Next morning, I left the Morongo Casino early and arrived at one of my favorite campgrounds, Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area .  Previously I had stayed there with power/water but they had no available spots, this time, so I chose the primitive camping with no hookups.

I have to say, the primitive camping area has become my new favorite.  I was able to get a spot right along the lake and the sites are spacious.  There is a picnic table and a fire ring, and you have free use of the showers/bathrooms.   You can use the dump, and there is a potable water spigot.  Cost for a primitive spot is $20 a night, plus $2 per dog, per night.

The scenery is beautiful from sunup to sunset, it’s fairly close to shopping, laundry facilities, restaurants etc. though you feel far away from it all.   There are hiking trails (one trail dogs are not allowed, as it is an area frequented by Bighorn Sheep) where you can hike for as long as you want.  One of my favs that is close, is the Boo Hoff trail which you can drive your 4x4s on.

This year White Pelicans as well as Cormorants were seen at the lake multiple days.  Fishing is allowed (stocked trout) but you not only have to buy a fishing license in town but pay an additional fee to fish at Lake Cahuilla.  It is a water source lake so no swimming, boating etc.