The best pets off leash camping near Thermal

·

If you're looking for a camping getaway near Thermal, California, Hipcamp has over 1,100 options to choose from. With accommodations ranging from cozy cabins to spacious campsites, you'll find the perfect spot to suit your preferences. Explore popular campsites like Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), The Desert Rose Collective (378 reviews), and Splitrock Farm and Retreat (320 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, showers, and toilets, while engaging in activities such as boating, wildlife watching, and horseback riding. With an average price per night of $50 and options as low as $10, you can find the perfect camping experience that fits your budget.

96% (1.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Thermal

1. Mineral Spring Date Farm

97%
(501)
28mi from Thermal · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Get cozy with your Private Hot Spring ( Just for you to use) . This is a working Date Farm that is above an aquifer with a natural mineral spring water well. We are rehabilitating our Date Farm. Private Hot Spring fed tubs at each site located on a private 20-acre Date Farm on a Mineral Spring aquifer. **~18 minutes from Downtown Palm Springs. ** ~ 30 minutes from Joshua Tree **Perfect late-night check in** If you love traveling, nature, and adventure this place has features to help you maximize your travel experiences. Comfortable and right in the middle of the desert. Experience the best of both worlds. ** We keep trimmed Palm fronds on the side of our road for our goats to eat and to use as mulch. ** We are not the Hilton, a Spa or Resort. We are a working Date Farm on top of a Mineral Spring Aquifer.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$85
 / night

2. Hideout Mountain Lodge

95%
(355)
45mi from Thermal · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hideout Mountain Lodge is a peaceful retreat tucked away in the hills of Santa Ysabel, just over an hour from San Diego and a couple of hours from Los Angeles. Spread across 40 acres, the property offers a variety of places to stay — from remodeled cabins with fireplaces and private decks, to vintage trailers, campsites, and RV spots with full hookups and views of Lake Henshaw. This is the kind of place where you slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the landscape. Guests gather around the community firepit, take walks through the oaks, or just relax on a porch and listen to the birds. On weekends, you can wander over to Josie’s Hideout Saloon, our on-site bar and restaurant, known for its live music and western character. We’re just a few minutes from the towns of Santa Ysabel and Julian, easy to get to but far enough away to feel like an escape.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night

3. Granite Mountain

100%
(148)
39mi from Thermal · 3 sites · Lodging
Looking for a getaway that blends rugged mountain beauty with upscale luxury and comfort? Welcome to your private luxury escape—where the stars shine brighter, the air feels cleaner, and every detail is designed to help you unplug, unwind, and reconnect. Tucked into the hills, each cabin is surrounded by breathtaking views of towering peaks and wide open valleys. Wake to golden light pouring over the ridges and fall asleep to the sound of crackling fire and distant owls. This is more than a place to sleep- it’s a destination made for connection, reflection, and adventure. Whether you’re planning a surprise getaway, celebrating a special occasion, or chasing peace in the wild, our mountain sanctuary gives you the space and luxury to make it unforgettable. Spend your days exploring nearby hiking trails, tasting your way through award-winning wineries, or visiting the renowned local olive oil farm just minutes away—offering free daily tastings of oil made fresh on site. When night falls, cook dinner under the stars, sip wine by the fire, and let the stillness wrap around you. 🌟 And yes—you’ll have great cell service 📱 if you need it (or want to post that amazing view). 🚗 Easy access by car—no 4WD required ⸻ At each private site, you’ll enjoy: 🛏️ A plush queen memory foam bed for a luxurious night’s sleep 💧 A private hot rain shower 🚽 A modern composting toilet—clean, comfortable, and private 😊 Stay Cozy with Cold A/C on those warm days and Warm Heat on those cold winter nights 🔥 A personal fire pit and string-lit seating area for evening magic 🧊 A mini fridge to keep your food and drinks cool 🍳 A private outdoor kitchen with:  • A 2-burner propane stove  • Fresh water for cooking and cleanup  • Complimentary coffee to start your mornings right ☕  • Basic cookware, pots, pans, dishes, and utensils ⸻ This is luxury redefined—immersed in nature but full of thoughtful touches that make your stay effortless. 🌲 ⛺️ 🔥 Book your escape today and discover why couples and adventurers call this their favorite off-grid luxurious getaway!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$112
 / night

5. Shangri-la Stargazer Labyrinth

98%
(46)
43mi from Thermal · 3 sites · Lodging
Escape to Shangri-la... Your serene desert retreat in Joshua Tree, where endless views and stunning, star-filled skies await. Nestled against acres of pristine BLM land, this unique Hipcamp offers a peaceful sactuary. Experience tranquility as you walk the meditative circuits of a Cretan Labyrinth, connecting with nature in this truly special location. Relax with a game of giant chess or let your competitive streak out with a game of bocce ball or cornhole. If you think you're hearing waterfalls and ducks in the desert, it's because you are...you're hearing my nearby duck/zen pond. Perfect for stargazers, nature lovers, and those seeking solitude. This is camping so BRING YOUR OWN LINENS and there's no power, water or utilities which means DO NOT USE the bathroom/shower in the campers. There is an outhouse and outdoor shower with 5 gallon sunshower bag. 10% discount off the nightly rate for Military, Veterans and First Responders.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$49
 / night

7. Tranquil Joshua Tree Getaway 🔭

98%
(22)
37mi from Thermal · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Hello campers! Welcome to our peaceful retreat in Joshua Tree, California. I'm thrilled to share this slice of paradise with fellow nature enthusiasts. As your host, I strive to provide a serene camping experience just minutes away from the town of Joshua Tree and a short drive to the park entrance. Our property offers a tranquil setting for tent camping, where you can immerse yourself in nature under the starlit sky. Please bring all your camping equipment and remember to leave the site as pristine as you found it. If you need any assistance during your stay, feel free to reach out. Enjoy the tranquility and convenience of being close to town attractions while still having cell service. Skip the hassle of finding a spot in the crowded park and book with us for group camping, van parking, and more. Please note that no utilities are provided on the property. Can't wait to host you!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night

9. Coyote Moon Camping

100%
(8)
42mi from Thermal · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hidden gem in the high desert mountains of Julian California. Located an hour and half from San Diego. This two and a half acre property features jaw dropping sunsets, dark skies and a 360 view of all constellations and stars. We offer tent camping, Rv parking or stay in an unfurnished tiny cabin. Minutes away from world famous Julian apple pie and and worlds biggest desert state park, Anza Borrego. Along the path of the pacific crest trail PCT. Access to: • Water • smokeless and regular fire pit • Hot tent stove • WiFi •Optional restaurant quality meals • Tons of space for activities • Pet friendly • Off road and hiking tours • Optional Auricular Accupunture outside in weightless chairs • Amazing air quality • No close nearby Neighbors • Quiet and Peaceful except for occasional coyote in the distance! • No noise restrictions within reason
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

12. Stargazer Cabin

98%
(55)
45mi from Thermal · 2 sites · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$180
 / night

15. Views! 15 min to Joshua Park

99%
(47)
41mi from Thermal · 1 site · Tent, RV
Incredible Valley Views Your private campsite offers a spacious area with a brand-new underground fire pit, a hammock station, and a picnic table that seats six. The pass-through driveway leads directly to your site off Sunway Drive. You’ll have 1.5 acres of land to enjoy, with plenty of room to roam and hike in the surrounding area. You’ll have excellent cell service and a strong 5G connection, so phone calls and social media are no problem. Please be respectful of the grounds and exercise caution with campfires and smoking. Guest Access: There is only one way to access the site, so please follow the provided directions carefully. GPS may lead you to a route that is not vehicle-accessible. You will drive through a residential neighborhood before entering the forest property — please drive slowly and respectfully. Other Things to Note: Please pack out all trash. We do not provide bins to avoid attracting animals or scattering debris in the wind. Important: You must have a self-contained toilet system and pack out all waste. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended, but standard cars and RVs up to 30 feet can access the site by driving slowly. Low-clearance sedans can also make it with care. Please know your vehicle’s limits. Parking is available directly on the campsite, leading up the driveway. We’re animal-friendly! Pets are welcome — just be sure to clean up after them to help keep the property beautiful. Take Pictures and Share: We love seeing your photos and artistic shots of the land during your stay! Distances by Car: • Downtown Yucca Valley – 13 minutes • Downtown Joshua Tree – 11 minutes • Joshua Tree National Park entrance – 20 minutes • Downtown Twentynine Palms – 27 minutes • Pioneertown – 17 minutes Remember: Desert conditions can change quickly. Please check the local forecast for high winds or temperature extremes.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$46
 / night

18. Private 40 Acre Primitive Camp

94%
(52)
37mi from Thermal · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
**PLAN TO ARRIVE BEFORE DARK UNLESS YOU KNOW YOUR WAY AROUND THE DESERT.** EXPERIENCED ADVENTURERS AND THEIR DOGGIE COMPANIONS ONLY! THIS IS THE WILD WEST. THERE ARE NO LIGHTED PATHS. THIS IS A REMOTE CAMPSITE. THE IDEA IS TO GET OUT INTO NATURE WITHOUT LIGHT POLLUTION! PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE do not book this campground if you have trouble reading maps and/or cutting and pasting GPS coordinates into google maps or equivalent. We'd LOVE to host you, but we just find being upfront about this property is best for all of us. NO TOILETS, NO WATER, NO ELECTRIC.... just YOU in all your magnificence, a beautiful wooden deck, a stone fire place, large wooden picnic table and maybe your family, friends and doggie pals. Mar and I visited 44 properties when deciding on land to buy in Joshua Tree in 2020. This one was hands down the most beautiful. We love the mixture of privacy, access to magnificent hiking and wildlife interactions... all while remaining with good cell coverage and close to downtown JT and the national park! Learn more about this land: Primitive camping at the base of Copper Mountain in Joshua Tree, California. Total Seclusion: Private 40 acres wilderness camping and/or event space. YOU ARE RENTING THE ENTIRE PROPERTY. OFF-LEASH ANIMAL FRIENDLY! We love your animal companions and understand they are family. They do not need to be leashed on our property... they can roam FREE! (Just please pick up after them so we can keep this policy in place!) If you want privacy, this is your (very large) spot. You will have 40 acres to enjoy. Bordering the 40 acres, our “neighbors” are three large empty lots and government land with no structures. We are located at the base of Copper Mountain.  The soil here is very special. It has a magical mixture of inorganic materials, like crystals and metals, that have eroded down from Copper Mountain, mixed in a matrix of organic material, like grasses that have been made into a fine powder. The result is a natural landscape of orgone generating dirt. You can feel the energy here. There are plenty of dirt roads around the property for casual strolls and mountain biking... or take a short climb up the sandy incline at the back of the property and panoramic views of Joshua Tree await. This listing is not for the inexperienced camper! Please pack in, pack out all your trash and leave no trace besides footsteps. You will have access to a 12 foot (!!) handcrafted solid wood picnic table, handmade stone fire ring and brand new 24x12 foot wooden deck. VERY IMPORTANT: You must have a self-contained toilet system. Please pack out all your own waste. You will also need to bring your own WATER. Thank you!  4-wheel drive highly recommended but regular cars, RVs, Airstreams have previously gotten to PRIVATE 40 by taking it slow and easy with extra care. If you do get stuck (it NEVER happened before, but just in case)... you will need to call your own towing company. So please be mindful and understand your vehicle's limits. Wake at dawn to see the jackrabbits and listen to the coyotes howl as you fall asleep. Baby quail all in a line may entertain you. The starry nights are glorious here with clear skies most of the time and a lot less light pollution in the desert compared to the cities. Also, we have no surrounding street lamps! Most will find they have good cell service at our location. #NoPowerLines at our property makes for a real wilderness feel, even though we are very close to nearby points of interest. We are VERY centrally located for maximum enjoyment of the surrounding areas.  Distances from PRIVATE 40 Acre Camp by car:  Rt. 62: 8 minute drive Downtown Joshua Tree/Saturday Farmers Market: 11 minutes Joshua Tree National Park (Joshua Tree entrance): 19 mins Downtown Twentynine Palms: 18 mins Joshua Tree National Park (Twentynine Palms entrance): 23 mins Indian Cove: 16 mins PioneerTown: 29 mins Remember, this is the desert and conditions change rapidly. Please take a look at the local forecast and also plan for unexpected weather events. Strong winds, high temps, low temps... anything is possible out here in the wilderness. When you park your vehicle, we recommend using it as a wind break when possible. Noise disclosures: sometimes, especially on weekends, you may hear music and party noise from the nearby Bureau of Land Management lands. There is also a military base on the other side of mountain and you may hear them firing. Enjoy the fun from the privacy PRIVATE 40 Camp. We, Amanda and Mario, and our property manager, the delightful Liv, are so happy to be your hosts. Yoga retreats and musical events may be possible. Please inquire.
Pets
Campfires
Water hookup
from 
$48
 / night

19. Tranquility Base

100%
(2)
42mi from Thermal · 1 site · Tent, RV
You will have the entire five acre property to yourself surrounded by natural Mojave landscape up on Copper Mountain Mesa in north Joshua Tree, elevation 2500 feet. This provides expansive views in every direction. To the south are the mountains of JTNP including Indian Cove. To the west Mt. San Gorgonio, which is often snow-capped in winter and spring. To the east is the ridge of Borland Pass and the border with Twentynine Palms and beyond. At night, of course, the stars come out in every direction and put on a show. I’ve dubbed the place Tranquility Base because it is quiet, serene and much like I imagine the moon to be. It is a wide open, rugged spot of stark natural beauty with amazing skies. However, you are not alone. The flora includes numerous creosote, desert senna and cactus. All bloom beautiful colors in spring. The fauna includes roadrunners, jackrabbits and incredible lizards. Evidence of snakes lay in the loose sand of the low washes but I have never seen one. Guests must have a self-contained RV or camper van because you will need to bring everything you need, shade included. This is primitive, dry camping with no restrooms. Multiple vehicles OK when at least one is an RV equipped with a toilet available to everyone with you. Guests are welcome to pitch a tent in one of the sandy areas but much of the surface is covered with rocks. There is a concrete pad from a long gone homestead cabin that is great for tents, chairs and a bbq. I’ve put a large tree stump there to serve as a “bar” or table. Cell service is 5G and solid with a new tower just down the road. Tranquility Base is about 12 miles northeast of Joshua Tree village center much of it on unpaved roads which can be bumpy. En route you will pass several landmarks. This includes artist Simi Debah’s sculpture garden, Daniel Popper’s massive “Transmission” sculpture and the Joshua Tree Lake and Campground, site of the twice yearly Joshua Tree Music Festival. Come on out and relax.
Pets
from 
$7
 / night

If you're looking for a camping getaway near Thermal, California, Hipcamp has over 1,100 options to choose from. With accommodations ranging from cozy cabins to spacious campsites, you'll find the perfect spot to suit your preferences. Explore popular campsites like Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), The Desert Rose Collective (378 reviews), and Splitrock Farm and Retreat (320 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, showers, and toilets, while engaging in activities such as boating, wildlife watching, and horseback riding. With an average price per night of $50 and options as low as $10, you can find the perfect camping experience that fits your budget.

96% (1.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Thermal

1. Mineral Spring Date Farm

97%
(501)
28mi from Thermal · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Get cozy with your Private Hot Spring ( Just for you to use) . This is a working Date Farm that is above an aquifer with a natural mineral spring water well. We are rehabilitating our Date Farm. Private Hot Spring fed tubs at each site located on a private 20-acre Date Farm on a Mineral Spring aquifer. **~18 minutes from Downtown Palm Springs. ** ~ 30 minutes from Joshua Tree **Perfect late-night check in** If you love traveling, nature, and adventure this place has features to help you maximize your travel experiences. Comfortable and right in the middle of the desert. Experience the best of both worlds. ** We keep trimmed Palm fronds on the side of our road for our goats to eat and to use as mulch. ** We are not the Hilton, a Spa or Resort. We are a working Date Farm on top of a Mineral Spring Aquifer.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$85
 / night

2. Hideout Mountain Lodge

95%
(355)
45mi from Thermal · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hideout Mountain Lodge is a peaceful retreat tucked away in the hills of Santa Ysabel, just over an hour from San Diego and a couple of hours from Los Angeles. Spread across 40 acres, the property offers a variety of places to stay — from remodeled cabins with fireplaces and private decks, to vintage trailers, campsites, and RV spots with full hookups and views of Lake Henshaw. This is the kind of place where you slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the landscape. Guests gather around the community firepit, take walks through the oaks, or just relax on a porch and listen to the birds. On weekends, you can wander over to Josie’s Hideout Saloon, our on-site bar and restaurant, known for its live music and western character. We’re just a few minutes from the towns of Santa Ysabel and Julian, easy to get to but far enough away to feel like an escape.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night

3. Granite Mountain

100%
(148)
39mi from Thermal · 3 sites · Lodging
Looking for a getaway that blends rugged mountain beauty with upscale luxury and comfort? Welcome to your private luxury escape—where the stars shine brighter, the air feels cleaner, and every detail is designed to help you unplug, unwind, and reconnect. Tucked into the hills, each cabin is surrounded by breathtaking views of towering peaks and wide open valleys. Wake to golden light pouring over the ridges and fall asleep to the sound of crackling fire and distant owls. This is more than a place to sleep- it’s a destination made for connection, reflection, and adventure. Whether you’re planning a surprise getaway, celebrating a special occasion, or chasing peace in the wild, our mountain sanctuary gives you the space and luxury to make it unforgettable. Spend your days exploring nearby hiking trails, tasting your way through award-winning wineries, or visiting the renowned local olive oil farm just minutes away—offering free daily tastings of oil made fresh on site. When night falls, cook dinner under the stars, sip wine by the fire, and let the stillness wrap around you. 🌟 And yes—you’ll have great cell service 📱 if you need it (or want to post that amazing view). 🚗 Easy access by car—no 4WD required ⸻ At each private site, you’ll enjoy: 🛏️ A plush queen memory foam bed for a luxurious night’s sleep 💧 A private hot rain shower 🚽 A modern composting toilet—clean, comfortable, and private 😊 Stay Cozy with Cold A/C on those warm days and Warm Heat on those cold winter nights 🔥 A personal fire pit and string-lit seating area for evening magic 🧊 A mini fridge to keep your food and drinks cool 🍳 A private outdoor kitchen with:  • A 2-burner propane stove  • Fresh water for cooking and cleanup  • Complimentary coffee to start your mornings right ☕  • Basic cookware, pots, pans, dishes, and utensils ⸻ This is luxury redefined—immersed in nature but full of thoughtful touches that make your stay effortless. 🌲 ⛺️ 🔥 Book your escape today and discover why couples and adventurers call this their favorite off-grid luxurious getaway!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$112
 / night

5. Shangri-la Stargazer Labyrinth

98%
(46)
43mi from Thermal · 3 sites · Lodging
Escape to Shangri-la... Your serene desert retreat in Joshua Tree, where endless views and stunning, star-filled skies await. Nestled against acres of pristine BLM land, this unique Hipcamp offers a peaceful sactuary. Experience tranquility as you walk the meditative circuits of a Cretan Labyrinth, connecting with nature in this truly special location. Relax with a game of giant chess or let your competitive streak out with a game of bocce ball or cornhole. If you think you're hearing waterfalls and ducks in the desert, it's because you are...you're hearing my nearby duck/zen pond. Perfect for stargazers, nature lovers, and those seeking solitude. This is camping so BRING YOUR OWN LINENS and there's no power, water or utilities which means DO NOT USE the bathroom/shower in the campers. There is an outhouse and outdoor shower with 5 gallon sunshower bag. 10% discount off the nightly rate for Military, Veterans and First Responders.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$49
 / night

7. Tranquil Joshua Tree Getaway 🔭

98%
(22)
37mi from Thermal · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Hello campers! Welcome to our peaceful retreat in Joshua Tree, California. I'm thrilled to share this slice of paradise with fellow nature enthusiasts. As your host, I strive to provide a serene camping experience just minutes away from the town of Joshua Tree and a short drive to the park entrance. Our property offers a tranquil setting for tent camping, where you can immerse yourself in nature under the starlit sky. Please bring all your camping equipment and remember to leave the site as pristine as you found it. If you need any assistance during your stay, feel free to reach out. Enjoy the tranquility and convenience of being close to town attractions while still having cell service. Skip the hassle of finding a spot in the crowded park and book with us for group camping, van parking, and more. Please note that no utilities are provided on the property. Can't wait to host you!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night

9. Coyote Moon Camping

100%
(8)
42mi from Thermal · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hidden gem in the high desert mountains of Julian California. Located an hour and half from San Diego. This two and a half acre property features jaw dropping sunsets, dark skies and a 360 view of all constellations and stars. We offer tent camping, Rv parking or stay in an unfurnished tiny cabin. Minutes away from world famous Julian apple pie and and worlds biggest desert state park, Anza Borrego. Along the path of the pacific crest trail PCT. Access to: • Water • smokeless and regular fire pit • Hot tent stove • WiFi •Optional restaurant quality meals • Tons of space for activities • Pet friendly • Off road and hiking tours • Optional Auricular Accupunture outside in weightless chairs • Amazing air quality • No close nearby Neighbors • Quiet and Peaceful except for occasional coyote in the distance! • No noise restrictions within reason
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

12. Stargazer Cabin

98%
(55)
45mi from Thermal · 2 sites · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$180
 / night

15. Views! 15 min to Joshua Park

99%
(47)
41mi from Thermal · 1 site · Tent, RV
Incredible Valley Views Your private campsite offers a spacious area with a brand-new underground fire pit, a hammock station, and a picnic table that seats six. The pass-through driveway leads directly to your site off Sunway Drive. You’ll have 1.5 acres of land to enjoy, with plenty of room to roam and hike in the surrounding area. You’ll have excellent cell service and a strong 5G connection, so phone calls and social media are no problem. Please be respectful of the grounds and exercise caution with campfires and smoking. Guest Access: There is only one way to access the site, so please follow the provided directions carefully. GPS may lead you to a route that is not vehicle-accessible. You will drive through a residential neighborhood before entering the forest property — please drive slowly and respectfully. Other Things to Note: Please pack out all trash. We do not provide bins to avoid attracting animals or scattering debris in the wind. Important: You must have a self-contained toilet system and pack out all waste. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended, but standard cars and RVs up to 30 feet can access the site by driving slowly. Low-clearance sedans can also make it with care. Please know your vehicle’s limits. Parking is available directly on the campsite, leading up the driveway. We’re animal-friendly! Pets are welcome — just be sure to clean up after them to help keep the property beautiful. Take Pictures and Share: We love seeing your photos and artistic shots of the land during your stay! Distances by Car: • Downtown Yucca Valley – 13 minutes • Downtown Joshua Tree – 11 minutes • Joshua Tree National Park entrance – 20 minutes • Downtown Twentynine Palms – 27 minutes • Pioneertown – 17 minutes Remember: Desert conditions can change quickly. Please check the local forecast for high winds or temperature extremes.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$46
 / night

18. Private 40 Acre Primitive Camp

94%
(52)
37mi from Thermal · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
**PLAN TO ARRIVE BEFORE DARK UNLESS YOU KNOW YOUR WAY AROUND THE DESERT.** EXPERIENCED ADVENTURERS AND THEIR DOGGIE COMPANIONS ONLY! THIS IS THE WILD WEST. THERE ARE NO LIGHTED PATHS. THIS IS A REMOTE CAMPSITE. THE IDEA IS TO GET OUT INTO NATURE WITHOUT LIGHT POLLUTION! PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE do not book this campground if you have trouble reading maps and/or cutting and pasting GPS coordinates into google maps or equivalent. We'd LOVE to host you, but we just find being upfront about this property is best for all of us. NO TOILETS, NO WATER, NO ELECTRIC.... just YOU in all your magnificence, a beautiful wooden deck, a stone fire place, large wooden picnic table and maybe your family, friends and doggie pals. Mar and I visited 44 properties when deciding on land to buy in Joshua Tree in 2020. This one was hands down the most beautiful. We love the mixture of privacy, access to magnificent hiking and wildlife interactions... all while remaining with good cell coverage and close to downtown JT and the national park! Learn more about this land: Primitive camping at the base of Copper Mountain in Joshua Tree, California. Total Seclusion: Private 40 acres wilderness camping and/or event space. YOU ARE RENTING THE ENTIRE PROPERTY. OFF-LEASH ANIMAL FRIENDLY! We love your animal companions and understand they are family. They do not need to be leashed on our property... they can roam FREE! (Just please pick up after them so we can keep this policy in place!) If you want privacy, this is your (very large) spot. You will have 40 acres to enjoy. Bordering the 40 acres, our “neighbors” are three large empty lots and government land with no structures. We are located at the base of Copper Mountain.  The soil here is very special. It has a magical mixture of inorganic materials, like crystals and metals, that have eroded down from Copper Mountain, mixed in a matrix of organic material, like grasses that have been made into a fine powder. The result is a natural landscape of orgone generating dirt. You can feel the energy here. There are plenty of dirt roads around the property for casual strolls and mountain biking... or take a short climb up the sandy incline at the back of the property and panoramic views of Joshua Tree await. This listing is not for the inexperienced camper! Please pack in, pack out all your trash and leave no trace besides footsteps. You will have access to a 12 foot (!!) handcrafted solid wood picnic table, handmade stone fire ring and brand new 24x12 foot wooden deck. VERY IMPORTANT: You must have a self-contained toilet system. Please pack out all your own waste. You will also need to bring your own WATER. Thank you!  4-wheel drive highly recommended but regular cars, RVs, Airstreams have previously gotten to PRIVATE 40 by taking it slow and easy with extra care. If you do get stuck (it NEVER happened before, but just in case)... you will need to call your own towing company. So please be mindful and understand your vehicle's limits. Wake at dawn to see the jackrabbits and listen to the coyotes howl as you fall asleep. Baby quail all in a line may entertain you. The starry nights are glorious here with clear skies most of the time and a lot less light pollution in the desert compared to the cities. Also, we have no surrounding street lamps! Most will find they have good cell service at our location. #NoPowerLines at our property makes for a real wilderness feel, even though we are very close to nearby points of interest. We are VERY centrally located for maximum enjoyment of the surrounding areas.  Distances from PRIVATE 40 Acre Camp by car:  Rt. 62: 8 minute drive Downtown Joshua Tree/Saturday Farmers Market: 11 minutes Joshua Tree National Park (Joshua Tree entrance): 19 mins Downtown Twentynine Palms: 18 mins Joshua Tree National Park (Twentynine Palms entrance): 23 mins Indian Cove: 16 mins PioneerTown: 29 mins Remember, this is the desert and conditions change rapidly. Please take a look at the local forecast and also plan for unexpected weather events. Strong winds, high temps, low temps... anything is possible out here in the wilderness. When you park your vehicle, we recommend using it as a wind break when possible. Noise disclosures: sometimes, especially on weekends, you may hear music and party noise from the nearby Bureau of Land Management lands. There is also a military base on the other side of mountain and you may hear them firing. Enjoy the fun from the privacy PRIVATE 40 Camp. We, Amanda and Mario, and our property manager, the delightful Liv, are so happy to be your hosts. Yoga retreats and musical events may be possible. Please inquire.
Pets
Campfires
Water hookup
from 
$48
 / night

19. Tranquility Base

100%
(2)
42mi from Thermal · 1 site · Tent, RV
You will have the entire five acre property to yourself surrounded by natural Mojave landscape up on Copper Mountain Mesa in north Joshua Tree, elevation 2500 feet. This provides expansive views in every direction. To the south are the mountains of JTNP including Indian Cove. To the west Mt. San Gorgonio, which is often snow-capped in winter and spring. To the east is the ridge of Borland Pass and the border with Twentynine Palms and beyond. At night, of course, the stars come out in every direction and put on a show. I’ve dubbed the place Tranquility Base because it is quiet, serene and much like I imagine the moon to be. It is a wide open, rugged spot of stark natural beauty with amazing skies. However, you are not alone. The flora includes numerous creosote, desert senna and cactus. All bloom beautiful colors in spring. The fauna includes roadrunners, jackrabbits and incredible lizards. Evidence of snakes lay in the loose sand of the low washes but I have never seen one. Guests must have a self-contained RV or camper van because you will need to bring everything you need, shade included. This is primitive, dry camping with no restrooms. Multiple vehicles OK when at least one is an RV equipped with a toilet available to everyone with you. Guests are welcome to pitch a tent in one of the sandy areas but much of the surface is covered with rocks. There is a concrete pad from a long gone homestead cabin that is great for tents, chairs and a bbq. I’ve put a large tree stump there to serve as a “bar” or table. Cell service is 5G and solid with a new tower just down the road. Tranquility Base is about 12 miles northeast of Joshua Tree village center much of it on unpaved roads which can be bumpy. En route you will pass several landmarks. This includes artist Simi Debah’s sculpture garden, Daniel Popper’s massive “Transmission” sculpture and the Joshua Tree Lake and Campground, site of the twice yearly Joshua Tree Music Festival. Come on out and relax.
Pets
from 
$7
 / night

Camper favorites near Thermal

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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