Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Mentone, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Mentone is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.
"The bathrooms are decent, no showers.
We stayed in group campsite A. Tent camping is only allowed in group sites. They do have about 30 to 40 RV sites as well."
"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"
"These sites aren't monitored and don't have picnic tables or any amenities, although there is a restroom down the road a little ways where the campsites start, but that's it."
"This particular site has 8 campsites which do have signs to mark the general area, although it is entirely up to you to where to set up camp in the general area."
"This campground is free with 9 camp site on a 5 mile paved road, the site's have fire ring and picnic benches, no water. Bike trail is fun and a challenge. Camp site 1,3 & 6 are very quiet."
"Some chairs, hammock, water, and utensils were left at the picnic table. Everything was dirty so we assumed they were left by previous campers."
"After years of venturing into and around Lake Arrowhead (often a mere stop on my way to Big Bear/Fawnskin) I finally started exploring off the beaten path by accident last year and holy cow!"
"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."
"First come first served dispersed camping just outside Big Bear. Near bike trails. Was not crowded mid week, but spots were filling up closer to the weekend."
"I went a to the second fork after the Bluff lake fork. There’s a private campground near the Bluff Lake entrance which made noises i can hear from my site which was before Bluffs lake fork."
"It was my first backpacking campsite, and I've revisited once since then. There are lots of established campsites and they're easy to find. Expect very high winds at night."
"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. The mini golf course needs maintenance."
$10 / night
"I was backpacking along the Pacific Crest Trail & decided to hike down the Crab Flats Trail to checkout Tent Peg & Fisherman's Campground."
"Be sure to call visitor center for driving directions (or follow the ones on USDA National Forest website) as Google will take you to the wrong spot. Good hike for first-time backpackers."
"We decided to stay a little further back for a little more privacy from the trail above."
"When we went there was no water flow at this camp. Campfires not allowed. Thankfully we just use our jet boils and some drylite food!"
"We got to the camping area and it's tucked in the woods so there's lots of nooks and crannies even though it's a primitive open group camping area. "
"This is a heavily used campground by many backpackers not only trying to get away for an overnight, but also get a shot at summiting Southern California's tallest mountain, San Gorgonio."
"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."
"Arriving at the campground, the deposit place, obviously on weekends we were not thrilled by everyone around us, as well as the loud noise until past the curfew."
RangerThis campsite is located in California and is one of my favorites. Located above Crystal Lake you’ll find Little Jimmy, it’s a backcountry hike-in only campground nestled just 2 miles off the Angeles Crest Highway. It has around 7 first-come, first-served sites with fire rings, vault toilets (which are currently not in service), and vintage backcountry ovens. After parking at Islip Saddle, cross the highway and begin hiking for 2 miles up the switchbacks until you reach Little Jimmy Campground on your right. Popular with Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, this scenic spot offers a chance to get away from established campgrounds and live amongst the Coulter Pines and Big Doug Firs. Campers turned hikers have easy access to hop on the legendary Pacific Crest Trail which runs through the camp. There is no fee to camp here other than an Adventure pass for your parking. In the summertime, bears can be common visitors so make sure and secure your food in provided bear boxes or bring your own bear canisters. As always, make sure you follow the "Leave No Trace" principles and pack everything in and out!
LegendStone Creek Campground in San Jacinto Mountain State Park is the perfect getaway for coastal Southern California residents. It is a few hours out of the major metro areas, but close enough to get to for just a night or two.
Located near Idyllwild, this is the smaller, less rowdy campground associated with the tourist town. There is also a camp right in town if you're looking for shopping and bars, and a few more further up hill.
Stone Creek has about 35 sites. The outer ring sites are huge, and most of them are fairly private especially the loop to the right of the entry. Our site was #7, and after thoroughly campsploration it is unquestionably the best for individuals. If you're in a group rent the inner ring where the backsides of all the sites run together.
We were trying to get away from people, from the pandemic, and spend some time doing something normal. Stone Creek was perfect for that. The only human interaction was having to check -in at the entry with a ranger. They wore a mask, and we spoke through a window in the ranger shed. They did have to hand me a parking pass, but after that we were on our own.
Site 7 is extremely large, and extremely private with multiple flat spots that could accommodate tents, two large picnic tables, multiple spots for hammocks and a fire ring that has seen better days. We could see a car across the loop, but couldn't actually see other campers without effort from where we set up the tent or even the fire ring.
This particular site extends back over a ridge and downhill. It was so private back there we strung up our camp shower next to a giant boulder for a shower without feeling like we needed to set up a privacy shade/curtain.
Camp is just high enough to prevent most bugs, but there were a few flies and mosquitos. The vault toilets were clean, and well stocked with TP and antibacterial soap. There were three on-site. One in the middle of the center ring which was the busiest, but none of the solar lights were working making it difficult to find in the dark. No obvious trail. The other we used near the entrance was well lit, had a wooden path and seemed to be forgotten by most other campers.
Multiple hiking trails led out of camp including one right from next to our site that led to multiple other trails heading up San Jacinto Mountain. The trails were a mix of gravel fire road, dirt trail and a few sandy areas through the flats. They were mostly well-signed, but one sign was down causing us to miss a turn so…bring a map. They're available at stands at the front of camp. Trails are…vertical unless explicitly labeled as short scenic hikes.
There were warning signs for snakes, mountain lions, plague-infected squirrels and bears, but all we saw were deer. They didn't seem to consider bears a serious threat as there were no bear boxes or locks on trash cans. However, having bear-proof (Ha!) food storage is important.
We really have no complaints about this place, and will definitely be back to explore more trails.
Pro-Tip: It is a windy, windy road up into the mountains, and people travel too fast. We saw some serious accident sites when people were traveling too fast, and caught up to a slow moving camper around a curve. Drive carefully.
Pro-Tip: We had full phone/wifi service here. We didn't want or need it, but if we were working from the road this would be an easy stop to set up.
Pro-Tip: Outer ring is more private. Inner ring better for groups.
Pro-Tip: In the summer add 5-10 degrees to the temperature which is taken from a higher elevation weather station.
TravelerYellow Post #2 – San Bernardino National Forest Secluded, free, first-come-first-served tent site tucked deep in the forest near Hemet, CA. No amenities—no toilet, water, or trash—so pack in and out. Fire ring and picnic table on-site. Shaded by mature trees with a dirt/sand/rock surface. Site fits up to 8 people and 2 vehicles.
Access road is rough and rocky but doable in dry conditions with a careful 2WD. Signage is limited—offline maps recommended. Site sits near a dry creek bed and has a short walk to a west-facing boulder with expansive views of the valley.
Wildlife includes deer, lizards, snakes, woodpeckers, and lots of squirrels. Mosquitoes come out at dusk—repellent is a must. Fire bans usually in effect during summer. Great for quiet retreats, hiking, light climbing, and off-grid solitude.
A rugged but rewarding forest stay for self-sufficient campers.
TravelerSlow going on the dirt road but boy is it worth it. There are a couple of water spigots. Pack your trash out when you leave. Do not need 4WD to get there but it’s sure fun on all the truck trails if you do! Lots of trees and shade, 26 sites that are usually pretty full on the weekends. Vault toilets. Fire rings, bear boxes and picnic tables provide the basics. The drive out to the lake is also worth it if kids want to play in the water. Kayak and small boat rentals, fishing with stocked waters. All in all a great way to spend a weekend in the mountains.
LegendWe camped here on our way to summiting San G (as we lovingly call it). Although 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.
We got to the camping area and it's tucked in the woods so there's lots of nooks and crannies even though it's a primitive open group camping area. It's right next to a dry lake - go figure - and there are lots of areas to go explore beyond the trail that leads to the top.
The ranger was there to spend a few nights and said that the night before hit negative digits! We thought we were prepared with our "all weather" bags and backpacking tent, but I promise you I have never been so cold in my life. I laid there awake the entire night, and couldn't move a muscle or freezing air would seep in. The ranger said it only got down to 7 degrees. When light finally hit we heated some water and went to sit on the frosty ground in the open field/lake and when the sun finally hit us it was like life-changing.
FYI it's leave no trace and don't attract bears
TravelerBy far this has got to be the best and largest campground on the 38. First reason is the pricing. At only $21 per night for a single site, this is the best priced campground in the area excluding free yellow post sites. With this price however you get the basics. No showers, no rv dump station, just water from the pipe, toilets, picnic tables, fire ring, and a bear box. can’t complain about that though.
second reason; there are many many sites to choose from. this camp ground has several loops that each contain roughly 20 campsites, sometimes more. on any given day you should be able to drive up, though a reservation is definitely still recommended.
3rd; the location. Topography-wise this camp sits right over a small meadow that boarders the San Gorgonio wilderness. it sits higher above the highway and displaces sound nicely. this spot is excellent for wildlife viewing and entry to the wilderness for hiking and exploring. The campground is also littered with tall standing pines and even some massive junipers, providing ample shade. You can’t help but feel like your are elsewhere like the Eastern Sierra with the dry desert winds the blow in and chill on the mountains and the smell of the sage brush. This campground is only about 20 min out from big bear lake as well, and does have cell reception (unfortunately).
Highly recommend sites 32, 37, 47, 58, or 24 & 49 which are both double sites. This was due to their more isolated positioning to other spots, shade, flat ground, and proximity to bathrooms and the beautiful little meadow where deer graze in the evenings. happy trails.
GuideThis campsite is on BLM land, you can stay up to 14 days. There a wide variety of campsites from single to group sites. Restrooms available. Some sites have shaded structures, picnic tables and fire rings. Popular spot for rock climbers, giant rock formations jet out from the ground. Great hiking and awesome spot in spring for some beautiful wild flowers. Would definitely go back in spring or fall months when not too hot.
GuideThis park has something for everyone. I used a site that provided electric. There are tent and dry sites throughout. While the sites are everywhere, they are spaced in a way that feels private. There are bear boxes, picnic tables and fire rings at each site. The bathrooms were clean, with flushing toilets. Places to get water are all over. There are so many hiking opportunities for every level.
LegendTucked on the outskirts of Mission Viejo is an oasis of green grass and groves of the twisting and searching limbs of Coastal Live Oak trees. If you stuck me in the middle of this park, I’d never know that I was miles away from the sprawl of suburbia of a major metropolitan area…shhh don’t tell anyone.
There are 3 campgrounds within this regional park -- one soley dedicated to RV's that require electrical hook-ups (Ortega Flats), a group campground (San Juan Meadow), and another which is a mix of tents and off-grid RVs (Live Oak). This review is specifically for the off-grid Live Oak Campground which s aptly named because you’ll find yourself enjoying the ample shade of these amazing arbors, but plenty of sun to run our solar powered system.
The campsites can be reserved but there is plenty of room for first-come first-served travelers as well. The sites offer enough space to tuck away a tent in the corner, or set up the longer trailer, as well as the typical picnic table and fire ring. Plenty of port o potties are scattered throughout the campground and served the large groups gathered here on Easter weekend. We indulged in making a fabulous brunch of Wood Fired Waffles to celebrate the holiday! As of April 2023, they were still experiencing a well water issue, so no water was available from the faucet, but the river running through the park was useful for obtaining water to wash dishes.
Hiking, biking and horseback riding trails meander throughout the park. The campground borders on a small creek for fishing, but is off-limits to wading and swimming because of the instability of the opposite bank. Keep an eye on the kids! Be sure to check out the volunteer-run Nature Center on the property which is full of great information about flora, fauna, and native history.
The closest store for firewood, and groceries is just a few miles back toward town. And, the closest beach is just about 30 minutes away, so a great option for a day trip.
Tent camping near Mentone, California offers a variety of scenic locations and outdoor activities, perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Frequently Asked Questions
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According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Mentone, CA is Yucaipa Regional Park with a 4.8-star rating from 20 reviews.
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