Camper submitted image from Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest - 1

View Photos

Camper submitted image from Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest - 2
Roads
Camper submitted image from Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest - 3
Facilities
Camper submitted image from Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest - 4
Nature
Camper submitted image from Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest - 5
People
Unlock Planning Tools in App

Established Camping

Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Applewhite Campground, near San Bernardino National Forest, is a charming spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle without straying too far from civilization. With a laid-back vibe, it’s perfect for families and friends wanting to enjoy some quality time around the campfire and soak in the natural beauty.

This campground allows fires and welcomes pets, making it a great choice for those who want to bring their furry friends along. Visitors have noted that the restroom facilities are clean and well-maintained, which is always a plus when you're out in the wild. As one camper put it, “This is real camping—no internet, no power, just bonfires and playing in the creek.”

For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Lyttle Creek offers a refreshing spot to dip your toes or snap some photos. While the sites are a bit close together, especially during peak season, many campers appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the helpful camp hosts who keep the grounds in good shape.

If you’re planning a visit, keep in mind that the campground is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so plan your trip accordingly. Whether you’re here for a quick stopover or a longer stay, Applewhite Campground provides a welcoming environment to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

Suggest an Edit

Location

Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

Continue 3 miles past the Lytle Creek Ranger Station. Campground is on the right with Upper Loop campsites on the left and Lower Loop Campsites on the right.

Coordinates

34.259872 N
117.493328 W

Open in Google Maps

Is Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest sold out?

Quickly grab cancellations!

Learn More
Presented byT Mobile

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Water Hookups

Contact

General Info

Reservations


2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

34%
45%
23%
0%
0%

4.0

out of 5

9 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 11, 2025

Nice little park

Very small campground. Camping sites are spread out. The access road is very narrow. We did it with a 22 foot fifth wheel. Space 41 could hold a much longer rig but it would be a challenge even getting to that space. There were only two other campers here while we were here. Lots of trees but not so thick you dont get some sun. The road getting to the campgrounds is somewhat narrow and has some hairpin turns so again it might be difficult for someone with a long trailer We camped at Applewhite Campground in a Fifth Wheel.

Site41
Month of VisitFebruary
  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Wayne S., August 11, 2025
  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Wayne S., August 11, 2025
  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Wayne S., August 11, 2025
Reviewed Jun. 10, 2025

Funny!

Camping here is pure, no internet, no electricity, just warm campfires(when safe), playing by the stream, exploring on foot and enjoying meaningful family bonding time. You will easily feel the endless joy here, no matter what the circumstances. The campground managers are wonderful people, always dedicated to crazy flips 3d taking care of your trip. They work hard to maintain the landscape green, well-watered and very thoughtfully managed. The toilets are always clean, creating a comfortable feeling. The fresh stream is just a short distance away, just a few steps away and you can immerse yourself in nature right across the road.

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed May. 9, 2025

Noisy

Noisiest camp site I’ve ever been to. People yelling until 5am, noisy generators going all day into the night, and chainsaws starting early in the morning.

The hills surrounding it are pretty and the creek across the street is lovely, but if you’re looking for a quiet getaway look elsewhere.

Month of VisitMay
Reviewed May. 29, 2024

Great place

I had a positive impression of this small campground, located just 5-7 miles away from the 215 highway, amidst natural surroundings. I can join many activities here such as playing merge fruit. However, I was taken aback to discover that the campground was closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. It would be great if they were open full-time, although it didn't affect our stay as we had planned to leave by Monday night. While the bathroom facilities could benefit from some renovations, the actual campsite itself was quite enjoyable. Despite a previous reviewer mentioning that the road near the campground was busy, we personally didn't find it bothersome as there were only occasional cars passing by during the day, and the traffic volume was relatively light during our visit

Reviewed Jan. 4, 2023

Peach for a stop over

I am not sure if the vicinity offers a lot, but this is a great a d inexpensive stop over. The campground is old. Bathrooms clean. The hostess is very nice and helpful. There is a first come first serve loop and a reservation only loop.

Site20
Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Roger W., January 4, 2023
  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Roger W., January 4, 2023
  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Roger W., January 4, 2023
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Nov. 11, 2021

Beautiful Off-season Stay

My review is only 4 stars because the sites are so close together AND you’re right off the road. In the busy season, you’d be no more than 12-16 feet away from your neighbors.

However, my dog and I had a lovely stay. Neighbors were very few, quiet, and the restrooms were more than adequate. I was shocked! I tend toward the more primal sites, so I haven’t seen a flush toilet or sink so far! Fees are affordable at $10/night, and it seems very well-maintained.

Mountain views are fantastic.

Overall, very pleased.

Site42
Month of VisitNovember
  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Sam S., November 11, 2021
  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Sam S., November 11, 2021
  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Sam S., November 11, 2021
Reviewed Jul. 26, 2021

This is what camping is

This is real camping no internet no power just bonfires (when safe) playing in creek, hiking just the most fun genuine family time u r sorta in a place where u are going to have a good time no matter what. The camp hosts here r very good people that really do care how u feel 9n ur trip. Both work very hard at keeping the grounds up watered well maintained and very well managed. Restrooms r kept clean. Just a hop on over to. The creek. Is a skip across street

Site15
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Sara H., July 26, 2021
  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Sara H., July 26, 2021
  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Sara H., July 26, 2021
  • (6) View All
Reviewed May. 15, 2020

Good campground

Great campground but there is always a lot of people coming here. Across the street you will come across a picnic site which you can do BBQs. Sometimes it is open and sometimes it is not. The creek is small not deep at all but it’s nice to take photos and just wet your feet. The creek is called Lyttle Creek. Also someone is always here cleaning, you will see her around with her dog. She is such a nice lady. The photos below are from the creek.

  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Jessica P., May 15, 2020
  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Jessica P., May 15, 2020
  • Review photo of Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest by Jessica P., May 15, 2020
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Aug. 8, 2016

Applewhite

This campground is nice for a getaway close to civilization and is relatively quiet in the off season. In the warmer months it can fill up fast on weekends and be a bit on the noisy and dirty side. The last time that I was here in late March, there was karaoke past 11pm and some animosity between groups. If you want more of a rowdy crowd, this is probably a good site for you. If you're looking for seclusion, this is probably not the place. The bathrooms can be a bit on the dirty side as well. The area is nice and forested, though, so if you're just looking for a quick getaway, this isn't a bad spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Applewhite Campground?

Applewhite Campground offers basic facilities for a traditional camping experience. The campground features clean restrooms but lacks electricity or internet connectivity. Campsites come with fire rings for campfires (when fire restrictions allow), though sites are positioned relatively close together. The campground is split into two sections: one for reservations and another for first-come, first-served camping. While amenities are minimal, the natural surroundings and creek access compensate for the rustic accommodations.

What activities can I do at Applewhite Picnic Area near the campground?

The Applewhite Picnic Area across from the campground offers BBQ opportunities when open. Visitors enjoy spending time at Lytle Creek, which runs nearby – it's shallow but perfect for wading, cooling off, and taking photos. The surrounding hills provide hiking trails and exploration opportunities. This area offers a natural setting for family activities, creek play, and outdoor recreation without technological distractions.

Where is Applewhite Campground located and how do I get there?

Applewhite Campground is located in the San Bernardino National Forest along Lytle Creek. It's conveniently situated just 5-7 miles from Interstate 215, making it an accessible getaway close to civilization. The access road to the campground is quite narrow, which can be challenging for larger RVs and trailers. Despite its proximity to urban areas, the campground feels nestled in natural surroundings, offering a quick escape without a long drive.

Is there a map available of Applewhite Campground and its campsites?

Maps of Applewhite Campground are available through the San Bernardino National Forest office and at the campground host station. The campground features distinctly numbered sites, including space #41 which can accommodate larger rigs. The campground is small with spread-out sites and consists of two loops - one for reservations and another for first-come, first-served camping. For the most current and detailed site map, check with the campground host upon arrival or contact the forest service office in advance.

Do I need reservations for Applewhite Campground in Lytle Creek?

Applewhite Campground operates with a dual system: one loop requires reservations while another section is first-come, first-served. For weekend visits, especially during warm months when the campground fills quickly, making reservations is highly recommended. The first-come, first-served section can be a good option for weekday visits or during the off-season when the campground is less crowded. Contact the San Bernardino National Forest or check their website for current reservation procedures.