Camping opportunities near Mentone, California range from mountain forest sites at elevations of 6,000+ feet to valley campgrounds below 2,000 feet elevation. This terrain diversity creates significant temperature variations between locations, often differing by 15-20°F between mountain and valley sites. Cell service reliability follows similar patterns with stronger connections in lower elevation campgrounds.
What to do
Creek exploration: Bonita Ranch Campground provides direct creek access for cooling off. "Very well maintained and clean campsites! Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities. Not to mention right on top of the creek," notes Marcella D. The campground sits near Bonita Falls with moderate hiking trails.
Water activities: Summer visitors can enjoy fishing and boating at area lakes. "We rented a boat on Saturday and was great just to walk out on the dock with the kids. 4 hr rental was just enough. Make reservations for they sell out on the weekends," advises Kevin B. about Holloway's Marina & RV Park.
Mountain biking: Forest areas provide extensive trail systems for cyclists. "Bike trail is fun and a challenge," writes Sam H. about the Keller Peak area. For dedicated mountain bike enthusiasts, "Skypark is right across the street for mountain bikes," according to Bryan S.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites offer well-spaced camping spots. "I really dig these spots because they are well spaced out. It's right around the corner from my cabin so it's a great spot to get outside for the weekend without an epic drive," shares Lynn C. These primitive sites maintain a wilderness feel.
Family amenities: Multiple campgrounds feature kid-friendly options. "Beautiful views all around Sunrise, Sunset and Night sky. Sights of all kinds of birds like hawks and herons. Water park and mini golf for kids. Showers and laundry convenient," reports Xochiquetzal G. about recreational facilities at nearby parks.
Night sky viewing: The mountain locations provide excellent stargazing opportunities away from city lights. "Spectacular views and true solitude. Cool nights, dark skies, classic forest feel," describes Bruce R. about higher elevation camping experiences, highlighting natural features often sought by campers.
What you should know
Seasonal crowding: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Get there earlier to find a spot, people seem to stay for awhile," advises Jillian about Yellow Post sites. For RV sites near Mentone, California, call ahead for availability.
Fire restrictions: Rules vary significantly between locations and seasons. "They have had issues with drug use and parties so that's why they are strict. Almost every site is secluded so there is privacy beside the occasional car driving by," notes David V., indicating stricter monitoring at some locations.
Elevation challenges: Higher elevation campgrounds require planning for temperature fluctuations. "Weather is definitely colder than in the valley, got snow overnight in mid May," warns Jillian about mountain locations. Pack appropriate clothing for potentially cold nights even during summer months.
Local security concerns: Skypark Camp RV Resort addresses safety through controlled access. "Great park. New clean. Staff is very helpful and friendly. No wood fires but they do offer gas fire pits in the community area. Nice bathrooms as well," says Bryan S., highlighting park management practices.
Tips for camping with families
Lakeside activities: Children enjoy water-based recreation options. "The Cottonwood campground has concrete pads and well maintained grass throughout. Nice park for family camping," shares Michele N. about options for families with children.
Educational opportunities: Visit local attractions between camping days. "We drove over to the Mission Inn (8 min drive) enjoyed lunch. There is a pedestrian only shopping area with a Saturday farmer's market plus lots of restaurants," suggests Jody R. from Rancho Jurupa RV Park.
Safety considerations: Campgrounds with controlled access provide additional security. "This place was nice. Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes. Lots of food spots within 10 minutes. Spaces are one of the cleanest I seen. Ranger is on constant patrol," reports Troy A.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Spot size varies significantly between campgrounds. "Large clean sites with grass. Great park. It may not seem nice when you are passing through town to get in, but once you enter the gates it's beautiful. Large concrete pads, easy backing in and hooking up," advises Paul C., suggesting careful research before booking.
Road access: Mountain roads present challenges for larger vehicles. "Skip if I were a big rig, or call and ask for sites that are easy to get into," recommends Justin C. about navigating to certain rv sites near Mentone, California.
Utility concerns: Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort requires planning for power needs. "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, so you can see the problem," warns David N., highlighting electrical capacity issues common in the area.
