Mountain campers visiting Wrightwood in the San Bernardino Mountains should note that campground elevation ranges from 3,500 feet in lower canyons to over 7,000 feet at higher sites. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during day and drop to 40-50°F at night, requiring layers even in warm months. Many tent camping areas remain snow-covered through May, with access roads to higher campgrounds often impassable before late spring.
What to do
Mountain biking at Skypark: Located across from Skypark Camp RV Resort, the trails offer options for various skill levels with rental equipment available. "Perfect gateway for your adventures in the area," notes Ken C., who appreciated the convenience of staying at the campground while accessing nearby recreation.
Fishing at Bonelli Bluffs: Fish for bass and other species in the adjacent lake, with no license required for children under 16. A camper mentioned, "There's camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics, you can use your jet skies in designated areas, swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more."
Hiking to Bonita Falls: From Bonita Ranch Campground, take a short trail directly behind the sites to reach this local waterfall. A camper reports, "Easy access to a pretty trail right behind the campground. Very quiet and interspersed with long time stayers and temporary campers."
What campers like
Secluded mountain sites: Keller Peak Yellow Post sites provide significant privacy with only 9 sites spread over 5 miles. "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," notes Kristil C., adding that sites "fill up fast May-Sept."
Kid-friendly amenities: Rancho Jurupa RV Park offers multiple family activities including a splash pad and mini-golf. "Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities," reports Marcella D., while another camper adds, "Water park and mini golf for kids. Showers and laundry convenient."
Year-round availability: Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon maintains access through winter when mountain campgrounds close. "This is a good location to explore LA and greater LA area, 45 min to Hollywood sign," notes Tyler V., who used it as a "base camp to explore/sight see LA."
What you should know
Night sounds: Several campgrounds report significant noise issues. At Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, "the train kept waking us up" as it's "very very close to railroad tracks." Fairplex RV Park can be "noisy with the traffic going by if that's where your spot is by the road."
Reservation difficulty: Yellow Post sites operate on first-come, first-served basis and fill quickly during peak season. "It's hit or miss if you can get one. Do your homework and learn what you need to know ahead of time - esp regarding fires," advises Kate W. about Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.
Fire restrictions: Due to high fire danger, many sites prohibit wood fires but allow propane fire pits. "There are fire rings but fires are not always permitted so be sure to check with the station just at the bottom of Keller Peak road," cautions one camper, noting the importance of verifying current restrictions.
Tips for camping with families
Youth-focused activities: Bonelli Bluffs offers family-friendly recreation including swimming pools and designated kid zones. "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics...swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more," notes Jessica P.
Weather preparation: Pack warm clothes even in summer, as mountain temperatures can drop dramatically at night. At Keller Peak, a camper reported getting "snow overnight in mid May" despite camping during spring, indicating the need for all-season gear.
Short getaway options: For families wanting minimal driving, Bonita Ranch offers proximity to urban areas while maintaining outdoor appeal. A camper noted it's a "decent get away from LA" with "lots of trails and gorgeous scenery in this area," making it practical for weekend trips with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Skypark Camp RV Resort, larger rigs should request specific sites. "I would skip if I were a big rig, or call and ask for sites that are easy to get into," advises Justin C., noting, "to squeeze in some sites they made the access roads a bit small."
Hookup availability: Canyon RV Park offers full hookups while remaining close to urban amenities. "Staying for a week so good so far have spot 120 beautiful grass wilderness area," reports Christy G. about this park that maintains natural surroundings despite its developed facilities.
Spacing considerations: RV campgrounds near Wrightwood vary significantly in site spacing and privacy. Fairplex RV Park has "spaces are very tight" where you're "packed in like sardines," while Rancho Jurupa offers "large concrete pads, easy backing in and hooking up. Lots of grass, great place to camp in groups."
