Best Campgrounds near Lytle Creek, CA

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.

Best Camping Sites Near Lytle Creek, California (269)

    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

    39 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. Mountain Lakes Resort - Membership Campground

    5 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"

    9. 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."

    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 Reviews near Lytle Creek, CA

1325 Reviews of 269 Lytle Creek Campgrounds


  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Bonelli Bluffs

    Wish we could stay longer this trip

    We chose Bonelli for our shakedown trip in our new trailer (first time RVers). SO quiet. Numerous residents, but spots are mostly keep up nicely. Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking(!) and full hookups. We will be back for sure, especially since it's less than an hour from home.

  • Julia G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Hare School Park

    Overnight parking ✅

    You can overnight park here with your RV without problems.

  • Elijah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Big Pine Flat Campground

    50/50

    Sites are nice, there is potable water and toilets BUT there is also a OHV staging area directly across from the campsites. The occasional dirt bike is fine right? So I thought. There was a group of 20+ people partying and playing corridos so loud I couldn’t fall asleep. They had a side by side with large speakers facing the campsite :/ I wouldn’t be annoyed if it was free but I paid $30 to camp and the camp host said this is their turf and there is nothing he can do.

  • Lianne A.
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Monte Cristo Campground

    Nice Campground but Fire Restrictions!

    Monte Cristo is a nice campground not far from home. My husband and I visited this campsite for the first time just for one night. There was a fire restriction. No bonfires, no cooking on stoves and there was no water due to a leak. The bathroom that I was using I give it a 2 star.

  • C
    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.


Guide to Lytle Creek

Lytle Creek camping offers accessible outdoor recreation within San Bernardino National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 feet. Temperatures vary seasonally, with summer highs reaching the 90s and winter bringing occasional snow at higher elevations. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, with varying levels of accessibility during winter months when the narrow mountain roads can become hazardous.

What to do

Hiking trails access: Multiple campgrounds connect to trail networks with varying difficulty levels. At Dogwood Campground, "there are a couple small hiking trails within the campground for some fun exploration," according to Troy L. The Enchanted Loop nature trail provides "great views" and is accessible from the back of the campground.

Waterfall exploration: The Bonita Falls trail is a popular destination for campers. From Bonita Ranch Campground, visitors find "easy access to a pretty trail right behind the campground" that leads toward the waterfall, as Heather L. notes. Julian M. confirms this is "great hiking to reach the Bonita Falls."

Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing access, though options vary by season. Silverwood Lake Recreation Area stocks its lakes weekly during peak seasons. "The lakes are stocked on Thursday and there's no fishing on that day," explains Sara H. about Mountain Lakes Resort, which maintains "one catfish lake and then a trout lake."

What campers like

Creek proximity: Multiple campers value the accessibility of Lytle Creek itself from nearby campgrounds. Sara H. explains that at Bonita Ranch "you're literally a box throw away from the creek if you're not really big on hiking but enjoy the scenery." Jonathan G. adds, "The creek running behind the camp is great to explore, and a waterfall is a short hike away."

Relative seclusion: Despite proximity to urban areas, several campgrounds offer surprisingly private sites. Jeremiah F. notes that at Table Mountain Campground, "all the sites are large and well spaced from others, most are shaded as well." Amy B. adds that it's "super quiet and lovely. Great views from all over the campground."

Weekend activities: Some campgrounds organize regular community events. Sara H. describes Mountain Lakes Resort: "They have bingo every Friday and Saturday, there's always some kind of a theme like this time it's a Hawaii theme they have some performances and stuff happening and some arts and crafts."

What you should know

Road challenges: Access to many Lytle Creek campgrounds involves navigating narrow mountain roads. Wayne S. warns about Applewhite Campground: "The road getting to the campgrounds is somewhat narrow and has some hairpin turns so it might be difficult for someone with a long trailer." Similar concerns apply to most area campgrounds.

Seasonal crowds: Campgrounds near water sources experience significant population fluctuations. Jessica B. notes that Applewhite "is nice for a getaway close to civilization and is relatively quiet in the off season. In the warmer months it can fill up fast on weekends and be a bit on the noisy and dirty side."

Fire restrictions: Fire regulations vary by season and conditions. Forest G. reports that at Coldbrook Campground, "we camped during a no fire period so no campfires or outdoor propane gas stove fires." Always check current fire restrictions before arriving.

Tips for camping with families

Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to see local wildlife. Forest G. reports that at Crystal Lake Recreation Area they observed: "Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds." Camping with children requires proper food storage in provided bear boxes.

Quieter weekday visits: For families seeking peaceful experiences, timing matters significantly. Elly A. advises about Mesa Campground: "I've stayed here twice, the first time all the sites were booked the second time it was pretty empty. If you're camping for peace and quiet, this may not be what you want."

Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer facilities specifically designed for children. Regarding Mountain Lakes Resort, Sara H. notes "there's tons of things for kids to do as well as the kid pool and they have a really awesome water park."

Tips from RVers

Site selection strategy: RV campers should research specific site dimensions before booking. Wayne S. advises: "Space 41 [at Applewhite] could hold a much longer rig but it would be a challenge even getting to that space." Call ahead to confirm site suitability for your specific vehicle length.

Utility considerations: Available hookups vary significantly between campgrounds. Shuree F. notes about Dogwood Campground: "I used an electric site which is integrated with tent and nonelectric sites. There are many areas with water stations to fill up your containers." Always verify which utilities are accessible at your specific site.

Leveling challenges: Terrain at many Lytle Creek area campgrounds requires proper leveling equipment. Alejandro Z. notes that at Table Mountain Campground, "The ground is a little slanted in most of the sites but not enough that it's not tolerable." Bring leveling blocks or jacks as appropriate for your rig.

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.