Camping options near Mojave River Dam range from basic primitive sites to full-amenity resorts within a 40-mile radius. The region sits at elevations from 3,000 to 7,000 feet with dramatic temperature shifts between seasons. Winter nights drop below freezing at higher elevations while summer days routinely exceed 100°F in lower areas, requiring campers to plan accordingly for weather conditions.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: A 30-minute trail leads to Bonita Falls from Bonita Ranch Campground. "Decent get away from LA. Had alot of bees and weekends are heavily trafficked. But always a nice time," notes Rebecca W. The trail can get crowded during peak seasons.
Fishing for catfish: The small lake at Rancho Jurupa RV Park offers shaded fishing spots with accessible tables nearby. "Lots of families with children, fishing for catfish in the little lake which is shaded with trees and plenty of tables to picnic by the lake," reports Jody R., who enjoyed the combination of recreation and relaxation.
Water recreation: Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, families can cool off at Rancho Jurupa's splash pad. "Great family campground. Fishing and a splash water park. This place has two campgrounds. Cottonwood and Lakeside. Cottonwood is the nicest of the two," writes Michele N., highlighting the options available for water activities.
What campers like
Mountain privacy: Yellow post sites offer seclusion at higher elevations. "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," says Lynn C. about Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.
Clean facilities: Restrooms and showers remain a top priority for campers. "Very well maintained and clean campsites! Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities. Nice staff!" Marcella D. reports about Rancho Jurupa Park, though she notes some security concerns about leaving items unattended.
Lakeside convenience: Easy access to boat rentals without transportation hassles appeals to many visitors. "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. Super easy," explains Kevin B. from his stay at Holloway's Marina & RV Park.
What you should know
Security measures: Gated entrances with 24-hour staffing provide peace of mind at some parks. "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," shares Troy A. about Rancho Jurupa Park.
Seasonal crowds: Winter brings fewer visitors while summer weekends require advance planning. "We started off in the dirt area with no sewer hookup, but after the second day, we moved to a site with paved, full hookups and plenty of room," explains a camper regarding site availability fluctuations.
Cost variations: RV sites near Mojave River Dam range from $33 daily at Bonita Ranch Campground to over $130 at premium resorts. "It was $142! Not worth it. Not coming back," warns Michael S. about prices at Bonelli Bluffs, suggesting campers compare costs carefully before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Consider age-appropriate activities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "Group camping is rough. Took Girl Scouts here for group camping. Rocky and sand. The family camping was fine! Girls used Porta Potties. However, there are some great kid friendly activities," Janet S. notes about Rancho Jurupa Park.
Check pool availability: Swimming options vary significantly between campgrounds. "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," explains Xochiquetzal G. at Rancho Jurupa Park.
Plan for urban proximity: Nearby shopping provides convenience for forgotten supplies. "Being reasonably close to our home base, we frequent this park with the family. Major grocery and shopping establishments are nearby, with Target directly across the street, In-n-Out, local parks, and the like," Jason M. shares about Golden Village Palms RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Watch for parking restrictions: Some campgrounds limit RV types or lengths. "Make sure your unit is long enough and not too old or they will turn you away," warns Bryan S. about restrictions at some upscale parks like Big Bear Shores RV Resort.
Check elevation changes: Mountain roads require careful planning for larger rigs. "Make sure you take the back way up the mountain. It's no joke pulling a trailer up there," advises Kevin B. about accessing Holloway's Marina & RV Park, suggesting alternate routes for easier navigation.
Site surface variations: Concrete pads provide stability while gravel areas may require leveling. "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. Lots of grass, great place to camp in groups," describes Paul C. about the quality of RV sites near Mojave River Dam.
