RV camping near Blue Jay, California offers mountain adventures between 5,000-7,000 feet elevation in the San Bernardino National Forest. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with snow accumulation affecting access to many sites from November through March. Cell service varies throughout the region with stronger coverage at higher elevation points and weaker signals in canyons.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Access the trailhead to Bonita Falls from Bonita Ranch Campground, a 1.5-mile moderate hike. "Although it's a short trip from the city, camping here is a breath of fresh air. 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: Skypark Camp RV Resort sits directly across from a dedicated bike park with maintained trails. "Ultra clean and well maintained, this park sets itself apart. Perfect gateway for your adventures in the area," reports Ken C., highlighting its strategic location for mountain sports.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer lakeside access for anglers. "Lots of families with children, fishing for catfish in the little lake which is shaded with trees and plenty of tables to picnic by the lake," mentions Jody R. about Rancho Jurupa Park, which provides both fishing areas and picnic facilities.
Stargazing: Higher elevation yellow post sites provide exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "I've camped at the Keller Peak yellow post sites more than two dozen times over the years and, at their best, they're incredible. The scenery and isolation are superb—starry skies, quiet nights, and that deep-woods stillness that's getting harder to find," shares Bruce R.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the roomier sites available at certain campgrounds. "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," describes Paul C. about Rancho Jurupa Park.
Privacy between sites: Bonita Ranch Campground offers well-spaced sites that allow for a more private experience. "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," notes Jonathan G.
Water features: Water amenities rank high among camper preferences. "Beautiful views all around Sunrise, Sunset and Night sky. Sights of all kinds of birds like hawks and herons. Water park and mini golf for kids. Showers and laundry convenient," reports Xochiquetzal G. about Rancho Jurupa Park, highlighting additional recreational facilities.
Community atmosphere: Some parks foster a welcoming environment. "Neighbors were nice, cute set ups with twinkle lights and people enjoying outdoor fire pits. Campers were playing music, laughter echoes through camp ground but nothing too loud and all quiet later," shares Jody R. about the community feel at local camping areas.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Many mountain campgrounds have limited winter access. "Weather is definitely colder than in the valley, got snow overnight in mid May. Had very bad but there at&t cell reception. Nice and quiet with space between spots," reports Jillian about Keller Peak, noting unexpected weather changes even in spring.
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary significantly by location and season. "They are very strict on parties are not allowed. NO FIRES. They have had issues with drug use and parties so that's why they are strict," David V. cautions about yellow post sites, emphasizing the importance of checking current fire regulations before arrival.
Reservation systems: Many popular campgrounds require advance booking. "This is yellow post camping so 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.
Road conditions: Holloway's Marina & RV Park and other mountain destinations require navigating steep roads. "Make sure you take the back way up the mountain. It's no joke pulling a trailer up there," warns Kevin B., highlighting access challenges for larger vehicles on mountain roads.
Tips for camping with families
Water parks and splash pads: Family-friendly campgrounds often include water recreation facilities. "Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities. Nice staff! Would of liked to be on grass like the sites across but they were clean!" Marcella D. shares about Rancho Jurupa Park, which offers multiple recreational options for children.
Activity scheduling: Bonelli Bluffs provides various family activities within a managed setting. "There is 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," Jessica P. explains about the diverse recreational offerings.
Group camping considerations: Some areas have specific group camping sections. "Took Girl Scouts here for group camping. Rocky and sand. The family camping was fine! Girls used Porta Potties. I'm hoping they have finished construction on something better since then. However, there are some great kid friendly activities," Janet S. notes about Rancho Jurupa Park, highlighting differences between group and family camping areas.
Site selection for families: Choose camping areas with appropriate amenities for children. "Cottonwood is for the true RV'ers. Lakeside is more for tent camping. Nice park for family camping," advises Michele N., pointing out specialized camping sections better suited for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: RVers should research site dimensions before booking. "We have a 265bh transcend and parked it in a site on the water. Great views and enjoyed watching the fish jump in the evenings. The sight was a little small but made it work. Had to hang the rear of the trailer over the river bank about 8'," Kevin B. shares about his experience at Holloway's Marina.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "Came in for a convention in Ontario, better alternative than Fairplex park. Very spacious and good for big rigs. There's a dump station, but a couple spots with dump but they were always booked. I will book ahead next time. 50⚡️ 💧👍," advises Kaitlynn B. about facilities at Rancho Jurupa Park.
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at some sites. "Asphalt pad with gravel picnic area between pads. Pad was a little off level. Had to block one side," notes Jesse C. about Holloway's Marina & RV Park, indicating the need for leveling equipment.
Sewer hookup challenges: Setup can require additional equipment at certain campgrounds. "They collect garbage daily curbside! The cable TV does not work and we were informed (after checking in) that it will not be fixed, and there is no RF tv in the mountain basin. Bring your satellite dish if you have one. It was difficult to use the dump hookups as they're elevated about a foot off the ground so I had to lift the hose off my support snake many times," shares Mike R. about practical RV considerations.
