Tent camping near Anza, California requires navigating seasonal temperature variations, with elevations ranging from 4,000 to over 9,000 feet across available sites. The region's Mediterranean climate creates distinct camping seasons, with summer temperatures reaching 100°F at lower elevations while higher sites may drop below freezing overnight even in spring. Roads to primitive sites deteriorate significantly after winter precipitation, often requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Tool Box Springs Yellow Post Campground provides direct access to the Romona trail. "Awesome spot! Just got back this past weekend and the service road to get up was absolutely covered in mud and snow... Also, to note, there are pit toilets and individual picnic tables/fire pits. And if you're looking for things to do while up there, the Romona trail starts/ends directly behind the washhouse," reports Kyle M.
Backcountry hiking preparation: Round Valley Campsite serves as a strategic base for summit attempts. "We stayed at the round valley campground in March of this year. There was still some snow and it was beautiful. We took the tram up from palm springs and backpacked to the campground before summiting up San Jacinto peak. The views were breathtaking and the elevation was a killer," notes Katie O.
Water filtration opportunities: Natural springs throughout the area provide water sources for prepared campers. "We didnt see a single person camping, it was very isolated so make sure to let friends/family know your travel plans and when to expect you to return. The permits have this info but just be safe. It is a well traveled trail year round but weather is unpredictable," adds Katie O. about Round Valley camping.
What campers like
Wildlife observation: Multiple sites offer excellent wildlife viewing without crowds. One camper at Santa Rosa Springs Campground notes, "There are 16 yellow post sites along the Santa Rosa Truck Trail (7S02) from hwy 74. Most of the sites are beyond the springs that are flowing through a faucet at Santa Rosa Springs." Another visitor at Tool Box Springs reported, "Labor Day weekend. We occupied the only spot out of five. Lots of wildlife. Raccoons in the night, gray squirrel, other squirrels, many birds."
Concrete amenities: Many yellow post sites include permanent fixtures despite remote locations. "There are concrete tables and large fire rings in each site," reports Andrew D. about Santa Rosa Springs Campground. Similarly, at Tamarack Valley Campground, campers appreciate established sites: "We stayed at group sites and man, it was unreal. We came here once a month last year and had the time of our lives. This place is gorgeous."
Water access: Seasonal streams provide water filtration opportunities for prepared campers. "If you're backpacking San Jacinto, this is the way to go! Take the Marion Mtn Trail that goes from Marion Mtn & Fern Basin Campgrounds and spend the night here at Little Round Valley. We did it in late August, and there was still water running in the stream across from the camp," notes Jonathan G.
What you should know
High-clearance vehicle requirements: Most primitive campsites require rugged vehicles. "I loved the site! It has a bathroom at the very start, but can be a little ways from the sites. I had service up there, not to crowded and the spots are a good ways away from each other! The only downfall is without a high clearance vehicle, it took me an hour and a half to go six miles up, and still scraped and almost got stuck," warns Jake P. about Tool Box Springs.
Seasonal insect considerations: Campers should prepare for significant insect activity, particularly in summer. "This site would've been perfect, and I mean perfect, but the flies were unbearable. I planned to stay two nights but I couldn't make it past the next morning. If I stood still even for a second I was swarmed," reports Steve H. about Tool Box Springs.
Permit and tram logistics: Little Round Valley Campground requires advance planning. "Reservations go fast so you need to submit your permit starting 8 weeks before your trip, however waiting until 4 weeks may be too late. The permit only reserves your space on the mountain you will need to selected your exact campsite once you get to the ranger station after getting off the tram. Permits are only $5 per person but the tram is like $25," explains Cody B.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose lower-elevation sites with amenities during summer heat. At Yucaipa Regional Park, "Tent camping is only allowed in group sites. They do have about 30 to 40 RV sites as well. The tent camping sites come with plenty of space for group camping. There's a built-in grill and running water," reports Mary F.
Multi-activity options: Regional parks offer structured recreation beyond camping. "This is your typical regional park Campground. There's a lot to do here, including fishing, playgrounds, and even a waterpark in the summer. The bathrooms are decent, no showers," notes Mary F. about Yucaipa Regional Park.
Lower-elevation wildlife: Families can enjoy wildlife without bear concerns. "There's no larger wildlife, like bears, so less stressful when you have pets or kids. Plenty of space to bring bikes and ride around. There's a large community park right next-door where you can go and play baseball, basketball, sand volleyball, or frisbee," adds Mary F.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing consideration: RV sites at most established campgrounds provide adequate separation. "Park is small, very family friendly, clean and well managed. Lots of places to walk/hike, large sites," notes Christine about Yucaipa Regional Park.
Summer cooling options: Full hookup sites help manage extreme temperatures. "This park is beautifully maintained. I'm so happy! Verizon service is only 2 bars but I can still work. Full hookup. Some sites have better shade than others. I'm here in the heat but my AC is keeping up," reports Anneliese S.
Alternative camping vehicle options: Los Coyotes Reservation Campground accommodates various camping styles. "This place was a lot of fun to camp. We traveled in a large group so finding sites large enough was my concern. This place was so big it had space for another 10 cars and tents. We're coming back for sure," shares Taylor.
