Glamping near Fontana, California offers elevated camping experiences with a variety of accommodations throughout the San Bernardino Mountains and surrounding areas. Located at elevations ranging from 1,100 to 7,000 feet, the region experiences temperature variations with summer highs averaging 80-95°F and winter nights dropping to 30-40°F. Most sites require advance reservations during peak seasons (May-September).
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 25-minute walk to Bonita Falls from Bonita Ranch Campground through river rocks. "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 a visitor to Bonita Ranch Campground.
Mountain biking: Multiple trails available near Keller Peak with interconnecting routes. "I really dig these spots because they are well spaced out. It's right around the corner from my cabin so it's a great spot to get outside for the weekend without an epic drive," explains one camper at Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.
Lake activities: Paddleboarding, swimming, fishing at Lake Arrowhead, accessible from North Shore Campground. According to one visitor: "The sites are well spaced, good tree cover. Very quiet. Lake Arrowhead Village is 4 miles away."
Wildlife viewing: Dawn/dusk optimal for spotting native species. "We loved camping here. Beautiful, pristine campground with bike trails/walking paths around the lake. The town is bike friendly. Some road noise but quiet over night," shares a Serrano campground visitor.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Yellow Post Sites provide isolation. "There are only 9 sites stretched across 5 miles so you will have no neighbors. Each site is decent size and tucked away into the rocks," explains a Keller Peak visitor.
Proximity to urban areas: Quick access to services while maintaining natural settings. "Although it's a short trip from the city, camping here is a breath of fresh air. Spaces aren't too close together either," notes one camper about Bonita Ranch Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained restrooms and showers at developed campgrounds. "We found the campground to be very clean and well-maintained. The toilet facilities were also very clean and did not smell," reports a visitor to Mojave River Forks Regional Park.
Seasonal experiences: Weather variations throughout the year create different camping conditions. "Weather is around 75 during the day and about 50 to 36 degrees cold throughout the night. Has everything you'll need. Bathrooms are close by, showers HOT water available."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by season and location. "The sites have fire ring and picnic benches, no water. Rangers do come by and take down information of the leader of the group. They are very strict on parties are not allowed," explains a visitor to Keller Peak.
Site availability: Yellow Post Sites fill quickly May-September. One camper at North Shore Campground advises: "This is a nice site with lots of shade. There is a lovely hiking trail at the far end of the site. There is water, flush toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. It is a short walk to Lake Arrowhead."
Weather variations: Mountains experience rapid temperature changes. "Weather is definitely colder than in the valley, got snow overnight in mid May. Had very bad but there at&t cell reception. Nice and quiet with space between spots."
Reservation systems: Most established campgrounds require booking ahead. "We reserved and camped at this beautiful campground back in July of 2018. It was a great experience. We pulled a 27' Travel Trailer from Livermore, CA and picked out the perfect site #94."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly hikes: Short trails available near most campgrounds. "This area is so beautiful, quiet… good retreat from stress in life. Get back in touch with nature. Close to Gregory Lake Park, like 20 mins drive," shares a visitor to North Shore Campground.
Animal encounters preparation: Secure food properly to prevent wildlife issues. "Not much to do here other than hiking and kicking back. The Pacific Crest Trail passes nearby. It is away from the populated cities, but not far from them. It still gives you a sense of seclusion," notes a visitor to Mojave River Forks.
Temperature planning: Pack for significant day-to-night drops. "I am camping with my husband and 3 kids and our puppy. The hosts are friendly, cheap firewood, china beach village is just down the road and perfect to explore and swim," reports a camper at China Camp State Park.
Water safety: Be cautious around natural water sources. "The campground is close to the Lassen Volcanic National Park. We took a drive there for a visit and it was spectacular. The campground also has a great store there."
Tips from RVers
Spacing considerations: Many RV sites have tight configurations. "No longer a KOA. Spaces are very tight. Good for 1 nite only stay. Staff was friendly and place is clean but not much room to maneuver a lg. rv. in," advises a visitor to Oak Hills RV Village.
Hookup availability: Full hookups limited to specific campgrounds. "We chose Bonelli for our shakedown trip in our new trailer (first time RVers). SO quiet. Numerous residents, but spots are mostly keep up nicely. Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking(!) and full hookups."
Level sites: Some campgrounds offer better leveling options. "Great camp site. Nice 'big' spots so you don't feel like you're on top of one another. Only thing I wish is that the bathrooms were closer to the hookup spots."
Dump stations: Not all sites have on-site dumping facilities. "It's a nice campground for a quick get away or just a day at the park for a family BBQ. There was one or two water features, a big field, a close by kids park."
