Tent camping near Colton offers both primitive and developed options in the nearby San Bernardino Mountains, which range from 6,000 to 8,000 feet in elevation. Summer temperatures at higher elevations typically range from 70-85°F during the day and 40-50°F at night. Fall camping from September through November provides cooler temperatures and less crowding at most sites, though water sources may be limited during drought years.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: 5 miles of paved roads wind around Keller Peak, offering access to the Exploration Trail that connects all nine yellow post sites. A camper noted that the area provides "tons of land to hike, on or off trail. Geocaching sites nearby. The Keller Peak Lookout was amazing...it's really a staffed (with volunteers) active fire lookout."
Fishing at Green Valley Lake: This small lake located 2 miles from the Green Valley Lake Recreation Area campground is stocked with trout and requires a per-person fee. "The lake is very clean and has a lot of fish. It is privately owned so you do have to pay to fish or swim, and you pay per person," reports a camper at Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area.
Hot springs hiking: The trail to Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground offers natural thermal pools after a challenging hike. One visitor described their winter experience: "Went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around! Two nights are perfect."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campsites, the dispersed camping area offers excellent separation between sites. A camper described the experience as "Beautiful, private, and secluded. The campgrounds were wonderful... Beautiful hiking trails and wildlife."
Mountain vistas: Many campsites offer panoramic views of surrounding valleys. One camper at Thomas Hunting Grounds described "the bird's eye view of the city of San Bernardino was definitely breathtaking." Another mentioned listening to "great horned owls while taking in the views!"
Free camping options: For budget-conscious campers, the yellow post sites near Colton provide no-fee alternatives to developed campgrounds. A reviewer of Mill Creek Dispersed Camping noted it's "Great free camping when campgrounds are booked. Easy to navigate with GPS. Many large and small sites along the road. Some spots more secluded than others."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Fire rules vary significantly by season and location, with some areas prohibiting fires entirely during high-risk periods. At Thomas Hunting Grounds, a camper advised: "fair warning only a few campsites have a fire pit. A fire pit is a must in the winter - chilled winds, come prepared."
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping has "gravel, with lots of potholes and washboard areas, which would make it difficult for an RV." Another camper noted: "2x4 accessible as long as it's not muddy or after snow. I saw a Prius on the trail."
Limited facilities: Most primitive tent campsites near Colton lack amenities. At Keller Peak, there are no toilets or water sources. Campers should prepare for self-sufficient camping and follow leave-no-trace principles.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Yucaipa Regional Park offers multiple recreation options for families. "3 lakes for fishing, water park during the summer, and friendly helpful staff," wrote one camper. Another mentioned it's "a lot of fun for the whole family. a fun place to be if you live local."
Accessible hiking: Look for campgrounds with trails appropriate for various skill levels. At Yucaipa Regional Park, visitors have "access to Zanja Peak Trail head" directly from the campground, providing convenient day hikes without driving elsewhere.
Weather preparation: Mountain temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer. A camper at Yucaipa Regional Park reported: "Does get very cold, was in the teens overnight when I was there in Feb. Fires allowed which is nice."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: For RVs, avoid dispersed sites like Mill Creek, which has "a very steep and immediately turns into a hairpin turn" making it impossible for larger vehicles. A camper warned: "There is no way that even a Class C rig would be able to take that steep incline and immediately do that sharp turn."
Alternative vehicle camping: Smaller converted vehicles can access more remote sites. At Thomas Hunting Grounds, one camper reported success with their "Honda Fit camper" noting "The drive was extremely easy with a couple of rocky areas that made me slow down to 5mph and under to not damage the bottom."
Full hookup options: Yucaipa Regional Park offers complete RV services with "large concrete pads that can handle any rig" and electrical, water, and sewer connections for extended stays.
