The San Bernardino Mountains near Mentone, California range from 1,700 to 5,800 feet in elevation, creating diverse camping conditions across the region. Winter temperatures at higher elevations can drop below freezing, while summer days often reach 80°F with cooler nights. Canvas tents and yurt accommodations throughout the area offer varying levels of amenities from basic to fully furnished.
What to Do
Hiking the Exploration Trail: The trail near Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites offers terrain suitable for all skill levels. "Tons of land to hike, on or off trail. Geocaching sites nearby. The Keller Peak Lookout was amazing. I thought it was just a tourist attraction but it's really a staffed (with volunteers) active fire lookout," notes Steve H.
Fishing opportunities: Several locations provide fishing access within a 20-minute drive. "The fishing was awesome, but I suggest fishing in the mornings before the afternoon winds come in as the weather cools down," advises Ed E. about the north shore area.
Mountain biking: Trails around Serrano accommodate riders of various skill levels. "Beautiful, pristine campground with bike trails/walking paths around the lake. The town is bike friendly," shares Trey T., highlighting the connected trail system.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: At certain campgrounds, the spacing provides a more secluded experience. "The sites are well spaced, good tree cover. Very nice patch of land. Quiet," according to Andrew B., describing his experience at North Shore.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: From hummingbirds to raccoons, wildlife sightings enhance the camping experience. "A friendly gentleman that showed me the likes of his stray momma raccoon that he has a big heart for," recounts Armando C. about his stay at Seven Oaks Lodge.
Creek access for cooling off: Direct water access proves valuable during hot months. "Me and my wife stay here a couple times a year and we also bring our grown kids and with our little grandkids," says Steven E., who appreciates the family-friendly water features.
What You Should Know
Winter conditions: Prepare for potential freezing at higher elevations. "We camped here the last weekend before they closed for the winter, after Thanksgiving. Our sewer outlet was frozen in the morning, so we had to dump when we got out of the mountains," shares Nicole W. about Serrano campground.
Fire restrictions vary: Always check current fire regulations before your trip. "They have fire rings but fires are not always permitted so be sure to check with the station just at the bottom of Keller Peak road," advises Kristil C.
Reservation timing matters: Popular yurt camping in Mentone, California and surrounding areas fills quickly during peak seasons. "We managed to find a spot but they do take reservations and that's your best bet. We chose the loop closest to the lake, just about a minute walk for a nice view," recommends Jennifer D.
Tips for Camping with Families
Bring bikes for kids: The connected trail systems provide safe riding options. "Pokemon stops for the kids," mentions TheWolfman Z., highlighting kid-friendly features at Serrano.
Site selection for space: Some locations offer larger sites for family groups. "One of the best campgrounds I've ever been to. Well maintained, clean, and just beautiful! 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," shares Brittany N.
Plan bathroom access: Consider proximity to facilities when camping with children. "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!" warns Martha S. about Bonita Ranch Campground.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Check site grading before setting up. "Not all sites are created equal - our first one (site 3) was super hilly and not leveled," explains Janae P. about her experience at North Shore.
Electrical requirements: Assess your power needs when booking. "They don't have enough 50amp sites and not all of them are always working. This park is first come / first served and they don't prohibit a 30amp rig from taking a 50amp site," explains David N. about Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.
Proximity to urban needs: Many campgrounds offer quick access to supplies. "It's far enough up in the canyon so you feel tucked away, far from city life but not too far that you can't run down the canyon to Walmart if you forgot something," notes Jeanine V., highlighting the convenience of yurt camping near Mentone, California while maintaining wilderness feel.
