Camping options around Hesperia sit at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 feet in California's high desert region. This transition zone between the Mojave Desert and San Bernardino Mountains creates distinct temperature variations with summer days reaching 90-100°F and winter nights often dropping below freezing. Fall camping is particularly popular due to moderate daytime temperatures in the 70s and minimal rainfall.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: The Pacific Crest Trail connects with multiple campgrounds in the Hesperia area, offering day hiking opportunities from base camps. At Mojave River Forks Regional Park, trails accommodate various skill levels. "There are easy to make hikes - meaning not necessarily any specific trails at the campground, but there are plenty of places to explore and wander from the campground," notes Bower.
Fishing opportunities: Local lakes provide stocked fishing options throughout camping season. Hesperia Lake Park and Campground offers direct lake access for anglers. "We stayed here for the weekend... The camp is fairly clean, but some of the prices are pretty high," explains Melissa M., referencing the separate fees for camping and fishing access.
Mountain biking: Several campgrounds connect to dedicated mountain biking trails. Skypark Camp RV Resort positions campers directly across from popular bike routes. Bryan S. confirms: "Skypark is right across the street for mountain bikes. Lake Arrowhead is close for supplies or food."
What campers like
Spacious sites at reasonable prices: Many campgrounds offer generously sized sites with basic amenities. "The campground layouts offer varying levels of privacy between sites, with Mesa providing more shade coverage," notes one camper about Bonita Ranch Campground. Heather L. adds, "Easy access to a pretty trail right behind the campground. Very quiet and interspersed with long time stayers and temporary campers."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain functional bathroom facilities despite high desert challenges. "The restrooms are clean with flush toilets, along with soap and water sinks. There are many areas with water stations to fill up your containers," shares Shuree F. about Dogwood Campground.
Creek access: Several campgrounds feature water access for cooling off during hot days. At Bonita Ranch, Sara H. explains, "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."
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: Summer temperatures require preparation while winter camping demands cold-weather gear. At Table Mountain Campground, Bryan H. warns, "Great spot, clean vault toilets, and a good view. Only downside was the incredible high number of yellow jackets in the area and a fire restriction."
Train noise at some locations: Railway lines near certain campgrounds create noise disturbance. Lee D. reports about Mojave Narrows Regional Park: "The sites around Horseshoe Lake are close to an active rail line. And by active, I mean really active – I stopped counting after I counted 24 trains lumbering by during our short overnight stay."
Wildlife encounters: Ground squirrels, bees, and occasionally larger wildlife appear at campsites. "Just had the best weekend even with the 3 bears that decided to come by. Group of 30. Definitely a good time. Be careful with the bears!" warns Rosalina P. about Silverwood Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Several locations offer kid-friendly water features during summer months. About Mojave Narrows Regional Park, Michelle K. shares: "The little zero gravity water park is nice if you have children."
Off-season advantages: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides better site selection and fewer crowds. "We did go from Sunday through Wednesday and not only was it not crowded but it was nearly empty. Apparently the weekends are quite full," advises Bower about Silverwood Lake.
Wildlife education opportunities: Bird watching and wildlife spotting provide educational experiences. "Lots of birds. Fishing. Wide open spaces," reports Rich J. from Mojave Narrows, making it ideal for nature exploration with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: Many campgrounds have limited level sites suitable for larger RVs. "It is a very large campground, however there are a couple different loops so it is spread over a large area. Our site was a single so it only fit one car," explains Troy L. from Dogwood Campground.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer partial hookups, though full-service sites are limited. James notes about Hesperia Lake Park: "Water and electric only on camp sites. No dump site there. There's nice shade on probably half the sites."
Parking limitations: RVers should verify site specifications before booking. "We did it with a 22 foot fifth wheel. Space 41 could hold a much longer rig but it would be a challenge even getting to that space," explains Wayne S. about Applewhite Campground, highlighting the narrow access roads.
