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Joshua Tree, California

Looking for the best camping in Joshua Tree? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Joshua Tree. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Camping Spots in and near Joshua Tree

  • San Bernardino County, California

    Off-Road Jacoby Canyon

    2.9 mi
    This is now my favorite trail in the San Bernardino National Forest. Ranging from desert scenes at the bottom and pine trees at the top, you experience such high levels of outdoors feel you can't resist. This trail has so many awesome spots for camping and off-roading that it has a great mix for ...
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  • Angelus Oaks, California

    South Fork to Dollar Lake Trail

    11.3 mi / 449 ft gain
    South Fork to Dollar Lake Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a lake located near Banning, California.
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  • Mountain Center, California

    Tahquitz Peak via Devils Slide Trail

    5.0
    8.31 mi / 2238 ft gain
    Tahquitz Peak via Devils Slide Trail is a moderately trafficked 8+ mile out and back trail located near Idyllwild, California. This trail is one of the most popular hikes in the San Jacinto area that features a fire lookout tower at the peak and amazing views of the valley below.  At an elevation...
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  • Forest Falls, California

    Vivian Creek Trail to San Gorgonio Peak

    17.83 mi / 5627 ft gain
    Vivian Creek Trail to San Gorgonio Peak is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Forest Falls, California.
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  • Big Bear, California

    Alpine Pedal Path

    5.0
    5.08 mi / 292 ft gain
    Alpine Pedal Path is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a lake located near Big Bear Lake, California.
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  • Big Bear, California

    Rock Climb Holcomb Valley

    5.0
    Most of the drive to Holcomb Valley is done on regular paved roads until about the last hour when you get above Big Bear Lake and you start your journey on dirt roads. The road is extremely bumpy and has lots of pot holes but there are generally quite a few cars up there that don't have 4 wheel d...
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  • Big Bear, California

    Holcomb Valley Campground

    This campground is awesome! With great views, plenty of space and clean bathrooms it'll have you in for a treat! Whether it be a multiple day trip or just one night this campground is awesome. Read below for information if you are looking for a trip in the mountains! Cost: This campground is a ...
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  • Angelus Oaks, California

    San Bernardino Peak

    3.0
    15.82 mi / 4911 ft gain
    The San Bernadino Peak Trail out of Angelus Oaks is a very challenging hike, which can either be done as a day hike or an overnight trip. Free permits are required for day hiking and overnights in the San Gorgonio Wilderness. These permits can be accessed via Sgwa.org/permits.  If you choose to ...
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  • Forest Falls, California

    Summit Mt. San Bernardino from Angelus Oaks

    16 mi / 4775 ft gain
    The trailhead is somewhat 'interesting' to get to given the dirt roads are in questionable shape and some of the roads in Angelus Oaks are not easily identifiable but I didn't have any problems finding it by closely following Google Maps.    Trailhead parking requires an Adventure Pass parking pe...
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  • Mountain Center, California

    Cactus Spring Trail

    31.73 mi / 6407 ft gain
    Cactus Spring Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see wildflowers located near Mountain Center, California.
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  • Twentynine Palms, California

    Camp at Cottonwood Campground in Joshua Tree NP

    The Cottonwood Campground is roughly 40 minutes south of the main attractions in Joshua Tree on Pinyon Canyon Rd and is located right next to the visitor center The biggest advantage of this site is that it is less popular than many of the other sites in Joshua Tree. It also has potable water and...
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  • Twentynine Palms, California

    Hike the Mastadon Peak Loop

    5.0
    2.3 mi / 331 ft gain
    The trail is typically used for hiking, nature trips, and trail running. There are lots of opportunities to see desert plants and flowers. On clear days, you can see the Salton Sea. There is an old mine to explore from the outside, as the entrance has been sealed.  If you plan on going to the top...
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  • Twentynine Palms, California

    Explore Cottonwood Spring

    Just east of the Cottonwood Visitor Center. This scenic spot provides access to cottonwood spring. The spring is a short walk down from the parking lot, and was formed from earthquakes! It was a popular spot for natives and settlers to gather water back in the day. As you approach the springs you...
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  • Riverside County, California

    Dispersed Camp at Old Dale Mining District

    5.0
    It can be a pain to try and camp in Joshua Tree. Most of the sites get reserved way in advance and if you are looking for privacy or a quiet area, it's not going to happen.  But you can camp outside the park on BLM land and there is a great place to do this, it's called Old Dale Mining district. ...
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  • Mecca, California

    Camp at the Salton Sea

    4.0
    The Salton Sea State Recreation Area is a good place to camp. It has bathrooms with running water and showers. There are 3 options for camping RV camping with hookups is $30 per night. Tent camping at New Camp (on the map to the right) or Mecca Beach is $20 per night. One can also camp at a more ...
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