Tent campsites near Oak Glen, California range from sites requiring high-clearance vehicles to others accessible by standard cars. The area sits within San Bernardino National Forest at elevations between 4,000-9,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations that catch unprepared campers off guard. Winter camping often requires cold weather gear even when valley temperatures seem mild.
What to do
Wildlife watching opportunities: At Halfway Camp, visitors often encounter deer wandering through the campground. "We did have 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," reports one camper.
Mountain climbing preparation: Dry Lake Backpacking Campground serves as a starting point for San Gorgonio summit attempts, requiring a 5.1-mile hike with 2,200 feet of elevation gain just to reach the campground. According to a visitor, "The area is just beautiful and I never have any complaints. Though the campground was pretty much full, we still felt secluded since the grouped sites were spread apart."
Off-road exploration: Forest roads through dispersed camping areas provide challenging terrain for off-road enthusiasts. "All the trail roads are mostly for 4x4 vehicles that really enjoy just going at it throughout the day. A lot of fun to witness that," notes a camper at Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp.
What campers like
Spacious tent sites: Yucaipa Regional Park offers generous group camping areas for tents. "The tent camping sites come with plenty of space for group camping. There's a built-in grill and running water," explains one camper who used the area as a testing ground for their camping skills.
Solitude in accessible locations: Yellow post sites provide isolation despite relatively easy access. A visitor to Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Sites shared, "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!"
Historical significance: Some camping areas have rich historical backgrounds. "If you're into panning for gold you just might find some along Holcomb Creek. There are active claims in the area so be respectful," suggests a visitor to Holcomb Valley, noting its history as "a site of gold discovery in the 1800s."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Facilities may shut down outside peak seasons. At Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area, one visitor mentioned being "a lil bummed lakes were closed but still had a fun week," suggesting checking facility operating schedules before arrival.
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires navigating difficult terrain. "Need high clearance or 4wd vehicle for a rough road but once you get to the top, the sites are great!" warns a Thomas Hunting Grounds camper, while another adds, "The roads leading up are uneven roughly graded dirt and gravel so be prepared for that."
Temperature fluctuations: Mountain elevations create extreme temperature swings. A Dry Lake Backpacking Campground visitor reports, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Local alternatives when campgrounds fill: When popular sites book up, look to nearby alternatives. "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 a Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area visitor.
Mixed activity destinations: Select campgrounds with diverse activity options. "This was a fun little hidden place to get away. Campground was quiet and facilities were clean," notes one visitor at Yucaipa Regional Park, while another adds it has "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."
Safer wildlife areas: Some locations offer wildlife viewing without larger predator concerns. A Yucaipa Regional Park camper points out, "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."
Tips from RVers
Water pressure considerations: For RVers using campground facilities, water pressure can vary significantly. One visitor at Yucaipa Regional Park noted, "Good water pressure in the showers, which has been nice. Most private RV spots discriminate against Skoolies, but this place didn't seem to care."
Vehicle clearance issues: Some areas marked as RV-accessible may still present challenges. A Mill Creek Dispersed Camping visitor warns, "The road up to the actual spot is gravel, with lots of potholes and washboard areas, which would make it difficult for an RV. But the biggest issue for RVs is an area of the road that is very steep and immediately turns into a hairpin turn."
Concrete pad availability: Certain campgrounds offer more developed surfaces for RV parking. "Excellent campground. Well maintained. Large concrete pads that can handle any rig," reports a Yucaipa Regional Park visitor who stayed during February when temperatures dropped to the teens overnight.
