Tent campsites near Chino, California include several accessible options in the San Gabriel Mountains, with elevations ranging from 4,000 to 8,000 feet. These campsites experience seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs averaging 80-90°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing at higher elevations. Many trail camps remain snow-covered from December through March, affecting accessibility and requiring additional planning.
What to do
Trail running near camp: At Mount Lowe Trail Campground, hikers can access numerous connecting trails for day trips. "Secluded campground with toilets, fire pits & many info plaques with photos from the old tavern on site. There's a stream nearby the Mount Lowe Summit Trail, also," notes Anthony K. The campground serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring historical sites.
Mountain biking access: The road to Glenn Trail Camp Campground provides mountain biking opportunities on designated trails. "This hike-in/bike-in campground is located 6 1/2 miles behind a locked gate. The small campground is equipped with stream for water (must be treated), and vault potties. For biking enthusiasts, the road to the campground is designated as a National Scenic Bikeway," explains David F.
Fishing opportunities: Several tent sites offer access to seasonal fishing spots. Many streams contain native trout, requiring valid California fishing licenses. "Don't forget to strap a pole to your pack if you want to catch some dinner. This area is native to good trout fishin'," mentions a reviewer at Glenn Trail Camp.
What campers like
Year-round water sources: Little Jimmy Trail Campground provides reliable water access even in dry months. "There's also year-round running water at Little Jimmy Springs. Right by PCT. And also close to another Gem. South Mt. Hawkins," notes Brian T., highlighting water reliability uncommon in the area.
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently observe diverse wildlife at backcountry tent sites. "There are many hiking opportunities and chances to see wildlife (deer, wild turkey, rabbits, squirrels, racoons, and birds)," reports Tim J. at China Camp State Park, which offers secluded walk-in tent sites.
Multiple approach options: Some campgrounds can be accessed via different routes, allowing campers to choose based on difficulty or time constraints. "2 ways up here. Hike in, via the PCT, an easy couple miles, to Little Jimmy campground, or hike up Little Jimmy road, which is a wider dirt road (no vehicles)," explains Jennifer D.
What you should know
Bear management requirements: Proper food storage is mandatory at many tent sites. "The raccoons here are AGGRESSIVE! They won't attack you, but they will walk right up to your camp and try to steal your food," warns Rosie C. from China Camp State Park, emphasizing the importance of food storage precautions.
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Winter and early spring access to higher elevation tent sites often requires special equipment. "Getting to Windy Gap usually requires spikes or crampons and axe, but it's well worth the effort," explains a visitor to Little Jimmy Trail Camp regarding winter approaches.
Water treatment necessities: Stream water at backcountry tent sites requires filtration or purification. "The campground was not busy and this allowed me to pick a spot hidden away from others. There are restrooms and a place to get water, but when I was there the showers were closed," notes Tim J., highlighting the need for self-sufficiency.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner backpacking routes: Several campgrounds provide ideal first backpacking experiences for families. "I have been wanting to take my girlfriend backpacking for quite some time but wanted an easy trail to start her off with, and this was it—an easy paved 6 1/2 miles in to camp all the way along a creek," shares Andrew G. about Hoegees Trail Camp.
Group-friendly facilities: Yucaipa Regional Park offers dedicated group tent camping areas with amenities suitable for families. "The tent camping sites come with plenty of space for group camping. There's a built-in grill and running water. There's no larger wildlife, like bears, so less stressful when you have pets or kids," explains Mary F.
Education opportunities: Several tent sites feature historical or natural interpretive elements. "Mount Lowe has many info plaques with photos from the old tavern on site," making it educational for children learning about local history.
Tips from RVers
Tent platforms in RV parks: Some RV-focused campgrounds near Chino offer dedicated tent areas. "We stayed in group campsite A. Tent camping is only allowed in group sites. They do have about 30 to 40 RV sites as well," notes a visitor to Yucaipa Regional Park about the separation of camping areas.
Hybrid camping options: Families can combine tent camping with RV amenities at some locations. "Facilities were clean and we had a good experience. The site is just past a meadow, and in the increasingly rare wet months, there's a creek that runs through the park," explains a reviewer about the mixed-use camping areas that accommodate both styles.
Parking considerations: Most tent sites require separate parking arrangements. "The website will say the sites are 'hike in', but this is not how I'd describe it. Yes, you need to park in the main lot and then carry your gear to the campsite, but it's not really a hike. More like a short walk, a quarter of a mile at best," clarifies Nathaniel S. at Manker Campground, which helps RVers understand the parking situation.
