The best camping in Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area, CA
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area
Primitive/Undeveloped Sites![Primitive/Undeveloped Sites]()
1. Primitive/Undeveloped Sites
Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area offers a vast expanse of desert terrain, perfect for off-road enthusiasts
Top-rated campsites near Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area
Vista Del Mar
1. Vista Del Mar
90%
(10)
9.6mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:READ ALL (SOFT GROUND!!!) 1/2 acre flat desert primitive campground with soft course sand and rocks in Salton City. Nearby attractions are Salton Sea Beach, Coachella, Palm Springs, Anza Borrego (International Dark Sky Park), J-Tree, Slab City, Bombay Beach, and the off-roading Mecca of Ocotillo Wells OHV. Walking distance to Johnson’s Landing Cafe and the powered para-glider glide port in Salton City. 1 mile to fuel and eateries. Perfect for those accessing Truck Haven and Tierra Del Sol, and other off-road events. No shade provided on property. Nearest neibor is 1/4 mile away. Keep an eye on your pets, as there may be predators and stray dogs in the area.
SOFT GROUND, if unaccustomed to driving on sand, save yourself a recovery and park on the street. AWD does not mean you won’t get stuck. Otherwise, use 4 wheel drive if on the property, minimum 8” ground clearance for rocks, alley access is recommended. Air down tires for traction (aggressive tread recommended) and do not enter from Sea Wind Ave to avoid sinking. Otherwise, street parking okay to prevent unnecessary vehicle recovery. All proceeds go to organizations with efforts in saving the Salton Sea, local wildlife habitats, and preserving bird sanctuaries.
NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THEFT, PETS, BELONGINGS, VEHICLE DAMAGE or INJURIES.
Congrats to you though, camping here donates $$$ to organizations with efforts in wildlife refuges, preserving bird sanctuaries, and migration routes. Such as Ducks Unlimited, the Audubon Society, and the Nature Conservancy. See patches, stickers, and certificate in the photos representing the $$ donated out of proceeds from campers like you :)
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Oasis Ranch
2. Oasis Ranch
96%
(93)
16mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our Rural location is set in the Imperial Valley within driving distance to Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, Bombay Beach, Los Angeles, and San Diego.
The Oasis Ranch offers multiple locations on the property including:
Pond Site surrounded by +35 year old oak trees.
Desert terrain along with river washes lined with desert Cedar.
Beautiful one of a kind locations are very accessible, we are happy to help facilitate and coordinate where appropriate and needed.
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Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm
3. Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm
99%
(242)
25mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
The desert is really lovely right now, and so are the mineral baths.
We have no lodging here, so park your RV or car or set your tent up right next to outdoor hot mineral baths where pure water flows from under the desert at 124 degrees then we let it cool down to whatever temperature feels right. Only 1 group (max 6) at a time so it will always be private, and we are very conscientious of our guest's privacy, but are always available for questions via text or phone.
Check out our IG here! https://www.instagram.com/hotspringsorganicfarm/
Located in a rural desert setting 1 hour south of Indio, in the morning shadow of the Chocolate Mountains, this is a working farm growing 7 varieties of organic dates: medjool, barhi, khadrawi, halawi, khalas, dayri and zahidi.
Ideal bath times are nighttime and early morning, and day soaks are an option too if you live locally and just want to spend a few hours soaking.
We have a private driveway and fenced property and there are no nearby homes. It is an extremely safe neighborhood here...never having a single incident of theft, vandalism or intrusion in the 19 years of residence. This is where the beautiful natural hot healing waters flow out of the earth as described in the famed "Desert Magazine" article of November 1956 "Little Yellowstone on the Salton Shores". A very remarkable but little-known secret in the California desert.
18 years of date harvests have made life and residence purposeful here on this 7-acre flank of the Chocolate Mountains. Desert Magazine (1956) describes the hot water here to be "richer in mineral content than any spa water in the United States excepting those in the Yellowstone Park area. Here then was mineral water rivaling that of Spa Royat in France; Bad-Nauheim in Germany; and Marianbad in Czechoslovakia. Here was water superior to that which the royal heads of Europe had paid princely sums to use."
2-wheel drive vehicles, including cars are all one needs to reach the farm.
Some wild deer in the neighborhood, but also bighorn sheep, fox, coyote, bobcat, hawks, owls, lizards, geckos and rabbits. Native artifacts have been discovered on the property and our desert nights are free of light pollution.
Private hot springs on small farms are extremely rare anywhere in America, but especially within 2 and 1/2 hours of greater Los Angeles. This is a really great place to empty your head out and enjoy the lovely weather and an even better place to get and stay healthy in these unpredictable times. This place is ideally suited for health-oriented folks. No tobacco, alcohol, vaping, cannabis or drugs allowed. And in the pools no lotions, perfume, hair care products, makeup, or sunscreen. No food or glass near the pools, and we are not set up for small kids or pets. Cookstoves are okay here, just no campfires due to an excess of brush in the region.
Verizon and AT&T and T Mobile phone service all work well here. We are 4 miles from Bombay Beach, 35 minutes from Mecca, 1 hour and 20 minutes from Palm Springs, 1 hour from the Coachella Music Festival location, in the direction with light traffic. 1 hour and 30 minutes from Joshua Tree south entrance, 1 hour and 10 minutes from La Quinta and 2 hours and 30 minutes from Los Angeles area and 2 hours 30 minutes from San Diego area. We are 30 minutes to Salvation Mountain/The Slabs and 1 hour 10 minutes to Painted Canyon (The Slot Canyons in the Mecca Hills). The last half mile before our gate is a dirt road that can have seasonal ruts and washboard surface from off-roaders, so passenger cars will need to take it slow but can still make it.
We are not a posh resort, and because it's a farm there are a few odd structures and tools on the property, but that's just part of the art. The rock pools and hot water baths are lovely at night under the stars near the palms, and that's what this place is all about.
This farm is in the low (elevation) desert, where the winter days are warm with springtime-like weather from November - March.
The colder high desert areas in the Morongo Basin (Joshua Tree, 29 Palms etc.) are more popular tourist destinations, but sometimes they are so popular that the traffic can be as bad as any city, with no flowing water and the Bighorn Sheep are hiding away deep in the boulders. The low desert has nicer winter days, hot springs, flowing water, far less traffic and more places to observe wildlife.
Bring flip flops, towels and flashlights.
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Coyote Moon Camping
4. Coyote Moon Camping
100%
(18)
25mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 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
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Electrical hookup
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Montezuma Valley Campground
5. Montezuma Valley Campground
98%
(56)
27mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
Welcome to Montezuma Valley Campground! We are excited to welcome you to our special corner of the world.
About the property
Our property is in the high desert above Borrego Springs at 4,300'. We border Anza Borrego State property which means you’ll be adjacent to plenty of beautiful open spaces. There are many trails in the park which lead to the desert floor from our fence line. On a clear day you can see the Salton Sea from the bottom of the property.
We have great access to nearby points of interest including Borrego Springs which is 20 miles away, Anza Borrego State Park which is adjacent to Julian at 40 miles away, Palomar observatory which is 40 miles away and Cuyamaca Lake which is fantastic for fishing only 45 miles away. If you need to pop into town for any supplies or services you can access Borrego Springs (20 miles away), Julian (40 miles away), Ramona (45 miles away), and Temecula (50 miles away).
We have 3 horseshoe pits and 9 frisbee golf baskets for recreation onsite and we have incredible dark skies for excellent stargazing. You may see many different forms of wildlife including mountain lions, coyotes, foxes, bob cats, racoons, badgers, and rattle snakes. You will see many rabbits, squirrels and tons of birds of all kinds! We are really the perfect location for those who love the outdoors!
Owners live on site but we like to greet, meet, and then leave you to your stay! Please reach out if you have questions or concerns though.
About the listing
Our listing is for tents, vans and truck campers, trailers, or RV’s and we can accommodate rigs up to 25ft in length. A few of our 5 sites are pull through sites on dirt and may require some leveling. All sites are dry camping only as we do not have any hookups, though there are two bathrooms and water available in a centralized area on the property.
You can expect High desert and scrub brush environments. Any vehicle should be able to access our property but 4-wheel drive vehicle might make it a little easier to access areas on the outside perimeter of the property. While staying with us you can expect some noise from coyotes, raven….wind and a little highway traffic on s22.
Each site will accommodate up to 6 people. Amenities listed below:
-Picnic table provided
-Two bathrooms available
-Pets allowed
-Potable water available via spigot
-Trash bins available
-Limited cell service, no wifi
Additional details to note
Fires are illegal in our area so please no campfires at anytime. Dogs must be leashed and please no barking + clean up after them. Quiet hours by 10pm please + low light since we are a stargazing area. We do not have a kitchen or cooking area so please BYO supplies. Check in is after 1pm and check out is by 11am.
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Clara Vista High Desert Retreat
6. Clara Vista High Desert Retreat
100%
(61)
29mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site
This beautiful high desert retreat is a working artist's property with several stone and steel sculptures of the late
artist,
Norm Hines, & his students,
available for viewing on the property. The guest cabin sits secluded on the southern ridge of Montezuma Valley, with spectacular views of Earthquake Valley and the distant mountains of Baja California and a short hike to Anza Borrego State Park. A gas fireplace in the cabin will keep you warm on those chilly winter evenings. Ideal for 1-2 people looking for solitude, stargazing and high-desert nature.
Cozy guest cabin with propane fireplace on 30 acre artist's retreat at 4000 feet elevation.
One mi. hike to NW boundary of Anza Borrego SP. Four mi. to PCT. Hiking trails to large plutonic rocks, breathtaking view south into Mexico. Private portable toilet, outdoor cold water sink, outdoor grill, small camping stove, teapot, full size bed,
Norm Hines sculptures on property for guest viewing. Great for bird watching, stargazing, desert solitude. 13 miles to Borrego Springs. 28 miles to Julian.
Guests love staying here: "Tom’s cabin was the perfect weekend getaway to decompress and detach. The site offers all the amenities you need. There are multiple trails located around the property if you’re looking to get a little activity in. Otherwise just sitting and hanging out is about as peaceful as it gets. A great place to go if you don’t want to venture out too far. This place just might be my monthly weekend hideout. Thanks Tom for sharing such a beautiful place."
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Banner Ranch Julian
7. Banner Ranch Julian
92%
(228)
32mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 8 sites
The ultimate way to experience the outdoors! We cannot wait for you to indulge in Banner Ranch. Nestled in the meadow you will find tent campsites underneath the cover of breathtaking trees. A creek flows through the valley, turkey and deer roam, and wildlife flourishes where the apple orchards once stood. During exploration of the sixty-two acres you will stumble upon many of the ranch nature trails. A spacious layout, perfect outdoor climate, and the company of family and friends is the recipe for a soulful stay in Banner Ranch!
From Banner Ranch there is immediate walking access to the California Riding and Hiking Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and the charming town of Julian is a ten-minute drive. Banner Ranch is anchored by a historic General Store soon to offer an array of local handicrafts and refreshments. A stay includes complimentary car parking, restrooms, and is pet friendly.
Please feel free to reach out if you would like to book Banner Ranch for a special occasion. Also, let us know if you are interested in booking a tiny house or covered wagon on the ranch for a glamping experience.
Kindly pack in and pack out, always remember to leave the land better than you found it. Cell service can be spotty at best, Verizon has the strongest signal on the property. Tents are not provided.
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Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry
8. Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry
99%
(141)
32mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 4 sites
Alter Experiences LLC is a glamping & nature travel company based out of San Diego, CA. We're dedicated to creating meaningful experiences in nature & getting people outdoors.
Our glamping sites are located in the Cleveland National Forest - Mount Laguna, CA.
Our plush tents are nestled in the high mountain forests of San Diego's backcountry - sky islands where pristine nature & wild-life thrives. These are some of the most remote & biologically diverse habitats in all of Southern California.
Our sites are handpicked to offer you a truly nature immersive experience. We strive to create the most comfortable outdoor experiences, even at our most remote locations. We take all that's fun about traditional camping & combine it with modern comfort & state of the art equipment.
We offer various accommodation styles depending on location. Our Tentsile tree tents are definitely the most popular - a lightweight tree house that uses 3 anchor points to create a "living space" suspended between trees. Our elevated tree tents bring a whole new dimension to camping.
Our plush & cozy bell tent was designed with the ultimate comfort in mind! It feature all the amenities you can expect at a hotel - therapeutic mattress, buddy heater, quality linens and more. The provided kitchen comes fully outfitted with everything you need including; hot chocolate, tea, spices and multiple cooking tops. All you need to bring is your cooler and food! Open fires are allowed (weather permitting) and bundles of wood are sold at $8.
There are a network of trails to explore nearby, as well as Lake Cuyamaca and the historic town of Julian. You can choose from various restaurants, breweries wineries and we also have two hard cider locations, as well as various other attractions and activities. We also offer mountain bike rentals right from the campsite.
Glamp with us and discover all the beautiful and natural wonders of our San Diego Backcountry.
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Joshua Tree Private Campsite
9. Joshua Tree Private Campsite
98%
(67)
33mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
One mile from Joshua Tree National Park southern entrance. Beautiful desert landscape nestled in by mountains. Private serene and spiritual land. Come get enlightened.
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Stargazers Retreat
10. Stargazers Retreat
95%
(20)
33mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site
Come enjoy this beautiful glamping site with 180 degree panoramic views of the Volcan Mountains. Start your morning off with a beautiful hike followed by breakfast in downtown Julian just minutes away. Endless activities including cider, wine, mead and beer tasting. Gold mining, apple orchards, pumpkin farms, camel farm just to name a few. Wind down by enjoying a glass of wine sitting by a fit pit while gazing at the stars.
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Forsythe Equestrian Club
11. Forsythe Equestrian Club
92%
(18)
33mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
20 acre Horse Facility located just 2.7 miles away from the Coachella Music festival grounds and 3.1 miles from Desert International Horse Park. RV parking is easy to access. The evening sunsets are beautiful. Very peaceful and quiet. We have 30amps, water and septic hookups available at each site.
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Full hookups
Luxury Glamping - Manzanita Cove
12. Luxury Glamping - Manzanita Cove
100%
(11)
35mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site
THE AREA: Tucked away under a grove of oak trees, and circled by manzanita trees, sits "Manzanita Cove". A secluded glamping site that contains everything you need, including a private (seasonal pond). This private site is provided with about 1/2 acre of seclusion and equipped with everything needed for an amazing outdoor experience. The total property is about 5 acres, but is shared with our AirBnB: "Julians Red Fox Retreat", which can be booked separately or together with our "Manzanita Cove" glamping site. Because of the shared space, we do limit the number of guests to two, and ask that you be respectful of the space and noise level when booking independently. There are several hammocks around the grounds to relax as well as a few short trails to walk.
The property is about a 7 minute drive from downtown Julian and Wynola.
WINTER/ SPRING GUESTS: Access to the site is down a bit of a steep dirt road, so we suggest that winter and Spring campers (wet weather) have AWD/4WD or park at the top and walk down. Otherwise is it accessible by most vehicles other parts of the year. Please do not stop on the hill when leaving. You will spin your tires and damage the road.
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The Happy Camper
13. The Happy Camper
99%
(38)
35mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 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.
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Svatantria Boutique Retreat
14. Svatantria Boutique Retreat
97%
(43)
36mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 4 sites
Welcome to Svatantria, a serene retreat nestled on 14 acres of enchanting landscape in the charming community of Julian, California. Here, meandering creeks, a tranquil pond, ancient oaks and vibrant native flora and fauna create a haven of natural beauty.
Our retreat features four charming cabins and eight picturesque camping areas, ideal for both day-use and extended stays. Each accommodation is thoughtfully equipped with amenities such as BBQ grills, mini-fridges, and bathrooms with invigorating hot showers. Depending on your choice of rental, amenities may be either private or shared.
During your visit, immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings by exploring our on-site labyrinth, hiking through the peaceful canyons, dipping your toes in the seasonal creek, or observing the diverse wildlife.
Julian has been designated as a national dark sky community, making it a perfect spot for stargazing enthusiasts. Every year between mid-July and the end of August, visitors can view the spectacular Perseid meteor showers, adding an extra touch of magic to your stay.
We also invite you to join our yogis for practice on the meditation platform, or unwind to the soothing sounds of a nearby seasonal creek and waterfall. Private and semi-private yoga sessions are available—please contact us for more details.
Svatantria honors the Kumeyaay, the First Peoples of this area, who have stewarded the sacred land for more than 1,000 years. As it's current custodians we are are hopeful that you will join us in preserving its beauty, spirit and nurturing essence.
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Manzanita Hill Woodland Camping
15. Manzanita Hill Woodland Camping
94%
(16)
36mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The perfect blend of a relaxing San Diego local mountain getaway with access to nearby local attractions and restaurants! Manzanita Hill offers private camping with proximity to historic Julian, shopping, dining, and recreational opportunities. Located on over 8 acres of mountain woodlands, Manzanita Hill boasts of spectacular views of the Spencer Valley and the hills of nearby Santa Ysabel Preserve East. Bring your own tent, pull in your camper van, or book into our Safari tent, nestled in oak woodlands on a deck, with private compost toilet.
Manzanita Hill is just:
- a five minute drive to antique shops, Patchwork Market, cideries, farm stands, bakeries, and restaurants at Wynola Junction.
- 10 minutes from historic Julian township, an old gold mining town.
- A scenic 10 minute drive up Wynola Road to the Volcan Mountain Preserve trailhead, Menghini Winery, and apple orchards.
- 15-20 minutes to Santa Ysabel for Julian Pie Company, Dudley's Bakery, Santa Ysabel Art Gallery, access to Santa Ysabel Preserve and Interpretive Center, Cuyamaca Lake, and more!
Manzanita Hill Homestead, an early 20th century structure is under going a revival to modern homestead and community space. The surrounding woodlands are receiving some TLC focusing on forest health and wildfire prevention. There is one adventure trail onsite and a community propane fire pit (allowed when extreme heat or high winds are not forecast), because, well... s'mores.
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Fort Cross Adventures
16. Fort Cross Adventures
99%
(171)
37mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
PRIOR TO SUBMITTING A BOOKING REQUEST, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE READ ALL OF THE RULES AND INFORMATION FOUND AT:
www fortcross com / camping
You will also need to fill out the Camper Questionnaire/Agreement prior to your booking request being approved.
Join us at Fort Cross, near the idyllic mountain town of Julian, CA! Famous for it's apples and pies.... also great hiking! And a popular destination for tourism!
During your stay, you'll have so much fun! Our Farm Tour Adventure includes archery, hatchet throwing, slingshot range, petting zoo, and interactive reptile experience! And there's plenty to see and do on our 12-acre farm that kids and adults will love.
There are also seasonal festival events that offer even more activities!
Pitch a tent or camp in your trailer/RV!
You will have access to water, restrooms, and a shower! A covered picnic table area with a deep sink for washing dishes is included.
Please be sure to fill out the camper questionnaire/agreement prior to submitting your booking request.
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Taste of Nature and Wildlife
17. Taste of Nature and Wildlife
92%
(37)
37mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
You will enjoy 6 acres where you'll be able to hang a hammock, read a book, or watch our daily visitors, deer and/or wild turkeys. There's no city noise around here, you'll fall asleep to the sound of crickets and bullfrogs. Lastly, it's a short distance over the hill for you to enjoy the small town of Julian and their famous apple pie.
*Some areas of the property are used for storage of building materials for active building and improvement of the property.
We offer 2 guest at 150.00 a night, each additional guest is 25 nightly. KIDS ARE FREE.
Learn more about this land:
Hip-campers will enjoy wide open space where they can hang a hammock or feed cat fish in the pond. There are hiking trails and beautiful sunsets. Deer and turkey visit regularly. There are no city sounds, you will fall asleep to crickets and bullfrogs. The old town of Julian is within reach. 150.00
night for 2 people, each addition person is 25 dollars.
KIDS UNDER 18 FREE.
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Coachella Lakes RV Resort
18. Coachella Lakes RV Resort
100%
(43)
38mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 360 sites · RVs, Lodging
Experience the Newest Luxury Coachella RV Resort
Find yourself experiencing luxury on your next vacation and get closer to what you love. Join us at Coachella Lakes RV Resort, the newest RV Resort in the Coachella Valley. We offer you the time to relax while enjoying modern and luxurious amenities all conveniently located a short drive from both Palm Desert and Palm Springs, without the crowds.
Southern California is one of the most beautiful places you can visit and the Coachella Valley is right in the heart of it all. From your base at Coachella Lakes RV Resort, you can easily explore Joshua Tree National Park, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, hiking trails, and hot springs, and then return to your RV site each night for top-notch amenities.
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Full hookups
In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat
19. In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat
99%
(120)
38mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Property is located in the High Desert area of E. San Diego County in the In-Ko-)Pah Mountains. 5 camp sites to choose from and one (1) glamping unit "Casa Agave" which is a small home the sleeps four (4). One queen bed, 1 single and a sofa bed that sleeps one. To the west is Table Mountain a sacred Native American Ceremonial Ground that is on BLM land. The Northern boundary is the beginning Anza Borrego State Park. The East and South borders are private land. There is much evidence of campsites and artifacts that the land used to be inhabited by the Kumeyaay Nation. Mica and Garnets used to be mined in this area as well. The property is a transitional area where agave, juniper and scrub oak thrive. Wildlife in the area includes: Quail, Rattle Snakes, Lizards, Ravens, Roadrunners, Tarantulas, Rosy Boa, Mule Deer, Pack Rats, Bob Cats, Coyotes and at times Bighorn Sheep are spotted by Table Mountain. I have 10 chickens, 2 cats and my dog Bosco.
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Manzanita Village Retreat
20. Manzanita Village Retreat
99%
(100)
38mi from Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site
We are co-founders of Ordinary Dharma and Five Changes, and stewards of this land at Manzanita Village Retreat.
Thirty years ago we were searching for a place where the land itself would be an active support in our of work facilitating workshops and retreats. We were looking for land that was within easy reach of San Diego and Los Angeles, while still being remote and far from the noise of highways. The land is infused with the presence of the thousands of people who have come here for transformation and renewal.
We are now open to visitors from HipCamp -- we look forward to your visit
Caitriona Reed and Michele Benzamin-Miki
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Matt
1 week ago
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
The only thing more amazing than Franks land is Frank himself! He made the stay better than we could’ve imagined!
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N
Nadya
1 week ago
Tent
Beautiful stargazing in a truly isolated, private community. Very very peaceful and beautiful, and the host is kind and communicative!
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I
Ivan
1 week ago
Tent
Gordon is an amazing host and the pools are amazing and we got to really relax and watch the sunset.
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J
Joe
1 week ago
24 ft Class C
With pets
We enjoyed the trip. Frank was an excellent host, made us feel at home and super helpful to make sure we had all we need!
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A
Allison
3 weeks ago
1 night at In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat
Greg was an amazing host and Casa Agave is wonderful. Greg's land is beautiful and he has great communication. We will certainly stay again!
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K
Kacy
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Cute little place. Amenities were limited but the area was clean and there was a nice little creek running alongside it. Would visit again.
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S
Steve
3 weeks ago
With kids
Great location, and the tiny house exceeded our expectations. Just a few miles from town, but felt very secluded. We will definitely be back!
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Lynn
May 2026
Tent
What a great property! Loved the donkeys, wild turkeys and nightly frog symphony from the creek running next to our camp site. We were in #7, which had great shade, but the restroom and shower were a bit of a walk up hill. Didn’t affect us in our travel van.
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M
Mattea
May 2026
Group trip
We had such an amazing time here! Everything exceeded our expectations, even the dispensary :) Davida is such a great host and we can’t wait to come back again soon!
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KNL
May 2026
38 ft Class A
Quiet spot with a well kept park with lots of amenities. We only stayed one night but we will definitely be back.
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G
George
May 2026
Weekend Trip to Svatantria Boutique Retreat
Super welcoming, check in was a breeze. Cabin was perfect with a great porch to sit in the sun and read.
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P
Pete
May 2026
2 nights at Luxury Glamping - Manzanita Cove
simply amazing, the whole experience was just amazing...star gazing by the pond with nature providing the soundtrack, the bats flying around us (not a sacary thing at all hahaha) ,the view...wow ..
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M
Michael
April 2026
40 ft travel trailer
The campsite was quiet and located close to the event I was attending. The hookups were in good working order and there was shade. I found it was more pleasant than expected because a property with horses usually has tons of flies, but that was NOT the case here at the Forsythe. Laura's directions were perfect and they had a light on for me when I pulled in at 2am. Super easy!
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N
Nate
April 2026
Tent
With kids
What an incredible hidden oasis. It is completely unexpected based on the surrounding area. Once you drive up, the setting feels calm, secluded, and vibrant.
The wind was no joke during our stay. It was strong and consistent, especially at night. We came prepared with extra tent anchors, and that made a significant difference.
The water was clean and refreshing. The kids floated around the lake during the breaks in the wind, and no question, the pond added a unique element to the experience. There was also an impressive amount of wildlife, including turtles, fish, and a wide variety of birds. Watching them throughout the day made the campsite feel alive and peaceful at the same time.
Overall, this is a place that feels more like a discovery than a typical destination. It offers a mix of quiet, nature, and a bit of adventure. We had a great time and would absolutely come back.
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L
Lindsey
April 2026
29 ft travel trailer
Nicest RV resort I’ve been to. Full gym, pool, jacuzzi, desert views and spacious sites. Skip the pull in sites for the back in sites with better views and more space. Stayed here for Coachella and it was a great home base and close enough if driving/taking Uber. Wasn’t super convenient if taking shuttle though.
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Z
Zaddy
April 2026
Weekend Trip to Luxury Glamping - Manzanita Cove
It was so beautiful to be out in the forest away from home!everything was provided on the stay which made it 10x better
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Julia
April 2026
Tent
With pets
The pond was beautiful with many birds. For the porta potty was clean and there was plenty of room for my dog to roam as well. The place was quiet and well stocked with firewood.
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B
Bryan
April 2026
Tent
I arrived exhausted, and Gordon had the hot spring waiting. Warm. Ready. That’s when I knew this was different. I parked steps away from everything I needed. That night, under stars so clear I could name them, I soaked and just… breathed. The next morning at seven, the spring was hot again. Gordon was thinking ahead. The trees whispered around me. The privacy wasn’t just about location, it was permission to be fully myself. That’s what Gordon created. A place where you can finally let go.
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C
Chris
April 2026
Tent
With pets
I had an incredible time camping at Coyote Moon this past weekend. If you are looking for a spot to truly disconnect and take in the natural beauty of the area, this is it.
The highlight of the trip was undoubtedly the beautiful night skies. Being away from the heavy city lights provided some of the clearest stargazing I’ve experienced in a long time—perfect for anyone who loves sitting by the fire and looking up at the Milky Way.
A huge thank you to our host, Adil. He was exceptionally friendly and accommodating from the moment we arrived. He went out of his way to ensure we had everything we needed for a comfortable stay and made us feel right at home on the property.
I highly recommend this spot for anyone wanting a peaceful getaway with great hospitality.
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Rhys
April 2026
16 ft car
This place was so awesome and Gordon was so helpful and chill!
See moreOcotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area camping guide
Overview
About
More than 85,000 acres of magnificent desert are open for off-highway exploration and recreation within the boundaries portrayed on the park map are operated by California State Parks, OHMVR Division. Outside the boundaries, to the south and east, large tracts of BLM land (U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management) are also open to off-highway vehicles. The western boundary and part of the northern boundary connect with the 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, which is closed to off-highway recreation, but open to exploration by highway-legal vehicles along established primitive roads.
The rangers and staff of Ocotillo Wells are dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable desert riding environment, and to ensuring that a quality experience remains available for future generations.
No fees are collected for camping or day use. Open camping is permitted throughout the unit for up to 30 days per calendar year. Vault toilets, shade ramadas, picnic tables, and fire rings are located in the Quarry, Main Street, and Holmes Camp areas. Water is not available. Vehicle repair shops, telephones, groceries, hotels, motels, RV parks, and restaurants are available in the surrounding communities of Borrego Springs, Ocotillo Wells, and Salton City.
Fuel is available in the communities of Borrego Springs and Salton City.
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