Equestrian campgrounds near Cedar Glen, California sit at elevations between 4,000-7,000 feet in the San Bernardino National Forest. The area experiences dramatic seasonal temperature changes, with summer highs around 85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Many horse-friendly campgrounds connect to the 35-mile California Riding and Hiking Trail, allowing riders to access diverse terrain from pine forests to desert landscapes.
What to do
Hike to natural hot springs: Deep Creek Hot Springs offers a moderate trail leading to therapeutic hot springs beside a cold creek. "I had never been before, but I had a few friends bring me and it was the most amazing time! The hike down is super chill and the hot springs at the end are so worth the hike back up after!!!" notes Carina M. from Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground.
Fish at stocked lakes: Lake Perris State Recreation Area provides multiple fishing spots with regular catches. "This lake has been good to me and my friends, always catch something, maybe not a lunker but fun," shares John H. about Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground. The lake maintains consistent stocking schedules throughout spring and summer.
Explore wilderness trails: The San Gorgonio Wilderness offers extensive hiking options from Heart Bar Campground. "Access to a lot of hiking and dirt roads, hike to San Gorgonio, drive up to Coon Creek Cabin, or just relax," explains Mike M. Many trails connect to the PCT for longer distance options.
What campers like
Spacious, separated sites: Heart Bar Campground provides larger than average campsites with natural spacing. "When I go camping, I like getting away from people, and Heart Bar is one of the campgrounds with bigger sites so we can do that easier. The sites are beautiful and clean, and there is a beautiful meadow to hike through," reports Amy B. from Heart Bar Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The meadow at Heart Bar attracts local wildlife, particularly in morning and evening hours. "This spot is excellent for wildlife viewing and entry to the wilderness for hiking and exploring. The campground is also littered with tall standing pines and even some massive junipers, providing ample shade," shares Nick L. Deer are commonly spotted grazing at dusk.
Clean facilities despite remote locations: Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites offer more primitive but well-maintained camping options. "Dirt roads were well kept. I came with a 170 wheel base Sprinter Van w/ 2 wheel drive and had no problems making it to site post #11. My site had a picnic table and a fire pit," reports Derek M. about Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites.
What you should know
Weather extremes require preparation: Mountain temperatures fluctuate dramatically, especially at higher elevations. "Went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around! Two nights are perfect," notes Kelly Anne M. about Deep Creek. Winter camping requires cold-weather gear rated for subfreezing temperatures.
Train noise impacts some campgrounds: Mojave Narrows Regional Park experiences frequent train disturbances. "IMO the waterfront tent sites are the nicest. They are farthest away from the trains (but not far enough!) The other dry sites have paved camper pads," explains Lee D. about Mojave Narrows Regional Park.
Water availability varies by location: Most yellow post sites lack running water. "Water is only available near the main road so bring containers if you go further up the road," advises Tom P. about Coon Creek. Many horse-friendly campgrounds require campers to transport water from central locations to their sites.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with kid-specific amenities: Rancho Jurupa RV Park offers family-focused facilities. "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," shares Xochiquetzal G. about Rancho Jurupa RV Park.
Choose sites with natural play spaces: Parks with creeks or shallow water access provide entertainment for children. "We traveled from Fullerton to Brea. 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 dealt like it. The mountain cooled stream was just what our fam needed," notes Armando C.
Check for educational opportunities: Some parks offer interpretive programs during summer months. "There is a cool museum were the amazing staff provided us with interesting history about the lake and Indian tribes. Such a fun and peaceful place to hangout at!" says Lauren R. about Lake Perris State Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Prepare for uneven terrain: Many campgrounds near Cedar Glen have naturally sloped sites. "A lot of spaces are unleveled but it's not a deal breaker for me. A cool spot but no sewage and WI-FI is kind of inconvenient," explains Troy A. about Lake Perris State Recreation Area.
Verify cell service if needed: Coverage varies significantly throughout the mountain areas. "AT&T - Good. 2-4 bars. Verizon - Good. 2-4 bars. Starlink- >10% obstruction," reports Will about horse-friendly campsites at Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites. Forest canopy can interfere with satellite connections.
Plan for gate access after hours: Many parks lock entrance gates at specific times. "Make sure you know that the park is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays so you will need to know the gate code after 4 pm and on those days," advises Lee D. about Mojave Narrows Regional Park.
