Dispersed camping options exist within a 10-mile radius of Cedar Glen, California, situated at 5,607 feet elevation in the San Bernardino Mountains. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing at night while summer days average 75-85°F. The surrounding San Bernardino National Forest provides both established campgrounds and primitive camping areas with varying levels of accessibility depending on seasonal road conditions.
What to do
Hiking to hot springs: Deep Creek Hot Springs offers therapeutic soaking pools accessible directly from the campground property. "The hike to the hot springs was fairly tough, but we found it easily with the trail starting right on the Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp Retreat property!" notes Jessica B.
Biking forest trails: Trails around the mountain lakes provide accessible routes for cyclists of various skill levels. "We loved camping here. Beautiful, pristine campground with bike trails/walking paths around the lake. The town is bike friendly," shares Trey T. about their experience at Serrano Campground.
Winter activities: Some campgrounds near Cedar Glen remain operational during winter months with heated accommodations. "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," reports Nicole W.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Yellow post sites in the mountains provide excellent separation from other campers. "I really dig these spots because they are well spaced out. It's right around the corner from my cabin so it's a great spot to get outside for the weekend without an epic drive," shares Lynn C. about Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.
Natural hot spring access: Private spring pools available for exclusive guest use make for memorable stays. "The spring pools at our site were so relaxing to have all to ourselves and well worth it to reserve for our party!" explains Jessica B. who stayed at Deep Creek Camp Retreat.
Lake proximity: Camping sites with quick lake access provide water recreation opportunities. "The sites are well spaced, good tree cover. Very nice patch of land. Quiet. Lake Arrowhead Village is 4 miles away," notes Andrew B. about his stay at North Shore Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal fire restrictions: Regulations vary throughout the year, with strictest limitations during summer and fall. "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 that's why they are strict," explains David V. from his experience at Keller Peak.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We were in Serrano for 2 night past Memorial Day and it was wonderful. The campsites are clean, have clean bathrooms/shower access, and they sell firewood for $10. Town is only 10 minutes away for groceries and other necessities," shares Rachel H. about Serrano Campground.
Road access challenges: Some remote sites require vehicles capable of handling rough terrain. "It's a bit of a drive but very scenic and should be doable in any car. My campsite was big and spacious and looked up at an outcropping of rocks. It had a makeshift fire pit and picnic table," explains Jillian about Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Select sites with amenities: Choose campgrounds with bathroom facilities when camping with children. "One of the best campgrounds I've ever been to. Well maintained, clean, and just beautiful! We had a double spot and it was very spacious which is what we were looking for because we had 5 kids, 4 dogs, and 7 adults," shares Brittany N. about her family's stay at Serrano.
Look for kid-friendly activities: Sites with accessible water features provide natural entertainment. "We traveled from Fullerton to Brea. When we arrived the camp host was waiting for us. After a quick back and forth with the most ideal spot and a quick set up, it was in the river we went. With temperature nearing 90 or at least it felt like it. The mountain cooled stream was just what our fam needed," explains Armando C. about Seven Oaks Lodge.
Consider educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer learning experiences for children. "It was quite clean and fun. Took my son and his girlfriend with us a great place for families," notes Amanda A. about Serrano Campground, which is located near the Discovery Center with nature programs.
Tips for RVers
Check hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer full RV services. "This is a state run campground. Plenty of loops. All under trees (as far as we could see). We managed to find a spot but they do take reservations and that's your best bet. We chose the loop closest to the lake, just about a minute walk for a nice view," explains Jennifer D. about Serrano Campground.
Reserve early for best sites: Premium RV spots with views book months in advance. "Such lovely owners who was very helpful when we came in at 7 pm and needed a place to sleep. Nice and clean restrooms. Fair price," shares Cecilie about her experience at Oak Hills RV Village.
Consider yurt camping alternatives: For those seeking RV amenities without towing, yurt camping near Cedar Glen provides comfortable options with real beds and electricity. "We stayed on the right side of the road where its divided in two rows of sites. One row is right of the stream/creek. Each site is divided by a picnic table," explains Antonio B. about the layout at Seven Oaks Lodge.
