Cabins near Highland, California range from basic shelters to fully-furnished accommodations in the San Bernardino National Forest. The area sits at elevations between 1,300 and 5,000 feet, creating a diverse climate with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows around 35°F. Highland's cabin rentals typically experience peak seasons from May through September and December through February when mountain snow creates winter recreation opportunities.
What to do
Waterfall hiking access: The trail to Bonita Falls starts right at Bonita Ranch Campground. "A little gem hiding out in Lytle Creek! Easy access to a pretty trail right behind the campground. Very quiet and interspersed with long time stayers and temporary campers," notes Heather L. Campground is very short walk to Lytle Creek where hikers can cool off after exploring.
Hot springs soaking: Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp Retreat offers access to natural thermal pools. "The spring pools at our site were so relaxing to have all to ourselves and well worth it to reserve for our party! The deep creek hot springs were absolutely fabulous, as they were situated next to a cold creek where we could do therapeutic hot cold plunges," writes Jessica B. The hike to reach these springs is moderately challenging but trail access begins on property grounds.
Desert exploration: Mojave River Forks Regional Park provides extensive hiking opportunities with minimal crowds during off-season. "Not much to do here other than hiking and kicking back. The Pacific Crest Trail passes nearby," explains Rick S. The park's location offers a sense of seclusion while remaining within driving distance of Highland, making it ideal for cabin visitors seeking day trips.
What campers like
Private creek access: Campers at Seven Oaks Lodge appreciate the direct access to Santa Ana River. "Tent camping along Santa Ana River, you can also fish and hike. So amazing and beautiful," shares Heather D. The creekside cabins offer a peaceful setting though visitors should check current status as flooding has affected availability.
Lake views: North Shore Campground cabins provide water proximity that guests value. "The sites are well spaced, good tree cover. Very nice patch of land. Quiet. Lake Arrowhead Village is 4 miles away," reports Andrew B. Cabin guests enjoy watching wildlife including ducks and pelicans flying around the lake.
Quiet atmosphere: Mojave River Forks Regional Park cabins offer separation from urban environments. "It is away from the populated cities, but not far from them. It still gives you a sense of seclusion," notes Rick S. Campers praise the spacious layout with "vast" grounds that prevent sites from feeling crowded.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Highland area cabin camping experiences significant temperature variations. "Weather is around 75 during the day and about 50 to 36 degrees cold throughout the night," explains Martin O. about Mojave River Forks. Cabin guests should pack accordingly for these temperature swings, especially in spring and fall.
Facility variability: Cabin facilities differ significantly across properties. "Porta potties. Not too many amenities. Just what you need to camp right by the shore. Nothing more, nothing less," describes Christian N. about North Shore Campground. Some cabins feature electricity and heating while others offer minimal facilities beyond shelter.
Access challenges: Fisherman's Retreat and other remote properties require advance planning. "It's far enough up in the canyon so you feel tucked away, far from city life but not too far that you can't run down the canyon to Walmart if you forgot something," explains Jeanine V. Many cabin areas have limited cell service, especially in canyon locations.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Rancho Jurupa Park offers extensive family amenities near its cabins. "Nice park for family camping. Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities," shares Marcella D. Families staying in Highland cabins often drive to parks for day activities while using cabins as overnight bases.
Space selection: When booking cabins with children, site location matters. "We traveled from Fullerton to Brea. After a quick back and forth with the most ideal spot and a quick set up, it was in the river we went," shares Armando C. about Seven Oaks Lodge, noting how important water access was for their family experience.
Supply preparation: Family cabin stays require careful planning. "Most times if someone has a problem at the front gate. It because of the many background checks and or any one of the Screening Process," mentions Stephen G. about Olive Dell Ranch. Families should verify registration requirements, age restrictions, and check-in procedures before arrival.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites with cabins offer varying configurations. "We pulled a 27' Travel Trailer from Livermore, CA and picked out the perfect site #94. It was the furthest RV site north of the campground and we had power, water and sewage," explains a visitor at North Shore Campground. RVers should request specific sites when booking.
Weather monitoring: Highland area experiences significant winds that affect RV stays near cabins. "It was incredibly windy when we went in April 2021. In addition to the wind, it was very chilly in the evenings and through the night. Plan accordingly," advises Bower about Mojave River Forks Regional Park. Weather monitoring apps help RVers prepare for changing conditions.
Hookup verification: Cabin and RV sites offer inconsistent hookups in the Highland region. "Very spacious and good for big rigs. LOTS of activities for families (splash pad). Reservations online not too bad, only thing is it will say electricity only but I have had water hookup at all of my spots," reports Kaitlynn B. RVers should confirm exact hookup specifications when booking.
