Tent campsites near Mountain Center, California span across elevations from 4,000 to 9,100 feet within San Bernardino National Forest. Winter temperatures at higher elevation sites can drop below freezing even when lower elevations remain mild. The area's Mediterranean climate creates distinct camping seasons, with backcountry sites typically accessible from May through early November depending on snowfall.
What to do
Hiking from base camp: The Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites provide excellent access to trails. "Beautiful hiking trails and wildlife. I didn't want to leave! Make sure you have a vehicle that is 4WD - getting up the mountain is long and rugged," notes Katie S.
Wildlife viewing: Sites throughout the area offer opportunities to observe native species. At Tool Box Springs, one camper reported, "Labor Day weekend. We occupied the only spot out of five. Lots of wildlife. Raccoons in the night, gray squirrel, other squirrels, many birds," according to Rhyn E.
Summit attempts: Use Little Round Valley Campground as a starting point for mountain climbs. "If you're backpacking San Jacinto, this is the way to go! Take the Marion Mtn Trail that goes from Marion Mtn & Fern Basin Campgrounds and spend the night here at Little Round Valley," recommends Jonathan G.
What campers like
Solitude on weekdays: The Tamarack Valley Campground offers seclusion, especially during non-peak periods. "We came here once a month last year and had the time of our lives. This place is gorgeous," shares Taylor.
Running water access: Some backcountry sites provide water sources. At Santa Rosa Springs Campground, a camper noted, "There are 16 yellow post sites along the Santa Rosa Truck Trail (7S02) from hwy 74. Most of the sites are beyond the springs that are flowing through a faucet at Santa Rosa Springs."
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation sites provide relief from summer heat. Round Valley Campsite sits at 9,100 feet elevation, creating a distinct climate compared to nearby desert areas. One camper described, "This place is close to magical high above the desert floor where the temperature was hot but our spot was cold."
What you should know
Permit system: Round Valley Campsite requires advance planning. "Reservations go fast so you need to submit your permit starting 8 weeks before your trip, however waiting until 4 weeks may be too late. The permit only reserves your space on the mountain you will need to select your exact campsite once you get to the ranger station after getting off the tram," explains Cody B.
Insect activity: Bug populations vary by season. One camper at Tool Box Springs noted, "This site would've been perfect, and I mean perfect, but the flies were unbearable. I planned to stay two nights but I couldn't make it past the next morning. If I stood still even for a second I was swarmed."
Water filtration needs: Stream water requires treatment. For Round Valley, a camper advised, "Bring a filter for the water because drinking it is iffy, I wouldn't trust it. We didn't see a single person camping, it was very isolated so make sure to let friends/family know your travel plans."
Tips for camping with families
Regional park alternatives: Yucaipa Regional Park offers family-friendly amenities. "There's a lot to do here, including fishing, playgrounds, and even a waterpark in the summer. The bathrooms are decent, no showers. There's no larger wildlife, like bears, so less stressful when you have pets or kids," shares Mary F.
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain camping requires appropriate gear. "It gets very cold, was in the teens overnight when I was there in Feb. Fires allowed which is nice," notes Paul C. about Yucaipa Regional Park.
Consider group sites: Some locations cater to family gatherings. "The tent camping sites come with plenty of space for group camping. They do have about 30 to 40 RV sites as well. There's a built-in grill and running water," according to a Yucaipa Regional Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: San Bernardino National Forest Santa Rosa Springs Campground requires appropriate vehicles. "Road was not too bad. Definitely want clearance but I did most in rwd. Saw a stock Tacoma at the top," reports Elijah C.
Campsite selection strategy: Pick sites based on specific needs. "Park is small, very family friendly, clean and well managed. Lots of places to walk/hike, large sites," shares a camper about Yucaipa Regional Park.
Clearance requirements: Many tent campsites near Mountain Center require high-clearance vehicles. "I drive a lifted AWD overloaded Honda Element and I had no issue. There were two sections on the final ascent loop to the top of Thomas Mountain that were a little scratchy," notes one camper about accessing remote sites.
