Campers seeking overnight accommodations near Bloomington, California face limited access to dedicated facilities for horses at local campgrounds. The surrounding area offers a diverse range of camping options within 30-40 minutes of Bloomington, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 feet. Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F in July and August, while winter nights often drop below 40°F between November and March.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Perris State Recreation Area provides multiple fishing spots with catches reported year-round. "Lake Perris was a fun and clean place to camp at! We did some fishing, bike riding, the water was clear, and my kids loved it. There is a cool museum where the amazing staff provided us with interesting history about the lake and Indian tribes," notes Lauren R.
Mini golf and splash pad: Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park offers family recreation beyond basic camping. "Great campground for families. Lots of activities for the kids to do, like smores by the fire, art, splash pad, and mini golf," reports Jeff E.
Hot springs hiking: Deep Creek Hot Springs offers a natural retreat within driving distance of Bloomington. "The hike down is super chill and the hot springs at the end are so worth the hike back up after!!!" shares Carina M. This area provides a clothing-optional natural hot spring that can be accessed via a moderate hike.
Mountain biking trails: Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park features extensive trails for cycling enthusiasts. "LOTS OF HIKING TRAILS! If you love hiking, they have so many trails to choose from, from easy to strenuous. There is a trail for everyone. Also great for cyclists," explains Chanel C.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Rancho Jurupa RV Park maintains high standards for cleanliness in its camping areas. "Great park. It may not seem nice when you are passing through town to get in, but once you enter the gates it's beautiful. Large concrete pads, easy backing in and hooking up. Lots of grass, great place to camp in groups," writes Paul C.
Wildlife viewing: Heart Bar Campground offers abundant opportunities to observe local fauna. "Topography-wise this camp sits right over a small meadow that borders the San Gorgonio wilderness. This spot is excellent for wildlife viewing and entry to the wilderness for hiking and exploring," states Nick L.
Secluded camping close to urban areas: O'Neill Regional Park provides a wilderness feel despite its proximity to developed areas. "ONeil is a great little park that's tucked away among the urban sprawl of Orange County. Once in the park you feel like you're far out in the wilderness. It makes for a great weekend great away," notes Berton M.
Well-maintained equestrian trails: While designated horse camping facilities near Bloomington are scarce, several parks maintain trails suitable for day use by equestrians. Riders typically trailer in horses for daily rides rather than overnight stays with horses at most local campgrounds.
What you should know
Strict quiet times: Launch Pointe enforces quiet hours rigorously. "The only bad part is they strictly enforce quiet time at 10pm. I felt like a kid being told to go to bed. I feel like on weekends people should be able to stay up late in front of their camper with low voices," mentions Marcella D.
Internet limitations: Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground has connectivity challenges. "I'd say come here if you're looking to enjoy outside and not be in your rig much. If you're one that needs WI-FI this isn't the spot for you. Your phones hot spot may not even work," advises Troy A.
Alcohol restrictions: Some campgrounds prohibit alcohol entirely. Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park does not allow any alcohol at the park with no exceptions, maintaining a family-friendly environment.
Algae conditions: Water quality at some lakes varies seasonally. "The beach was right there, close and beautiful right on Lake Elsinore. Yet the beach was disgusting, stinky and covered with algae," reports Brian C. about Launch Pointe.
Tips for camping with families
Story trails for kids: Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park offers educational hiking opportunities designed specifically for children. "Great playground for children. Easy and fun 'Story Trail' hike for children. The hike features a new book every month, each page is mounted to a placard along the trail," explains Johnny G.
Wildlife education: Lake Perris offers natural history resources. "There is a cool museum where the amazing staff provided us with interesting history about the lake and Indian tribes. Such a fun and peaceful place to hangout at!" notes Lauren R.
Campground security: Rancho Jurupa provides enhanced safety measures. "This place was nice. Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes. Ranger is on constant patrol," shares Troy A., making it suitable for families concerned about security.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. Lake Perris has playgrounds near campsites, while Launch Pointe features both a splash pad and playground equipment within the camping area.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Heart Bar Campground requires preparation for uneven terrain. "Highly recommend sites 32, 37, 47, 58, or 24 & 49 which are both double sites. This was due to their more isolated positioning to other spots, shade, flat ground, and proximity to bathrooms," advises Nick L.
Electric hookups: O'Neill Regional Park offers electrical connections at reasonable rates. "All sites on 30a + water spigot. Rangers at entrance to check for pets (not allowed) and where you can buy bundles of wood for $5 if you want," notes James.
Site selection for shade: Hesperia Lake Park provides limited shade coverage. "Water and electric only on camp sites. No dump site there. There's nice shade on probably half the sites, the other ones have little or none," reports James's C.
Booking strategies: For popular times, advance planning is essential. "I will book ahead next time. 50⚡️ 💧👍. There's a dump station, but a couple spots with dump but they were always booked," recommends Kaitlynn B. at Rancho Jurupa RV Park.
