Camping around Fontana provides access to sites from 1,000 to over 7,000 feet elevation with significant temperature variations across seasons. The San Bernardino Mountains contain multiple campgrounds within 30-45 minutes of city limits, creating easy access for weekend trips. Campsites range from primitive tent spots to full hookup RV sites with varying levels of privacy and amenities.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Many campsites at Applewhite Campground connect to nearby trail systems. "My dog and I had a lovely stay... Mountain views are fantastic," notes one camper who appreciated the convenient hiking options directly from the campground.
Water recreation options: The multiple lakes near Fontana offer various activities. "Lake-adjacent sites provide access to swimming, fishing, and boating. "We did some fishing, bike riding, the water was clear, and my kids loved it. There is a cool museum were the amazing staff provided us with interesting history about the lake and Indian tribes," reports a visitor to Lake Perris State Recreational Area.
Creek exploration: Several campgrounds offer access to small creeks. "The creek is small not deep at all but it's nice to take photos and just wet your feet," mentions a visitor to Applewhite Campground regarding Lytle Creek. This makes for perfect warm-weather cooling options when mountain temperatures rise.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention site spacing as important. At Dogwood Campground, "Beautiful, large, private campsites. We were very happy with our site (#5) however after riding around the entire campground on our bikes, we realized we had one of the worst sites!!! Lol Just goes to show even the bad sites are great," observed one reviewer.
Clean facilities: Many campers specifically mention bathroom conditions. "The bathrooms are clean with flush toilets, along with soap and water sinks. There are many areas with water stations to fill up your containers," noted a Dogwood visitor, highlighting the well-maintained infrastructure.
Family amenities: Rancho Jurupa RV Park receives positive feedback for its recreational options. "Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities. Nice staff! Would of liked to be on grass like the sites across but they were clean!" mentions one camper, emphasizing the diversity of activities available.
What you should know
Off-season advantages: Visiting during weekdays or non-summer months dramatically changes the camping experience. "I went on a Wednesday afternoon in May and got my pick of sites. There were only 4-6 other campers each night so it was very quiet," reports a visitor to Manker Campground.
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds near Fontana have noise issues during peak times. "This is a good spot to spend the night. It's close to Ice House Canyon trail," mentions one Manker Campground visitor, who saw it primarily as a functional overnight spot rather than a quiet retreat.
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations vary by season and campground. During dry periods, many campgrounds prohibit open flames completely. Sites with designated fire rings typically require campfire permits during allowed seasons, which rangers enforce strictly from May through October.
Tips for camping with families
Water features: Look for campgrounds with built-in water recreation. "Great park. It may not seem nice when you are passing through town to get in, but once you enter the gates it's beautiful," comments a visitor at Rancho Jurupa Park, noting the contrast between surrounding areas and the recreational opportunities inside.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play structures for children. "Beautiful views all around Sunrise, Sunset and Night sky. Sights of all kinds of birds like hawks and herons. Water park and mini golf for kids," notes a camper at Rancho Jurupa, highlighting attractions beyond just camping spots.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer chances to observe local animals. At Bonelli Bluffs, "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics, you can use your jet skies in designated areas, swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more," reports a regular visitor, showing the diversity of activities for different age groups.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV campers recommend researching specific site dimensions before booking. "We drive a 19 foot RV van which backed up easily into our campsite, and had plenty of room to spare," mentioned a Dogwood camper, but larger rigs need more careful planning.
Hookup availability: Electricity, water, and sewer connections vary widely among the best places to camp near Fontana. At Bonita Ranch Campground, "This place is awesome full hookups lots to do trails and not to mention right on top of the creek. Friendly staff helpful too restrooms r clean showers clean too," notes an RV camper who appreciated the full-service amenities.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV sites offer on-site dump stations. "There's a dump station, but a couple spots with dump but they were always booked. I will book ahead next time," advises a camper at Rancho Jurupa Park, highlighting the importance of advance planning for services.
