Camping near Cedarpines Park sits at elevations between 4,000-6,000 feet in the San Bernardino Mountains. The area combines pine forests with high desert terrain, creating temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night during summer months. Winter campers should prepare for snow conditions from December through February, with chains required on most mountain roads.
What to do
Hiking the PCT segments: The Pacific Crest Trail passes near Mojave River Forks Regional Park, offering day-hiking opportunities. "This is a fairly nice place to camp. I would avoid camping here during the summer since it does get very hot. Not much to do here other than hiking and kicking back. The Pacific Crest Trail passes nearby," notes reviewer Rick S.
Explore natural hot springs: The hot springs at Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp Retreat provide therapeutic soaking options. "The deep creek hot springs were absolutely fabulous, as they were situated next to a cold creek where we could do therapeutic hot cold plunges. The hike to the hot springs was fairly tough, but we found it easily with the trail starting right on the property!" shares Jessica B.
Mountain biking: The forest roads around Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites offer technical mountain biking routes. "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," says Lynn C.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Yellow post sites provide isolation not found at developed campgrounds. "There are only 9 sites stretched across 5 miles so you will have no neighbors. Each site is decent size and tucked away into the rocks. Many will fit multiple people easily," explains Kristil C. from Keller Peak.
Lake access: North Shore Campground provides direct lake access for water activities. "Super nice staff!! They remembered us after only staying here twice which means they take pride in the care for their customers. We love that we can tent camp by the water!" reports Sandi B.
Budget-friendly options: Free and low-cost camping helps stretch vacation budgets. "Easy access to the hot springs and no services to speak of. Basically a patch of dirt you can occupy for $10 a night," explains Dan X. about Deep Creek Campground.
What you should know
Weather extremes: Mountain weather can change rapidly. "We went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around! Two nights are perfect," mentions Kelly Anne M. about Deep Creek.
Access challenges: Some sites require high-clearance vehicles or careful navigation. "You will have to drive 6 miles of mountainous dirt roads to reach the property, but it takes you away from all signs of the city and surrounds you in nature when you get there, making a very nice camping experience," shares Jessica B. about Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp Retreat.
Site availability: Popular spots fill quickly during peak seasons. "They fill up fast May-Sept. The Exploration trail weaves around them up to the peak and makes a great hike and there are tons of climbing spots," advises Kristil C.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with facilities: Serrano Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "Great clean campground. Flush toilets, clean restrooms, well stocked. Didn't use the showers. Good location. Close to Big Bear Lake. Not much road noise for being located between two roads," reports TheWolfman Z.
Find kid-friendly attractions: Look for campgrounds with nearby activities. "Access to Cougar Crest Trail is super easy and safely cross under the road via tunnel. Pokemon stops for the kids," adds TheWolfman Z. about Serrano Campground.
Consider glamping options: Luxury camping at Cedarpines Park provides comfort for families new to outdoor experiences. "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.
Tips from RVers
Locate level sites: Bonita Ranch Campground offers RV-friendly options. "A little gem hiding out in Lytle Creek! Easy access to a pretty trail right behind the campground. Very quiet and interspersed with long time stayers and temporary campers. I stayed in my van and had my cat and dog with me," says Heather L.
Weather preparation: RVers should prepare for rapid temperature changes. "Weather is around 75 during the day and about 50 to 36 degrees cold throughout the night. Has everything you'll need. Bathrooms are close by, showers HOT water available," advises Martin O.
Hookup availability: Check which utilities are offered before booking. "We lucked out! Just about to book for this June," says david B. about North Shore Campground.