Tent camping near Cleveland National Forest spans elevations from 2,000 to over 9,000 feet across Southern California, creating distinct temperature zones throughout the year. During summer months, lower elevation sites regularly exceed 90°F while high mountain camps remain 20-30 degrees cooler. Overnight temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations even in June, requiring campers to pack accordingly.
What to do
Hiking to mountain peaks: Round Valley Campsite in Mount San Jacinto State Park serves as an excellent base camp for summit attempts. "We didn't mind our 30 pound packs knowing we would enjoy the beautiful trails and streams that lead to our site. This place is close to magical high above the desert floor where the temperature was hot but our spot was cold," reported Johnny H. after camping at Round Valley Campsite.
Mountain biking on service roads: The service roads to remote yellow post sites provide challenging terrain for mountain bikers. A visitor at Tool Box Springs Yellow Post Campground noted, "If you're looking for things to do while up there, the Romona trail starts/ends directly behind the washhouse." These trails offer varying difficulty levels from beginner to advanced.
Wildlife observation: Many campgrounds in the region host abundant wildlife. "Lots of wildlife. Raccoons in the night, gray squirrel, other squirrels, many birds," wrote Rhyn E. about their Labor Day weekend at Tool Box Springs Yellow Post Campground. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best viewing opportunities when animals are most active.
What campers like
Remote camping experience: The challenging access to some sites creates a quieter camping environment. "This campsite is about 45 minutes down a 4 wheel drive only dirt path. Pot toilets and trash cans available at the site. Nothing else much around to do other than hang out at the campground or hike," explained Matt M. about Tool Box Springs.
High elevation cooling: Summer heat escapes at higher elevation camps. A camper at Round Valley Campsite shared, "Round Valley campground in the San Jacinto mountain was a dream come true... This place is close to magical high above the desert floor where the temperature was hot but our spot was cold."
Urban-accessible wilderness: Some camping options provide nature experiences surprisingly close to urban areas. "Perfect campground located right in San Diego. Great for families with small kids and there are many close trails. There is something for everyone," commented Katie O. about Kumeyaay Lake Campground. This accessibility makes weekend trips more feasible without extended travel time.
What you should know
High-clearance vehicle requirements: Many primitive camping areas require suitable vehicles. Jake P. warned about Tool Box Springs, "Without a high clearance vehicle, it took me an hour and a half to go six miles up, and still scraped and almost got stuck. Definitelyyyy would say need a high clearance vehicle for some of the ruts."
Insect activity varies by season: Bug populations can affect camping comfort significantly. "This site would've been perfect, and I mean perfect, but the flies were unbearable. I planned to stay two nights but I couldn't make it past the next morning. If I stood still even for a second I was swarmed," cautioned Steve H. about his June visit to Tool Box Springs.
Permit systems for backcountry sites: Some areas require advance permits that fill quickly. "Reservations go fast so you need to submit your permit starting 8 weeks before your trip, however waiting until 4 weeks may be too late," advised Cody B. about camping at Round Valley. Permits for popular sites can cost $5 per person plus additional fees like the $25 tram ticket to access Mount San Jacinto.
Tips for camping with families
Regional parks for amenities: Families often appreciate developed campgrounds with facilities. "This is your typical regional park Campground. There's a lot to do here, including fishing, playgrounds, and even a waterpark in the summer," wrote Mary F. about Yucaipa Regional Park. The nearby community park offers additional recreation options including baseball, basketball, and sand volleyball.
Urban-adjacent options: Kumeyaay Lake Campground provides family-friendly camping without extensive travel. "This campground is located in the Mission Trails Regional Park, and we absolutely loved it. There are clean bathrooms with flushable toilets and showers, and sinks to wash off things. The rangers even supplied Dr. Bronners Castile soap in each bathroom," shared Elise F.
Safety considerations: Some areas require extra precautions with children. Katie O. warned about Kumeyaay Lake Campground, "Beware of rattlesnakes. They are everywhere during the summer." Wildlife encounters require supervision of children and proper food storage to avoid attracting animals to your campsite.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: RV sites vary significantly in spacing and privacy. "The newer sites don't have a lot of mature trees, the older sites have a little more wear and tear but also bigger trees," advised Ken B. about Yucaipa Regional Park, helping RVers choose between shade and site condition.
Water management: Water availability varies dramatically between campgrounds. At Doheny State Beach Campground, Manuel P. clarified the sometimes confusing water situation: "Hand carrying potable water is available by bathrooms. And RV tank filling also available at the same location of dump site only a few feet away as you drive out. You can screw in your own hose and your good to go."
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations affect camping comfort significantly. Paul C. noted about Yucaipa Regional Park, "Does get very cold, was in the teens overnight when I was there in Feb. Fires allowed which is nice." This highlights the need for adequate heating systems when RV camping during winter months.
