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The Claremont, California area features several established campgrounds within an hour's drive of the city, with diverse accommodation options ranging from tent camping to RV sites and cabins. Bonelli Bluffs, located in nearby San Dimas, offers lakefront camping with full hookups for RVs and tent sites with views of Puddingstone Lake. Crystal Lake Recreation Area Campground in Azusa provides a more rustic mountain experience approximately 25 miles northwest of Claremont in the Angeles National Forest. Most campgrounds in the region support both tent and RV camping, with several locations like Coldbrook and Buckhorn campgrounds offering primitive camping options with basic amenities.
Reservations are strongly recommended at most developed campgrounds in the area, particularly during summer months and holiday weekends when sites fill quickly. Angeles National Forest campgrounds typically operate seasonally, with many only open from April through November due to mountain weather conditions. Urban-adjacent camping areas like Bonelli Bluffs and Fairplex RV Park remain open year-round but often require advance booking. Campers should note that fire restrictions are common throughout the region, especially during California's dry season, with several campgrounds prohibiting open flames entirely. Road access varies significantly by location, with mountain campgrounds requiring careful driving on narrow, winding roads. A camper at Bonelli Bluffs noted, "We had an awesome site that was right above the water. Nice grass areas between sites. Plenty of walking and hiking trails."
Many reviewers highlight the convenience of Bonelli Bluffs for its proximity to urban amenities while still providing natural scenery. The campground receives positive mentions for its lakefront views, well-maintained facilities, and multiple recreation options. According to one visitor, "Beautiful views with tons of trees and hills. Love it here wish I could stay forever." Several campgrounds in the region face weekend crowding issues, with reviewers noting noise concerns at some locations. Crystal Lake and other forest campgrounds tend to offer more seclusion but with fewer amenities than developed sites. Urban-adjacent camping locations provide conveniences like laundry facilities, full hookups, and proximity to shopping, but campers should expect higher site density and less privacy at these locations compared to more remote forest campgrounds.
"Our experience at Bonelli Bluffs Campground was mostly positive, but there were a couple of aspects that could be improved."
"The views around the outskirts of B loop are just lovely, the staff has been so friendly and helpful (we’re RV newbies and had a ton of questions) the store was stocked with all of the little things we"
from $76 - $88 / night
Check Availability"I grew up around in the area so I have been to this park quite a few times for a few different reasons. It is a very expansive and versatile area."
"It's a nice park great for long walks and trail riding on bikes great for the dog 🐕 also a bit windy so you need to keep a eye on your awning, great cell service with at&t ."
from $47 - $120 / night
Check Availability"We’ve done Crystal Lake probably 6 dozen times or more in our time in California and it never disappoints on the spectacular views."
"Whenever I need to get away from LALA Land, I head up here. I grew up in the mountains of western Pennsylvania, so , sometimes , I need to kick back and recharge."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"We left LA (Hollywood) on a Friday afternoon around 3, and were setting up camp by 5! Luckily a friend got to the campground before us though, as he snagged the last of the 20 or so sites there."
"Coldbrooke is a excellent campground that is relatively close to the city. The camp host was super helpful in explaining the fire restrictions and overall questions."
"Close by Hobit trails clear and inviting trails .rivers and in the winter snow....lots of campsites.... seen deer..rabbits and a multitude of squirrels. ..."
"Top of mt Baldy road.. almost as far as you can drive. Not many sites, about 20. One giant loop. No reservations needed."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"This is a nice, small campground with easy access to many freeways. "
"That probably makes sense since a side entrance is only a mile down the road from us. We hike this several times a month."
from $30 - $120 / night
Check Availability"If you have a chance after - drive the whole Angeles crest highway! Worth the trouble. You are also located close to the PCT, take a hike!"
"We got a campsite that was on the outside of the loop. We were in Cherokee loop in campsite #87."
from $30 - $500 / night
Check Availability"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."
"It's definitely not that far away from the city roughly a 7-10 minute drive up the mountain very chill environment awesome staff very home like feel you're literally a box throw away from the creek if"
from $35 - $45 / night
Check Availability"You won't be able to drive up to your campsite. You have to carry your gear in a short distance from the parking lot."
"Located on the west side of the San Rafael/Richmond Bridge, on San Francisco Bay, this park is extremely popular with mountain bikers. "
from $35 - $175 / night
Check Availability"Beautiful trails near by, next to a stream, gorgeous views, and of course that mountain air! Trees are perfect for hammocks."
"It is set back from the road a little giving you a quieter experience away from the 2. This would be a good first car camping spot for families with young children."
from $20 / night
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TravelerStayed one night on our way to Utah. Super quiet on Sunday night, we were able to drive right up and pick a spot pretty secluded. Bathrooms were spotless. Camp host was friendly!
ScoutPlace is ok. Quiet so far. Nice people.
ScoutIt wasn't sure about camping there parks and camped in the tent wasn't bothered by anybody but we did see a bear so be cautious
ScoutEasy access but away from street noise. Nothing elegant or fancy but it's a nice spot to spend the weekend. RV sites are next to the baseball fields, which is fun! Some sites have shade trees (beware of dripping pine trees). Grass and trees off the RV sites. Sites are on gravel and concrete pads. Great view of the nearby mountains. Park security patrols throughout the day. We've stayed here twice and would definitely visit again!
ScoutWe just wanted a place close enough to Universal Studios so we could Uber there and not have to pay for Park Parking. Worked for that plus a 7/11 in walking distance was helpful!
Rafael could only text us but he did always answer back (sometimes it took a little bit longer which was in the middle of the day when we were updating him on our arrival time).
Overall it was a good stay and would definitely use the place again if we were wanting a place near that area.
If I had one critique, I would say it a little pricey for what it is but maybe that normal for the area.
ScoutGreat spots along this whole road. Busy on weekends though.
GuideIt was easy to find and access based on information on The Dyrt posted by other users. Great for train enthusiasts. Lots of traffic noise from the highway. We even encountered a rare black coyote. Unfortunately I didn’t have the mental presence to snap a picture but it came right up to the trailer. I don’t believe in feeding wildlife but probably others had. Unfortunately there was lots of trash left behind by previous campers or local partiers. I plan to use this location regularly as a launching off point for destinations in Nevada, Utah, and Colorado. Very convenient location, there are also convenience stores, a McDonalds, and very expensive gasoline nearby.
ScoutNot very secluded, tight spaces, but very mellow campground, great staff, I really enjoyed it.
TravelerSilverwood Lake Campground offers a range of site experiences depending on where you stay. Some campsites are fairly close together and don’t offer much privacy, while others are more tucked away and feel noticeably more secluded. That said, the sites with better privacy can come with a tradeoff: there may not be enough room to comfortably pitch a tent right next to the car, which could be inconvenient if you like keeping your setup compact and organized. Overall, the campground seems best for campers who are flexible about site layout and are willing to choose between privacy and convenience. If having space to park and set up camp side by side is important, some of the more open sites may work better, even if they are less private.
Camping sites near Claremont, California range from 6,000-foot pine-covered mountain retreats to urban-adjacent parks with lake access. Most campgrounds in the Angeles National Forest operate seasonally due to winter snow at higher elevations. Unlike coastal camping areas, the inland location experiences warmer summer temperatures, with daytime highs regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September.
Hiking trail access: At Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground, numerous trails start directly from the campground. "There are several hiking trails here that are well used and well maintained. This is a great campground near the city," notes Robert A. The trail network accommodates various skill levels, from short nature walks to extended backcountry routes.
Fishing opportunities: Bonita Ranch Campground provides access to Lytle Creek, which runs directly behind the camping area. While not primarily for fishing, the creek offers a refreshing spot to cool off. "The creek running behind the camp is great to explore, and a waterfall is a short hike away," reports Jonathan G., who also mentioned finding berries in August during his visit.
Wildlife observation: The Angeles National Forest campgrounds offer considerable wildlife viewing opportunities. At Coldbrook Campground, one camper reported seeing "black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds." Morning hours typically yield the best wildlife sightings, especially around campground peripheries.
Accessibility from urban areas: Prado Regional Park offers camping within minutes of urban amenities while maintaining natural surroundings. "Perfect to get out of the city but still be in it. Campgrounds have more than enough privacy with each one being about 15 to 20 yards apart," writes Troy A. The quick access makes these locations ideal for weekend getaways without extensive travel time.
Temperature relief: The mountain campgrounds provide significant temperature drops compared to valley locations. Table Mountain Campground sits at over 6,000 feet elevation, creating cooler summer conditions. "Gorgeous campground to be visited during wildflower season," notes Melanie G. Evening temperatures can drop 20-30 degrees from daytime highs, even during summer months.
Diverse camping options: From primitive sites to full-service campgrounds, the area accommodates various camping preferences. "We chose site 41 as a first come first serve site. It was in the main road in/out so we had some traffic. They have several pit toilets throughout the campground. Not fancy but they do the job," explains Troy L. about his Table Mountain experience.
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations change frequently throughout the year. One Coldbrook Campground visitor noted, "We camped during a no fire period so no campfires or outdoor propane gas stove fires. We sat in the darkness and took in the stars with the sound of the creek below us." Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as they may prohibit all flame sources including camp stoves.
First-come availability: Many Angeles National Forest campgrounds operate on a first-come basis with no reservations. "We left LA (Hollywood) on a Friday afternoon around 3, and were setting up camp by 5! Luckily a friend got to the campground before us though, as he snagged the last of the 20 or so sites there," reports a Coldbrook visitor. Thursday arrival dramatically improves site selection chances during peak season.
Insect considerations: Mountain campgrounds experience seasonal insect activity. At Coldbrook Campground, campers report: "Lots of gnats! They swarm your face but then after you sit still for about a minute they leave you alone... The little gnats seemed to crawl into my clothing and wiggle/possibly bite which was a nuisance." Insect repellent is essential during warmer months.
Child-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer specific facilities for children. At Prado Regional Park, one camper mentioned, "Playground and splash pad kept the youngins entertained." These features provide entertainment options beyond hiking and traditional camping activities.
Bear safety education: Forest campgrounds require proper food storage due to bear activity. Campers at Manker Campground wish "there had been bear boxes at the sites other than the ones for refuse." Using this situation as a teaching opportunity helps children understand wildlife safety protocols.
Creek access considerations: While creeks provide natural play areas, supervision is essential. A Bonita Ranch visitor explains, "You're literally a box throw away from the creek if you're not really big on hiking but enjoy the scenery this would probably be a good way for you to experience the outdoors in the creek." Morning hours typically offer warmer water temperatures.
Size restrictions: Mountain roads limit RV access at many campgrounds. At Rolling M. Ranch Campground, a camper cautions: "We drove up in our 26ft motorhome and while we made it, I'm not sure that I'd want to make that drive again. It's very narrow and winding, single lane at times, lots of traffic." Angeles Forest campgrounds generally accommodate smaller RVs under 24 feet better than larger models.
Electric and water availability: Amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Bonita Ranch Campground, "Full hookups" are available according to one camper, while many forest locations offer no hookups. RVers should verify specific site utilities when booking, as some campgrounds may advertise hookups available at only certain sites.
Solar considerations: Mountain campgrounds often have significant tree cover affecting solar panel efficiency. One visitor to Rolling M. Ranch notes: "There's no hookups at any of the campsites so come prepared with your solar power and you'll have more than you need in this sunny part of the world." Eastern-facing sites typically receive better morning sun for solar charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there tent camping sites available in Claremont?
While Claremont itself has limited tent camping options, several excellent tent-friendly campgrounds are located within a short drive. Little Jimmy Trail Campground is a backcountry hike-in site just 2 miles off Angeles Crest Highway with about 7 first-come, first-served sites featuring fire rings and vault toilets. For a more accessible option, Lake Campground offers large, flat tent sites with a lake within walking distance, though it does experience highway noise. Manker Campground near Mount Baldy is another nearby option with basic facilities including water and toilets.
What are the best campgrounds near Claremont?
Several excellent campgrounds are located within driving distance of Claremont. Bonelli Bluffs in San Dimas offers lakeside camping with family-friendly amenities, though it lacks playground facilities. For those willing to drive a bit farther, San Bernardino National Forest Green Valley Campground provides a peaceful mountain retreat with spacious sites and campfire rings. Other notable options include O'Neill Regional Park for hiking enthusiasts and Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park for those seeking a natural escape just outside Mission Viejo. Most campgrounds in the area require reservations, especially during peak seasons.
What RV camping facilities are available in Claremont?
RV enthusiasts near Claremont have several good options. Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground offers beachfront camping with concrete/asphalt sites featuring water, electric hookups, and a dump station. Though it's about an hour from Claremont, it provides easy access to Long Beach and Disneyland. Closer to Claremont, Prado Regional Park features drive-in access with water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly with reservable sites. Most RV campgrounds in the area require reservations, especially during peak travel seasons.
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