Tent camping near Hesperia, California offers access to elevations ranging from 3,000 to 8,000 feet across the San Bernardino National Forest. Summer temperatures can reach 90°F during the day while dropping to the 50s at night. Many areas require Adventure Passes ($5 daily or $30 annual) for parking, and fire restrictions typically intensify from June through November depending on conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Near Manker Campground, several trails provide different difficulty levels. "This is a good spot to spend the night. It's close to Ice House Canyon trail," notes Stephen S. The area connects to Mt. Baldy summit trails as confirmed by Mike C.: "Nice little campground to pitch a tent and climb mt.baldy."
Fishing opportunities: Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area offers stocked fishing spots. "Good lake for fishing. Trails near the sites," says Stephen S. Another camper mentioned, "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."
Rock climbing access: The mountain areas provide numerous climbing spots. At Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites, "The Exploration trail weaves around them up to the peak and makes a great hike and there are tons of climbing spots," according to a reviewer. The region's granite formations provide routes for various skill levels.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites offers well-spaced camping areas. "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," shares Lynn C. Campers appreciate the separation between sites.
Off-road accessibility: Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8 attracts those with appropriate vehicles. "Great for campers that meet 2 criteria 1) You have a Jeep, Truck or similar vehicle that can go off-road. 2) You enjoy dispersed camping," explains Nathaniel C. Another visitor noted, "Trail was fun (definitely needed 4x4) and the sites around has good shade and good size open spots."
Budget-friendly options: Some areas offer low-cost or free camping. About Deep Creek, a camper reported, "Easy access to the hot springs and no services to speak of. Basically a patch of dirt you can occupy for $10 a night. Loved it." Yellow Post sites throughout the region are free but fill quickly during peak seasons.
What you should know
Weather variability: Mountain elevations mean rapid weather changes. "Weather is definitely colder than in the valley, got snow overnight in mid May," reports a camper at Keller Peak. Summer thunderstorms develop quickly, particularly in July and August.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping locations lack amenities. At Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground, "Really good site. Showers, pit toilet, running water, but it's 10$ a night. Hardly any shade unless you get a good site," warns Jake P. Many yellow post sites have no water sources.
Local visitors: Some camping areas attract day users. At Keller Peak, a camper noted: "Amazing but locals may join... The next day, a local family came onto the site and invited themselves to stay. They stayed behind the large boulder with the picnic table. They were friendly and kind to bring us some smores but I thought it was strange."
Tips for camping with families
Clean facilities: Yucaipa Regional Park offers well-maintained amenities. "Excellent campground. Well maintained. Large concrete pads that can handle any rig," says Paul C. Another camper noted, "This park is beautifully maintained. I'm so happy!"
Water activities: Several sites offer swimming or water features. "A fun little hidden place to get away. Campground was quiet and facilities were clean," reports Dawn B. about Yucaipa Regional Park, which includes lakes and a water park during summer months.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy spotting local animals. "There's no larger wildlife, like bears, so less stressful when you have pets or kids," mentions a Yucaipa Regional Park visitor. This contrasts with higher elevation campgrounds where bear activity requires more vigilance.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites has varied road conditions. "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 of my H Fit," explains Sandra L. Even small vehicles can access some sites with careful driving.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds have limited availability during winter. Big Pine Flat Campground operates May through October. "We loved this yellow post site, by far one of my favorites. Private but with cell service, tables and fire pits!" shares Chelsea R. about a different yellow post site.
Power needs: Most dispersed sites have no electrical hookups. For RVs requiring power, options are limited to established campgrounds like Yucaipa Regional Park, which offers "Full hookup. Some sites have better shade than others. I'm here in the heat but my AC is keeping up," according to Anneliese S.
