The best desert camping near Santa Ana

·

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a desert camping experience near Santa Ana, California, we've got you covered. With over 2400 options specifically tailored to your preference for a desert terrain, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Plus, you can choose from a variety of accommodations including RV sites, tent camping, and more. Our top campsites in the area, such as Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), The Lovelight Ranch (532 reviews), and The Desert Rose Collective (378 reviews), promise an unforgettable experience. You'll have access to popular amenities like campfires, trash disposal, and potable water, and can enjoy activities such as snow sports, wind sports, and exploring historic sites. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $5, camping near Santa Ana, California has never been more accessible. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the desert with Hipcamp!

87% (367)

Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Ana

1. AntFarm LA

98%
(100)
43mi from Santa Ana · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Looking for a quick escape from the city for a peaceful place to recharge? AntFarm LA offers a private, quiet retreat in nature where you can disconnect from the buzz of city life with the convenience of the city nearby. Hand-built with love and a couple of shovels by our family and friends, this hike-in, tent-only site is the perfect oasis for locals and visitors alike. As you embark on the short hike up, you will experience breathtaking views, shaded trails, and a sense of calm as you arrive at your campsite. You’ll enjoy stunning sunsets, sunrises, and the tranquil sound of birds chirping—an idyllic backdrop to clear your mind. We’ve thoughtfully added a few comforts so you can enjoy nature without completely leaving modern conveniences behind. Take advantage of amenities like a refrigerator, sink, a bathroom with a flushable toilet, and a shower to refresh after a day of exploring. We also have a few electrical outlets and WiFi if you need to stay connected online or charge your devices. If you want to howl at the moon, we have some more remote hike-in campsites available. Send us a message for details. Out of respect to our neighbors, we do not allow car camping in our parking lot. Car or RV sleeping is permitted on our Van Pad site only, although we do not provide RV hookups. To preserve the quiet, off-the-grid atmosphere we’ve created, we ask that you respect our noise curfew of 10PM. We look forward to having you stay!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$36
 / night

2. Kountry Manor

96%
(24)
43mi from Santa Ana · 6 sites · RVs
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!
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$30
 / night

3. Rock & Tree

98%
(91)
35mi from Santa Ana · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$34
 / night

6. Zen Ranch And Retreat

31mi from Santa Ana · 1 site · Tent, RV
Step into your own private desert-inspired oasis on this four acre ranch thoughtfully designed to bring a relaxed, creative Natural energy right to you. Surrounded by open skies, trees and desert-style landscaping, this one-of-a-kind spot blends rustic charm with a touch of modern comfort—perfect for campers seeking a unique getaway, weekend hangout, or small gathering space under the stars. The 1/2 acre camp site features a full outdoor bar area, ideal for mixing drinks, sharing stories, and enjoying the days and evenings as you wish. Patio string lights cast a soft, glow across the space, creating a 'Zen' ambiance a-la Joshua Tree. Whether you’re lounging under one of the many trees, strolling through the vineyard, or relaxing by the bar or in your own setup, the atmosphere here feels straight out of an artist’s hideaway. Direct access to miles of trails You’ll also have access to a private toilet, outdoor shower, and changing room, to freshen up after a day of exploring or lounging. A sink and wash area for cooking, refrigerator, grill, electrical outlets are available for charging or running small essentials—so you can stay powered while keeping that off-grid vibe. There’s ample room for one 22-foot RV, camper van, or up to two rigs. The 1/2 acre layout allows for open and airy while maintaining privacy and comfort for your stay. The space is designed for small groups, couples, or solo travelers looking to unwind, create, and connect with Nature. Set up your tent, park your van, or roll out your sleeping bag under the stars—this is your canvas for relaxation and inspiration. At night, enjoy the quiet serenity and glowing lights of civilization in the valley below. In the morning, sip coffee as the sun paints the landscape. Whether you’re here to disconnect, celebrate, or recharge, this space offers the perfect backdrop for your desert-inspired adventure. Amenities include: ✨ Outdoor bar/sitting area 🚻 Toilet composting 🚿 Outdoor shower 🐕 Dog run 🚰 Sink and wash area 🔌 Electrical outlets 💡 Patio string lights 🚐 Space for up to a 22-foot RV, van, or two rigs 🔥 large stone paver patio for gathering Bring your favorite people, good energy, and a sense of adventure—this 4 acre hilltop hideaway is ready to make your stay unforgettable.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

8. Vintage Camper In LBC Garden

83%
(6)
20mi from Santa Ana · 1 site · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$55
 / night

9. Cold Creek Homestead

93%
(23)
48mi from Santa Ana · 5 sites · RVs
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.
Pets
from 
$36
 / night

11. The Unhitched Ranch

100%
(135)
41mi from Santa Ana · 1 site · Tent, RV
The Unhitched Ranch is a family run Clydesdale and Texas Longhorn Ranch. Clydesdales and Texas Longhorns have been the focus of the family owned and operated ranch. The Ranch is approximately 40 acres and is tucked away in a very unique area of Southern California and has spectacular views of the local mountains and city lights. This quaint little canyon is nestled between Loma Linda and Moreno Valley, and is home to about 800 free roaming wild burros that visit frequently.Recently we have added a Gazebo that you can camp near or under as well a a horseshoe pit, and tether ball.  We typically only open the ranch to one group of campers at a time so more than likely you will be alone with us on the ranch.  There is plenty of room for larger groups, feel free to contact us
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$100
 / night

14. Huttopia Paradise Springs

46mi from Santa Ana · 3 sites · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$236
 / night

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a desert camping experience near Santa Ana, California, we've got you covered. With over 2400 options specifically tailored to your preference for a desert terrain, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Plus, you can choose from a variety of accommodations including RV sites, tent camping, and more. Our top campsites in the area, such as Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), The Lovelight Ranch (532 reviews), and The Desert Rose Collective (378 reviews), promise an unforgettable experience. You'll have access to popular amenities like campfires, trash disposal, and potable water, and can enjoy activities such as snow sports, wind sports, and exploring historic sites. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $5, camping near Santa Ana, California has never been more accessible. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the desert with Hipcamp!

87% (367)

Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Ana

1. AntFarm LA

98%
(100)
43mi from Santa Ana · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Looking for a quick escape from the city for a peaceful place to recharge? AntFarm LA offers a private, quiet retreat in nature where you can disconnect from the buzz of city life with the convenience of the city nearby. Hand-built with love and a couple of shovels by our family and friends, this hike-in, tent-only site is the perfect oasis for locals and visitors alike. As you embark on the short hike up, you will experience breathtaking views, shaded trails, and a sense of calm as you arrive at your campsite. You’ll enjoy stunning sunsets, sunrises, and the tranquil sound of birds chirping—an idyllic backdrop to clear your mind. We’ve thoughtfully added a few comforts so you can enjoy nature without completely leaving modern conveniences behind. Take advantage of amenities like a refrigerator, sink, a bathroom with a flushable toilet, and a shower to refresh after a day of exploring. We also have a few electrical outlets and WiFi if you need to stay connected online or charge your devices. If you want to howl at the moon, we have some more remote hike-in campsites available. Send us a message for details. Out of respect to our neighbors, we do not allow car camping in our parking lot. Car or RV sleeping is permitted on our Van Pad site only, although we do not provide RV hookups. To preserve the quiet, off-the-grid atmosphere we’ve created, we ask that you respect our noise curfew of 10PM. We look forward to having you stay!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$36
 / night

2. Kountry Manor

96%
(24)
43mi from Santa Ana · 6 sites · RVs
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!
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$30
 / night

3. Rock & Tree

98%
(91)
35mi from Santa Ana · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$34
 / night

6. Zen Ranch And Retreat

31mi from Santa Ana · 1 site · Tent, RV
Step into your own private desert-inspired oasis on this four acre ranch thoughtfully designed to bring a relaxed, creative Natural energy right to you. Surrounded by open skies, trees and desert-style landscaping, this one-of-a-kind spot blends rustic charm with a touch of modern comfort—perfect for campers seeking a unique getaway, weekend hangout, or small gathering space under the stars. The 1/2 acre camp site features a full outdoor bar area, ideal for mixing drinks, sharing stories, and enjoying the days and evenings as you wish. Patio string lights cast a soft, glow across the space, creating a 'Zen' ambiance a-la Joshua Tree. Whether you’re lounging under one of the many trees, strolling through the vineyard, or relaxing by the bar or in your own setup, the atmosphere here feels straight out of an artist’s hideaway. Direct access to miles of trails You’ll also have access to a private toilet, outdoor shower, and changing room, to freshen up after a day of exploring or lounging. A sink and wash area for cooking, refrigerator, grill, electrical outlets are available for charging or running small essentials—so you can stay powered while keeping that off-grid vibe. There’s ample room for one 22-foot RV, camper van, or up to two rigs. The 1/2 acre layout allows for open and airy while maintaining privacy and comfort for your stay. The space is designed for small groups, couples, or solo travelers looking to unwind, create, and connect with Nature. Set up your tent, park your van, or roll out your sleeping bag under the stars—this is your canvas for relaxation and inspiration. At night, enjoy the quiet serenity and glowing lights of civilization in the valley below. In the morning, sip coffee as the sun paints the landscape. Whether you’re here to disconnect, celebrate, or recharge, this space offers the perfect backdrop for your desert-inspired adventure. Amenities include: ✨ Outdoor bar/sitting area 🚻 Toilet composting 🚿 Outdoor shower 🐕 Dog run 🚰 Sink and wash area 🔌 Electrical outlets 💡 Patio string lights 🚐 Space for up to a 22-foot RV, van, or two rigs 🔥 large stone paver patio for gathering Bring your favorite people, good energy, and a sense of adventure—this 4 acre hilltop hideaway is ready to make your stay unforgettable.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

8. Vintage Camper In LBC Garden

83%
(6)
20mi from Santa Ana · 1 site · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$55
 / night

9. Cold Creek Homestead

93%
(23)
48mi from Santa Ana · 5 sites · RVs
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.
Pets
from 
$36
 / night

11. The Unhitched Ranch

100%
(135)
41mi from Santa Ana · 1 site · Tent, RV
The Unhitched Ranch is a family run Clydesdale and Texas Longhorn Ranch. Clydesdales and Texas Longhorns have been the focus of the family owned and operated ranch. The Ranch is approximately 40 acres and is tucked away in a very unique area of Southern California and has spectacular views of the local mountains and city lights. This quaint little canyon is nestled between Loma Linda and Moreno Valley, and is home to about 800 free roaming wild burros that visit frequently.Recently we have added a Gazebo that you can camp near or under as well a a horseshoe pit, and tether ball.  We typically only open the ranch to one group of campers at a time so more than likely you will be alone with us on the ranch.  There is plenty of room for larger groups, feel free to contact us
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$100
 / night

14. Huttopia Paradise Springs

46mi from Santa Ana · 3 sites · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$236
 / night

Camper favorites near Santa Ana

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Santa Ana

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp 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