Camping sites near Llano, California range from basic fairground facilities to mountain resorts at elevations between 2,500 and 4,000 feet. Temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night aren't uncommon during summer months. The surrounding San Gabriel Mountains and Angeles National Forest provide distinct camping microclimates within short driving distances.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Skypark Camp RV Resort sits directly across from Santa's Village, which features dedicated mountain biking facilities. "Perfect gateway for your adventures in the area," notes one visitor, highlighting the park's strategic location. The trails accommodate various skill levels with rentals available onsite.
Hiking at Bonita Falls: The trail behind Bonita Ranch Campground offers easy access to natural water features. A camper mentions, "Easy access to a pretty trail right behind the campground. Very quiet and interspersed with long time stayers and temporary campers." The falls area becomes more crowded on weekends.
Fishing opportunities: Rancho Jurupa RV Park offers stocked fishing areas that don't require extensive equipment. "Fishing for catfish in the little lake which is shaded with trees and plenty of tables to picnic by the lake," explains one reviewer. The fishing area remains accessible even for those not staying overnight.
What campers like
Community atmosphere: Many campgrounds foster a neighborhood feel rather than typical transient camping. At Hollywood RV Park, "It feels like a neighborhood instead of a busy RV park. Everyone is really cool and the park is perfectly eclectic and a wonderful spot to park at."
Family activities: Several parks provide structured entertainment beyond basic camping. Bonelli Bluffs features diverse recreation options as one visitor notes: "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics, you can use your jet skies in designated areas, swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more."
Privacy options: Despite being near urban areas, some campgrounds maintain separation between sites. Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites offers isolation with "only 9 sites stretched across 5 miles so you will have no neighbors. Each site is decent size and tucked away into the rocks. Many will fit multiple people easily."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Railway proximity affects several campgrounds. At Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, "a rail line runs in front of the front side of the park" and "there was a train that ran around 3:30am every morning that was a disturbance." Request sites farther from tracks when possible.
Space limitations: Many RV parks maximize capacity at the expense of site size. One camper at Fairplex RV Park observed: "Although you're packed in pretty tight you better make sure that you like your neighbors it seems to be a very friendly quaint place."
Reservation challenges: Demand exceeds capacity at many locations, especially at no-cost options. For Keller Peak Yellow Post Sites, "They fill up fast May-Sept. The Exploration trail weaves around them up to the peak and makes a great hike and there are tons of climbing spots."
Tips for camping with families
Water features: Bonelli Bluffs offers multiple aquatic recreation options beyond swimming pools. "Awesome for RVs but maybe not the best for tent camping... we enjoyed the lake the view the weather it could have been better over here will definitely be returning."
Entertainment facilities: Some campgrounds provide structured activities for children. Rancho Jurupa RV Park includes "Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities," according to reviewers, making it suitable for longer family stays.
Security considerations: While most campgrounds maintain good security, personal property should be monitored. One camper noted at Bonita Ranch: "We were site261 cottonwood. Only downside was that the ranger said to lock up bikes and be careful leaving out items because a local has been coming in stealing."
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Maneuvering larger vehicles requires advance planning at several parks. One RVer at Californian RV Resort described it as "Gated park high on a hill; like driving the hills of SF with a trailer. Lots of pull thrus. Well kept and landscaped."
Hookup variations: Not all sites offer equivalent utilities despite being at the same facility. A long-term visitor at Skypark Camp RV Resort mentioned: "Some people have commented here they wish they didn't chop down the trees; they didn't. There was a huge fire in this area in 2006 that destroyed the trees in this area (and took out 300 homes)."
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between rv parks. Skypark Camp RV Resort features "Bathrooms are incredibly clean and a combo of a toilet and shower to a room. So, no randos." These private facilities provide additional comfort for families.
