Discover the best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Thermal, California

United States
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California
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Thermal

92% (172 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Thermal

Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

97%

(45)

Black Canyon Family Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents53 acres · Ramona, CA

A few acres of natural land. There is a seasonal creek running through the area. It's a very quiet area. It's primitive, natural and we love it that way. The creek runs into the Cleveland national forest and down to the Mesa Grande Indian reservation. There is hiking and exploring! Come throw a tent up in one of the two camp sites or a hammock in the trees.. Hike the nature preserves in Santa Ysabel. Go to Wynola enjoy craft beverages, Josie's live music off the 76. Or just enjoy the peacefulness of the forest here and hike and reset your mind. The top 13 are residential, the bottom 40 will be open for exploring, camping, hiking and gardening! We are new homesteaders trying to do things more organically and real free range for our animals. We have a farm on the top 13 acres with cows, pigs, goats, sheep and chickens. More animals will come soon. We will eventually like to offer food from our farm to our guests. That way they can actually see where the food comes from and how ours raised!

Highly Ghosted Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Anza, CA

Learn more about this land:5 acres of varied flat land and scrub brush. Old post office site from 1957. kiddie pool and shaded areas. across the street from casino. Fishing and horse back riding down the road. TV and movie production lot. We film the TV show Highly Ghosted from this location. We now have a chicken and duck coup in the back. The local market is next door and the bar is around the corner from the property. Lot is fully fenced with security cameras in front.

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. 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.

Desert Dreamland

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Aguanga, CA

Our family has owned this property nearly fifty years. We currently have one site available - “Desert Mountain Scenic Overlook” - at this time. More sites coming soon! Learn more about this site: This campsite is extremely private and serene with beautiful epic views and a wide open feel. The site is located most of the way up a small mountain but at the base of a larger one if you want to hike up to the top for even better views. You can also hike down and around to explore more of the surrounding nature preserve (over 3,000 acres completely engulfing our 20 acre property), which includes a seasonal creek, granite boulders, and miles of hiking trails. You will find wild sage and buckwheat shrubs growing all over the property, as well as vibrant seasonal wildflowers. The campsite is set far back from roads so it is very peaceful and quiet and allows you to feel free to enjoy yourselves without worrying much about noise. The large flat pad is spacious and should be able to accommodate any sized camper/trailer/RV. There is fresh potable mountain spring water and a septic hookup available at the site. There is currently no water hookup for RV’s and there is no restroom facility (we are planning to install a composting or pit toilet soon). Please come fully equipped with a Luggable Loo or something similar. Access to the site is on a maintained dirt road with cutouts for water run off and high clearance / 4WD is not necessary. Please be prepared though, the road in has some narrow, hilly, curvy stretches. It could appear challenging or intimidating to people with larger rigs. If you have a class A motorhome and are hoping to visit, please message me first and let me know and we can discuss whether the road in will work for you. We are currently in the process of beautifying the area and will post more updated photos soon of the actual site. *Note: Our solar pump went out so the outdoor shower is not currently functional. Also, the site is still a work in progress so there may be some lumber and areas of the site still in the process of being completed.

Booked 4 times

The Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Banning, CA

The Ranch sits on 20 acres and is at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains. Vibrant green grass in the winter and spring after the rains and during summer and fall it can get very dry. Nearby is the Old Idyllwild Road where many people enjoy riding off road vehicles, mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking on the dirt roads. None of these activities permitted on the property. When it is raining it can get very muddy and there is a high possibility you can get stuck in the mud if you do not have an AWD or 4WD. Very fun for off-roading.

10 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Thermal

97%

(45)

Black Canyon Family Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents53 acres · Ramona, CA

A few acres of natural land. There is a seasonal creek running through the area. It's a very quiet area. It's primitive, natural and we love it that way. The creek runs into the Cleveland national forest and down to the Mesa Grande Indian reservation. There is hiking and exploring! Come throw a tent up in one of the two camp sites or a hammock in the trees.. Hike the nature preserves in Santa Ysabel. Go to Wynola enjoy craft beverages, Josie's live music off the 76. Or just enjoy the peacefulness of the forest here and hike and reset your mind. The top 13 are residential, the bottom 40 will be open for exploring, camping, hiking and gardening! We are new homesteaders trying to do things more organically and real free range for our animals. We have a farm on the top 13 acres with cows, pigs, goats, sheep and chickens. More animals will come soon. We will eventually like to offer food from our farm to our guests. That way they can actually see where the food comes from and how ours raised!

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. 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.

Desert Dreamland

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Aguanga, CA

Our family has owned this property nearly fifty years. We currently have one site available - “Desert Mountain Scenic Overlook” - at this time. More sites coming soon! Learn more about this site: This campsite is extremely private and serene with beautiful epic views and a wide open feel. The site is located most of the way up a small mountain but at the base of a larger one if you want to hike up to the top for even better views. You can also hike down and around to explore more of the surrounding nature preserve (over 3,000 acres completely engulfing our 20 acre property), which includes a seasonal creek, granite boulders, and miles of hiking trails. You will find wild sage and buckwheat shrubs growing all over the property, as well as vibrant seasonal wildflowers. The campsite is set far back from roads so it is very peaceful and quiet and allows you to feel free to enjoy yourselves without worrying much about noise. The large flat pad is spacious and should be able to accommodate any sized camper/trailer/RV. There is fresh potable mountain spring water and a septic hookup available at the site. There is currently no water hookup for RV’s and there is no restroom facility (we are planning to install a composting or pit toilet soon). Please come fully equipped with a Luggable Loo or something similar. Access to the site is on a maintained dirt road with cutouts for water run off and high clearance / 4WD is not necessary. Please be prepared though, the road in has some narrow, hilly, curvy stretches. It could appear challenging or intimidating to people with larger rigs. If you have a class A motorhome and are hoping to visit, please message me first and let me know and we can discuss whether the road in will work for you. We are currently in the process of beautifying the area and will post more updated photos soon of the actual site. *Note: Our solar pump went out so the outdoor shower is not currently functional. Also, the site is still a work in progress so there may be some lumber and areas of the site still in the process of being completed.

94%

(8)

Svatantria Retreat Center

8 sites · Lodging15 acres · Julian, CA

The retreat makes it home on 15 acres graced with meandering creeks, a pond, ancient oaks and native flora and fauna. Nestled into the natural landscape are four charming cabins and eight scenic camping areas available for day-use and extended stays. Amenities include BBQ grills, mini fridges and bathrooms with refreshingly hot showers. Depending upon the specific rental, amenities vary from private use to shared. During your stay with us, you’re welcome to explore an onsite labyrinth, hike the tranquil mountains, dip your toes in the creek and admire the wildlife. You’re also invited to join our yogis in practice on the meditation platform and relax into the calming ruffle of a nearby waterfall. Private and semi-private yoga sessions are available; please inquire further for session booking details. Svatantria is honored to acknowledge the First Peoples to this land, the Kumeyaay, who inhabited this region for more than 10,000 years. As the current stewards of this land on which Svatantria resides, we endeavor to maintain its sacred and nurturing aspects and invite you to join us in this journey.

Highly Ghosted Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Anza, CA

Learn more about this land:5 acres of varied flat land and scrub brush. Old post office site from 1957. kiddie pool and shaded areas. across the street from casino. Fishing and horse back riding down the road. TV and movie production lot. We film the TV show Highly Ghosted from this location. We now have a chicken and duck coup in the back. The local market is next door and the bar is around the corner from the property. Lot is fully fenced with security cameras in front.

Rustic Mountain Cabin

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Palomar Mountain, CA

Rustic tranquility on Palomar Mountain. Looking for a place for your family to enjoy the mountains in comfort? This lovely cabin nestled amongst a mixture of oak/pine woodland with 80 foot tall trees. The original cabin was built in 1923 and is one of several historic cabins in the area. The fireplace and potbelly stoves add coziness. Stargaze from the second floor "eagles nest" or simply enjoy the activity of the tree tops. There are several nooks to settle in with a good book or just enjoy the surroundings. This cabin is a little bit above 6,000 feet in elevation in a small cabin neighborhood. Locate on Evergreen Trail, a dirt single lane road, it's a great birders retreat. Several species of birds have been seen in the area as well as deer. Relax on the deck or take a relaxing walk down the trail. Palomar State Park is approximately 2.5 miles away. The park offers 14 miles of forest and meadow trails, spectacular view points especially on Boucher Hill and Doane Pond, a fishing pond with trout, bass, and cat fish. The World Famous Palomar Observatory is about an 8 mile drive away. The General Store or Baileys Store are available for forgotten amenities. Cell phone service is a challenge on Palomar Mountain. Internet service is via Starlink and dependent on a clear view of the sky. Service may have momentary interruptions.

Oakstone Camp Area

5 sites · Tents20 acres · Lake Riverside, CA

20-acre property, high desert chaparral, rich with wildlife mostly unoccupied and unspoiled land. Creek runs in wet seasons. Plenty of hiking and exploring opportunities. Well water available for washing, utility and tank fill. Lots of isolated camp spots to choose from. Blackwater septic disposal available for reasonable fee, call for availability. Limited solar power available. One mile from State Park hiking trailhead. Six miles from Cahuilla motocross facility, 8 miles from Cahuilla Casino, hotel, restaurant, gas and travel services. 12 miles from small town of Anza with hardware store, groceries, gas, restaurants, pharmacy, Post Office, etc. Property owner is Emmy-Winning Producer Jerry Day, well known on Youtube for freedom and rights channel: Youtube.com/minivanjack and web site FreedomTaker.com.

The Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Banning, CA

The Ranch sits on 20 acres and is at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains. Vibrant green grass in the winter and spring after the rains and during summer and fall it can get very dry. Nearby is the Old Idyllwild Road where many people enjoy riding off road vehicles, mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking on the dirt roads. None of these activities permitted on the property. When it is raining it can get very muddy and there is a high possibility you can get stuck in the mud if you do not have an AWD or 4WD. Very fun for off-roading.

Hidden Gem By The Creek

1 site · Lodging8 acres · Aguanga, CA

Hidden Gem By The Creek is in a Rural Off Grid Glamping Experience with many amenities and conveniences .Adjacent to Temecula and Temecula Valley . 10 min away from hot springs and swimming pools. Only a 15 min drive to wineries and 30 min to Old Town Temecula. It’s a place to unwind and unplug from the city yet lots of nearby restaurants, wineries, shopping within 15 to 30 minutes. Come relax in this rustic setting to watch wildlife. Hidden Gem has the best sunrises and sunsets to enjoy your cup of coffee or glass of wine! Enjoy cooking In nature and a campfire to get cozy .

100%

(2)

Casa Soza

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Whitewater, CA

It is said that originally one man owned all this land but he hadn't any money. To save the life of his beloved wife, to pay for her treatment, he build one little cottage after the other and sold these parcels. Eight all together. That's was in the fifties. His son is still living on a prime property of this area in the Painted Hills.

Available this weekend

Booked 1 time

Highly Ghosted Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Anza, CA

Learn more about this land:5 acres of varied flat land and scrub brush. Old post office site from 1957. kiddie pool and shaded areas. across the street from casino. Fishing and horse back riding down the road. TV and movie production lot. We film the TV show Highly Ghosted from this location. We now have a chicken and duck coup in the back. The local market is next door and the bar is around the corner from the property. Lot is fully fenced with security cameras in front.

Svatantria Retreat Center

8 sites · Lodging15 acres · Julian, CA

The retreat makes it home on 15 acres graced with meandering creeks, a pond, ancient oaks and native flora and fauna. Nestled into the natural landscape are four charming cabins and eight scenic camping areas available for day-use and extended stays. Amenities include BBQ grills, mini fridges and bathrooms with refreshingly hot showers. Depending upon the specific rental, amenities vary from private use to shared. During your stay with us, you’re welcome to explore an onsite labyrinth, hike the tranquil mountains, dip your toes in the creek and admire the wildlife. You’re also invited to join our yogis in practice on the meditation platform and relax into the calming ruffle of a nearby waterfall. Private and semi-private yoga sessions are available; please inquire further for session booking details. Svatantria is honored to acknowledge the First Peoples to this land, the Kumeyaay, who inhabited this region for more than 10,000 years. As the current stewards of this land on which Svatantria resides, we endeavor to maintain its sacred and nurturing aspects and invite you to join us in this journey.

Oakstone Camp Area

5 sites · Tents20 acres · Lake Riverside, CA

20-acre property, high desert chaparral, rich with wildlife mostly unoccupied and unspoiled land. Creek runs in wet seasons. Plenty of hiking and exploring opportunities. Well water available for washing, utility and tank fill. Lots of isolated camp spots to choose from. Blackwater septic disposal available for reasonable fee, call for availability. Limited solar power available. One mile from State Park hiking trailhead. Six miles from Cahuilla motocross facility, 8 miles from Cahuilla Casino, hotel, restaurant, gas and travel services. 12 miles from small town of Anza with hardware store, groceries, gas, restaurants, pharmacy, Post Office, etc. Property owner is Emmy-Winning Producer Jerry Day, well known on Youtube for freedom and rights channel: Youtube.com/minivanjack and web site FreedomTaker.com.

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. 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.

Black Canyon Family Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents53 acres · Ramona, CA

A few acres of natural land. There is a seasonal creek running through the area. It's a very quiet area. It's primitive, natural and we love it that way. The creek runs into the Cleveland national forest and down to the Mesa Grande Indian reservation. There is hiking and exploring! Come throw a tent up in one of the two camp sites or a hammock in the trees.. Hike the nature preserves in Santa Ysabel. Go to Wynola enjoy craft beverages, Josie's live music off the 76. Or just enjoy the peacefulness of the forest here and hike and reset your mind. The top 13 are residential, the bottom 40 will be open for exploring, camping, hiking and gardening! We are new homesteaders trying to do things more organically and real free range for our animals. We have a farm on the top 13 acres with cows, pigs, goats, sheep and chickens. More animals will come soon. We will eventually like to offer food from our farm to our guests. That way they can actually see where the food comes from and how ours raised!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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San Bernardino National Forest

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Palomar Mountain State Park

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Cleveland National Forest

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River, stream, or creek camping near Thermal guide

Overview

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.