Tent camping near Calimesa, California requires preparation for significant temperature fluctuations at higher elevations, with nighttime temperatures dropping below freezing even in spring and fall months. The region sits at the junction of the San Bernardino Mountains and San Gorgonio Wilderness, with most campgrounds between 5,000-9,000 feet elevation. Forest regulations require Adventure Passes for parking at trailheads and many dispersed camping areas.
What to do
Fishing at local lakes: Yucaipa Regional Park offers three stocked lakes for fishing throughout the year. "Great tent camping facilities, privacy from neighbors, access to Zanja Peak Trail head, 3 lakes for fishing, water park during the summer, and friendly helpful staff," notes Bryan H. about Yucaipa Regional Park.
Summit hiking: From campsites at Limber Pine Bench, trails lead directly to San Bernardino mountain peaks. "Open Spaces and great views of San Bernardino... The views from this campsite are amazing and there's a fresh spring just a 1/4 mile up the trail," says Daniel J. about Limber Pine Bench Campground.
Gold panning: Historic Holcomb Valley offers opportunities to try gold panning in the same creek where gold was discovered in the 1800s. "If you're into panning for gold you just might find some along Holcomb Creek. There are active claims in the area so be respectful," advises Edward W.
Winter camping: For experienced campers, higher elevation sites provide winter adventure opportunities with proper gear. "We went in April, and still had a little bit of snow. All the trail roads are mostly for 4 x 4 vehicles that really enjoy just going at it throughout the day," reports Seth B.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Thomas Hunting Grounds offers secluded camping with widely spaced sites. "Beautiful, private, and secluded. The campgrounds were wonderful... I didn't want to leave!" writes Katie S. about Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites.
Free camping options: Several yellow post sites around Calimesa provide no-cost camping alternatives. "Excellent place to camp. And free, no less. Need high clearance or 4wd vehicle for a rough road but once you get to the top, the sites are great!" says Steve about Thomas Hunting Grounds.
Flat camping surfaces: Mill Creek Dispersed Camping provides multiple level tent sites across its service road. "There are over a dozen sites along the main road. If you can pull in, it's a site. Some better than others and spaced out so you may not see your neighbors from your site," explains Dee M. about Mill Creek Dispersed Camping.
Proximity to fishing: Green Valley Lake Recreation Area offers camping with nearby fishing access. "Nearby there is Green Valley lake, just a couple miles up the road, you do have to drive there. The town is very small and cute. The lake is very clean and has a lot of fish," mentions Aleena S.
What you should know
High elevation temperature drops: Prepare for extreme cold at higher elevation sites, even outside winter. "Although it was May and the weather was beautiful at sea level, it was cold up here... The ranger said it only got down to 7 degrees," warns Kate W. about Dry Lake Backpacking Campground.
Road conditions to campsites: Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. "The road to the trailhead is very bumpy (you definitely need a 4x4 with good clearance). Be sure to call visitor center for driving directions as Google will take you to the wrong spot," advises Daryna L.
Permit requirements: Backpacking sites in San Gorgonio Wilderness require wilderness permits. "You can walk in to Mill Creek Ranger Station to get a permit or you can fax the office a few days in advance to submit for a permit," explains Brittany N.
Lake access fees: Some campgrounds advertise lake proximity but charge additional fees for access. "The lake is privately owned so you do have to pay to fish or swim, and you pay per person, so keep that in mind if you have a large group," notes Aleena S. about Green Valley Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: During summer months, Yucaipa Regional Park offers water play options beyond camping. "Nice splash zone," notes Ken B., while another camper mentions "a lot of fun for the whole family. a fun place to be if you live local."
Playground access: Green Valley Lake Recreation Area provides camping with nearby playground facilities. "Lots of places to walk/hike, large sites," reports Christine, while Ronny G. adds "We did some hiking, fishing near by and costed big bear as it is not too far away."
Protected tent camping areas: Several campsites offer tent-only areas away from RV traffic. "We stayed in group campsite A. Tent camping is only allowed in group sites. The tent camping sites come with plenty of space for group camping. There's a built-in grill and running water," shares Mary F.
Kid-friendly wildlife viewing: Camping areas at lower elevations offer safer wildlife encounters. "There's no larger wildlife, like bears, so less stressful when you have pets or kids. Plenty of space to bring bikes and ride around," explains Mary F. about Green Valley Lake Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pad availability: Yucaipa Regional Park provides level concrete pads suitable for any size rig. "Excellent campground. Well maintained. Large concrete pads that can handle any rig. So much to do all around a park," notes Paul C.
Hookup options: Full hookup sites are available at select campgrounds near Calimesa. "Full hookup. Some sites have better shade than others. I'm here in the heat but my AC is keeping up," reports Anneliese S.
Cell service coverage: Working remotely is possible from some camping areas. "Verizon service is only 2 bars but I can still work," mentions Anneliese S., while another RVer at Holcomb Valley notes "not a single sound far from everybody, off the grid."
Skoolie-friendly locations: Some campgrounds welcome school bus conversions that private RV parks might reject. "We're usually full-time boondockers, and this was the first time we've paid for an RV park... Most private RV spots discriminate against Skoolies, but this place didn't seem to care," shares Jason O. about Yucaipa Regional Park.
