The best camping near Lucerne Lake

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lucerne Lake adventure.

Lucerne Lake: A scenic escape with endless adventure.

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Community favorites near Lucerne Lake

Top-rated campgrounds near Lucerne Lake

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Historic Pioneertown Campground

60 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Pioneertown, CA

Pioneertown was built in 1946 as a movie set for Western movies, including the movies of Gene Autry, The Cisco Kid, Annie Oakley, Judge Roy Bean, and Buffalo Bill, just to name a few!Wild West re-enactment performances take place along Mane Street in Pioneertown on weekend afternoons, between early spring and late fall.Learn more about this land:Camp under the stars in historic Pioneertown! Pioneertown Corrals provides a unique setting for campers who want to spend their vacations or getaway weekends in this peaceful desert setting. If you like to ride the trails, barbeque, sit around a campfire, and stargaze in the evening, then you've come to the right place!Pioneertown was built in 1946 as a movie set for Western movies, including the movies of Gene Autry, The Cisco Kid, Annie Oakley, Judge Roy Bean, and Buffalo Bill, just to name a few!Wild West re-enactment performances take place along Mane Street in Pioneertown on weekend afternoons, between early spring and late fall.

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Holcomb Valley Ranch

45 sites · RVs, Tents411 acres · Fawnskin, CA

Holcomb Valley Ranch invites you to kick back and relax on our private, 400+ acre ranch in the San Bernardino Mountains. Centered around a 100+ acre meadow, filled with horses in summer months and surrounded by thousands of acres of mountainous National Forest. Just 15 minutes from Big Bear Lake - a large recreational, fresh-water lake for summer swimming, boating, skiing, fishing and other super fun water activities. The Ranch feels remote and private. Yet is only four miles to the town of Big Bear with shopping and restaurants. Also in close proximity to incredible rock climbing at the Pinnacles, seemingly endless hiking and biking and some pretty epic off-roading 4x4 trails. Each campsite is approximately one acre, and generously-distanced from neighboring campers. Amenities include its own fire ring with grilling grate and picnic table(s). The campsites are both cozy enough for 2 or spacious enough for large groups and can easily accommodate a mix of RVs, camper vans and tents. From June to October the 100+ area open meadow is filled with horses grazing and galloping about (please don't pet or feed!) A four-seasons destination, the Ranch has year-round experiences with warm summers and snowy winters. An excellent basecamp, within close proximity to the lake, ski slopes, Pinnacles, hiking/biking and off-roading trails. After a day filled with adventure or ultimate relaxation, be sure to enjoy the breath-taking sunsets over the meadow. The evenings blanket guests with a sea of stars. Toast up some s’mores and warm up some hot-coco over a beautiful, crackling campfire. Remember the s’mores and always follow the “Leave No Trace” principles. There are large trash bins by the entrance. We look forward to hosting you at the Ranch! Please note: OHV’s are allowed. They count as one of the allowed vehicles per campsite and must adhere to the speed limit (10mph) and remain on established camp roads while on the property. They may not be driven from 8pm to 8am. It is strictly forbidden to ride your vehicles through the forest, meadow or off any established roads on or off property. Please research which of the surrounding forestry roads allow for your vehicle type to be driven on. Campsites on the west side of the meadow (F, G & H sites) are partially accessed by a forestry road that does not allow dirt bikes. Horses: The horses which may be roaming the meadow during your stay are not property of Holcomb Valley Ranch. When horses are present, guests and their pets are prohibited from entering the meadow. Please do not approach, interact, feed or touch the horses. This is for your safety and the safety of the horses. Do, however, take lots of photos! They make a perfect backdrop:)

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Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

109 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Joshua Tree, CA

Welcome to Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, your go-to destination for a unique and memorable camping experience in Joshua Tree. This family-owned and operated park offers breathtaking views from its 2,300 ft elevation, showcasing the beauty of the Mojave Desert and the surrounding mountains. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast looking to explore the area or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Joshua Tree Lake RV and Campground has something for everyone. With panoramic views of the North face of Joshua Tree National Park, the ancient Copper Mountain Hills to the North and East, and exceptional desert vistas, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes wherever you look. Office Hours: 8:30 - 8 Sunday - Thursday 8:30 - 9 Friday and Saturday Check-in Begins at 12 PM. Checkout is at 11 AM. The campground is situated on the southern edge of the Mojave Desert and boasts some of the best stargazing opportunities in the region. With clear, unpolluted skies, you can enjoy the magnificent night skies and immerse yourself in the beauty of the stars. We want to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, so please take note of the following guidelines: Swimming is not permitted in the fishing lake and there is no swimming pool available. Pet owners will be pleased to know that their furry friends are welcome, but there may be an additional fee added to the reservation. Wi-Fi is provided by a third-party company and a separate service fee applies. Please note that we cannot guarantee the speed, rate, or troubleshooting of the Wi-Fi service. For your convenience, a wash station for dishes is available on-site, and the Joshua Tree Laundromat is located 9 miles away in downtown Joshua Tree. For campfires, it is important to keep them contained inside the designated burn barrels and never leave them unattended. In the event of high winds, campfire, and BBQ use may be suspended for safety reasons. So, pack your gear and head to Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, your favorite place to stay while you play in Joshua Tree. Experience the magic of the Mojave Desert and all its natural wonders, and create memories that will last a lifetime!

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Boulder Gardens Sanctuary

13 sites · RVs, Tents500 acres · Pioneertown, CA

Welcome to our gorgeous natural desert landscape with a quiet atmosphere and vast views. Guests are welcome to hike and explore our extensive land, which includes over 500 acres of primitive hiking trails, meditation gardens, and secret caves. This is an incredible place for stargazing and views of the milky way. The landscape is similar to the national park, though guests at Boulder Gardens will have a secluded place to set up camp, away from the crowds. Pioneertown, home to the famous venue Pappy and Harriets, as well as Red Dog Saloon is within a short drive. Joshua Tree National Park is within a 25 minute drive.

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High Desert Hot Spring Hideout

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents160 acres · Lake Arrowhead, CA

Nestled in the mountains of the high desert, we invite you to come stay in a peaceful serene setting, where you can relax & recharge with us here in the desert and release yourself from the burdens currently placed on you for a brief moment. Staying on this rural 160 acre slice of nature allows one to escape the sounds and stresses of the city and immerse yourself in nature, where beautiful natural desert scenery and mountain views surround you. Bordering 1000's of acres of natural undeveloped BLM and USFS land. The property's rural location provides abundant opportunities to view unique and spectacular wildlife right from your campsite or on one of the numerous hiking and OHV trails in the area. The 40 minute hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is well worth the effort, and there's so much more natural beauty to see as you explore miles of hiking and OHV trails nearby and right on the property. Weather can be extreme at times, with Winter temps ranging from 20*F to 40* F, and Summer temps peaking at 112F. The cold creek water in the Deep Creek canyon flows all year around, and the 6 creek-side hot spring pools are always full and consistently hot all year around, ranging in temperatures between 90F-108F. The hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is fairly steep and can be difficult for some people, especially in warm weather. In order to be prepared with the correct gear to make this hike and know the USFS rules that apply to the area, please educate yourself before coming by visiting the USFS website page for the Deep Creek area and our webpage for the Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground for detailed driving directions to the official trailhead located right on our property. You won't get lost if you park on our property and hike from the trailhead, so make sure you go to the right address. Know before you go! Generally, reservations are not necessary to set up a tent site, but we have a more private area set aside for hipcamp reservations that has separate facilities from the general camping area. Although children are permitted on the property, we do not recommend bringing children due to occasional nudity that may be seen in the area and the degree of difficulty for the hike. The hike to the hot springs is fairly difficult and everyone’s physical fitness needs to be considered when deciding to take pets, or have children, elderly people, or out-of-shape/over-weight people in your group.

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~ The Slab ~

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Homestead Valley, CA

Beautiful 5 acres of nothing but views. It's named "The Slab" simply because that's what my family has always called it. I am currently testing this as a place for campers, so please leave feedback so it can be improved. Eventually, there will be a picnic table setup for campers, and designated open spots for more vehicles to park/ flat spots for more tents. There is running water available on the slab but I am in the middle of figuring something out how campers can utilize it. Stay tuned! UFO Enthusiasts, Rock Climbers, Urban Explorers, Off-Roaders, Artists, Musicians, and all are welcomed! We are located 10 minutes from The Integratron, 25 minutes from Giant Rock, Joshua Tree National Park, and 40 minutes from Johnson Valley. Halliday's liquor store is 10 minutes, with $5 pizza place (delicious!) / gas station 15 minutes away. There is even a nearby Landers thrift store and La Copine restaurant. Shooting area about 15 minutes away. I can list SO much more, but I'll let you come explore the hidden gems Landers has to offer. There is a firepit set up onsite for your convenience. Feel free to reach out to me for any other questions or recommendations you may need to ensure you have a great stay. Come soak up the sunshine and enjoy the quiet beautiful starry nights at The Slab. Don't be afraid of getting a lil dusty on your journey!

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The Castle House: Estate

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Joshua Tree, CA

Units designed to make the everyday extraordinary. Step into a realm where luxury meets rugged beauty at The Castle House: Estate, your gateway to the ULTIMATE "GLAMPING" experience! As seen on HGTV, our tiny home oasis in Joshua Tree redefines accommodation with a unique medieval twist, seamlessly blending indoor-outdoor living and exceptional entertainment. Nestled in the heart of Joshua Tree and just minutes away from the awe-inspiring Joshua Tree National Park, The Castle House: Estate stands as a testament to opulence in the desert. Set on 12 picturesque acres, surrounded by vast private undeveloped land, our estate offers an unparalleled sense of tranquility and exclusivity. Experience a stay like no other in our award-winning haven, recognized with The BNB's prestigious Traveler Best Reviewed Property. But the enchantment doesn't end there—immerse yourself in the rejuvenating embrace of our tiered hexagonal aqua blue cowboy pool, strategically placed on a stunning IPE wood deck. This artistic oasis is a visual masterpiece, inviting you to bask in the sun or stargaze by night. Indulge in the luxury of our room service, available until midnight, offering a curated selection of local fare to tantalize your taste buds. At The Castle House: Estate, we redefine glamping by marrying comfort and adventure, creating an unforgettable escape that transcends the ordinary. Elevate your stay, reinvent yourself, and make memories that last a lifetime at The Castle House: Estate—where every moment is a masterpiece waiting to unfold. Book your extraordinary desert retreat now and be a part of an experience that's truly fit for royalty!

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Mineral Springs Date Farm

10 sites · Lodging20 acres · Desert Hot Springs, CA

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 with Hot Springs mineral water at each site located on a private 20-acre Date Farm with Mineral Springs. **~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.

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The Cabins at Joshua Tree Lake RV

10 sites · Lodging40 acres · Joshua Tree, CA

Joshua Tree Lake RV partnered with Hostel Cubed to create a mini glamping destination in our beautiful Siesta Circle! Using modular structures with minimal impact on Mother Earth, Hostel Cubed creates experiences in nature that combine the social culture of a hostel with innovative design in a community-driven atmosphere. After a stellar day exploring Joshua Tree, cool off in your Air Conditioned cabin, play with the ducks lakeside, roast some s'mores, or gaze at the Milky Way as you recharge for another memorable day in Joshua Tree. Our family-owned and operated outdoor experience offers charismatic desert scapes & vistas from our 2,300 ft elevation, giving you outstanding sightlines to Mt San Jacinto, Mt San Gorgonio and the North face of Joshua Tree National Park. Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground is located at the southern edge of the Mojave Desert - offering exceptional desert vistas and spectacular night skies.

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The Sunrise Sanctuary

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Joshua Tree, CA

Get away from the city and get dusty on our beautiful 2.5 acre dreamland. The Sunrise is a bare bones, clean and simple vintage trailer with a bed and storage. There are battery lights but no electricity or hook ups. Live like a yesteryear vaquero- make a fire, stargaze, and be zen. Amenities include an outhouse, a simple changing room/solar shower, picnic table and fire pit. Listen for the coyotes and search out the jackrabbits.

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Camp Deb's Place

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Yucca Valley, CA

Camp Deb's Place is located in Flamingo Heights on a 5 acre well-maintained property that is easily accessible from the highway. Tent and RV sites are currently available. This serene outdoor retreat offers a variety of delightful activities without leaving the grounds. If you enjoy nature, you will love the majestic sunrises, wildlife sightings, and stargazing. Many nearby attractions include Joshua Tree National Park, Pappy + Harriet's, Integratron, Pioneertown, Giant Rock, La Copine, Johnson Valley OHV area, and hiking trails. Deb's Place is perfect for singles, couples, families, and large groups. Reserve one or more campsites or request the entire venue for those seeking a more private experience. On-site amenities include a large covered outdoor kitchen with water and electric, a barbecue, bar, dining area, and a refrigerator; a restroom, shower, and fire-pits are available for guest use.

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Joshua Tree Basecamp

9 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Joshua Tree, CA

Joshua Tree RV Campground is your basecamp for adventure. A place to refresh and recharge for another day of exploring the great outdoors. Imagine camping in complete comfort while located near the rugged rock formations and vast desert landscapes filled with the famous bristled tree forests of Joshua Tree California. Joshua Tree RV & Campground is the perfect home base for exploring the spectacular Mojave and Colorado deserts. Whether you’re a tent or RV camper, Joshua Tree RV & Campground is the perfect choice for a great location and great rates. FHU & PHU Sites Spacious Tent Sites Complimentary WiFi Self Service Laundry Facilities Community BBQ Area

The best camping near Lucerne Lake guide

Overview

About

Just north of the San Bernardino National Forest in the Lucerne valley sits a dry lakebed known as Lucerne Lake. While this is a perfect place to take offroad vehicles, that is not the main attraction—the Rocketry Organization of California hosts its launch site in the expanse of the dry lakebed. Check out their website for upcoming launches, competitions, and many opportunities to learn more about the fascinating science of rocketry.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Lucerne Lake is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer brings warmth and a bustling energy, perfect for water activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winter, while quieter, can be chilly, making some activities less accessible.

Know before you go

Check weather conditions before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Be mindful of park wildlife; maintain a safe distance and do not feed the animals.
Lucerne Lake is a day-use area, so plan your activities between 8:30am to 5pm.
Accessibility varies across different parts of the park; inquire ahead for specific needs.
While exploring, adhere to Leave No Trace principles to preserve the park's natural beauty.