The high desert region surrounding Apple Valley, California sits at approximately 3,000 feet elevation where temperatures vary dramatically between seasons. Summer daytime temperatures frequently exceed 100°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. Most campgrounds in this area remain open year-round with peak visitation occurring during spring and fall when moderate temperatures create optimal conditions for outdoor activities.
What to do
Hiking to Bonita Falls: Access this waterfall via trails near Bonita Ranch Campground. The falls are within walking distance of the campground. "The creek running behind the camp is great to explore, and a waterfall is a short hike away. We also lucked out finding berries in August," notes Jonathan G.
Mountain biking on dedicated paths: The trail system near Serrano Campground offers cycling routes around Big Bear Lake. "We loved camping here. Beautiful, pristine campground with bike trails/walking paths around the lake. The town is bike friendly. Weather is perfect in August," shares Trey T.
Rock climbing opportunities: Several natural rock formations provide climbing options in the high desert. "There are only 9 sites stretched across 5 miles so you will have no neighbors. Each site is decent size and tucked away into the rocks. The Exploration trail weaves around them up to the peak and makes a great hike and there are tons of climbing spots," explains Kristil C. about the yellow post sites near Apple Valley.
What campers like
Secluded glamping locations: Luxury camping near Apple Valley offers privacy not found at standard campgrounds. "Easy going campground with all the necessary amenities for camping and a great spot for our large group of 18 adults & 10 kids to gather and camp out together. You will have to drive 6 miles of mountainous dirt roads to reach the property, but it takes you away from all signs of the city," explains Jessica B. about her experience at Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp Retreat.
Hot springs access: Natural thermal waters provide unique relaxation opportunities. "I had never been before, but I had a few friends bring me and it was the most amazing time! The hike down is super chill and the hot springs at the end are so worth the hike back up after!!!" shares carina M. about Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground.
Year-round accessibility: Many glamping sites near Apple Valley maintain operations through multiple seasons. "We camped here the last weekend before they closed for the winter, after Thanksgiving. The campground was clean, quiet, and had a decent amount of space between sites. There is a biking trail that goes through the campground that was well used," reports Nicole W.
What you should know
Limited water availability: Bring adequate water supplies when camping in this desert region. "Easy access to the hot springs and no services to speak of. Basically a patch of dirt you can occupy for $10 a night," mentions Dan X. about Deep Creek Hot Springs.
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires navigating unpaved routes. "Rough ride in but totally worth it. The hike to the springs is pretty rough but also worth it when you get there. No hot showers," explains For Y.
Weather considerations: Prepare for temperature extremes in this high desert environment. "Went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around! Two nights are perfect," says Kelly Anne M. about winter camping at Mojave River Forks Regional Park.
Shade limitations: Many desert camping areas lack natural shade. "Really good site. Showers, pit toilet, running water, but it's 10$ a night. Hardly any shade unless you get a good site," notes Jake P. about his spring camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds with amenities: Families benefit from facilities at developed sites. "This campground is great. Me and my wife stay here a couple times a year and we also bring our grown kids and with our little grandkids," shares Steven E. about camping at Serrano.
Look for kid-friendly activities: Select campgrounds with recreational options. "The kids loved the pool and other kids to play with. Great game room with pool, foosball, air hockey etc. big playground and easy campground to bike around," recommends Jennifer H. about her stay at Barstow-Calico KOA.
Consider seasonal timing: Plan family visits during moderate temperature periods. "Weather is definitely colder than in the valley, got snow overnight in mid May," reports Jillian about camping in the San Bernardino mountains near Apple Valley.
Select spacious sites: Families need room to spread out. "We had a double spot and it was very spacious which is what we were looking for because we had 5 kids, 4 dogs, and 7 adults," notes Brittany N. about her experience glamping near Apple Valley.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Check utility connection placement before setting up. "We had a spot in the front with a patio and everything. It was very nice except for the sewer drain being at the front end of the site (I had to put an extension on my poop pipe)," advises Michael M.
Seasonal RV considerations: Winter brings freezing conditions that affect RV systems. "Our sewer outlet was frozen in the morning, so we had to dump when we got out of the mountains," shares Nicole W. about winter camping at Serrano.
Road noise awareness: Highway proximity affects some RV parks. "Unfortunately it is extremely close to I-15 and the traffic on 15 never stops. It made for a rough night's sleep," reports David M. about his experience at Lighthouse Trailer Resort.
Space between sites: RV parks vary in how densely they arrange parking spots. "The sites are well spaced, good tree cover. Very nice patch of land. Quiet. Lake Arrowhead Village is 4 miles away," notes Andrew B. about the North Shore Campground layout.
