Dispersed camping areas near Angelus Oaks in the San Bernardino National Forest range from 6,000 to 8,500 feet in elevation, with most sites accessible via forest service roads. The region typically experiences warm summer days with temperatures in the 70s-80s°F and cool nights dipping into the 40s-50s°F. Winter access becomes challenging as many roads close due to snowfall from November through April.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Hemet is a short drive from Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites, offering freshwater fishing. "It's super close to Lake Hemet so if you need anything you forgot, you can go quickly to the store. It's also only a 15 min drive to Idyllwild which makes it a great place if all the campgrounds are full," notes one camper.
Gold panning adventures: Holcomb Creek has historical significance for treasure hunters. According to a visitor at Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, "If you're into panning for gold you just might find some along Holcomb Creek. There are active claims in the area so be respectful."
Explore fire lookouts: The Keller Peak Fire Lookout offers educational experiences and expansive views. "The Keller Peak Lookout was amazing. I thought it was just a tourist attraction but it's really a staffed (with volunteers) active fire lookout. Worth the trip for sure," reports a camper who visited Keller Peak.
What campers like
High elevation relief: Most dispersed sites sit above 7,000 feet, providing cooler temperatures during summer months. At Dry Lake Backpacking Campground, one camper observed, "If you can get out here right after a good rain/snow storm passes through, you will not regret it. It's a pleasant hike to the campground, there's tons of trees around the lake."
Wildlife encounters: The forest setting provides frequent animal sightings. A camper at Thomas Hunting Grounds noted, "Listen to great horned owls while taking in the views! I can't wait to go back."
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. A visitor at Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp described their experience: "And that was amazing not a single sound far from everybody, off the grid."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many forest roads demand high-clearance or four-wheel drive capabilities. A visitor to Mill Creek Dispersed Camping explained: "The road here. I went to the second fork after the Bluff lake fork. There's a private campground near the Bluff Lake entrance which made noises I can hear from my site which was before Bluffs lake fork."
Weather preparation: Temperature swings between day and night can be extreme, particularly in spring and fall. At Dry Lake Backpacking Campground, one camper reported, "Although it was May and the weather was beautiful at sea level, it was cold up here! There was snow on the ground but the air was the coldest I've ever felt."
Permit requirements: Some backcountry camping areas require wilderness permits. A reviewer at Halfway Camp explained, "As stated above they are sometimes hard to come by depending on weekends. High creek camp is always most popular and I have never had a problem obtaining a permit for Halfway. You can walk in to Mill Creek Ranger Station to get a permit or you can fax the office a few days in advance."
Tips for camping with families
Nearby attractions: Consider campgrounds with access to recreational facilities. A visitor to Yucaipa Regional Park commented: "This is your typical regional park Campground. There's a lot to do here, including fishing, playgrounds, and even a waterpark in the summer."
Seasonal activities: Summer offers additional water-based recreation options. A Yucaipa Regional Park camper mentioned, "Nice campground. Close enough to the city to get anything you need. The newer sites don't have a lot of mature trees, the older sites have a little more wear and tear but also bigger trees. Nice splash zone."
Easier access locations: For families with young children, consider established campgrounds with facilities. "Park is small, very family friendly, clean and well managed. Lots of places to walk/hike, large sites," reported a visitor to Yucaipa Regional Park.
Tips for RVers
Site size considerations: RV camping options are limited in the immediate Angelus Oaks area. A camper at Green Valley Lake Recreation Area noted: "The sites were interestingly laid out and some had little wooded areas that you actually camp behind, others had interesting ground layouts with multiple levels, we found it really cool."
Warning about dispersed camping claims: Many sites advertised for RVs are actually unsuitable. A visitor to Mill Creek Dispersed Camping warned: "My husband and I were looking for good boondocking spots yesterday and we decided to check out this spot... It's definitely a beautiful place, and most of the road to the site is paved, but the road up to the actual spot is gravel, with lots of potholes and washboard areas, which would make it difficult for an RV."
Weather challenges: Mountain weather affects accessibility year-round. A reviewer at Green Valley Lake Recreation Area advised: "Does get very cold, was in the teens overnight when I was there in Feb. Fires allowed which is nice."
