How to Power Your Stagecoach Camping Setup with EcoFlow

Stagecoach represents the best of country music in the heart of the California desert. For those who want an authentic “back to nature” experience, camping is one of the best ways to spend time between hit festival acts. With this comprehensive camping guide, you’ll learn how to elevate your campsite with a packing list—including power solutions to keep you charged, cool, and ready to party—and insider tips for a smooth and seamless time. 

Now, find your cowboy boots and hat and prepare for an unforgettable time at Stagecoach.

Can You Camp at Stagecoach?

Yes, camping is an option for Stagecoach festival-goers. The California desert lends itself well to camping, with its cool and dry evenings offering respite from the hot daytime temperatures. Stagecoach offers several camping options for those who want to remain close to all the action with tent, car, or RV camping available. 

All campers can access several amenities, making the experience much more enjoyable. These include community restrooms (showers, toilets, and handwashing stations), water refill stations, charging stations, optional food and drink vendors, and a general store. Still, all campers must follow Stagecoach Resort’s rules around noise levels, fires, generators, alcohol, and more, so be sure to review Stagecoach’s camping FAQ section and guidelines before arriving.

Camping at Stagecoach is a unique chance to experience the festival through a different lens—as a resident of Indio for the weekend.

Camping Options at Stagecoach

RV Camping

Stagecoach offers RV campsites in 20’ and 50’ sizes that service 50- and 30-amp vehicles. Several lots are available, some with reserved power, such as Lot Yee Haw and Lots 5, 7, and 8. Each RV site provides eight resort wristbands, but festival admission must be purchased separately. Lot Yee Haw provides extremely close camping just beyond the festival gates with a designated RV site, allowing you to arrive when it suits you without worrying about where you’ll end up. 

The area is secluded and only accessible by Lot Yee Haw Campers, keeping it quiet and private despite its proximity to the action. Lot Yee Haw also provides exclusive showers, air-conditioned bathrooms, and the ability to purchase specific RV services directly to your spot, such as pumping and potable water refills. Lot 8 Reserved Power is another opportunity for those who prefer to reserve their RV spot ahead of time. Lots 5, 7, and 10 also provide RV power hookups but may not guarantee a specific place, so space is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tent Camping 

Lake El Dorado is the only area where attendees can camp in a tent. Here, you can reserve a four-person tent at this lakeside spot. You won’t need to bring your tent or essential supplies, as each setup comes prepared with cots, sleeping bags, and pillows upon request. You may reserve a two-person lodge for those who prefer slightly elevated camp lodging. All Lake El Dorado campers can access exclusive flushing toilets and showers, charging stations, and 24-hour concierge services. You can even reserve your lodge or tent upon purchase so you know exactly where you’ll be positioned to camp.

Car Camping

Want to camp next to (or even on top of) your car? Reserve a 10’ x 30’ campsite for you and your vehicle, with four resort wristbands issued per site in the exclusive Stagecoach car camping area. 

Glamping

Looking for a solution between the luxuries of a resort and the primitive nature of tent camping? Stagecoach’s Safari Camping option is perfect for those who enjoy a glamping lifestyle. Safari tents are spacious tent-style lodgings with hard floors, queen beds, air conditioners, mini-fridges, linens, pillows, mirrors, and seating. They also include golf cart transportation to the campground and festival grounds. 

Another Safari option is the Yurts and Residences, which come with studio-style furnishings and all the amenities of the tents, plus a seated dining area, in-wall outlets, bedside/overheat lighting, a front porch with tables and chairs, and daily maid/turndown service.

Campsites Near Stagecoach

Although Stagecoach offers several camping options onsite, we understand that not everyone wants to set up camp that close to all the action and noise. Check out these off-site campgrounds if you want to camp further away and enjoy some peace and quiet in a convenient location.

Rancho 51 Festival Campgrounds

Just minutes from the festival grounds, Rancho 51 is a favorite among veteran festival goers. It has spacious campsites for tent and RV campers and keeps the lively atmosphere beyond the festival grounds. 

This is a perfect middle-ground choice if you prefer to stay immersed in the festival’s overall vibe without technically staying there. Rancho 51 even provides easy shuttle services to the festival, so you won’t have to worry about transportation to and from the music every day. There are also restrooms, showers, and security provided.

Joshua Tree National Park

Are you up for something a bit more adventurous? Check out the famous Joshua Tree National Park, about an hour from Stagecoach. This massive park has expansive and impressive desert landscapes and several campgrounds. 

Some favorites include Cottonwood, Hidden Valley, and Jumbo Rocks. Each is home to unique rock formations, the namesake Joshua trees, and incredible opportunities to stargaze late at night. However, remember that camping here provides a more primitive experience, so be prepared for a rustic campsite at the end of the day.

Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park

A bit closer to the festival grounds (about 20 minutes away) is Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park. You can choose between tent and RV camping and pick a spot with stunning desert views. If you prefer a quieter setting and enjoy hiking or fishing between musical acts, this lakeside escape might be what you’re looking for.

Indian Waters RV Resort and Cottages

If you don’t want tent camping, stay close to the grounds and relax in RV or resort-style cottages at Indian Waters. There are two pools, a fitness center, lighted pickleball courts, comfortable lounge firepits, a laundry room, and a clubhouse on-site to make your stay that much more enjoyable.

What To Pack for Stagecoach Camping

Here’s your go-to festival camping packing list for Stagecoach:

Shelter and Sleeping

These are essential for traditional campers, but you may not need these items if choosing glamping or RV camping:

• Tent
• Sleeping Bag
• Sleeping Pad or Air Mattress
• Pillow

Climate Control

• EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable Air Conditioner: Indio summer camping can get hot, but the nights can dip low and get pretty cold. This portable AC and heating unit can keep your tent, RV, yurt, or cottage comfortable, no matter the outside temperature.

Power Solutions

• Power bank: Bring a small portable power bank, like the EcoFlow RAPID Power Bank, to charge your phone at camp or the festival.
• Portable Power Station: For larger devices like your campsite’s mini fridge or a tent fan, you may want more robust power like the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus.
• Solar Generator: Make your festival experience eco-friendly by packing the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Solar Generator (PV45W). This generator allows you to harness the sun’s power and create and store energy using solar panels and a battery backup system. No power hookups are needed here.

Cooking and Food

• Portable stove or grill for campsite meals (ensure it’s permitted)
• Cooler or portable refrigerator 
• Reusable cookware, dishware, and utensils
• Non-perishable snacks like jerky, granola or protein bars, nuts, crackers, chips, and dried fruit
• Clean drinking water or water filtration system
• Reusable water bottles or hydration packs

Personal Care

• Hand sanitizer
• Biodegradable soap 
• First aid kit
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Feminine hygiene products
• Wet wipes

Clothing

• Breathable, lightweight layers
• Waterproof outer layer
• Hat and sunglasses
• Comfortable shoes

Extra

• Camping chairs and tables
• Lanterns and flashlights
• Earplugs (if camping on site)
• Trash bags
• Portable speaker to keep the party going
• Camera
• Games

Tips for Camping at Stagecoach

• Arrive early to secure an ideal camping spot if your campsite isn’t pre-reserved.
• Prepare for hot and cold weather; the desert climate can vary drastically.
• Stay hydrated day and night with a hydration pack or reusable water bottle.
• Bring a portable power solution like a solar generator to charge all your devices.
• Set up a pop-up canopy for additional shade at your campsite to beat the desert sun.
• Secure your tent in the ground or use sandbags to protect it from harsh winds.
• Use earplugs and an eye mask to ensure a good night’s rest despite the environment.
• Follow all campground rules regarding fire, generators, noise, etc.
• Pack shoes for various weather and conditions, including rain, mud, dust, sun, and cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

The Stagecoach desert experience can become closer to nature when you camp during the festival. With plenty of on-site camping options and even more off-site campgrounds nearby, there’s no shortage of locations and camping experiences. Choose from primitive tent camping, comfortable car camping, personalized RV camping, or luxury glamping in safari-style lodging to make the experience what you want. Our biggest tip to elevate your time? Check out the options from the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Series of portable power stations, and choose the energy solution that will keep your campsite powered up all weekend.