Corn Springs Campground

4.36

42 reviews

1201 Bird Center Drive, Palm Springs, CA, 92262, USA

Peace & QuietStargazing

Featured in:Desert Camping California

Quick Facts

1,631 ft

Price

$6/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Bureau of Land Management site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,631 ft

Price

$6/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Bureau of Land Management site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Corn Springs Campground

$6.00 - $6.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The campground charges a flat $6.00 per night fee for all campsites. This fee applies to individual campsites, and there are no additional...

Standard Site Fee$6.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$6.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider

760-833-7100BLM_CA_Web_PS@blm.gov

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What Campers Say

4.36

Recommended

Based on 42 reviews

46 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietcleanlocation

"The campground is highly rated, with an average sentiment score of 4.46. Reviewers appreciate its cleanliness, seclusion, and the presence of ancient petroglyphs."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1201 Bird Center Drive, Palm Springs, CA, 92262, USA

Corn Springs Campground

1201 Bird Center Drive, Palm Springs, CA, 92262, USA

Driving directionsFrom Interstate 10, take Exit #201 onto Chuckwalla Valley Road. Take Chuckwalla Valley Road south to Corn Springs Road. Turn right onto Corn Springs Road and drive 6.8 miles. You will see the sign for Corn Springs Campground in front of the oasis. Turn right into the campground.

Access is via a 6.8-mile dirt road from Chuckwalla Valley Road. While the road is suitable for two-wheel-drive passenger vehicles, caution is advised due to sharp rocks and uneven terrain.

Nearby places

Palm Springs is approximately 69 miles away.

Nearby supplies

Supplies for groceries, fuel, and camping essentials can be found in Palm Springs, approximately 69 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Corn Springs Campground

The desert's dramatic personality shines through Corn Springs' ever-changing seasons. Summer arrives with fierce intensity, painting the landscape in shimmering heat waves as temperatures soar beyond 100°F—a time when only the most dedicated desert enthusiasts venture forth. But as autumn whispers across the canyon walls, the campground transforms into a welcoming haven. Winter emerges as the crown jewel of camping seasons here, blessing visitors with crisp mornings and balmy afternoons in the delightful 50s-60s°F range—perfect weather for exploring ancient rock art or simply basking in the desert's serene embrace.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

Not recommended

Summer is very hot; temperatures 'soar' making visits uncomfortable then.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall cited as one of the best seasons with cooler temperatures and fewer insects.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring repeatedly noted as a best season: comfortable temps, fewer insects, good visits.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round; winter likely mild but not singled out as a peak season in reviews.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: The campground does not differentiate between peak and off-peak seasons.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round
Current Alerts: No active alerts are mentioned.

About Corn Springs Campground

Hidden within a dramatic canyon of the Chuckwalla Mountains, Corn Springs Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic desert oasis experience. Here, beneath the swaying fronds of California fan palms, modern explorers discover a sanctuary where ancient petroglyphs whisper stories of civilizations past. This secluded gem combines the raw beauty of the Colorado Desert with thoughtful amenities—shaded ramadas provide respite from the sun, while grills, potable water, and vault toilets ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. A captivating half-mile interpretive trail, fully wheelchair accessible, invites all visitors to immerse themselves in this remarkable landscape where time seems to stand still.

Corn Springs Campground offers primitive camping facilities, including nine individual sites and one group site.

Historical SignificanceStep into a living museum where every rock face tells a story stretching back 10,000 years. Corn Springs served as a vital gathering place for prehistoric Native American communities who recognized this palm-shaded canyon as a precious lifeline in the vast desert. The Chemehuevi people, who flourished here around 1,100 A.D., left their mark through intricate petroglyphs that continue to captivate modern visitors. These ancient artists lived in remarkable harmony with the desert, and their stone canvases remain as testament to their deep connection with this sacred landscape—transforming a simple camping trip into a profound journey through time.

Weather and SeasonsThe desert's dramatic personality shines through Corn Springs' ever-changing seasons. Summer arrives with fierce intensity, painting the landscape in shimmering heat waves as temperatures soar beyond 100°F—a time when only the most dedicated desert enthusiasts venture forth. But as autumn whispers across the canyon walls, the campground transforms into a welcoming haven. Winter emerges as the crown jewel of camping seasons here, blessing visitors with crisp mornings and balmy afternoons in the delightful 50s-60s°F range—perfect weather for exploring ancient rock art or simply basking in the desert's serene embrace.

ElevationNestled within the embrace of the Chuckwalla Mountains, the campground's specific elevation remains nature's quiet secret, adding to the sense of discovery that awaits each visitor.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine stumbling upon a verdant surprise in the heart of the desert—that's the magic of Corn Springs. Towering California fan palms create a natural cathedral, their rustling fronds providing both shade and soundtrack to your desert adventure. This unexpected oasis attracts a symphony of wildlife, making it a paradise for bird-watchers who might spot everything from tiny hummingbirds to majestic hawks. The rugged Chuckwalla Mountains frame this scene with their ancient, weathered peaks, while mysterious petroglyphs etched into canyon walls invite contemplation and wonder. It's a landscape that shifts from intimate palm groves to sweeping desert vistas, offering endless opportunities for exploration and photography.

Geological RegionCorn Springs Campground occupies a spectacular deep canyon carved into the heart of the Chuckwalla Mountains, where geological forces have created a natural fortress of stone. This remarkable site belongs to the greater Colorado Desert ecosystem, where millions of years of wind and water have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary contrasts. The presence of California fan palms signals an underground water source that has sustained life here for millennia, creating a true desert oasis. Ancient petroglyphs, some dating back 10,000 years, transform the canyon walls into an outdoor gallery where geology meets human history. This unique convergence of water, stone, and time has produced one of the desert's most compelling destinations—a place where the earth's deep history and human culture intertwine beneath the endless desert sky.

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

No official check-in time noted.

Check-out

No official check-out time noted.

Stay Limit

14 Day Camping Limit

Guests Allowed Per Site

Not explicitly stated, but typical BLM regulations allow up to 8 guests per campsite.

Groups

One group site is available at the campground.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of nine campsites, including one group site, arranged in a semi-remote desert setting.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms are applicable as all sites are first-come, first-served.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up and first-come, first-served. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a site.

Cancellation PolicyAll sites are first-come, first-served, meaning reservations cannot be made or canceled.

AccessibilityWheelchair accessible.

Site SizeNine individual campsites and one group site are available.

PrivacySemi-remote sites offering some privacy.

Total Campsites9 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites with optimal shade if visiting in summer, and bring an awning or 'ez-up' for additional sun protection. Fall and spring are recommended for more comfortable temperatures.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Activities at Corn Springs Campground include hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring ancient petroglyphs. The campground also offers excellent stargazing opportunities due to low light pollution.

Hiking"Corn Springs Campground has a ½-mile interpretive trail easily hiked in tennis shoes." Visitors also mention other hikes: "Fun hike with Native American drawings" (Aaron Heyden).

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a highlight: "If you sit still long enough, the desert wildlife will flutter and crawl by for your enjoyment" (Terry Ernsberger).

Cultural and Educational ProgramsVisitors can explore ancient petroglyphs: "The petroglyphs are fascinating and worth making the trip to see all on their own" (Jim Bagley).

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include dehydration, extreme heat in summer, sharp rocks on access roads, and wind that can affect tents. Carry sufficient water and sunscreen, and ensure vehicles are in good condition.

Active AlertsNo active alerts are mentioned.

Fire PolicyFires are allowed only in designated fire pits and grills.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 9:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.

Emergency ServicesPalm Springs offers emergency services including hospitals and police stations approximately 69 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned, but visitors are expected to pack out all trash as this is a BLM-managed area.

Water FeaturesThe campground is centered around a spring-fed oasis with a water pump providing potable water.

Camp HostNo campground host information is provided.

Weather at Corn Springs Campground

Reviews

4.4

42 reviews

Recommended

Corn Springs Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground is highly rated, with an average sentiment score of 4.46. Reviewers appreciate its cleanliness, seclusion, and the presence of ancient petroglyphs.

Review Summaries

Based on 42 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers highlight the campground's cleanliness, remote location, and opportunities for stargazing and exploring petroglyphs. "Quiet, clean, incredible night sky, historic" (Richard Nelson).

Based on 42 reviews

Common Concerns

Some reviewers note the rough road leading to the campground and the limited reliability of the water pump: "The path is a dirt road. Rocks fully there. If you are driving at night —- BEWARE!"...

Based on 42 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing sufficient drinking water, sunscreen, and a vehicle suitable for rough roads. "Take it easy on the sharp rocks" (Jennifer C-K).

Based on 42 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are noted as the best seasons to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer insects. Summer visits are described as very hot.

Based on 42 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Enjoy the gigantic starry sky at night, stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and don't get killed!" (Jennifer C-K); "The petroglyphs are best viewed early in the morning when the sun is deep on the...

Based on 42 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

"The campsites sit up on a small hill. Any wind coming through the canyon will be felt if you have a tent" (Randy Bouldin).

Based on 42 reviews

Accessibility Features

"Wheelchair accessible" (official description). No additional user reviews specifically address accessibility.

Based on 42 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be on a leash. "All pets must be on a leash within the campground" (official policy).

Based on 42 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026

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