Highland, California campgrounds offer mountain experiences at elevations ranging from 1,300 feet at lower sites to over 7,000 feet at mountain locations. During summer, temperatures can reach 100°F at valley campgrounds while higher elevation sites stay 15-20 degrees cooler. Winter brings snow to mountain campgrounds from December through March, requiring chains for vehicle access.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Bonita Ranch Campground, trails lead directly from campsites to scenic areas. "Easy access to a pretty trail right behind the campground," notes Heather L. The campground serves as a base for hiking to Bonita Falls, though one camper mentions "SO much tagging" at the falls area.
Fishing opportunities: Waterfront camping at Holloway's Marina & RV Park provides direct lake access. "We rented a boat on Saturday and was great just to walk out on the dock with the kids. 4 hr rental was just enough," reports Kevin B., who recommends making reservations for boat rentals since "they sell out on weekends."
Mountain biking: Located near Highland, Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites offers excellent terrain for cyclists. "Bike trail is fun and a challenge," says Sam H., while others note the proximity to technical trails. The Exploration trail weaves around the campsites up to the peak, making a loop ride possible from camp.
What campers like
Security features: Many rv campgrounds near Highland, California prioritize camper safety. "Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes," notes a visitor about Rancho Jurupa RV Park. At Golden Village Palms RV Resort, "The entrance security kiosk is staffed 24/7, and they'll even help spot you while parking your rig," according to Jason M.
Winter temperature advantages: The Highland area offers year-round camping options. Sara H. from Wilderness Lakes RV Resort comments, "It's hot but a fire haze has blocked the sun a bit also the water pad is so fun even for grown ups." Some mountain locations provide natural cooling, while lower elevation sites have pools and water features for summer heat relief.
Stargazing conditions: Higher elevation sites near Highland provide excellent night sky viewing. Bruce R. mentions that Keller Peak sites offer "Spectacular views and true solitude... dark skies, classic forest feel." The mountain areas around Highland provide less light pollution than urban locations.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most Highland-area RV parks require advance booking. At Skypark Camp RV Resort, sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. For yellow post sites like Keller Peak, competition can be intense: "It's hit or miss if you can get one. Do your homework and learn what you need to know ahead of time - esp regarding fires," advises Kate W.
Site variations: The quality and features of sites vary greatly between and within campgrounds. At Bonita Ranch, "Decent get away from LA. Had alot of bees and weekends are heavily trafficked," notes Rebecca W. At Skypark Camp, Greg observes there's "a huge variation in quality of sites. We were initially in a spot that was virtually unable to accommodate our 24' trailer."
Fire restrictions: Fire rules vary by location and season. Keller Peak visitors reported that "Rangers do come by and take down information of the leader of the group. They are very strict on parties are not allowed. NO FIRES." Skypark Camp RV Resort notes "No wood fires but they do offer gas fire pits in the community area."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Several campgrounds offer water features for children. At Wilderness Lakes, one camper describes "the pool, it was clean and plenty of room." The resort also offers a splash pad that's popular during hot days. Another visitor noted, "LOTS of activities for families (splash pad)."
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. At Rancho Jurupa Park, Janet S. reports "there are some great kid friendly activities" despite the rough group camping area. Another camper mentions, "Playground plus lots of grassy areas," making it ideal for children.
Group camping considerations: Larger family groups should research specific areas. "Took Girl Scouts here for group camping. Rocky and sand. The family camping was fine! Girls used Porta Potties," explains Janet S. about Rancho Jurupa Park. Group sites often have different facilities than standard family sites.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Some rv campgrounds near Highland, California have strict length requirements. Big Bear Shores RV Resort states all trailers must be at least 26 feet. One reviewer noted, "Make sure your unit is long enough and not too old or they will turn you away." Similarly, sites at Skypark Camp "are a little tight if you have a bigger unit."
Electrical capacity planning: During summer, electrical needs increase due to air conditioning use. At Wilderness Lakes, "They don't have enough 50amp sites and not all of them are always working," says David N. He advises, "If you're a 30amp rig, you'll love it here, need 50amp as long as you don't need both A/C's you'll love it too."
Leveling requirements: Many mountain sites require leveling blocks. Kevin B. notes about Holloway's Marina, "Pad was a little off level. Had to block one side." At Skypark, the terrain creates similar challenges for larger rigs. Bringing extra leveling equipment is advised for mountain campgrounds.
