Cedarpines Park camping options include elevations from 3,300 to 7,000 feet, with pine forests transitioning to desert landscapes in surrounding areas. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter access to higher elevation sites may require snow chains or 4WD vehicles from November through April.
What to do
Hiking along creek beds: Deep Creek Camp Retreat offers direct trail access to natural hot springs. "The hike to the hot springs is pretty rough but also worth it when you get there," notes one visitor, adding that "there are railways near the park and trains running by all night long."
Fishing opportunities: Lake Perris State Recreation Area provides stocked fishing locations suitable for beginners and experienced anglers. "This lake has been good to me and my friends, always catch something, maybe not a lunker but fun," reports one regular at Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground.
Mountain biking trails: Multiple trails accommodate various skill levels around the San Bernardino National Forest. "There are a lot of hiking and mountain biking in area," reports one camper at Heart Bar Campground, where access to forest trails makes it ideal for day-long excursions.
What campers like
Natural springs access: Deep Creek Hot Springs attracts visitors seeking therapeutic waters. "Super fun place to visit with the hot springs trail. Went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around," notes a winter visitor at Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground.
Secluded forest sites: Yellow post sites provide dispersed camping without facilities. "I stayed at yellow post 12. The camp sites are close but still quiet," reports one visitor, appreciating the balance of accessibility and solitude at Coon Creek.
Wildlife viewing: The meadow at Heart Bar offers deer watching opportunities at dusk. "This campground sits right over a small meadow that borders the San Gorgonio wilderness... excellent for wildlife viewing and entry to the wilderness for hiking and exploring."
What you should know
Train noise concerns: Several campgrounds near rail lines experience frequent train activity. "I stopped counting after I counted 24 trains lumbering by during our short overnight stay," warns one visitor at Mojave Narrows Regional Park.
Limited water access: Dispersed camping requires water planning. "Water is only available near the main road so bring containers if you go further up the road," advises a Coon Creek Yellow Post visitor.
Security measures: Gate closures affect late arrivals at several parks. "They do patrol the park frequently and your dog must be leashed," notes a camper at O'Neill Regional Park, adding that "gates close at 10:pm your provided with a security gate code to get back in if your out late."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Splash pads and playgrounds provide entertainment beyond hiking. "Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities," reports a visitor at Rancho Jurupa RV Park, where families can enjoy structured recreation alongside camping.
Story trails for children: Special trails feature seasonal reading activities. "Great playground for children and easy and fun Story Trail hike for children. The hike features a new book every month, each page is mounted to a placard along the trail."
Temperature preparedness: High desert elevations create significant day-night temperature swings. "Very cold at night!" cautions a camper at Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites, emphasizing the need for proper gear even during warmer seasons.
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Limited dump facilities require planning. "Water and electric only on camp sites. No dump site there," reports a camper at Hesperia Lake Park and Campground, highlighting the need for tank management.
Site leveling challenges: Many forest sites require leveling equipment. "A lot of spaces are unleveled but it's not a deal breaker for me," notes an RVer at Lake Perris, suggesting that bringing leveling blocks is essential.
Cell service variability: Coverage ranges from none to moderate across different campgrounds. "AT&T - Good. 2-4 bars. Verizon - Good. 2-4 bars," reports a camper at Coon Creek, providing useful information for remote workers or those needing connectivity.
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