Lytle Creek camping offers year-round options in the San Bernardino National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 feet. The region features a mix of desert and mountain terrain with seasonal weather patterns that include occasional snow dustings in winter and temperatures that can exceed 90°F in summer months. Yurt accommodations provide alternatives to traditional tent camping with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Access Bonita Falls via trails near Bonita Ranch Campground. "Good place to see, close to the Lytle creek and great hiking to reach the Bonita Falls," notes Julian M., though visitors should be prepared for crowds during peak seasons.
Creek exploration: Spend time in the refreshing water during hot weather months. One camper at Bonita Ranch Campground describes it as being "literally a box throw away from the creek" where you can "enjoy the ice cold water on a really super hot day." Water levels vary seasonally, with spring offering the highest flows.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours provide best opportunities for spotting local fauna. At North Shore Campground, the natural setting supports diverse wildlife. "This area is so beautiful, quiet… good retreat from stress in life. Get back in touch with nature," reports Ivy R.
What campers like
Year-round accessibility: The area offers camping options regardless of season. Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground remains open through winter with weather-dependent access. "Went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around! Two nights are perfect," shares Kelly Anne M.
Creek proximity: Multiple sites offer immediate water access. Sara H. appreciated that at Bonita Ranch Campground, "you're literally a box throw away from the creek if you're not really big on hiking but enjoy the scenery." Sites closest to water typically book first and may cost more.
Trail access: Serrano Campground provides convenient trail connections. "Access to Cougar Crest Trail is super easy and safely cross under the road via tunnel," writes TheWolfman Z. Most trails are open year-round with occasional closures during extreme weather.
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. At Mojave River Forks Regional Park, "campsites in the area where we were, were spacious and spread out. We liked very much not being on top of one another and appreciated how vast this campground is," according to one reviewer named Bower.
Weather preparation: Temperatures fluctuate significantly between day and night. "It was incredibly windy when we went in April 2021. In addition to the wind, it was very chilly in the evenings and through the night. Plan accordingly," warns a Mojave River Forks Regional Park visitor.
Limited shade: Desert-adjacent sites offer minimal protection from sun. Jake P. notes at Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground: "Hardly any shade unless you get a good site... Went in early April and it was already really warm in the area."
Yurt options: Yurt camping near Lytle Creek provides alternative shelter. Mountain Lakes Resort includes yurt accommodations among its offerings, while nearby North Shore Campground also features yurt camping options with varying amenities and pricing.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer specific amenities for children. At Bonelli Bluffs, Jessica P. notes "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics... swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more." Designated swimming areas provide safer water access for children.
Site selection: Choose locations with adequate space for family activities. "We had a double spot and it was very spacious which is what we were looking for because we had 5 kids, 4 dogs, and 7 adults," mentions Brittany N. about Serrano Campground.
Bathroom proximity: Consider distance to facilities when selecting sites. Martha S. shares this insight about Serrano Campground: "Only thing I wish is that the bathrooms were closer to the hookup spots... from space 58 to the nearest bathroom is a 1/4 mile walk. Not horrible but at night when it's PITCH black it can be a bit scary!"
Tips from RVers
Space constraints: Some sites have tight clearances. Lawrence P. warns about Fairplex RV Park: "Spaces are very tight. Good for 1 nite only stay. Staff was friendly and place is clean but not much room to maneuver a lg. rv. in."
Hookup options: Full-service sites available at select locations. Sara H. notes about Fairplex RV Park: "they do offer full hookups they have a swimming pool among a few other activities... you couldn't get too much closer to the fairplex."
Seasonal challenges: Be prepared for freezing temperatures in winter months. Nicole W. shares this experience at Serrano: "Our sewer outlet was frozen in the morning, so we had to dump when we got out of the mountains."
