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Facilities

Established Camping

Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest

Warning 1 Alert is In Effect

There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

Date(s): Jul 12, 2024 - Oct 31, 2024 <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSEDOCUMENTS/fseprd1188951.pdf" rel="nofollow">Forest Order: 05-12-00-24-07 Vista Fire Closure Order</a> San Bernardino Natioanl Forest Vista Fire Closure Order 05-12-00-24-07 is in effect from July 12 to Oct. 31, 2024. Closure order, list of roads and trails affected, and <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSEDOCUMENTS/fseprd1188952.pdf" rel="nofollow">map</a>. <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSEDOCUMENTS/fseprd1189049.pdf" rel="nofollow">Orden Forestal de Cierra del Incendio Vista</a> The purpose of the order is for public safety. The fire closure area is targeted at key access routes and area control for fire patrol, suppression repair and monitoring. The closure area is necessary to help ensure that no one is injured within the fire perimeter or surrounding area and that firefighting personnel can safely access the area. Several Forest Service roads and trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail, are affected by the closure. Recreation sites in the fire area within the San Bernardino National Forest are closed, including: Applewhite Campground, Applewhite Picnic Area, Bonita Falls Day Use Site and Bonita Falls. The order prohibits several activities, including: Going into or being upon any National Forest System lands within the Vista Fire Closure Area, as described in Exhibit A and shown on Exhibit B, which is the map. Being on any National Forest System Road within the Vista Fire Closure Area, as listed in Exhibit C and shown on Exhibit B, which is the map. Being on any National Forest System Trail within the Vista Fire Closure Area, as listed in Exhibit C and shown on Exhibit B, which is the map. A violation of prohibitions described in the order are punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.

Campers are Saying

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.

General Overview

USDA Forest Service

San Bernardino National Forest

Overview

Located three miles north of the Lytle Creek Ranger Station, the campground provides an easy get-away. Trees surround the campsites and Lytle Creek flows across the street at Applewhite Picnic Area. Please use caution crossing the road. This site is accessible. There is a $5 charge for an additional vehicle which can be included at time of booking or paid on site.

Recreation

Ample opportunities for short, day hikes in the Lytle Creek area as well as OHV opportunities in the nearby Cajon Pass area. Flowing waters of Lytle Creek nearby offer a relaxing place to enjoy the cool waters.

Facilities

Ample opportunities for short, day hikes in the Lytle Creek area as well as OHV opportunities in the nearby Cajon Pass area. Flowing waters of Lytle Creek nearby offer a relaxing place to enjoy the cool waters.

Natural Features

Across the road from the campground is Lytle Creek, which offers a cooling place to relax and recreate.__

contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (909) 382-2851.

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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

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Features

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  • Reservable
  • Pets
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  • Water Hookups

Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

6 Reviews

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 VisitFebruary
  • 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 VisitDecember
  • 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 VisitAugust
  • 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

Does Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest have RV hookups?

According to TheDyrt.com, Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest has water hookups.

Are fires allowed at Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

How hard is it to get a campsite at Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest?

Some campers book as far as 6 months in advance, so on high-demand weekends it can be very difficult to get a campsite at Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest. If you want to get a last-minute campsite at Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest, try setting up a text message Alert at TheDyrt.com/alerts

Why is it so hard to get a campsite at Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest?

There are 44 campsites at Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest and over 80 million Americans who camp! Try snagging a cancellation by setting up a text message Alert at TheDyrt.com/alerts