258 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Dogwood Campground welcomes pets on site, providing campers a forested retreat in the San Bernardino mountains near Highland. This established campground permits leashed dogs throughout the property with tent and RV sites, picnic tables, and nearby hiking trails. Yucaipa Regional Park also accommodates pets with full hookup RV sites and group tent camping areas. Pets must remain on leash throughout the park, and a $1 per pet per night fee applies at check-in. The campground's spacious sites offer partial shade with concrete pads that can handle any size rig. Most campsites remain well-separated, creating a sense of privacy despite being within 30 minutes of major shopping areas.
Serrano Campground and North Shore Campground provide additional pet-friendly camping options with lakeside settings that permit dogs. Both facilities enforce standard leash policies while offering access to walking paths around the water. Pet waste stations are positioned throughout these campgrounds, maintaining cleanliness in high-traffic areas. The San Bernardino National Forest yellow post sites allow pets in more primitive camping environments with few amenities but greater seclusion. Regional parks enforce strict pet policies regarding supervision and waste removal, with potential fines for non-compliance. Mesa Campground at Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area permits pets in designated camping areas only, restricting access to swimming areas and certain trails. When temperatures rise during summer months, early morning walks prove essential for dog comfort as stickers and burrs become prevalent in undeveloped areas.
"Each trail I used offered lovely views. This campground is huge, yet felt homey. My cat watched the squirrels play on nearby trees from the RV."
"Stayed a couple years in a row with me family. ( and dog) site large enough for two large family tents. Picnic table and fire ring."
from $40 - $81 / night
Check Availability"The green spaces are full of stickers and mostly unusable for things like walking dogs, kids playing. I was charged junk fees. $7 to make the reservation myself online and then $1 per pet, per night."
"There’s no larger wildlife, like bears, so less stressful when you have pets or kids. Plenty of space to bring bikes and ride around."
"Already been here twice once in 01/25 and 11/25 great campsite some have access to running water facet if not there are some that are close by, have also close by trash bins, has a little shop near by"
"It is right next to the lake which has a swimming area, bike path, climbing area, Hiking trails, along with a camp store which has boat rentals and much more! "
from $25 - $300 / night
Check Availability"Big Bear Lake near by, lake level appears to be receding. Bears and coyotes in the area, recommended not to let small dogs or cats roam unattended."
"We camped just a few steps away from the lake, there were other campers there but the campgrounds are far enough away from each other."
from $44 - $91 / night
Check Availability"Silverwood Lake Campground offers a range of site experiences depending on where you stay."
"Silverwood Lake was just that. Lush green mountains in the back drop that surrounded every view you turned to take in. "You need to recharge your batteries!""
from $45 - $350 / night
Check Availability"Most of the sites have incredible views looking out over Lake Hemet and of the San Jacinto mountains."
"Fun off-road adventure to get to the site. Minimal sites so not much crowding."
"We were tucked up into the hill side with neighbors far enough sway to make it very private. There were no showers so we brought our travel one and hung it from a branch."
"We arrived at Hanna Flat campground around 11 am on Friday, August 21. First thing about the campground is that the road to get to it is pretty rough."
from $33 - $67 / night
Check Availability"I felt like it was the prefect spot given the leveled ground and the fact that we had a kid and dog posse. But let me tell you about the ranger named Shawn."
"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. This is a dog friendly site."
from $29 - $58 / night
Check Availability"Lake Arrowhead is close for supplies or food. "
"Views are worth it and this is so conveniently located next to Santa's Village. Will definitely be coming back again sooner than later!"
from $39 - $299 / night
Check Availability"San Gorgonio, aptly named for the famed crown peak near by, is a nice mix of family friendly and weekend escape."
"If you live in Southern California and haven't climbed the highest peak, you need to get out there and experience nature."
from $34 - $69 / night
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ScoutSite is clean, many activities on weekends They also add 1000lb or catfish and trout weekly depending on season. Members were friendly. Downside is wifi when the campsite is 75+ full and only about a dozen paved spots. Major are gravel and dirt.
RangerReviewed by: The Crew at Hitched4fun.com
If you are looking for a true alpine backcountry adventure right in Southern California, backpacking into Round Valley Primitive Campsites inside the Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness is an incredible experience. By pairing the world-famous Palm Springs Aerial Tramway with a weekend wilderness trek, you can leave the scorching low desert and step into sub-alpine granite peaks within minutes. Our crew recently packed our gear, caught the tram, and set up basecamp at the Gooseberry site for a Friday-to-Saturday summit push of Mount San Jacinto.
The scenery and wilderness delivered on every level—but the trip also served as a stark reminder that high-altitude nature commands respect.
The Route & Camp Setup (Gooseberry Site)
Taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway bypasses thousands of vertical feet of grueling desert switchbacks, depositing you at Mountain Station:
The October Shoulder Season: Nature Changes in Minutes
We chose to hike late in the season during October, and anyone heading up during shoulder months needs to understand high-elevation weather:
A Serious Backcountry Advisory: 50 Years on the Trail Speaks
As someone with over 50 years of hiking and backpacking experience spanning every corner of the American West, what we witnessed on the trail between Round Valley and the peak was alarming.
We encountered dozens of hikers completely unprepared for foul weather:
The Hitched4fun Verdict
Mount San Jacinto Wilderness and Round Valley’s Gooseberry site delivered everything an outdoor enthusiast could want: pristine trails, incredible pine-scented air, and raw wilderness beauty. Just never forget that nature can bite hard if you let your guard down. Pack your layers, bring your essentials, respect the mountain, and you will have an unforgettable journey.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars— Highly Recommended by the Hitched4fun.com crew!
ScoutExceptional camping experience. Beautiful, secluded, but not far from town. Would recommend a vehicle you feel comfortable with off roading terrain.
RangerThe first two spots are close together. First one a bit small but better cover from Santa Anna winds. Nicely in the forest and close to the village.
TravelerI went there to see, before making a reservation. I found the trailer park—maybe 100 old mobile homes—but I never found an RV park. I didn’t see anything to see. The “pool” was empty. The office was locked, and it wasn’t lunch. Just kinda not happening. I left a message to call me with the answering service, but I never got a call back.
TravelerWell maintained, nice folks, pleasant to talk with. I stayed there 2 months, and enjoyed it.
ScoutNice and FREE area , easy to access
TravelerHad a nice stay here twice so far this year. Nice place. Quiet and clean.
GuideNice place, rustic, unpublicized, congenial host. It can accommodate a number of vans and RVs, but I was the only guest. There is water and nothing else that is stated in the blurb. A self-contained rig is recommended.
As I explored the premises, I imagined that a small traveling couple or group could enjoy the camp as a peaceful alternative to Joshua Tree or Desert Hot Springs. There is evidence that guests stayed there before, with ample communal space for a campfire experience possibly with libations.
The camp might not be a priority business for the host, thus a work-in-progress or attempted endeavor. It has potential to be a stellar and successful camp if kempt.
Security was my concern, being solo, so I locked down more than usual when I left during the day for a music festival. No issues. I stayed three nights. The location is four miles from Morongo Valley Covington Park and the Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, a hiking attraction.
A bumpy dirt road to get to camp. Unsure if a large RV can traverse it. Call or text is the only way to book. The cellphone number is on Google Maps.
Pet friendly camping sites abound in the San Bernardino mountain forests surrounding Highland, California, at elevations ranging from 3,000 to over 7,000 feet. The region experiences summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during days with 45-55°F nights, while spring and fall bring greater temperature fluctuations and occasional wind events. Most Highland-area dog friendly campgrounds permit pets on 6-foot leashes with strict waste removal policies enforced.
Hiking with dogs: Trail access varies significantly between campgrounds near Highland. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites offers more primitive options with hiking opportunities. "Beautiful hiking trails and wildlife. I didn't want to leave! Make sure you have a vehicle that is 4WD - getting up the mountain is long and rugged," notes Katie S.
Mountain biking: Several campgrounds provide direct access to bike trails. At Hanna Flat Campground, "Campsite 49/51 is right by the trail to hike and bike," according to Bryan S. The campground's location makes it ideal for mountain biking enthusiasts seeking quick trail access.
Fishing access: Lake access points near several campgrounds offer fishing opportunities throughout spring and summer. "Lake Perris has been good to me and my friends, always catch something, maybe not a lunker but fun," says John H. about Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground. Many sites require a California fishing license.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate campgrounds with well-spaced sites. At San Gorgonio Campground, reviewers note the site layout: "The sites are evenly spaced, good privacy, clean bathrooms. Plenty of space to pitch my tent and hang my hammock," writes Cristen B. This spacing allows dogs more comfort without constant interaction with neighboring campers.
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathrooms rank high in camper satisfaction. "The bathroom facilities were immaculate," notes one Bower about Mesa Campground at Silverwood Lake, adding that "all of the staff here are incredibly nice and helpful."
Shade coverage: Tree density provides essential summer shade at many Highland-area campgrounds. "The campground feels very secluded and the sites are far apart," says Spencer U. about Hanna Flat. This natural coverage helps keep pets comfortable during warmer months when ground temperatures can reach 100°F in direct sun.
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by season and location. Skypark Camp RV Resort has specific limitations: "No wood fires but they do offer gas fire pits in the community area," explains Bryan S. Always check current fire status before arrival as conditions change rapidly.
Bear awareness: Food storage practices are critical at certain campgrounds. At San Gorgonio, Jennifer D. warns: "Don't leave ice chest out & Please be sure to cover your ice chest, even in your vehicle, as the bears are all too familiar with them."
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires appropriate vehicles. For Thomas Hunting Grounds, Katie S. cautions, "Make sure you have a vehicle that is 4WD - getting up the mountain is long and rugged." Unpaved roads become particularly challenging after rain.
Cell service: Coverage varies dramatically between campgrounds. "T-Mobile cellular signal was fine. No Wi-Fi," reports Bower about Silverwood Lake. This information helps plan for emergency contact needs when camping with pets.
Bike-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer safe cycling spaces for children. At Serrano, "There is a biking trail that goes through the campground that was well used," notes Nicole W., making it ideal for families with children looking for contained activity spaces.
Activity access: Proximity to additional recreation enhances family camping experiences. "We love that we can tent camp by the water!" shares Sandi B. about North Shore Campground. Consider sites that offer multiple activity options within walking distance.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds have significant sound issues. Regarding Lake Perris, Paul C. mentions: "Shade is sparse, fellow campers aren't the most considerate. I have been here 3 times and it always ends up being loud." For families seeking quiet, research campgrounds with more consistent noise enforcement.
Extra vehicles: Policies vary on additional car fees. One camper at San Gorgonio noted confusion: "When I reserved online it said two cars were included, and then on the receipt it said second car wasn't included? We get there and the grounds keeper makes us pay for the second car... Cash only!" Verify parking policies before arrival.
Site leveling: RVers highlight the importance of selecting level sites. At Yucaipa Regional Park, "Large concrete pads that can handle any rig. So much to do all around a park," according to Paul C. Always research specific site conditions when bringing larger rigs.
Hook-up availability: Full hook-ups aren't universal at dog-friendly campgrounds near Highland. David V. notes about Dogwood Campground: "They have electric and water hook up for RVs in a few sites that are reservable. The majority of the sites are primitive."
Temperature management: RVers mention significant temperature fluctuations. "Does get very cold, was in the teens overnight when I was there in Feb. Fires allowed which is nice," says Paul C. about Yucaipa Regional Park. Prepare heating and cooling systems accordingly, especially when traveling with pets who may be sensitive to temperature extremes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Highland, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Highland, CA is Dogwood with a 4.7-star rating from 33 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Highland, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 258 dog-friendly camping locations near Highland, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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