San Bernardino County offers yurt camping options at elevations ranging from 1,100 to 3,700 feet, creating distinct microclimates for camping near Bloomington, California. Winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing at most sites, while summer brings 90°F+ days with cooler nights. The region's transition zone between mountain and desert terrain creates unique camping conditions with Joshua trees in some areas and pine forests in others.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: China Camp State Park provides excellent biking opportunities with dedicated trails. "There are definitely better mountain biking trails in Marin (Tamarancho Boy Scout Camp, for example) but keep in mind that the bar is very high for mountain biking in Marin. So China Camp won't disappoint even if it's not the most epic biking in the area," notes Nathaniel S.
Fishing tournaments: The three stocked lakes at Fisherman's Retreat host weekly competitions. "They have a pool & a playground for the kids. There's a nice little general store, restaurant and fish tournaments on Saturdays," explains Jeanine V. at Fisherman's Retreat.
Hiking to waterfalls: Trails at Bonita Ranch lead to scenic falls within walking distance. "Easy access to a pretty trail right behind the campground. Very quiet and interspersed with long time stayers and temporary campers," writes Heather L., who camped at Bonita Ranch.
Lake activities: Swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding options exist at Launch Pointe. "We spent Spring break here with the family. Amenities are very good for young kids. Canopy Court area has easy and close access to the splash pad, the playground, a large grass area, and even the pool," shares Bryan H.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Mojave River Forks Regional Park offers spacious camping areas. "The campsites in the area where we were, were spacious and spread out. We liked very much not being on top of one another and appreciated how vast this campground is," according to Bower at Mojave River Forks Regional Park.
Well-maintained facilities: Launch Pointe receives praise for cleanliness. "Launch Pointe was a great stay for our family and dog! The campground was clean as can be- no overflowing garbages, all utilities tastefully hidden. The privacy fence in each spot is nice," reports Stephen H. at Launch Pointe.
Wilderness feel near urban areas: Canyon RV Park creates a natural setting despite its location. "Been passing this exit on the 91 freeway for 25 years and had no idea canyon RV park was tucked in between corona and yorba linda. I litteraly forgot where i was because its like a little bubble on you exit the freeway and enter the park everything behind you just melts away," shares Matt K.
Quiet evenings: Many sites enforce quiet hours. "Although it's a short trip from the city, camping here is a breath of fresh air. Spaces aren't too close together either. The creek running behind the camp is great to explore, and a waterfall is a short hike away," mentions Jonathan G. about Bonita Ranch Campground.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Rules vary by location and season. At Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites, "Rangers do come by and take down information of the leader of the group. They are very strict on parties are not allowed. NO FIRES. They have had issues with drug use and parties so thats why they are strict," warns David V.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically between sites. "Had very bad but there at&t cell reception. Nice and quiet with space between spots. Get there earlier to find a spot, people seem to stay for awhile," reports Jillian at Keller Peak.
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds close during winter months. Serrano Campground operates from "Mar 15 - Nov 24" according to its listing information, making advance planning essential for yurt camping near Bloomington during winter.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for local animal visitors. "There are coons here so you can't keep any food out when dark comes near!" advises Veronica H. at China Camp, highlighting the importance of proper food storage.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Select campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. "We were here before the remodeling and we are still faithful returners every year for the past 20+ years we absolutely love it here and the family fun is always amazing," shares Ametra J. about Canyon RV Park.
Site selection matters: Corner locations offer more space for kids. "I had site 126 in the fields, corner site and lake view. This campground has a pool, splash pad, park, dog park and access to the lake," recommends Marcella D. regarding Launch Pointe.
Pack for temperature swings: Daily temperature variations can exceed 30 degrees. "It was incredibly windy when we went in April 2021. In addition to the wind, it was very chilly in the evenings and through the night. Plan accordingly," advises Bower about Mojave River Forks.
Easy walks for beginners: Look for flat, accessible trails. "The Exploration trail weaves around them up to the peak and makes a great hike and there are tons of climbing spots. The Children's forest and Keller peak fire lookout are at the top giving you great info and great views," explains Kristil C.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant adjustments. "Our site wasn't super flat," reports Christian N. about North Shore Campground, a common theme across several area campgrounds offering yurt and RV camping near Bloomington.
Site selection for slides: Check site dimensions before booking. "We reserved a spot for a rig with slide outs on both sides to accommodate our 39'er but it took some creative parking to get the rig into the spot in a way that we could actually open both sides," cautions Bryan H. about Launch Pointe.
Off-season value: Winter camping offers greater solitude. "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," shares Nicole W. about Serrano.
Hookup locations: Some utilities require extended hoses or cords. "Great camp site. Nice 'big' spots so you don't feel like you're on top of one another. Only thing I wish is that the bathrooms were closer to the hookup spots," mentions Martha S. about Serrano.
