Vacationers go to Palm Springs because of its location in the Sonoran Desert, which is flanked by 4 distinct mountain ranges. As it is only a three-hour trip from San Diego and just a two-hour drive beyond Los Angeles, the resort city is a favorite weekend vacation destination for many people.
The Coachella Valley, which includes the city of Palm Springs as well as several nearby neighborhoods known collectively also as Coachella Valley, is a popular holiday destination because of its mid-century modern architecture, the abundance of national title golf courses, warm climate, and fun and welcoming atmosphere. Beyond the golf courses and swimming pools, there are a plethora of tourist attractions, activities to do, as well as places to visit to keep visitors entertained. Shoppers and diners alike can choose from a diverse choice of activities in downtown Las Vegas, including museum visits, dining, and visiting the nearby desert, mountain ranges, and canyons.
When it’s winter in most of North America (about November through March), Palm Springs’ high season begins, and the city’s population grows as a result of the influx of tourists and snowbirds. Palm Springs hosts a prestigious lineup of Hollywood superstars every January whereas during the yearly Palm Springs Film Festival, while the city attracts architecture and design enthusiasts from all over the world during Modernism Week, which takes place in February. Coachella as well as Stagecoach music festivals, which take place near Indio, approximately 30 minutes from downtown, draw a large number of visitors to the city in April.
Things to do in Palm Springs, California
Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a great way to cool off from the desert heat. Mount San Jacinto, which rises almost 10,000 feet over the desert level just outside of Palm Springs, may be reached via a magnificent tramway ride.
Since its inception in 1963, the tramway boasts the largest spinning aerial tram carriages in the world. Metal towers have been built on the mountainside to support the cables that hang the cars, much like a ski lift. The view of the desert is spectacular from the summit, and even on hot days, the cold air (which can be 30 to 40 degrees cooler than the desert floor) is a welcome relief. In the winter, the summit is covered in snow.
The tram will transport you to an altitude of 8,500 feet in Chino Canyon in much less than ten minutes. At the tram’s summit, known as the Mountain Station, visitors will find observation decks, restaurants, as well as historical exhibits, and documentaries detailing the tram’s construction. Mount San Jacinto can be reached through a 50-mile-long hiking trek from the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument. Campfires are permitted in the park.
It’s amazing to go swimming in Palm Springs, then head to the tram, proceed to the mountain, and enjoy the snow in less than an hour, all on the same day.
Visit the Coachella Valley Preserve
There are more than 13,000 acres of desert and mountain vistas to be explored in this protected outdoor area. Natural resources are managed and preserved by a joint effort between the federal and state governments and private landowners.
The Coachella Valley Preserve, east of Palm Springs, is indeed a haven for a wide range of species. There are three distinct preserves that make up this complex. The Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve around Palm Desert is the greatest place to go. Numerous oases may be found along the 30 miles of hike paths that make up the park.
Volunteer docent-led hikes are a fantastic way to learn about the preserve and get a feel for the terrain.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park, which is less than an hour’s drive from Palm Springs and is among the most fascinating and picturesque parks in the Southwest. In the event that you have only enough time for one side trip, this is indeed the place to go. This park contains some breathtaking sights, as well as wonderful walking and hiking trails. It also has excellent campgrounds, wherein you can park an RV or set your tent close to massive Joshua trees and massive rock formations, which are a sight to behold.
See the VillageFest Weekly Street Party
VillageFest, which takes place on Thursday evenings throughout the year in downtown Palm Springs, is a massive street celebration including more than 180 booths established all along the city’s main street for the event. Approximately a quarter-mile length of Palm Canyon Drive has been restricted to traffic, as well as booths have been set up on both sides of the road.
This is a wonderful evening out where you can browse for arts and crafts, jewelry, and perhaps other intriguing things, as well as sample some delectable refreshments from local eateries and artisans. Additionally, musical performers, buskers, and many other street artists will provide additional entertainment while you are shopping.
In the evening, at about 6 or 7 pm depending on conditions, the night market event gets underway and continues until 10 pm that evening.
Check Out the Architecture and Design Center
Located in Palm Springs, California, is the world’s biggest collection of preserved mid-century modern architecture. In the month of February, the city holds Modernism Week to commemorate the history of the design style. Attendees from throughout the world gather to see open houses, movie screenings, as well as home visits to architecturally notable sites.
For anyone with a passion for architecture and design, the Architecture and Design Center located at the Palm Springs Art Museum is indeed a must-see. The building itself is indeed a protected historic landmark because it is located in a 1960s mid-century contemporary bank building, like many others in Palm Springs.
Besides housing the Palm Springs Art Museum’s architecture collections, it also hosts temporary exhibitions and rotates items out from the museum’s permanent collection.
Palm Springs RV Parks
In addition to serving RVers passing through on their route to one of the area’s numerous attractions, RV parks in Palm Springs, California, also cater to those who live in or visit the area. Because Palm Springs is also renowned with retirees, several of the RV parks around Palm Springs exclusively allow visitors who are 55 years old and above to stay at their facilities. It is warm all year in Palm Springs, and because it is set in the core of Southern California, this is an excellent starting point for a California RV vacation.
Several national parks, including the Santa Rosa and the San Jacinto Mountains National Monument as well as the Coachella Valley Preserve, are within easy driving distance of RV parks in Palm Springs, California, and some of these resorts offer the opportunity of parking your RV in a full breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. Either of these RV camping alternatives in Palm Springs would indeed be suitable for you whether you have your own RV or are renting a camper.
Happy Traveler RV Park
This RV park is situated near San Jacinto Mountain, which is a popular tourist destination. Compared to other RV parks within the area, this one is quite tiny and is only a few blocks from downtown Palm Springs. From April 15 to October 15, families with children are welcome at Happy Traveler RV Park, which features a huge pool in the heart of the property.
The Happy Traveler RV Park, located in downtown Palm Springs is a great choice if you want to be close to all the action. At the foot of the San Jacinto Mountains, the RV park offers easy access to local businesses, attractions, and dining. Full hookups, cable TV, as well as picnic tables are all available at these RV parks. Some portions of the campground are equipped with Wi-Fi service provided by Tengo Internet. Campers have access to a pool and jacuzzi in a communal area. Camping in a tent and also pop-up trailers is not permitted at any of the 130 campsites in the park.
The neighboring mountains can be seen from nearly every one of the park’s RV sites. The pool, shaded by towering palms, is open year-round. If you’re visiting Palm Springs with children during the summer, consider staying at Happy Traveler RV Park.
Address: 211 W Mesquite Ave, Palm Springs, CA 92264, United States
Contact: +1 760-325-8518
Palm Springs Oasis RV Resort
This RV resort is situated on the east side of Palm Springs near Cathedral City, and it is accessible by car or on foot. Every site at this RV park boasts a breathtaking view of the nearby mountain ranges from its elevated position. Palm Springs Oasis RV Resort is a 55+ community that offers a variety of amenities that seniors will appreciate.
Golfers will appreciate the fact that Palm Springs Oasis RV Resort is just next block to Date Palm Country Club, which allows them to indulge in a round whenever the mood strikes them. There’s a restaurant on the premises, so you won’t have to venture far from Palm Springs Oasis RV Resort to get some food. The downtown area of Palm Springs is only a few mins away if you choose to explore out.
Address: 36-100 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City, CA 92234, United States
Contact: +1 760-328-4813
Emerald Desert RV Resort
Emerald Desert RV Resort is indeed a medium-sized RV park with a total of 66 sites. It is situated on 33 gorgeous acres and is only a few minutes away from all the excitement of Palm Desert. Those who choose to remain at the resort will get unlimited access to their five-star accommodations and amenities, which include a fully equipped gym, pickleball courts, and perhaps even spa services.
Each and every detail of this immaculate resort exudes the comforts of SoCal living, and the staff is committed to providing you with 5-star service quality 7 days a week. Relax in the sparkling pool and Jacuzzi, sharpen your skills upon putting green or rather driving range, and let your four-legged companions run free in our fenced-in dog parks.
Each staff at Emerald Desert RV Resort is dedicated to ensuring that guests have a positive experience and that they have an outstanding RV experience. So don’t be afraid to ask one of the helpful staff members about a restaurant or even golf recommendations, as well as suggestions for interesting and enjoyable things to do in the surrounding region. They are available to assist you!
Address: 76000 Frank Sinatra Dr, Palm Desert, CA 92211, United States
Contact: +1 760-406-5240
Outdoor Resort Palm Springs
In addition to the Outdoor Resort Palm Springs, a further camping alternative in Cathedral City would be the Outdoor Resort Palm Springs, which does have 1,213 sites featuring 50-amp electric service, as well as water, sewer, and even cable TV. With golf courses, tennis courts, as well as pickleball courts, and lastly eight swimming pools to choose from, this five-star luxurious RV park also has a restaurant, clubhouses, as well as a fitness center. When you come to this location, you can join in a variety of social events. An orchard with lemons, limes, oranges, & grapefruits is also available for visitors to select their own.
Outdoor Resort Palm Springs is a very large recreational vehicle. This RV park offers panoramic mountain views, as well as access to a number of golf courses on the premises. This is among the most opulent RV parks around Palm Springs, and also the Owner’s Lounge has just been rebuilt to make it even more spectacular.
Not that many RV parks could brag about having numerous golf courses on their property. Outdoor Resort Palm Springs is once again enormous, and it boasts all of the amenities of a sizable city in its own right. This is an indication of its unmistakable superiority.
Address: 69411 Ramon Rd, Cathedral City, CA 92234, United States
Contact: +1 800-843-3131
Cathedral Palms RV Resort
If you compare it to other RV parks in the area, Cathedral Palms RV Resort is a small establishment. In Cathedral City, which is about 7 miles from downtown Palm Springs, you’ll find this establishment. It takes only a few minutes to go to popular sights like the Palm Springs Air Museum.
Located in the Cathedral Palms, which offers an outlet mall, outdoor events, restaurants, and even casinos in addition to other amenities. Besides a pool, jacuzzi, wading pool, and laundry facilities as well as a clubhouse and shower rooms, this campsite can host any size trailer. If you want, you can simply sit outside your camper on your site and take in the views of the San Jacinto Mountains as the sunsets. In addition to laundry machines, a dog park, as well as a dump station, and scheduled activities, this 12-acre park offers a variety of other amenities.
Cathedral Palms RV Resort is indeed a wonderful spot to unwind and enjoy a relaxing vacation with your family. Due to its location, you will not be disturbed by hundreds of neighbors creating noise at all times. However, despite its tiny size, Cathedral Palms RV Resort boasts an impressive array of high-end amenities.
Address: 35901 Cathedral Canyon Dr, Cathedral City, CA 92234, United States
Contact: +1 760-324-8244
Indian Wells RV Resort
The Indian Wells RV Resort, which is located in the neighborhood of Palm Springs and has around 300 sites featuring full hookups and even free Wi-Fi, is another choice. It is planned to have activities including such as soup nights, ice cream socials, as well as bingo at this location. RV parking is provided in both back-in & pull-through configurations. This pet-friendly RV park has amenities such as cable TV, a swimming pool, a hot tub, and even a mini-golf, shuffleboard, as well as fitness center, and lastly laundry facilities. Get to Palm Springs in roughly a half-hour out from the campground, and take in the vistas of the Santa Rosa Mountains along the way.
When you arrive at Indian Wells RV Resort in California, you can take advantage of both the resort’s amenities and the city’s attractions. As soon as you pull into your parking space, you may begin taking advantage of the complete hookup and exploring the many opportunities that await you. With residents & transients alike, you can participate in aqua aerobics as well as other community events. In total, the resort has again more than 300 comfortable asphalt camping areas. It’s an excellent starting point for exploring the areas between Los Angeles and San Diego. It is extremely beautiful at sunset in the Santa Rosa Mountains; therefore, opt to spend the night in a safe, tranquil, and elegant environment.
Address: 47340 Jefferson St, Indio, CA 92201, United States
Contact: +1 760-347-0895
Catalina Spa and RV Resort
Is Desert Hot Springs on your list of RV vacation destinations? A caravan park on Corkill Road offers clubhouse amenities as well as a professional fitness facility for guests to use and enjoy. Catalina Spa and RV Resort provide inexpensive, high-quality water and power to all RVers who stay at the facility. Although this resort is known for its children’s playground as well as pickleball courts, it is also known for its hot springs, which make it a popular destination. There is a popular belief that the odorless natural hot springs at this RV resort offer rejuvenating properties. Visit the facilities and find out for yourself, but be sure to follow all existing guidelines and protocols if doing so.
For campers in the surrounding areas of Palm Springs, the Catalina Spa and RV Resort is indeed a popular choice. RV rental rates range from as low as $45 per night and include complimentary electricity. This is an excellent location for those who want convenient access to the hot springs while still finding a reasonably priced place to stay. There are 482 RV sites rentable on a daily, weekly, monthly, or seasonal basis. Palm Springs is only a quick drive away from the hotel. Additionally, spending time there at the open-air pavilion with its BBQ grills plus fire pits is a lot of fun on the weekends and evenings here.
Address: 18800 Corkill Rd, Desert Hot Springs, CA 92241, United States
Contact: +1 760-329-4431
Desert Shadows RV Resort
Desert Shadows RV Resort offers spacious campsites, tennis courts, as well as swimming pools, and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Owners of recreational vehicles (RVs) over the age of 55 are welcome at the resort. Residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of luxurious amenities as well as many sorts of entertainment.
If you park your own RV, you have the choice of staying for a week or purchasing a season’s pass to use the facility. In addition to the 2 main clubhouses, there are 3 satellite clubhouses available for use by guests. There is an Olympic-sized pool at this resort in the midst of Coachella Valley where guests can swim laps. There are also a number of smaller pools, and also spa & sauna facilities, that can be enjoyed by visitors. If you require anything additional, please inquire with the expert staff, who will most likely have it prepared for you.
Address: 69801 Ramon Rd, Cathedral City, CA 92234, United States
Contact: +1 760-321-7676
Desert Springs Spa RV Park
The Desert Hot Springs RV Park is a small campground with only a few sites. It’s a family-run establishment with a natural hot spring mineral pool & spa on the premises. Each of the RV sites at Desert Springs Spa RV Park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Desert Springs RV Park seems to be an adult-only RV park within the Coachella Valley, adjacent to Palm Springs and within driving distance of Joshua Tree National Park. It contains 95 campsites for RVs, which may fit motorhomes, trailers, as well as fifth wheels, and campers, among other things. Natural hot springs’ mineral waters are available in the pool and spa for guests to enjoy while relaxing and soaking. The longest rig that can be accommodated is 42 feet in length. This camping alternative offers a pet walk area, WiFi within the clubhouse, showers, as well as laundry facilities, plus RV storage, among other amenities.
The hot springs pool at Desert Springs Spa RV Park is the most enjoyable aspect of staying there. Allowing you to benefit from their revitalizing properties without ever leaving the park. Aside from that, it is only a five-minute drive to all of the pleasures that Palm Springs has to offer.
Address: 17325 Johnson Road Desert Hot Springs, CA 92241
Contact: (760) 329-1384
Thousand Trails Palm Springs RV Resort
Palm Springs RV Resort is indeed conveniently situated just off I-10. It is among the largest RV parks within the area, and it is located a short distance south of Palm Springs. It is owned and run by Thousand Trails and is located on 25 acres of beautiful greenery in Palm Springs, California.
Palm Springs RV Resort, in contrast to several other RV campgrounds in the Palm Springs area, is accessible to families with kids all year round, including during the holidays. There’s also a large heated pool on the property, as well as numerous shaded tennis courts. The best part is that downtown Palm Springs is easily accessible thanks to the neighboring I-10.
Address: 77500 Varner Rd, Palm Desert, CA 92211, United States
Contact: +1 760-345-1682
Caliente Springs Resort
California’s Caliente Springs Resort is situated near Desert Hot Springs, north of Palm Springs. The RV park is for people over the age of 55, and it has almost 1,000 RV parking spaces. An extensive calendar of activities is available every day, plus downtown Palm Springs is also only five mins away.
Standard, Deluxe, or Elite, which is the best fit for your budget and personal preferences? When you purchase the standard site, you will have quick access to the clubhouse out from the interior lot. The landscape on the deluxe sites has been improved, making it possible for you to unwind immediately after parking your small RV. Elite sites have panoramic views of the San Gorgonio and San Jacinto mountains, as well as ample area for a large rig. Some of the more exclusive locations are surrounded by fencing for privacy. Search for Dillon Road then you’ll be able to find your reserved parking spot without any difficulty. This caravan park allows you to take advantage of the warm welcome that Southern California has to offer.
If you enjoy golf, you’ll appreciate the fact that the Caliente Springs Golf Club. As a guest at Caliente Springs Resort, you’ll have the chance to relax in the resort’s on-site hot spring waters. The best part is that Caliente Springs Resort has a large number of full-time residents which will make you feel right at home right away.
Address: 70200 Dillon Rd, Desert Hot Springs, CA 92241, United States
Contact: +1 760-329-8400
Palm Springs / Joshua Tree KOA
The Palm Springs / Joshua Tree KOA is only a few mins east of Palm Springs. It’s the nearest campsite to Joshua Tree National Park, as it also has all of the amenities that you’d expect from a KOA campground, including a swimming pool and a playground. The hot spring water used in the swimming pool, as well as hot tubs within this RV park, is, of course, naturally heated.
Full hookups are available on the RV sites here, and there are also tenting sites and luxurious cottages available. While camping here, you’ll have access to a year-round pool as well as three hot tub spas to relax in. You will also be in close vicinity to more than 80 golf courses, more than 50 miles of hiking trails throughout the San Jacinto Wilderness, and Palm Springs is only 12 miles away from the property. For those interested in visiting Joshua Tree National Park, it is only 45 mins away. Mini-golf, a gazebo, and a dog park are among the other attractions available at the campground.
When a large resort is not your style, the Palm Springs / Joshua Tree KOA will be perfect for you. This RV park is kid-friendly, and it offers a variety of family-friendly amenities on its premises. The setting is unbeatable, as well as the hot spring pool is an added bonus.
Address: 70405 Dillon Rd, Desert Hot Springs, CA 92241, United States
Contact: +1 760-251-6555
The Sands RC & Gold Resort
It is possible that the Sands RV & Golf Park is the greatest RV resort in the Greater Palm Springs Area for ardent golfers because it provides immediate access to the fairway. This sanctuary is home to an executive course as well as a great RV park. Which type of resort do you prefer: one with organized activities or one without? It is possible to plan your vacation schedule in accordance with the social event’s website of this luxurious hideout.
The bocce & pickleball courts are available at all times, as well as the heated pool is a terrific place to put your newfound swimming skills to the test in every style you’ve mastered. Located close to the Joshua Tree National Park and various hiking paths all over San Jacinto mountain, Sands RV & Golf Resort is indeed a perfect place to relax and unwind.
Address: 16400 Bubbling Wells Rd, Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240, United States
Contact: +1 760-251-1030
