Tent camping near Lytle Creek, California provides access to the San Bernardino National Forest's diverse terrain ranging from 2,000 to 8,000 feet in elevation. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F during day and drop to 45-55°F at night at higher elevations. Many campsites feature predominantly oak and pine forest cover with seasonal creek access that varies dramatically between spring runoff and late summer dry periods.
What to do
Hiking at Mount Baldy: Access multiple trail systems directly from Manker Campground, a base camp for Mount Baldy summit attempts. "Nice little campground to pitch a tent and climb mt.baldy," notes camper Mike C., who uses the site specifically for mountain ascents.
Rock climbing opportunities: The area around Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites offers numerous climbing spots alongside hiking trails. "The Exploration trail weaves around them up to the peak and makes a great hike and there are tons of climbing spots," explains Kristil C., highlighting the dual recreation options.
Off-roading access: Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles that double as recreation. At Stockton Flats, a camper notes: "Trail was fun (definitely needed 4x4) and the sites around has good shade and good size open spots. Best to get there early as possible to secure a spot."
Hot springs visits: The Deep Creek area offers natural hot springs accessible via hiking trails. Kelly Anne M. recommends: "Super fun place to visit with the hot springs trail. Went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around! Two nights are perfect."
What campers like
Low weekend crowds: Unlike many Southern California camping areas, Little Jimmy Trail Campground remains relatively uncrowded even on weekends. Jennifer D. reports, "Lots of sites (I've never seen more than a couple occupied) now there are bear lockers - please use them!"
Stargazing conditions: The higher elevation sites offer excellent night sky viewing. At Keller Peak, campers appreciate the "starry skies, quiet nights, and that deep-woods stillness that's getting harder to find" according to a regular visitor.
Year-round water sources: Several campsites provide reliable water access even in dry months. Brian T. notes that Little Jimmy Springs offers "year-round running water" which is especially valuable during California's dry seasons.
Proximity to fishing: Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area provides camping with nearby fishing opportunities. "Good lake for fishing. Trails near the sites. There are some great views as you hike up the mountain," reports Stephen S.
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary significantly: Current regulations must be verified before each visit. At Appletree Campground, Kyle B. warns, "NO FIRES. They have had issues with drug use and parties so that's why they are strict."
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Many Yellow Post Sites lack basic amenities. Nathaniel C. clarifies about Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites: "Specs of this campground are wrong, no toilets/water/etc. Great for campers that meet 2 criteria 1) You have a Jeep, Truck or similar vehicle that can go off-road. 2) You enjoy dispersed camping."
Bathroom conditions vary: Even established campgrounds may have maintenance issues. At Manker Campground, Ella Z. notes, "We spent 3 days and 2 nights here and enjoyed our stay, the caretaker was so nice! Although the restroom are very dirty but overall it was a great stay!"
Local residents may share spaces: At some Yellow Post sites, locals sometimes visit. One camper at Keller Peak explains: "A local family came onto the site and invited themselves to stay... They say they come every so often and have dinner there; so be prepared to share or fight them off your campground."
Tips for camping with families
Consider regional parks for amenities: Yucaipa Regional Park offers more facilities than forest campgrounds. Mary F. explains, "This is your typical regional park Campground. There's a lot to do here, including fishing, playgrounds, and even a waterpark in the summer... There's no larger wildlife, like bears, so less stressful when you have pets or kids."
Choose sites with natural play areas: Several campgrounds feature terrain that entertains children naturally. At Green Valley Lake Recreation Area, Salem L. found, "This area is amazingly gorgeous and a lot of what it has to offer gets lost on the people who always do what I did: follow the crowd into town."
Weather preparation critical: Mountain temperature swings affect children more significantly. When camping at Deep Creek in winter, Kelly Anne M. reports "Went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around!" showing the seasonal extremes families should prepare for.
Look for educational opportunities: Some sites offer learning experiences alongside camping. Kristil C. notes that near Keller Peak, "The Children's forest and Keller peak fire lookout are at the top giving you great info and great views."
Tips from RVers
Limited full hookup options: Most forest sites accommodate only smaller RVs without hookups. At Yucaipa Regional Park, Paul C. advises, "Excellent campground. Well maintained. Large concrete pads that can handle any rig. So much to do all around a park. Does get very cold, was in the teens overnight when I was there in Feb."
Road grade challenges: Mountain access roads present difficulties for larger rigs. Joe R. warns about Stockton Flats: "The turn is not marked well... If you miss the turn like we did you have to go 5 miles or more to get a turnabout big enough to turn around. You climb a big steep hill to get to the turn in. On the way back down from the turnaround we almost burned out our brakes."
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies dramatically throughout the area. Michelle W. at Manker Campground notes: "No AT&T service. Only one car per campsite," highlighting the connectivity limitations RVers should expect.
