River, stream, or creek camping near Joshua Tree

Hardy adventurers with an appetite for serene desert scenery head to this vast SoCal wilderness.

96% (213 reviews)
  1. United States
    —
  2. California
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  3. Joshua Tree
96% (213 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Joshua Tree

Community favorites near Joshua Tree

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

  • As you're coming in, you can see the trailer tucked into a nook - very private
  • Trailer Entrance!
  • As you're coming in, you can see the trailer tucked into a nook - very private
99%
(137)

Creekside Vintage Cabins w/hot tubs

3 sites · Lodging1 acre · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$209.30
 / night
  • Large kitchen stocked with pots, pans, dishes, silverware, etc.
  • The Chalet has a cute matching garage.
  • Large kitchen stocked with pots, pans, dishes, silverware, etc.
85%
(72)

Sky Ranch in Big Bear

5 sites · Lodging5 acres · Big Bear, CA
This is a truly unique piece of land, for travelers who want to experience pure nature and the spirit of a bygone age. The ranch sits at 7,000 feet, surrounded by towering old-growth Jeffrey pines. While nearly all the other camping spots in Big Bear Valley are packed tightly together, as soon as you enter our private five-acre Sky Ranch, you can discover true seclusion. This land was homesteaded by a Swiss woman, who called it home from 1915 until 1988. Step onto the broad wooden Star Deck, and you're looking at an alpine forest which has changed little since the Serrano Indians first arrived here 3,000 years ago. There are no homes visible -- and immediately adjacent to your camping spot, you'll find the trails of the San Bernardino National Forest, winding through hundreds of square miles of pure nature. This property is quiet night and day, the perfect break from harried city life. The only sounds you're likely to hear are wind through the trees, and birds which glide from tree to tree. And when the brilliant colors of sunset subside, thousands of stars emerge to remind you of why the Milky Way got its name. -------------------------------- * Yes, dogs can come too! * During holidays, we may ask a 3-night minimum stay. * For special events, see calendar at Big Bear website. -------------------------------- The Sky Ranch is adjacent to hundreds of square miles of forest. The famous Pacific Crest Trail, which stretches 2,663 miles from Canada to Mexico, passes just east of us. This land is a perfect retreat — whether you’re escaping the city or taking a break from a PCT trek. Even on big holiday weekends, you'll be completely isolated from traffic and crowds. In the Summer, Big Bear Valley offers countless hiking trails, boating and fishing in the lake, mountain and road biking, horseback riding, golf, ziplining, the zoo, and many other outdoor activities. In Winter, there's skiing/boarding, snowshoeing, sledding, and more. For kids, there's a "fort," swings, and a huge sandbox in a boat. They're also welcome to help feed our chickens. That's always a big hit! And we have a telescope for stargazing. Some guests swear they can feel the spirits of the Native Americans and others who lived here. Is it real? You tell us. * * * About Town: The nearest stores and restaurants are within five minutes by car or bus. The center of Big Bear Lake is 10 to 20 minutes away, and offer scores of restaurants, boutiques, and galleries. There are also two supermarkets, multiple drug stores, and a hospital. Also within minutes by car/bus are... > Two ski and snowboard resorts, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, offering 26 lifts and 55 runs. There are excellent schools and family areas, as well as serious terrain parks and an Olympic-size halfpipe. This is where Shaun White learned to fly! > Big Bear's famous alpine lake, which offers fishing, all forms of boating, and other water sports. > Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk & Wildlife Preserve, where you can stroll the boardwalk, have a picnic in the gazebo, or just sit and enjoy the lake and mountain views. > The U.S. Forest Service Discovery Center, which offers a variety of nature programs. > A truly remarkable animal park -- one of only two alpine zoos in the U.S. -- housing grizzlies, wood bison, cougars, timber wolves, eagles, and much more. > Big Bear Valley Museum. Although you're staying in one of the rarest historical homes in California, the museum has some great exhibits as well, including an example of a stamp mill which was used to crush gold ore in the era when this cabin was built. > Bear Mountain Golf Course. At 7,000 feet, it's an entirely different game. For those seeking a true wilderness adventure, the San Bernardino Mountains offer spectacular terrain. While the Serranos have called these mountains home for many centuries, Europeans didn't venture into this rugged land till 1850. It's one of the youngest mountain ranges in the world (in geological terms) and features scores of steep, challenging peaks, which stretch from the natural hot springs of Deep Creek in the west, to huge Yucca forests in the east. 11,500-foot Mount San Gorgonio, named by Spanish missionaries in the early 17th century, is at the center of the first designated wilderness area in America. Also known as "Old Greyback," San Gorgonio and the 11 surrounding peaks over 10,000 feet are home to an extremely rare herd of bighorn sheep. The headwaters of the Santa Ana and Mojave rivers offer premier wild trout streams such as Bear Creek, accessible only by foot. Hundreds of miles of unpaved National Forest roads offer every type of off-road experience -- ranging from an easy drive to Pioneertown, to the most radical 4WD trails imaginable (11 Difficults, six Most Difficults). The Cabin is right in the middle of the major routes. After a day here, you may find it hard to believe that you're just 100 miles (and perhaps a century) away from Downtown Los Angeles. Welcome. ------------------------------ (See additional info below the Japanese.) ロスアンゼルスから車で２時間、青い空と自然にかこまれ、静かでゆったりした時間を過ごすことができます。春、夏は美しいビッグベア湖でカイヤッキングや魚釣り、または数あるハイキングコースにチャレンジ。冬は、サミットとベアマウンテン、２つのスキー場でスキーやスノーボードを楽しんだ後、満天の星を見ながらジャクジーで疲れをいやすのはいかがですか？ ロスアンゼルス空港からの送迎も可能です。 その他、ご質問等ございましたら日本語でお気軽にお問い合わせ下さい。 ------------------------------ Useful Notes: Dogs are always welcome, and a spacious dog corral is available. We do ask guests to pay an added fee of $5 per pup per day. Propane stoves are OK, and we have a natural-gas BBQ grill available for use. Outdoor wood fires and/or lighter fluid are never allowed. There is easy parking for any number of cars. RVs and trailers are no problem either. Total charges will depend of the number of guests and vehicles. Cell phones on Verizon and Sprint will have coverage. The AT&T and T-Mobile networks still do not cover this area, however the wifi near our home enables calls/texts on most phones. The public bus stop is a short walk. Surprisingly, it is possible to take public transit from any train station in SoCal all the way to our bus stop (and vice versa). Cheaper than driving, and no worries about weather. Ask us for details. If you're bringing kids, let us know the ages. You may get a discount. :) For equestrians, we have a two-acre horse corral, plus hay barn and covered stall. ------------------------------ Legal Note: Upon booking, you will gain access to a Ranch Manual, which includes the rental contract for your stay. Be sure to familiarize yourself with all terms in advance.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$159.20
 / night
  • Maison Solange-Sweet Red Barn Farmhouse- Moonridge
  • Maison Solange-Sweet Red Barn Farmhouse- Moonridge
  • Maison Solange-Sweet Red Barn Farmhouse- Moonridge
100%
(1)

Maison Solange-Sweet Red Barn Farmhouse- Moonridge

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Big Bear City, CA
Welcome to the first edition of Maison Solange! This dreamy modern boho cabin is up 40 steps from the driveway to the first floor, the cabin feels like it's in a treehouse, private and serene. Peek-a-boo views of Bear Mountain Resort from the front decks. Close to Bear Mountain and Snow Summit resorts, Alpine Zoo, downtown Moonridge and Golf Course! The cabin is great for couples, solo adventures, remote working, and all families. The location is close to everything!! Relax in spa & chill The space Some of our amenities: Primary bedroom Queen bed with smart TV Private deck Second Bedroom 2 @ twin beds with smart TV *Wood-burning fireplace- Firewood available for purchase at markets & gas stations. *Flat screen SMART TVs in living room and in both bedrooms. Chromecast in the bedroom to connect to your apps through a phone and stream. Connect to Chromecast and you can cast what you have on your phone. *Smart home with G Home for time, music etc. security cameras outside for added safety. *Extra blankets, pillows, and towels are in closet. *All linens, blankets and kitchen items provided. *Front deck with peek-a-boo view of the slopes, additional private deck upstairs in main bedroom. Deck in back off kitchen with seating area *Included are games, puzzles and toys for the kids *Dedicated space with desk and chair for remote working access *Wall gas heater downstairs with NEST thermostat and in 2 wall units upstairs and in 1 bathroom *Gas grill outside with grill tools. *Keurig pod system - starter pods included and can buy locally for more. A dr coffee machine also provided. *BlueRay player for movies *Bar set u with glasses, openers, martini shaker and Champagne bucket for any special occasions. *Plastic glasses provided to enjoy drinks on outside decks. *Hot tub at back of cabin. Remove cover to enjoy. Please replace cover securely once finished. Upon Departure-Check out time is 10 am 1. Please turn off all the lights inside and outside. 2. Please lower the Nest thermostat to 55 degrees 3. Remove all trash inside and place it in bins in the driveway 4. Wash all dishes and put them away please 5. Close all windows and blinds and lock all doors. 6. Lock the front door by pressing any button.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$209.30
 / night
  • Desert Oasis On 10 Acres Near OHV
  • Desert Oasis On 10 Acres Near OHV
  • Desert Oasis On 10 Acres Near OHV

Desert Oasis On 10 Acres Near OHV

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Lucerne Valley, CA
Take it easy at this unique and tranquil getaway. Our property offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the desert and mountains and star-gazing nights. It's located near hiking trails & a quick drive from local markets. Perfect for RV adventures where sand meets snow. A central base for exploring Southern CA, including Big Bear, Johnson Valley, Joshua Tree National Park and much more. Experience the beauty of Southern California from our desert-mountain retreat on our 10 acre property.
Pets
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from 
$152.99
 / night

Public campgrounds near Joshua Tree

Site 22. Absolutely breathtaking.
100%
(7)

Boulder Basin Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest
Marion Mountain Campground
100%
(8)

Marion Mountain Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest
Most amazing views!
100%
(5)

Fern Basin Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest
San Gorgonio Campground
100%
(4)

San Gorgonio Campground

54 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest
Black Mountain Yellow Post Sites
100%
(4)

Black Mountain Yellow Post Sites

6 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest
A view of the south shore, from the north shore. In the fall, of course!
100%
(32)

Serrano Campground

109 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest
Perfect for hanging in a hammock.
100%
(3)

Pineknot Campground

47 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest
Tanglewood Group Campground
100%
(2)

Tanglewood Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In San Bernardino National Forest
Skyline Campground
100%
(1)

Skyline Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In San Bernardino National Forest
Pricing and Info
100%
(5)

Green Valley Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest
Crab Flats Campground
100%
(5)

Crab Flats Campground

27 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest
Santa Rosa Springs Campground
100%
(3)

Santa Rosa Springs Campground

3 sites In San Bernardino National Forest

Stories from the community

Kingsfoil Hollow
P
Patty
1 week ago
Tent
Weekend Trip to Kingsfoil Hollow
Love this place. Will be my new “go to” campground. Serene and beautiful and everything an outdoor enthusiast could need… including a fire pit! Pippen and Merry the two cats that patrol the property made the trip. Spent lots of time at my camp. Christine was a great host and made sure I had everything I needed. So relaxing and enjoyable.
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Kingsfoil Hollow
P
Patty
2 weeks ago
Tent
2 nights at Kingsfoil Hollow
Very quiet and serene. Had a very nice camp site and a fire pit as well. She also had 2 cats and one spent lots of time with me. Couldn’t have been better! Christine was great and so helpful with suggestions and advice for Oak Glen area. This will bey new go to place to camp!
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Camp Durrwood
E
Eugene
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Weekend Trip to Camp Durrwood
Almost perfect. This is an amazing site -- big enough for 100 people! We only had 9 and used a tiny part of the site. There is no running water (we knew that). The drive only took about 2.5 hours from the south bay. There is nice shade and the canyon feels secluded and remote. The only downside is that you can hear the traffic on the highway. Not loud, but breaks the illusion of being in the wild. We camped next to the picnic tables and the RV. Perhaps if we kept driving deeper into the canyon the would be no noise. The porta potty was nice and clean. There were two hammocks setup. The host was very helpful and responsive. He recommended an excellent hike with just a 5 min drive.
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Camp Durrwood
L
Luke
January 2025
Tent
Group trip
2 nights at Camp Durrwood
Walid was a super communicative and accommodating host and the camp itself is beautiful! Would highly recommend to anyone considering this property.
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Kingsfoil Hollow
L
Lauren
December 2024
16 ft car
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Kingsfoil Hollow
Christine and her family were so kind! They told us about walking trails and activities in the area while we were there. The camping spot is a short hike to beautiful sunset views. You are camping in front of their home but still around nature. Spot is on a slight incline. Compost toilet, running water hose, and propane fire pit (with propane tank) provided. Oak Tree Mountain and Los Rios Rancho are within walking distance.
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View of the cabin from the creek
S
Sacha
November 2024
5 nights at Creekside Vintage Cabins w/hot tubs
The cabin was lovely and the surroundings breathtaking. Loved the hottub, the creek and the squirrels. We played games, took walks, watched movies (there is an extensive collection of dvd's and a dvd player) and read books. Jami was amazing, very responsive and ready to answer any questions we had. This is a quirky and very sweet cabin, which does mean that sometimes you need to improvise and not be bothered by small inconveniences, such as blunt knives. We were not, it added to its charm.
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Creekside Vintage Cabins w/hot tubs
A
Ali
November 2024
Group trip
2 nights at Creekside Vintage Cabins w/hot tubs
Absolutely charming and enchanting cabin!! Right by a beautiful running creek with gorgeous views and privacy. Super cozy and romantic space and so picturesque. Can’t wait to come back for future trips!!
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Camp Durrwood
K
Kathryn
November 2024
Tent
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Camp Durrwood
Gorgeous property. So secluded. Perfect for a group camping trip. Great hiking trial in the back of the property if you look to the right up the hill when you get to the end of the path. We had dogs up there and they got to roam free - such a blast. Host was very responsive and directions were clear. RV and tent are awesome.
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Creekside Vintage Cabins w/hot tubs
A
Angelina
November 2024
With kids
Weekend Trip to Creekside Vintage Cabins w/hot tubs
We loved the cabin! We stayed at her other property last year and decided to try this one and it did not disappoint. Spacious enough for our fam of four but still super cozy with lovely rustic detailing (and a great fireplace). We will be back.
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Camp Durrwood
M
Monica
November 2024
Tent
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Camp Durrwood
We loved the entire property set up. It was a good mix between dispersed camping and having comfortable amenities. The porta-potty was super clean and having the RV as an option to sleep in or for storage was very convenient. Also the hammocks and solar powered lights made for a super cute camping ambiance. We had a great time (:
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3 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Joshua Tree

  • Propane Firepit is available for use with free fuel!
  • Kingsfoil Hollow
  • Propane Firepit is available for use with free fuel!
100%
(3)

Kingsfoil Hollow

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Oak Glen, CA
Beautiful private camping with well water tucked away in Oak Glen, the heart of Southern California Apple Country! Whether you're enjoying harvest season, spring apple blossoms, or summer hikes in cooler climes, there's always something to do up here! Walking distance from Los Rios, Apple Annie's and Snowline Apple Farms, private hikes, and Oak Glen Conservancy Ecological Preserve. This is a perfect spot for families or romantic getaways! A quick drive away from Los Angeles and the I.E. enjoy our tiny startup farm with apple trees, and medicinal herbs, surrounded by lush evergreens.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
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Trash
from 
$40
 / night
  • Serene forest privacy for 4WD
  • Serene forest privacy for 4WD
  • Serene forest privacy for 4WD
100%
(41)

Serene forest privacy for 4WD

3 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Idyllwild, CA
Learn more about this land: Beautiful private land. Mostly undeveloped, rugged, forest. 4WD accessible cleared areas for tent sites or Jeep-top tents. Canvas tent available. Container cabin for those looking for a little less rugged accomodations. You can relax, and hike nearby trails during the day (some walking distance, some driving distance), mountain bike, or hit nearby climbing spots. Maybe you want to go into town 2 miles away and enjoy local art, music, or just the eclectic vibe of Idyllwild. Come back and star gaze in the evening. Fires are NOT allowed under ANY circumstances. Propane backpacking stoves or self contained camp stoves only. Quiet hours enforced after 8pm. Guests who are making loud noise may be asked to leave and not refunded. Composting toilet available in camping area. Bring your own tent or stay in our canvas tent (bring your own bedding). Host on-site or nearby. Wi-Fi not reliable in area.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Trash
from 
$45
 / night
  • Camp Durrwood
  • Camp Durrwood
  • Camp Durrwood
100%
(23)

Camp Durrwood

9 sites · Tents29 acres · Big Bear City, CA
Camp Durrwood is a 29-acre pristine wilderness nestled in the San Bernardino National Forest, offering an unforgettable outdoor experience. Your group will have exclusive access to all of our amenities, including a comfortable RV for lounging, picnic tables, hammocks, horseshoes, corn hole, and numerous hiking trails starting from the campground. Our property includes a porta potty, but no showers. Camp Durrwood has over 10 possible dispersed campsites for tents and ample room for overlanders, RVs, and campervans. We are conveniently located just 2 miles from the Santa Ana River, 5 miles from Jenks Lake, and only a 25-minute drive to Big Bear, making Durrwood the perfect private retreat for your group. Durrwood is the ideal destination for families, company retreats, club meetups, church groups, girls and boy scouts, and any other groups looking to reconnect with nature. Our beautiful surroundings and wide range of activities make us the perfect choice for your next group gathering. Please note there is no water on the property so make sure to bring your own.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$300
 / night

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

San Bernardino National Forest
94%
(145)
San Bernardino National Forest
La Quinta, California

Other options near Joshua Tree

  • Big Bear Shores RV Resort
  • Big Bear Shores RV Resort
  • Big Bear Shores RV Resort

Big Bear Shores RV Resort

33 sites1 acre · Fawnskin, CA
Welcome to Big Bear Shores RV Resort, the only 5-star RV destination nestled in the stunning Big Bear Lake area! What sets us apart is our exclusive on-site Sales and Rental Office, ensuring you have everything you need for a perfect getaway right at your fingertips. Situated in the picturesque San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, Big Bear Shores offers an unparalleled RV experience. Our resort features a gated entrance for added security and peace of mind, along with a variety of amenities including a tennis court, swimming pool, spa, and private access to the serene lake. We provide full hookups for your convenience, including water, electricity, and sewer services. Whether you’re interested in fishing, golfing, hiking, boating, or simply unwinding in nature, our resort has it all. Explore the breathtaking backcountry, discover nearby swimming holes, or enjoy local restaurants and shops. At Big Bear Shores RV Resort, your adventure awaits!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

River, stream, or creek camping near Joshua Tree guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States. Whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting out, we have over 540 options near Joshua Tree, California that cater to your river preferences. With reviews from other campers, you can trust that you'll find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure. Check out our top campsites like Splitrock Farm and Retreat (320 reviews), Bailes Farm (209 reviews), and Diana's Descanso Camp (138 reviews) for a truly memorable experience. And with prices starting as low as $17 per night and averaging at $55 per night, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. Our popular amenities include toilets, cooking equipment, and trash services, while activities like exploring historic sites, biking, and surfing will keep you entertained throughout your camping trip. Start planning your adventure today!

Popular Joshua Tree trips

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Top parks near Joshua Tree

San Onofre State Beach
Doheny State Beach
Castaic Lake State Recreation Area
San Elijo State Beach
Pismo Beach State Beach
Carpinteria State Beach
Devils Postpile National Monument
Refugio State Beach

Top cities near Joshua Tree

Los Angeles
San Diego
Escondido
Indio
Phoenix
Oxnard
Las Vegas
Murrieta

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