Dispersed camping near Highland, California offers varied terrain across San Bernardino National Forest at elevations from 3,000 to 8,000 feet. Sites range from primitive yellow post locations with basic amenities to undeveloped forest land with no facilities. Summer temperatures often reach 85-95°F during day with nighttime drops to 50-60°F, requiring appropriate gear even during warmer months.
What to do
Hiking to hot springs: Deep Creek Hot Springs provides a popular destination for tent campers. "The hike to the springs is pretty rough but also worth it when you get there," notes one camper at Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground.
Mountain biking: The Mill Creek area offers multiple trails for biking enthusiasts. "First come first served dispersed camping just outside Big Bear. Near bike trails. Was not crowded mid week, but spots were filling up closer to the weekend," reports a visitor to Mill Creek Dispersed Camping.
Fishing: Green Valley Lake provides fishing opportunities near tent sites. "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, so keep that in mind if you have a large group," explains a camper at Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area.
Gold panning: Historical sites offer unique activities for adventurous campers. "If you're into panning for gold you just might find some along Holcomb Creek. There are active claims in the area so be respectful," advises a visitor to Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many campers value the isolation of tent camping near Highland. "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 a reviewer of Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.
Wildlife viewing: The San Bernardino mountains host diverse animal species. "We did have a momma deer and two does in the distance. Then 30 mins later we had another deer friend that just hung around until after we took shelter in the tent," recounts a camper at Halfway Camp.
Night sky viewing: Clear mountain air provides excellent stargazing opportunities. "I almost want to give this a 1 star review, just to keep it to myself a little longer. We loved this yellow post site, by far one of my favorites. Private but with cell service, tables and fire pits! Listen to great horned owls while taking in the views!" describes a visitor to Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites.
Access to water features: Many campsites provide proximity to lakes or streams. "Great tent camping facilities, privacy from neighbors, access to Zanja Peak Trail head, 3 lakes for fishing, water park during the summer, and friendly helpful staff," explains a visitor to Yucaipa Regional Park.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed camping areas require appropriate transportation. "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. (Didn't mind thanks to its amazing views!)," shares a camper with a Honda Fit at Thomas Hunting Grounds.
Permit requirements: Some areas require advance permits. "As stated above they are sometimes hard to come by depending on weekends. High creek camp is always most popular and I have never had a problem obtaining a permit for Halfway," explains a backpacker at Halfway Camp.
Temperature fluctuations: Mountain elevation causes significant temperature changes. "We went in April, and still had a little bit of snow. All the trail roads are mostly for 4 x 4 vehicles that really enjoy just going at it throughout the day," notes a camper at Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. "This is pack in-pack out. No bathrooms," warns a camper about Halfway Camp, adding important preparation information for tent campers near Highland.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds: Families often prefer sites with more facilities. "We stayed in group campsite A. Tent camping is only allowed in group sites. They do have about 30 to 40 RV sites as well. The tent camping sites come with plenty of space for group camping. There's a built-in grill and running water," explains a visitor to Yucaipa Regional Park.
Plan for activities: Many campgrounds offer family-friendly recreation. "There's a lot to do here, including fishing, playgrounds, and even a waterpark in the summer. The bathrooms are decent, no showers," notes another Yucaipa Regional Park camper.
Consider wildlife factors: Parents appreciate locations with manageable wildlife concerns. "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," describes a family at Yucaipa Regional Park.
Check lake access details: Lakes often have separate fees. "You do have to pay to fish or swim, and you pay per person, so keep that in mind if you have a large group. Everyone was very kind and we enjoyed fishing from the shore," advises a Green Valley Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should carefully evaluate campground layouts. "Excellent campground. Well maintained. Large concrete pads that can handle any rig. So much to do all around a park. Does get very cold, was in the teens overnight when I was there in Feb. Fires allowed which is nice," shares an RVer at Yucaipa Regional Park.
Connection availability: Some sites offer cell service. "This park is beautifully maintained. I'm so happy! Verizon service is only 2 bars but I can still work. Full hookup. Some sites have better shade than others," notes a Yucaipa Regional Park visitor.
Alternative vehicle options: Some campgrounds accommodate converted vehicles. "Most private RV spots discriminate against Skoolies, but this place didn't seem to care. Good water pressure in the showers, which has been nice," explains a camper with a converted school bus at Yucaipa Regional Park.
Weather preparedness: RVers should prepare for mountain climate challenges. "Does get very cold, was in the teens overnight when I was there in Feb," warns a camper about tent camping conditions near Highland during winter months.
