals.

15. Huttopia Paradise Springs

3 sites · Lodging · Valyermo, CA

French below - With its untouched natural beauty, fresh mountain air, and golden sunlight filtering through the trees, it’s easy to see why Paradise Springs became the perfect setting for our very first Huttopia resort on the West Coast. Nestled high in the San Gabriel Mountains, within the heart of the protected Angeles National Forest, Huttopia Paradise Springs offers a true retreat into the wild. For generations, this hidden gem has drawn those seeking to escape the buzz of greater Los Angeles and reconnect with nature. Tucked within a wide canyon, Paradise Springs is a true oasis—surrounded by vibrant desert flora and nourished by a crystal-clear artesian spring that feeds a meandering creek all year round. It’s wild, serene, and effortlessly magical—just as paradise should be. -- Avec sa nature préservée, son air pur de montagne et la lumière dorée filtrant à travers les arbres, il est facile de comprendre pourquoi Paradise Springs a été le choix évident pour notre tout premier site Huttopia sur la côte Ouest. Nichée au cœur des montagnes San Gabriel, dans la forêt nationale protégée d’Angeles, Huttopia Paradise Springs offre une véritable échappée sauvage. Depuis des générations, ce lieu secret attire ceux qui souhaitent fuir l’agitation de la grande région de Los Angeles pour se reconnecter à la nature. Au creux d’un large canyon, Paradise Springs est une oasis authentique, entourée d’une végétation désertique luxuriante et alimentée par une source artésienne qui fait vivre un ruisseau sinueux tout au long de l’année. Sauvage, paisible et naturellement magique — c’est exactement notre idée du paradis.

Stories from the community

B

Brad

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Rock & Tree

Rock & Tree is the best place to host your event! We always have a wonderful time, it’s truly a magical spot.

Ridley

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rock & Tree

Tales from Gloom Hollow just had our second event at Rock and Tree. Absolutely an amazing time. This venue is so pretty and well maintained. Had an incredible night time experience, being able to star gaze late at night when all the activities winded down is a huge bonus for me personally. Our player base is also enjoying this location and love our new home at Rock and Tree!

H

Hayden

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Skyline Mountain

Such a cool sight with just the right amount of amenities to make for a great casual camping experience. The road up is no joke and you got to be unafraid to get up a dirt road that goes up quickly, but our cars could do it, even when we came in at night. Caleb was great and communicative and we will definitley coming back for the next time do our retreat, the amphitheater so well positioned and the town at night was beautiful to look at. Great sunrises and sunsets too!

e

esther

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Vintage Camper In LBC Garden

It’s beats sleeping on the ground that’s for sure! Very cute and comfortable. The host was easy to work with and very communicative. Definitely will book again.

R

Riley

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Rock & Tree

We hosted our annual campout festival Raise Your Energy at Rock and Tree, and it was nothing short of magical. The property is full of hidden gems — beautiful trees offering plenty of shade, cozy hammocks for lounging, and endless nooks to explore and relax in. The hosts, Taryn and Anson, were incredibly kind and accommodating every step of the way — from the planning phase all the way through the event itself. Their communication and support made everything feel easy and stress-free. And Taylor, the on-site manager, absolutely rules — super helpful, chill, and on top of everything. This place truly captures the spirit of community and connection. We couldn’t have asked for a better spot for our festival, and we can’t wait to come back. Highly recommend Rock and Tree to anyone looking for a special, welcoming space surrounded by nature and good energy! 🌳✨

e

esther

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Vintage Camper In LBC Garden

Definitely beats sleeping on the ground. Super cute and comfortable. The host is very understanding and very communicative. It’s one I will definitely come back and visit.

T

Tyler

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Cold Creek Homestead

Host was very friendly, the views were great, but you are sort of close to the highway. Overall pretty nice

S

Simone

September 2025

21 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to SoCal Double D Farm

Great host! Great location! Easy to get to. Will definitely stay here again!

A

Ashley

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Fallbrook View Glamping Tent

Great views, clean bathrooms, comfy bed! Our dog enjoyed it as much as we did. Can’t wait to come back, thank you for your hospitality!

Ridley

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rock & Tree

This was an absolute amazing weekend. I run a Larp (live action role play) with my husband and this was our first weekend running here. this location is amazing solid 10/10. Hosts are so nice! The site is so pretty especially at night. So happy to call Rock and Tree home!

K

KELLEY

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Fallbrook View Glamping Tent

Good value , very clean , nice views, good amenities but we wish were informed roosters were so close to the tent like a few feet away , and there isn’t really anywhere to hike without bushwhacking

M

Mara

September 2025

25 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to SoCal Double D Farm

We had an incredible time here, Julianne and her family created a true oasis!

C

Cyndee

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rock & Tree

This place is so unique and fun. Went there to celebrate my birthday and it did not disappoint. My guests loved walking around and finding all the unique and fun things around the property. The owners and groundskeeper are also super nice and friendly.

S

Séverine

July 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Rock & Tree

We have two nights in this unique place, somewhere between wild and magical. Thank you very much! Traduire

J

Jennifer

July 2025

1 night at Fallbrook View Glamping Tent

The camp was perfect for my night away from the hustle of the city. The bed was comfortable, and even though it was cold outside, the tent kept it warm inside (there was an option for a space heater). The flush toilets were clean and private and the shower was overlooking the valley so the morning breeze felt amazing fresh out of the shower. The camp was set up to make outdoor cooking easy, and the chairs on the deck were a great touch to end the evening overlooking the valley as the sun set. Will absolutely visit again!

Y

Yvette

July 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at SoCal Double D Farm

This was a beautiful and thoughtfully prepared spot! The host helped us attempt to level our camper van and was kind enough to bring us an extension cord so we could connect our 30 AMP. There was some animal noise at night (coyotes and guardian dogs barking at each other a bit) and the neighbor’s rooster did his thing in the morning, but it didn’t bother us. The site has an adorable picnic table and a second seating area. Would stay again!

R

Rikki

July 2025

1 night at Fallbrook View Glamping Tent

Beautiful views, so peaceful and comfortable. The yurt has everything you need and the restroom facilities are clean. Everything is well maintained and the host (and father) are kind and accommodating. Will definitely say again when in town.

l

lin

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Skyline Mountain

Caleb was an awesome host & I had fun camping here! The views were beautiful and electricity & water was a plus; especially camping with pups. Highly recommend staying here!

B

Becky

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Fallbrook View Glamping Tent

Our night stay here was so amazing! The tent is all you need and the views were stunning! Our host was so kind as well. Shower is the shower and bathrooms and then said have a great night and to let him know if we needed anything. I highly recommend this spot for an amazing getaway. You won’t regret it!

C

Christopher

May 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Fallbrook View Glamping Tent

We had a great, relaxing time. You’re not far from Fallbrook or Temecula if you need supplies or want a meal in town, and there’s a rugged, long trail called Montserrate if you want exercise. We mainly enjoyed the view outside our tent, reading, listening to music and cooking on our camp stove or the fire pit. The tent is roomy (Queen bed with dresser and nightstands) and there are two bathrooms and a shower nearby). Not fancy glamping but perfect for our needs. You will hear birds at night, roosters throughout the day, but not a bother. Maybe bring earplugs if you want to sleep in. Would stay again.