Camping near Idyllwild, California ranges from high-elevation mountain sites at 7,000-8,000 feet to lower-elevation options around 4,000 feet near Lake Hemet. The San Jacinto Mountain region experiences temperature variations of 20-30 degrees between day and night, especially at higher elevations where overnight temperatures can drop to the 40s even in summer months. Water availability varies significantly by location, with some campgrounds offering no potable water.
What to do
Hiking from camp: Several campgrounds connect directly to trail systems. Stone Creek Campground offers immediate trail access with "a trail in the back of camp" and "Multiple hiking trails led out of camp including one right from next to our site that led to multiple other trails heading up San Jacinto Mountain," according to one camper at Stone Creek Campground.
Mountain biking: The area around Hurkey Creek Park features extensive trail networks. One camper noted, "We hiked around and explored and wished we brought our mountain bikes, lots of good riding around the area." Another mentioned at Hurkey Creek Park that "hiking and relaxing area.. the views are great and it's never to over crowded."
Bouldering: Boulder Basin Campground offers rock climbing opportunities right within the camping area. A visitor mentioned, "Love this small campground, lots of bouldering in the campground. Beautiful scenery." Many campers noted that the bouldering access makes the challenging drive worthwhile.
Fishing at Lake Hemet: Located near several campgrounds, Lake Hemet provides fishing opportunities. A camper reported, "We rented a boat and went out on the lake to do some fishing. We didn't catch anything but we did see some bald eagles which was super cool!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Marion Mountain Campground offers well-spaced sites. One camper described it as having "fairly spaced out sites offering privacy to take in all nature has to offer." Another at Marion Mountain noted that "the campsites are fairly spaced out offering privacy to take in all nature has to offer."
Hot spring pools: For campers willing to drive to Desert Hot Springs, unique amenities await. A visitor to Catalina Spa and RV Resort reported, "They are fed by natural hot springs and warmer than most hot tubs. The camp ground was tidy and the sports were separated by shrubbery for privacy."
Wildlife viewing: The mountain environment supports diverse wildlife. At Hurkey Creek, a camper shared, "You can hear owls and coyotes at night.. I love it here!!!" Others reported deer sightings at various campgrounds throughout the area.
Town proximity: Idyllwild Campground offers unique walkable access to Idyllwild. A camper at Idyllwild Campground noted it's a "Great campsite within 5 minute walk of downtown idyllwild" and another mentioned it "seems seculed from downtown and quiet."
What you should know
Seasonal water limitations: Water availability varies by campground and season. At Boulder Basin, "Although water is sometimes available, it is not potable and spigots are off during droughts. So make sure to pack enough water ahead of time." Many high-elevation sites require bringing all water.
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations change frequently, especially during dry periods. A recent visitor to Lake Hemet Campground shared, "Every campsite had a fire pit which was nice." However, another camper noted elsewhere, "No open fires this time of the year but nonetheless enjoyable and plenty of stars to be seen."
Road access challenges: Several campgrounds require high-clearance vehicles. A Tool Box Springs visitor advised, "Need high clearance vehicle for some of the ruts, or be VERY experienced driving through rough roads." Boulder Basin requires "a vehicle with 4wheel/AWD and/or something with at least 8-9 inches of ground clearance."
Toilets and facilities: Facility quality varies widely by campground. One camper at Stone Creek noted, "The vault toilets were clean, and well stocked with TP and antibacterial soap. There were three on-site." Meanwhile, at Boulder Basin, visitors warned, "the bathrooms are gnarly but tolerable if you're in and out quickly."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Hurkey Creek Park offers dedicated play areas. A visitor mentioned, "Quiet campground with nice sites for tents or RVs. Dogs allowed. Hiking and fishing." Another noted it has a "nice playground, trails to walk and bike."
Swimming options: Lake Hemet offers water recreation for children. One family shared, "We had the best time here! The lake with all the blow up toys was a blast!" Another mentioned, "Every site has a picnic table and fire ring."
Educational opportunities: At Tool Box Springs, wildlife viewing becomes educational. A camper reported, "Lots of wildlife. Raccoons in the night, gray squirrel, other squirrels, many birds." Boulder Basin offers access to a fire lookout tower where "the woman staying there at the time was very knowledgeable and share a lot of information with us!"
Nature walks: Several campgrounds offer kid-friendly trails. A family at Stone Creek described, "We took the kids on the nature walk and they loved it! Big brother read the signs about the pine cones to his little sisters!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. At Thousand Trails Idyllwild, a camper advised, "Site 414 Had No cell coverage for our Verizon phones. After a drive through the park we found Cell coverage only works in lower part of the park. Our Site was not level at all."
Water connection protection: Mountain temperatures require preparation. One RVer at Lake Hemet cautioned, "Bring insulation for your water hose or have some type of method that will keep your water lines from freezing. Our water hose froze the first night."
Access route considerations: Mountain roads present challenges for RVs. A camper noted, "It is a windy, windy road up into the mountains, and people travel too fast. We saw some serious accident sites when people were traveling too fast."
Hookup variations: Services differ substantially between campgrounds. A visitor explained, "Limited FHU sites one is extremely lucky to find one available. Honey wagon is $25.00 per dump." Others mentioned that even electric sites may not offer 50-amp service at all locations.
