96% (3K) • 131 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Thermal
Stargazer Cabin
1. Stargazer Cabin
98%
(59)
45mi from Thermal · 2 sites
Escape to serenity in the Mojave at a beautifully renovated cabin on 2.5 fully fenced acres in north Joshua Tree, a.k.a. Landers, where endless sunrise views and stunning, star-filled skies await.
This unique Hipcamp offers a peaceful sanctuary. Experience tranquility as you connect with nature in this truly special location. Perfect for stargazers, nature lovers, and those seeking solitude. Relax and unwind under the stars in the hot tub or sway gently in the hammock chairs as your troubles fade away. Enjoy a crackling fire while stargazing and listening to the sounds of coyotes howling in the distance.
Unexplained lights in the skies? Top secret aircraft from the nearby military base or interplanetary visitors perhaps...or both?
This is NOT a shared space so you will have the entire property all to yourself. Enjoy!
10% Discount off the nightly rate for Military, Veterans and First Responders.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$162
/ night
Pool Ranch
2. Pool Ranch
100%
(2)
37mi from Thermal · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
🌌 Pool Ranch: Your 30-Acre Dark Sky Gateway to Anza-Borrego
Escape to true high-desert solitude at Pool Ranch, a 30-acre private property in the unique mountain community of Ranchita, CA.
Our property offers almost complete isolation, making it the perfect sanctuary to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. We share a direct border with the vast, untouched wilderness of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, putting millions of acres of adventure right at your doorstep.
✨ Experience the Magic of the High Desert
Pool Ranch is not just a place to camp; it's a place to experience the raw, dramatic beauty of the Colorado Desert in all its forms. Our elevation provides a stunning four-season climate.
🌌 World-Class Stargazing: As part of an official Dark Sky Community, our skies are free of light pollution. On a clear night, the Milky Way is breathtakingly bright.
🌸 Spring Wildflowers: Witness the desert floor explode in a riot of color during the annual superbloom.
❄️ Winter Snow: Experience the rare and magical sight of snow blanketing the desert landscape.
🏜️ Direct Park Access: Forget driving to a trailhead. Our property line directly borders Anza-Borrego State Park. Step off our land and directly into the wilderness for hiking, exploring, and mountain biking.
Your Private Wilderness Sanctuary
This 30-acre property is your playground. Find your perfect spot, set up camp, and enjoy the silence, the expansive views, and the feeling of having the wilderness all to yourself.
If you are seeking profound quiet, unparalleled starry nights, and a direct gateway to one of California's largest state parks, Pool Ranch is waiting for you.
Toilets
Campfires
Wifi
from
$36
/ night
Birdsong Backcountry Retreat
3. Birdsong Backcountry Retreat
100%
(236)
35mi from Thermal · 8 sites
Come experience the best that the San Diego backcountry has to offer on our 85 acre private nature retreat with it's miles of trails which take you thru groves of ancient Oaks, a monumental boulders maze, intoxicating sage,
the most incredible sunset vistas and located just a couple miles from the North Mountain Wine Trail. the Pacific Crest Trail and the California Hiking and Riding Trail.
The BLUEBIRD TINY HOUSE
is one of 4 very private unique artisanal accommodations on the property.
This vintage horse trailer was reimagined into a Tiny house by Lane and Laurie as a couples project in 2018 which they completely gutted and remodeled using beautiful natural materials , old fashioned wood cabinetry, handmade ceramic tiles and woven bamboo with fully equipped kitchen, quality linens, fireplace, AC, WIFI, smart TV.
Bluebird Tiny House is tucked into a secluded forest meadow, named for the bluebirds that spend part of the year there and is a spacious feeling 320 sq ft.
The spa-inspired bathroom features a hand-carved, wood vessel sink, eco-dual flush toilet,rain shower, and free-standing soaking tub with oak canopy view.
The 40’ long deck spans the length of the secluded tiny house overlooking the forest to distant mountains and has alfresco dining area and plenty of furniture for cozying as well as hot tub sited for star gazing and firepit seating all within a large fenced yard to keep your fur babies close by.
In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 forest therapy audio guide..
If you need to accommodate a larger group, check out Pinky's Nature Hideout which has a full kitchen, spacious living room, fenced yard for pets, corn hole, large deck and hot tub sited for star gazing, and firepit seating which overlooks the forest to distant mountains. It sleeps 4 people but the "Lounge" vintage Spartan trailer which is located behind the bunkhouse can be rented to sleep an additional 2 people and is only available to Pinky's guests.
We provide
guests the opportunity to really get away from it all in a untouched forest and chaparral
setting with all the amenities one needs for a comfortable stay.
In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 audio guide.
Come getaway alone, with friends or family to our sweet little petfriendly glampsite CAMP CHESTER
hidden under the oaks which features a vintage 1949 Canned Ham Tiny Trailer (sleeps 2 in a double and one on couch) , a 10 x 12 safari tent on deck w/queen bed, an outdoor kitchen with dining area and barista bar, bath house with hot water, rain-shower, claw-foot tub , compost toilet looking out to acres of sage and distant mountains and firepit. The owners are artisan builders and seasoned hosts who promise guests privacy and quiet. The camp is totally fenced for the safety of your pets and suitable for up to 6 people but sleeps up to 5 additional person(s) can bring tent.
.
It offers guests the opportunity to really get away from it all in a untouched forest and chaparral
setting but offers all the amenities one needs for a comfortable stay.
In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to
slow down
and connect to nature
to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 audio guide. Camp Chester is a seasonal site and
closed January thru March.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$105
/ night
Paradise RV Park
4. Paradise RV Park
27mi from Thermal · 89 sites · RVs, Lodging
Beautiful new RV Resort in the most beautiful place on Earth – Desert Hot Springs, California. Imagine yourself taking selfies by the pool, meeting fun people in the Fitness Center, and playing with your dear doggie in the dog park.
Paradise RV Park is an RV dream come true.
We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$60
/ night
The Happy Camper
5. The Happy Camper
100%
(32)
37mi from Thermal · 1 site
Beautiful spot located at my property on the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation. See a legal cannabis farm in action at all times of the seasons while sleeping in a fully functioning 2023 Jayco farmhouse edition camper. The camper has a new Queen bed, electricity, refrigerator, running water, wi-fi, heater and air conditioning. For cooking there are options such as the kitchenette in the camper, outdoor grill and camp stove with a flat grill. There is a fire pit stocked with wood . I also provide camping chairs, utensils and much more. The star viewing is amazing. There is a private hiking trail and a shaded dog area for your pet to enjoy. Local activities such as hiking and visiting historic Julian, a short drive to Anza Borrego are all in the area. We are located on the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation, make either a left or right from Hwy 79 onto Camino San Ignacio in Warner Springs, CA, keep to the left at the loop and drive out about 5 miles . When you reach the Ranger Station at the stop sign, make the first left at the sign located at 1600 Camino San Ignacio and drive all the way out to the back. The Happy Camper is located on the left.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$99
/ night
96% (3K) • 131 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Thermal
Stargazer Cabin
1. Stargazer Cabin
98%
(59)
45mi from Thermal · 2 sites
Escape to serenity in the Mojave at a beautifully renovated cabin on 2.5 fully fenced acres in north Joshua Tree, a.k.a. Landers, where endless sunrise views and stunning, star-filled skies await.
This unique Hipcamp offers a peaceful sanctuary. Experience tranquility as you connect with nature in this truly special location. Perfect for stargazers, nature lovers, and those seeking solitude. Relax and unwind under the stars in the hot tub or sway gently in the hammock chairs as your troubles fade away. Enjoy a crackling fire while stargazing and listening to the sounds of coyotes howling in the distance.
Unexplained lights in the skies? Top secret aircraft from the nearby military base or interplanetary visitors perhaps...or both?
This is NOT a shared space so you will have the entire property all to yourself. Enjoy!
10% Discount off the nightly rate for Military, Veterans and First Responders.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$162
/ night
Pool Ranch
2. Pool Ranch
100%
(2)
37mi from Thermal · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
🌌 Pool Ranch: Your 30-Acre Dark Sky Gateway to Anza-Borrego
Escape to true high-desert solitude at Pool Ranch, a 30-acre private property in the unique mountain community of Ranchita, CA.
Our property offers almost complete isolation, making it the perfect sanctuary to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. We share a direct border with the vast, untouched wilderness of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, putting millions of acres of adventure right at your doorstep.
✨ Experience the Magic of the High Desert
Pool Ranch is not just a place to camp; it's a place to experience the raw, dramatic beauty of the Colorado Desert in all its forms. Our elevation provides a stunning four-season climate.
🌌 World-Class Stargazing: As part of an official Dark Sky Community, our skies are free of light pollution. On a clear night, the Milky Way is breathtakingly bright.
🌸 Spring Wildflowers: Witness the desert floor explode in a riot of color during the annual superbloom.
❄️ Winter Snow: Experience the rare and magical sight of snow blanketing the desert landscape.
🏜️ Direct Park Access: Forget driving to a trailhead. Our property line directly borders Anza-Borrego State Park. Step off our land and directly into the wilderness for hiking, exploring, and mountain biking.
Your Private Wilderness Sanctuary
This 30-acre property is your playground. Find your perfect spot, set up camp, and enjoy the silence, the expansive views, and the feeling of having the wilderness all to yourself.
If you are seeking profound quiet, unparalleled starry nights, and a direct gateway to one of California's largest state parks, Pool Ranch is waiting for you.
Toilets
Campfires
Wifi
from
$36
/ night
Birdsong Backcountry Retreat
3. Birdsong Backcountry Retreat
100%
(236)
35mi from Thermal · 8 sites
Come experience the best that the San Diego backcountry has to offer on our 85 acre private nature retreat with it's miles of trails which take you thru groves of ancient Oaks, a monumental boulders maze, intoxicating sage,
the most incredible sunset vistas and located just a couple miles from the North Mountain Wine Trail. the Pacific Crest Trail and the California Hiking and Riding Trail.
The BLUEBIRD TINY HOUSE
is one of 4 very private unique artisanal accommodations on the property.
This vintage horse trailer was reimagined into a Tiny house by Lane and Laurie as a couples project in 2018 which they completely gutted and remodeled using beautiful natural materials , old fashioned wood cabinetry, handmade ceramic tiles and woven bamboo with fully equipped kitchen, quality linens, fireplace, AC, WIFI, smart TV.
Bluebird Tiny House is tucked into a secluded forest meadow, named for the bluebirds that spend part of the year there and is a spacious feeling 320 sq ft.
The spa-inspired bathroom features a hand-carved, wood vessel sink, eco-dual flush toilet,rain shower, and free-standing soaking tub with oak canopy view.
The 40’ long deck spans the length of the secluded tiny house overlooking the forest to distant mountains and has alfresco dining area and plenty of furniture for cozying as well as hot tub sited for star gazing and firepit seating all within a large fenced yard to keep your fur babies close by.
In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 forest therapy audio guide..
If you need to accommodate a larger group, check out Pinky's Nature Hideout which has a full kitchen, spacious living room, fenced yard for pets, corn hole, large deck and hot tub sited for star gazing, and firepit seating which overlooks the forest to distant mountains. It sleeps 4 people but the "Lounge" vintage Spartan trailer which is located behind the bunkhouse can be rented to sleep an additional 2 people and is only available to Pinky's guests.
We provide
guests the opportunity to really get away from it all in a untouched forest and chaparral
setting with all the amenities one needs for a comfortable stay.
In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 audio guide.
Come getaway alone, with friends or family to our sweet little petfriendly glampsite CAMP CHESTER
hidden under the oaks which features a vintage 1949 Canned Ham Tiny Trailer (sleeps 2 in a double and one on couch) , a 10 x 12 safari tent on deck w/queen bed, an outdoor kitchen with dining area and barista bar, bath house with hot water, rain-shower, claw-foot tub , compost toilet looking out to acres of sage and distant mountains and firepit. The owners are artisan builders and seasoned hosts who promise guests privacy and quiet. The camp is totally fenced for the safety of your pets and suitable for up to 6 people but sleeps up to 5 additional person(s) can bring tent.
.
It offers guests the opportunity to really get away from it all in a untouched forest and chaparral
setting but offers all the amenities one needs for a comfortable stay.
In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to
slow down
and connect to nature
to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 audio guide. Camp Chester is a seasonal site and
closed January thru March.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$105
/ night
Paradise RV Park
4. Paradise RV Park
27mi from Thermal · 89 sites · RVs, Lodging
Beautiful new RV Resort in the most beautiful place on Earth – Desert Hot Springs, California. Imagine yourself taking selfies by the pool, meeting fun people in the Fitness Center, and playing with your dear doggie in the dog park.
Paradise RV Park is an RV dream come true.
We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$60
/ night
The Happy Camper
5. The Happy Camper
100%
(32)
37mi from Thermal · 1 site
Beautiful spot located at my property on the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation. See a legal cannabis farm in action at all times of the seasons while sleeping in a fully functioning 2023 Jayco farmhouse edition camper. The camper has a new Queen bed, electricity, refrigerator, running water, wi-fi, heater and air conditioning. For cooking there are options such as the kitchenette in the camper, outdoor grill and camp stove with a flat grill. There is a fire pit stocked with wood . I also provide camping chairs, utensils and much more. The star viewing is amazing. There is a private hiking trail and a shaded dog area for your pet to enjoy. Local activities such as hiking and visiting historic Julian, a short drive to Anza Borrego are all in the area. We are located on the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation, make either a left or right from Hwy 79 onto Camino San Ignacio in Warner Springs, CA, keep to the left at the loop and drive out about 5 miles . When you reach the Ranger Station at the stop sign, make the first left at the sign located at 1600 Camino San Ignacio and drive all the way out to the back. The Happy Camper is located on the left.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$99
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
T
Tania
3 weeks ago
With pets
The place is beautiful, very private, peaceful, and dog-friendly. It’s also conveniently close to JTNP, which made it a perfect getaway.
See more
R
Rachel
3 weeks ago
1 night at The Happy Camper
One the best experiences I’ve had in a long time. Thank you Davida, thank you Jim, truly.
See more
C
Clyde
3 weeks ago
3 nights at Stargazer Cabin
We loved the house and the location, hot tub was awesome after our long hike.
See more
R
Reid
December 2025
With pets
Beautiful property. Our experience was restful and restorative, even through downpouring rain! Thank you for the wonderful stay.
See more
Ale
December 2025
J
James
December 2025
With pets
We loved the Stargazer Cabin. And the fenced back yard had a super fire pit area. With bean bag chairs and a nice grill, too. Also, we drove out there in our Class C RV and they even had a 30-amp hook-up and water. Very nice surprise. We would definitely go back. We’re thinking of bringing our grandson because the property is very close to an OHV area that would be fun. All in all, it was pretty much perfect.
See more
Curtis
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Stargazer Cabin
We loved our stay here. The spot feels incredibly private and peaceful, with wide-open desert views in every direction. The hot tub under the stars was a highlight, and the fire pit made our nights feel cozy and memorable. Everything was easy to access, clearly marked, and exactly as described. We’d definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a quiet Joshua Tree escape.
See moreB
Benjamin
December 2025
1 night at The Happy Camper
I cannot not recommend this stat enough. Book before it sells out. Davida and family are amazing, go go go!!!
See moreJ
Jess
November 2025
4 nights at Stargazer Cabin
I would absolutely recommend this peaceful retreat in the desert! Super beautiful and quiet location just 30 minutes from Joshua Tree. Loved the outdoor hot tub and fire pit. Cozy indoor space had everything we needed for a relaxing getaway.
See more
J
Jenna
November 2025
With pets
Such a great and cozy stay at Camp Chester! My family and I loved walking the trails, making pizza and having a little outing to nearby wineries. This is our second time staying on their property (different site) and couldn’t recommend it more.
See more
Y
Yizhi
November 2025
With kids
I love this camp site so much, the whole family had a good thanks gaving here!
See moreF
Felix
November 2025
With pets
Davida’s Happy Camper was my wife and I’s first Hip Camp experience and it was just perfect. The modern and cozy Jayco RV is just as described, the land is peaceful and inviting, and Davida is a sweet and thoughtful host! We loved the Apple Walnut bread and honey she gifted us. What a great touch! We only wish we stayed longer. But that’s why we plan to come back :)
See moreS
Stephen
November 2025
With pets
We had a great beautiful mountain setting., and a peaceful quiet night of sleep. Thank you for giving us a great three days and two nights of relaxing stress free retreat. Thank you so much you been a very great presous host. Steve and Katie Nolan ❤️ 💙
See more
Marlee
November 2025
2 nights at Stargazer Cabin
This property was perfect for a mini getaway. Lots of space with privacy for couples, while still being located close enough to JT. The decor is beautiful, and the little touches like room spray and bath products was nice. It was very clean as well. Peaceful :)
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Ashkan
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Stargazer Cabin
Mikael's place was perfect! Very clean, easy to access, and private and remote, all at the same time. We had gorgeous views of the Mojave Desert. The amenities were also great and extremely comfortable. I highly recommend this if you want to visit Joshua Tree and are looking for a comfortable and clean place.
See moreT
Tara
November 2025
Weekend Trip to The Happy Camper
Loved the location, the camper and experience at The Happy Camper. Davida was wonderful in getting supplies prepared for a campfire, answering questions, and very responsive and respectful. Loved it and definitely will recommend and share another adventure in the Happy Camper again.
See moreH
Hillary
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Stargazer Cabin
Incredible stay and host! We enjoyed every minute of our stay and Mike was responsive and accommodating during the whole experience.
See moreB
Benjamin
November 2025
Weekend Trip to The Happy Camper
Don’t have much to say but amazing. Davida was a great host, it was exactly what I was looking for.
See more
L
Liz
November 2025
With pets
I loved staying at Camp Chester! The camper and bathroom are well equipped with just about everything you might need! I loved the little outdoor kitchen. The view from the bathroom is a bonus :) There was plenty of room for my dog to roam around and enjoy all the sniffs! It was so quiet and peaceful. I loved hearing the coyotes at night, the breeze through the trees and the birdsongs. We got to take in a peaceful sunset at Zen Point and enjoy the nature trails around the property. It truly felt private and secluded. This was our second stay at Birdsong, and I’m sure we’ll be back again sometime!
See moreM
Miranda
November 2025
With pets
Our stay at The Happy Camper was everything we had hoped for and more. The setup was thoughtful, cozy, and incredibly comfortable; the bed alone was one of the best we’ve ever slept on while camping. The entire space was spotless and clearly cared for with so much attention.
Davida, the owner, is truly something special. She was helpful, kind, and went well beyond expectations to make us feel welcome. You can tell she pours her heart into this HipCamp spot.
My 6-year-old absolutely loved it! She was over the moon with the outdoor family games Davida left for us to enjoy, such a fun and unexpected touch.
We can’t recommend The Happy Camper enough. A wonderful experience from start to finish, and we can’t wait to come back!
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