Camping options around Oak Glen sit within the San Bernardino Mountains at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 8,000 feet. This transition zone between lower desert and alpine environments creates distinctive seasonal camping conditions with temperature variations of up to 40 degrees between day and night. The area features several established campgrounds within 30 minutes of Oak Glen, though specialized equestrian facilities remain limited.
What to do
Hiking access from camp: Heart Bar Campground connects to trails leading into the San Gorgonio Wilderness, offering a convenient base for exploration. "The campground sits right over a small meadow that borders the San Gorgonio wilderness. This spot is excellent for wildlife viewing and entry to the wilderness for hiking and exploring," notes Nick L. at Heart Bar Campground.
Mountain biking: Several campgrounds provide access to mountain biking trails suitable for various skill levels. "Great campground 25 minutes from town. Accommodates travel trailers/rv well, water spigots around. Lots of trees, shade & blue jays. Alpine bike path!" shares Ricky S. about Heart Bar.
Fishing opportunities: For anglers, Lake Perris offers productive fishing within an hour's drive. "This lake has been good to me and my friends, always catch something, maybe not a lunker but fun," reports John H. at Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. "We were there in August and the weather was perfect. Warm during the day and just chilly at night," describes Gina C. about Heart Bar Campground.
Spacious campsites: Campers consistently mention the larger sites at certain campgrounds. "This specific site is very spacious with double of the parking spots (4 cars total), 2 fire pits, and 2 benches," writes Chrystal M. about a double site at Heart Bar Campground.
Facilities for families: Some nearby recreation areas offer family-friendly amenities. "The campground has a nice view. From some spots, you can see the lake. The toilets are clean and there is a designated area for setting up tents," reports Hanjun W. at Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground.
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: Horse campgrounds near Oak Glen, California are essentially non-existent within 20 minutes of town. While some trails accommodate day-use riding, overnight equestrian camping facilities are missing. "Dirt roads were well kept. I came with a 170 wheel base Sprinter Van w/ 2 wheel drive and had no problems making it to site post #11," shares Derek M. about Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites, which has no horse facilities.
Seasonal accessibility: Winter weather affects campground operations. "These campsites are all closed during the winter due to snow and early into spring," advises Kayla H. about Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites.
Reservation requirements: Many campsites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Recommend making reservations ahead. They do have first come first serve sites. Full on holiday weekends," warns Aaron S. about Heart Bar.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Several recreation areas provide alternatives to swimming. "Lake Perris was a fun and clean place to camp at! We did some fishing, bike riding, the water was clear, and my kids loved it. There is a cool museum where the amazing staff provided us with interesting history about the lake and Indian tribes," explains Lauren R. at Rancho Jurupa RV Park.
Educational opportunities: Look for parks with nature centers or interpretive programs. "Has bathrooms, and fire pits. Go early to get past gate. We got there after 5pm and no one was at the gate entrance," advises Katarina A. at Bogart County Park.
Safety considerations: Be prepared for temperature fluctuations and wildlife. "Very cold at night! Horseback riding on weekends and some other day users," cautions Will at Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Many mountain campgrounds have partial or no hookups. "We love this campground. Been going there for years. Tent camping to RV. Clean. Lots of hiking and mountain biking in area. Great views," shares Aaron S. about Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground.
Access considerations: Road conditions vary significantly between campgrounds. "The road was pretty well maintained, a car without 4WD can handle it easily," notes Momma B. about Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites.
Alternative equestrian camping: RVers with horses must look beyond immediate Oak Glen area for proper facilities. While Rancho Jurupa and Lake Perris accommodate RVs well, neither offers horse corrals or equestrian camping infrastructure.
