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Best Campgrounds near Lytle Creek, CA

1,321 Reviews

Campgrounds in Lytle Creek, California range from developed sites with amenities to more primitive options within San Bernardino National Forest. Bonita Ranch Campground provides full hookups for RVs along with tent sites and cabin accommodations, situated near Lytle Creek with access to local hiking trails. Applewhite Campground offers a more rustic experience with fewer amenities but maintains flush toilets and trash service. The area attracts visitors seeking mountain views, creek access, and proximity to trails like the path to Bonita Falls, all within a relatively short drive from urban Southern California.

Access to Lytle Creek campgrounds varies seasonally, with some facilities maintaining year-round operations while others have limited availability during winter months. The narrow mountain roads leading to campgrounds like Applewhite include hairpin turns that can present challenges for larger RVs and trailers. Most established campgrounds in the area require reservations, particularly during peak summer weekends when sites fill quickly. Visitors should note that fire restrictions are common during dry periods, and facilities may have specific regulations regarding fire pits. A camper familiar with Applewhite noted, "The camping sites are spread out. The access road is very narrow. We did it with a 22 foot fifth wheel. Space 41 could hold a much longer rig but it would be a challenge even getting to that space."

Several visitors highlight the creek access as a primary draw for camping in this area. The proximity to Lytle Creek provides opportunities for wading and cooling off during hot summer days, though the water levels can vary seasonally. Bonita Falls, accessible via a short hike from nearby campgrounds, receives frequent mentions in visitor reviews despite concerns about graffiti in the area. Campgrounds closer to the creek tend to be more popular and can become crowded during peak seasons. One review mentioned, "You're literally a box throw away from the creek if you're not really big on hiking but enjoy the scenery." Noise levels vary significantly between campgrounds and by season, with some visitors reporting rowdy weekend crowds at certain locations while others describe peaceful experiences in the same areas during weekdays or off-season periods.

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Best Camping Sites Near Lytle Creek, California (270)

    1. Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    Cedarpines Park, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 389-2281

    $45 - $350 / night

    "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!""

    "ATV with ice cream and firewood comes around right before dark. Campsites are a bit crowded for my liking. Access to the Silverwood Lake recreation area is a great benefit."

    2. Dogwood

    33 Reviews
    Rimforest, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 336-6717

    $40 - $81 / night

    "The trees are massive and plenty and make you feel like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of California."

    "The campground overall is really pretty and in a great location in Lake Arrowhead. However, we made the mistake of booking site 005, which is right on a ridge... it was SO windy."

    3. Bonita Ranch Campground

    12 Reviews
    Lytle Creek, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (909) 887-3643

    $35 - $45 / night

    "Good place to see, close to the Lytle creek and great hiking to reach the Bonita Falls"

    "A little gem hiding out in Lytle Creek! Easy access to a pretty trail right behind the campground. Very quiet and interspersed with long time stayers and temporary campers."

    4. Table Mountain Campground

    21 Reviews
    Wrightwood, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 249-3526

    $30 - $500 / night

    "If you have a chance after - drive the whole Angeles crest highway! Worth the trouble. You are also located close to the PCT, take a hike!"

    "We got a campsite that was on the outside of the loop. We were in Cherokee loop in campsite #87."

    5. Manker Campground

    13 Reviews
    Mount Baldy, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (626) 335-1251

    $12 / night

    "Close by Hobit trails clear and inviting trails .rivers and in the winter snow....lots of campsites.... seen deer..rabbits and a multitude of squirrels. ..."

    "Top of mt Baldy road.. almost as far as you can drive. Not many sites, about 20. One giant loop. No reservations needed."

    6. Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest

    9 Reviews
    Lytle Creek, CA
    1 mile
    +1 (909) 382-2716

    $15 - $20 / night

    "I had a positive impression of this small campground, located just 5-7 miles away from the 215 highway, amidst natural surroundings."

    "The fresh stream is just a short distance away, just a few steps away and you can immerse yourself in nature right across the road."

    7. Bonelli Bluffs

    38 Reviews
    South El Monte, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 599-8355

    $76 - $88 / night

    "⭐⭐⭐⭐

    Our experience at Bonelli Bluffs Campground was mostly positive, but there were a couple of aspects that could be improved."

    "The views around the outskirts of B loop are just lovely, the staff has been so friendly and helpful (we’re RV newbies and had a ton of questions) the store was stocked with all of the little things we"

    8. Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground

    26 Reviews
    Valyermo, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (626) 335-1251

    "We’ve done Crystal Lake probably 6 dozen times or more in our time in California and it never disappoints on the spectacular views."

    "Whenever I need to get away from LALA Land, I head up here.  I grew up in the mountains of western Pennsylvania, so , sometimes , I need to kick back and recharge."

    9. Mountain Lakes Resort - Membership Campground

    4 Reviews
    Lytle Creek, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (909) 887-7038

    $150 - $375 / night

    "they have several different kinds of cabins Little ones and then really big ones just suit your family size they have full hookups you can also purchase cable TV if you wish you can park right on the lake"

    10. Coldbrook Campground

    18 Reviews
    Glendora, CA
    19 miles
    Website

    "We left LA (Hollywood) on a Friday afternoon around 3, and were setting up camp by 5! Luckily a friend got to the campground before us though, as he snagged the last of the 20 or so sites there."

    "Coldbrooke is a excellent campground that is relatively close to the city. The camp host was super helpful in explaining the fire restrictions and overall questions."

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Recent Camping Photos near Lytle Creek, CA

521 Photos of 270 Lytle Creek Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Lytle Creek, CA

1321 Reviews of 270 Lytle Creek Campgrounds

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    serrano camp grounds

    Great place

    I stayed for one night Wednesday just to try the showers. The showers were perfect! Hot water even! So clean and beautiful. Recommend!

  • B
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    Stunning but Safety Concerns

    I’ve camped at the Keller Peak yellow post sites more than two dozen times over the years and, at their best, they’re incredible. The scenery and isolation are superb—starry skies, quiet nights, and that deep-woods stillness that’s getting harder to find. For years this was my go-to spot. 

    Unfortunately, I’ve also watched trash and waste increase. Please, pack it out—these sites only stay special if we treat them with care. 

    My last trip was frightening enough that I haven’t returned. Late at night a group of locals came to the edge of my site, yelling and using threatening language. They assumed I was homeless despite my SUV and proper camping setup. I was using a portable propane fire pit—which is allowed—and I calmly explained that. I can understand why fire is an issue to locals.  I only felt safe because my small dog has a very loud bark, which kept them from coming closer. They said they were calling a ranger. I left the next morning, shaken. On my way out, I spoke with a park ranger who confirmed propane fire pits are permitted and told me they don’t patrol up there at night because of recurring issues like this. She also mentioned they were trying to move the site to a reservation system to deter homeless use; I’m not sure if that has happened yet. 

    It’s a shame, because this area is one of the best around. I’m sharing this so others can make an informed choice.  

    Pros - Spectacular views and true solitude Cool nights, dark skies, classic forest feel

    Cons -  Rising litter and human waste Nighttime safety concerns due to occasional rowdy visitors Limited ranger presence after dark

     I hope increased stewardship and enforcement can restore the magic here.

  • Kyle K.
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Stoddard Valley OHV

    Nothing special, low expectations and an open mind!

    This spot isn't anything special, but desert camping under the stars is never a bad time. Once the wind settled in the evening, I made some tea and read a book. I saw a shooting star when I laid down in my tent. I really could not have asked for a better nights rest. There is a vault toilet and some rock fire pits scattered around the area. I was there on a Wednesday, didn't see another soul except for the couple that pulled off the highway for a quicky, LOL! The highway isn't too far but the noise is pretty minimal. It was pretty sandy, but not too bad for a street motorcycle

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    East Flats

    Nice Peaceful Area

    Wasn’t hard to find a little rough but fairly easy to reach with our Sedan. Couldn’t find too much to do but if you’re looking for a weekend getaway to relax it’s a nice spot.

  • Nickchris G.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Horsemen's Center

    Horseman's center!

    Beautiful views of the entire city and never bothered by anyone, can do bonfires, and even camp right out my car.

  • Julie
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bogart County Park

    Bogart Regional park

    It was okay for a last minute camping idea.

  • Julie
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bogart County Park

    Yucaipa Regional park

    Great customer service, easy access, restrooms, fishing, swimming and paddle boats.

  • Wayne S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest

    Nice little park

    Very small campground. Camping sites are spread out. The access road is very narrow. We did it with a 22 foot fifth wheel. Space 41 could hold a much longer rig but it would be a challenge even getting to that space. There were only two other campers here while we were here. Lots of trees but not so thick you dont get some sun. The road getting to the campgrounds is somewhat narrow and has some hairpin turns so again it might be difficult for someone with a long trailer We camped at Applewhite Campground in a Fifth Wheel.

Guide to Lytle Creek

Camping near Lytle Creek, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different preferences.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: There are numerous trails around the campgrounds. For instance, at San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach, visitors appreciate the "good access to walking and biking trails." This makes it easy to explore the stunning coastal views.
  • Beach Access: If you’re a fan of the ocean, San Clemente State Beach Campground is just a short walk from the beach. One camper noted, "The walk to the beach was close, seemed maybe about 10 minutes till we reached the beach from our site."
  • Fishing: At Lake Hemet Campground, fishing is a popular activity. Campers have reported good catches, especially trout, making it a great spot for anglers.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. For example, at Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park, one visitor mentioned, "The bathrooms were spotless. They were being cleaned frequently."
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy having enough space between sites. At Dogwood Campground, a reviewer said, "Most of the sites are spaced out fairly decently," which adds to the overall camping experience.
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. A camper at Calico Ghost Town remarked, "The staff were friendly and helpful most of the time."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground noted, "Every day and night multiple other campers had music blasting and were yelling and screaming."
  • Limited Privacy: Campsites can be close together, which might not suit everyone. A camper at Doheny State Beach Campground mentioned, "The middle sites are small and tight, offering little privacy."
  • Weather Considerations: Depending on the season, weather can vary. A visitor at Serrano mentioned, "The campground was clean, quiet, and had a decent amount of space between sites," but noted that it can get cold in the winter.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. At Bonelli Bluffs, one family found it "well-maintained, and the surrounding natural beauty made for a peaceful retreat."
  • Plan Activities: Bring bikes or plan hikes to keep kids entertained. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground suggested, "If you have little ones, you can take them with a wagon but I'd recommend just driving your car with a few items to the zone."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can help keep the little ones happy. A reviewer at Calico Ghost Town mentioned, "The Ghost town is a fun place to walk through," making it a great spot for a family outing.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground noted, "Different campgrounds for all chosen methods (Tent, RV, Glamping, etc.)."
  • Bring Your Own Shade: Some campgrounds may not have enough natural shade. A visitor at San Mateo Campground advised, "Bring your own shade for this campsite."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Some areas may have poor reception. A camper at Serrano mentioned, "There is no cell service at upper camp."

Camping near Lytle Creek, California, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Lytle Creek camping located in the Cajon Pass Recreation Area?

Lytle Creek camping is nestled in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, approximately 16 miles north of San Bernardino in Southern California. The area is easily accessible from Interstate 15 through the Cajon Pass. Bonita Ranch Campground is a popular campground in Lytle Creek, located near the entrance to the recreation area. It offers easy access to Lytle Creek itself and serves as a gateway to the surrounding wilderness areas, including trails that lead to scenic attractions like Bonita Falls.

What recreational activities are available at Lytle Creek?

Lytle Creek offers abundant recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking is particularly popular, with trails leading to destinations like Bonita Falls. Swimming and wading in the creek are refreshing activities during warmer months. The area also provides excellent fishing spots, mountain biking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Little Jimmy Trail Campground in the nearby Angeles National Forest connects to various hiking trails, including portions of the Pacific Crest Trail. Heart Bar Campground in the region offers additional recreational options with beautiful sunset views and access to mountain trails for day hikes or backpacking adventures.

Do I need reservations for Lytle Creek campgrounds?

Yes, reservations are generally recommended for Lytle Creek campgrounds, especially during peak seasons (spring and summer) and holidays. Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest and other nearby campgrounds operate on reservation systems. Some smaller sites in the area may offer first-come, first-served options, but availability is limited. For wilderness camping or dispersed sites, permits may be required. It's advisable to book at least 2-3 weeks in advance during popular times, and bring cash for campsite fees or firewood purchases if you're making last-minute arrangements.

Is RV camping allowed at Lytle Creek?

Yes, RV camping is allowed at Lytle Creek, though amenities and accessibility vary by campground. Bonelli Bluffs in the greater San Bernardino area accommodates RVs with hookup options and is family-friendly. Several campgrounds in Lytle Creek can accommodate smaller to medium-sized RVs, though some mountain roads may be challenging for larger rigs. Most developed campgrounds offer basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, with varying levels of hookups. Some sites are better suited for self-contained units. Be sure to check specific campground restrictions regarding RV length limitations and available facilities before planning your trip.

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