Best Campgrounds near Mentone, CA
Camping near Mentone, California encompasses a range of options from developed campgrounds to more primitive sites within the San Bernardino National Forest. Yucaipa Regional Park provides year-round camping with full amenities, while more rustic experiences can be found at higher elevations in campgrounds like Dogwood and San Gorgonio. The area sits at the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, approximately 10 miles east of Redlands and 15 miles northwest of Big Bear Lake, offering both convenient access to urban amenities and mountain wilderness. According to campers, many sites feature spacious layouts with picnic tables and fire rings, though privacy between sites varies considerably depending on the campground.
Most campgrounds in the Mentone area require reservations, particularly during peak summer months and fall weekends. Winter camping is available at lower elevation sites like Yucaipa Regional Park, while mountain campgrounds such as Serrano (open March through November) and Hanna Flat (May through October) close seasonally due to snow conditions. Fire restrictions are strictly enforced throughout the region, especially during California's dry summer and fall months. Cell service is generally reliable at lower elevations but becomes spotty in mountain campgrounds. Temperatures vary significantly with elevation, with summer highs reaching 100°F in Mentone proper while remaining 15-20 degrees cooler at higher elevation campgrounds.
The camping experience varies considerably between valley and mountain locations. Lower elevation sites like Lake Perris State Recreation Area offer lake access with swimming areas, boat rentals, and fishing opportunities. Mountain campgrounds provide access to extensive hiking trail networks, including portions of the Pacific Crest Trail, and rock climbing areas in Holcomb Valley. One visitor noted that Serrano Campground offers "clean restrooms and free showers" with sites that are "walking distance to the lake with bike paths and walking trails nearby." RV campers will find full hookup options at several campgrounds, while those seeking more seclusion can explore the Yellow Post sites scattered throughout the national forest, which offer primitive camping with minimal amenities but greater privacy.
