The San Bernardino National Forest offers diverse tent camping options near Mentone, California at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 9,000 feet. Summer temperatures at lower elevations regularly exceed 90°F while higher elevation sites maintain cooler conditions. Winter access becomes limited above 6,000 feet due to snow accumulation on forest roads, particularly from December through March.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Yucaipa Regional Park features three lakes stocked for fishing year-round. "Great tent camping facilities, privacy from neighbors, access to Zanja Peak Trail head, 3 lakes for fishing, water park during the summer, and friendly helpful staff," reports Bryan H. about Yucaipa Regional Park.
Mountain biking trails: San Bernardino National Forest contains numerous technical and scenic routes accessible from multiple campsites. "There are a lot of sites on this road. The closer you are to the road the more dust will get in your site from the vehicles passing. There are over a dozen sites along the main road," notes Dee M. about the trails near Mill Creek Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife in natural settings. "We had a momma deer and two does in the distance. Then 30 mins later we had another deer friend that just hung around until after we took shelter in the tent," describes Brittany N. about her experience at Halfway Camp.
What campers like
Affordability: Free camping options exist throughout the area with varying levels of seclusion. "I almost want to give this a 1 star review, just to keep it to myself a little longer. We loved this yellow post site, by far one of my favorites. Private but with cell service, tables and fire pits!" shares Chelsea R. about Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites.
Temperature variation: Higher elevation camps offer relief from summer heat. "Weather is definitely colder than in the valley, got snow overnight in mid May. Had very bad but there at&t cell reception. Nice and quiet with space between spots," notes Jillian about Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.
Proximity to amenities: Some campgrounds balance wilderness experience with convenient access to supplies. "Nice campground. Close enough to the city to get anything you need. The newer sites don't have a lot of mature trees, the older sites have a little more wear and tear but also bigger trees," reports Ken B. about Yucaipa Regional Park.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed tent camping sites require specific vehicle capabilities. "My husband and I were looking for good boondocking spots yesterday and we decided to check out this spot. It's definitely a beautiful place, and most of the road to the site is paved, but the road up to the actual spot is gravel, with lots of potholes and washboard areas," explains Francisco F. about Mill Creek.
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by season and location with strict enforcement. "The positives. Beautiful sites, lots of wildlife, plenty of trails for biking and hiking. The negatives. It was a bit of trash pretty much all over the place," notes Andy D. about Limber Pine Bench Campground.
Permit requirements: Several backcountry camping areas require wilderness permits obtained in advance. "It was May and the weather was beautiful at sea level, it was cold up here! There was snow on the ground but the air was the coldest I've ever felt. The ranger was there to spend a few nights and said that the night before hit negative digits!" shares Kate W. about Dry Lake Backpacking Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Seasonal water features provide family-friendly recreation options. "This was a fun little hidden place to get away. Campground was quiet and facilities were clean," writes Dawn B. about Yucaipa Regional Park.
Protected camping areas: Some sites offer more protection from elements for tent campers with children. "There's no larger wildlife, like bears, so less stressful when you have pets or kids. Plenty of space to bring bikes and ride around. There's a large community park right next-door where you can go and play baseball, basketball, sand volleyball, or frisbee," explains Mary F.
Accessibility trade-offs: Consider travel time to recreational areas when selecting sites. "Green valley lake campground is an awesome place for a fun getaway. We wanted to get away for the Fourth of July but waited too long to book in Big Bear. Thankfully we found the Green Valley Lake campground!" shares Aleena S. about Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose established sites with appropriate clearance for your vehicle. "It is a free campground, first come first serve. There are no developed facilities (i.e., no firepits, outhouses, etc.) but it is beautiful and there are plenty of flat places to set up a tent. This area is used almost exclusively by rock climbers, but anyone is welcomed," notes Les R. about Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp.
Conversion options: Several tent camping areas near Mentone accommodate small converted vehicles. "So I converted my Honda Fit into a camper for mine and my pup camping adventures. This was our test location. The drive was extremely easy with a couple of rocky areas that made me slow down to 5mph and under to not damage the bottom of my H Fit," shares Sandra L. about her experience at Thomas Hunting Grounds.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require adaptable gear and clothing. "If you can get out here right after a good rain/snow storm passes through, you will not regret it. It's a pleasant hike to the campground, there's tons of trees around the lake, and though you have to camp on 1 side of the lake, there's lots of options," recommends Daniel J.
