There is so much to see and do, including wonderful parks and recreational areas. A local favorite is the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Taking its name from 18th-century Spanish explorer, Juan Bautista de Anza, and the Spanish word for bighorn sheep or borrego, this park’s rugged landscape was formed by the strong and persistent forces of erosion. Wonderful trails, of all abilities and distances, are available to hike, as well as day use facilities, campgrounds, biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
World famous
Joshua Tree National Park
is right in the backyard of Yucca Valley and easily explored in your Yucca Valley rental RV. Merging two distinct desert systems, the Mojave and Colorado, this area features a wonderful variety of animals and plants that make their home in this land sculpted by strong winds and seasonal rains. The almost black night skies and rich cultural history make this a must-see to spend at least a few days. Named for the area’s twisted, bristly Joshua tree, the views from here are phenomenal, looking out over the Coachella Valley. There are dozens of hiking trails, as well as camping and other outdoor and recreational opportunities.
For an almost otherworldly experience, make sure to visit Sand to Snow National Monument in your Yucca Valley rental camper. This 154,000-acre park combines lands from the San Bernardino National Forest and Bureau of Land Management landscapes. Featuring over 30 miles of the famous Pacific Crest Trail, this spot is a favorite for hiking, hunting, camping, photography, birding, horseback riding, and skiing in the winter.
The grand
San Bernardino National Forest
is just 45 miles southwest of Yucca Valley, and serves as one of Southern California’s favorite year-round recreation destinations, as well as providing watershed protection for this part of the country. A highlight to check out in your Yucca Valley RV rental is the Rim of the World Scenic Byway, as well as the Palms to Pines Scenic Byway. Enjoy a myriad of outdoor activities here like hiking, ATV trails, camping, hunting, and fishing.
There are several great regional parks near Yucca Valley including Sheephole Valley Wilderness Area, just an hour’s drive to the east, with its sweeping desert landscapes, small crowds, and loads of freedom. This is also a great escape in the winter when daytime and evening temperatures are mild. The evening sky will take your breath away, as you gaze at stars, satellites, planets, and even the Milky Way.
Just west of Sheephole Valley is the Cleghorn Lakes Wilderness Area. You won’t believe you are on planet Earth when you visit this remarkable spot. With elevations ranging from 1,400’ to 4,100’, you may even come across bighorn sheep, desert tortoise and other unique wildlife. These waterless lakes sometimes burst to life with vibrant spring wildflower blooms.
Nearby Eureka Peak Trail is a favorite spot for bicycling, hiking and four-wheeling. The almost 10-mile trail/road features beautiful wildflower displays and is quite the challenge, so plan accordingly. Primarily used as a hiking and walking trail, birding is also a popular activity.