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Tent Camping near Quail Valley, CA
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San Bernardino National Forest offers several tent camping options within 30 miles of Quail Valley, California, with Yellow Post sites providing primitive tent-only experiences. Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites near Running Springs feature nine well-spaced tent sites along a 5-mile stretch, offering seclusion and mountain views. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campsites provide free backcountry tent camping with minimal amenities but spectacular views of Lake Hemet and the San Jacinto mountains. For more developed facilities, Yucaipa Regional Park offers tent camping in group sites with amenities including drinking water, picnic tables, and fire rings, plus access to fishing lakes and hiking trails.
Most primitive tent campsites in the region require self-sufficiency, as amenities are limited. Yellow Post sites typically include only fire rings and sometimes picnic tables, with no water sources available. Campers should bring all necessary supplies, including water and food. Access roads to these tent-only sites often require high-clearance vehicles, though some visitors report making it in standard passenger cars. One camper noted that while Thomas Mountain's road is "bumpy but not too bad," Tool Box Springs requires four-wheel drive to navigate the long fire road. Seasonal considerations affect tent camping opportunities, with higher elevations experiencing snow as late as May. Fire restrictions frequently apply during summer and fall, so checking current regulations before arrival is essential.
Tent campers frequently praise the solitude and views at these sites. According to reviews, Keller Peak's sites are "stretched across 5 miles so you will have no neighbors," making them ideal for those seeking quiet backcountry tent camping experiences. The sites fill quickly during summer months, particularly from May through September. At Thomas Hunting Grounds, one visitor reported that "the sites are spaced really far apart" with "incredible views looking out over Lake Hemet and the San Jacinto mountains." Wildlife sightings are common at many of these primitive tent camping areas, with deer frequently approaching campsites in the evening hours. Early spring and fall offer the most comfortable tent camping conditions, with fewer insects and moderate temperatures.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Quail Valley (53)
1. Doheny State Beach Campground
"Excellent beach camping and tent friendly. plenty of shade and nearby restaurants and shops. Definitely recommend this location."
"the restrooms were clean and showers hot. great views and great for families. most sites are a good size but only room for two vehicles. No wifi but a good book will do. The staff was nice."
Check Availabilityfrom $50 - $350 / night
2. Falcon Group Campground
"It is very hot during this time so we ended up going down to the Lake to cool off. The campground was very well priced and it had bolted toilets and a water spout. No showers or sinks. "
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $60 - $120 / night
3. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites
"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."
4. China Camp State Park Campground
"The campground was not busy and this allowed me to pick a spot hidden away from others. There are restrooms and a place to get water, but when I was there the showers were closed. "
"This walk-in campground is part of China Camp State Park. Only 33 tent-only sites! Wheeled totes can be borrowed to haul your gear up some little hills to your campsite under oak and bay trees."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $35 - $175 / night
5. Hidden Falls Preserve
6. Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
"Recommend four wheel drive to get to Tool Box Springs, the fire road is long but once you’re there it’s worth it."
"This campsite is about 45 minutes down a 4 wheel drive only dirt path. Pot toilets and trash cans available at the site. Nothing else much around to do other than hang out at the campground or hike."
7. Mt. Palomar North Side Area
8. Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites
"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."
9. Round Valley Campsite — Mount San Jacinto State Park
"Reviewed by: The Crew at Hitched4fun.com If you are looking for a true alpine backcountry adventure right in Southern California, backpacking into Round Valley Primitive Campsites inside"
"we took the tram up from palm springs and backpacked to the campground before summiting up San Jacinto peak. the views were breathtaking and the elevation was a killer."
10. Manker Campground
"Although the restroom are very dirty but overall it was a great stay!"
"Tucked away at the top of a precarious winding mountain road. It is very basic, simple and beautiful."
Check Availabilityfrom $20 / night
Drive Time
- 1 hr 14 min from San Diego, CA
- 1 hr 21 min from Los Angeles, CA
- 2 hrs 11 min from Oxnard, CA
- 2 hrs 31 min from El Centro, CA
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Quail Valley, CA
51 Photos of 53 Quail Valley Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Falcon Group Campground
Yucaipa Regional ParkA
Wandering Caboose RanchM
China Camp State Park CampgroundV
Doheny State Beach CampgroundS
Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites
Little Round Valley — Mount San Jacinto State Park
Halfway Camp
Limber Pine Bench Campground
Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post CampgroundS
Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites
Dry Lake Backpacking Campground
Tent Camping Reviews near Quail Valley, CA
1792 Reviews of 53 Quail Valley Campgrounds
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Harold W.ScoutSeabreeze At Seal Beach
Beautiful spot on seal Beach naval weapons command base. A bit pricey, but has showers and free laundry facilities seems to be on the flight path to John Wayne Airport beautiful grounds must have a DBIDS card to get in and out of base if not military.
- TTanya T.Scout
Mountain Lakes Resort - Membership Campground
OCTOBER 2026
Site is clean, many activities on weekends They also add 1000lb or catfish and trout weekly depending on season. Members were friendly. Downside is wifi when the campsite is 75+ full and only about a dozen paved spots. Major are gravel and dirt.
- DDouglas E.
TravelerGuajome Regional Park
Nice place
Clean, beautiful, hookups work, bathrooms/showers are clean. The lake is serene. Professional photographers are abound to take wedding and/or family pics here. Really wonderful. I almost don’t want to recommend it to keep others from flooding this gem.
- HHope H.
GuideSan Clemente State Beach Campground
Sites Near RR Tracks are Ocean View
I didn't book very early but was able to get a site right across from the lifeguard station. The sunset view was quintessential California and maybe even worth the price of admission, which is pretty steep at $53 for tent camping and freeway noise.
The restrooms vary, so if one is particularly distasteful, head to a quieter area of the campground.
RR noise isn't bad, as the crossing is far enough away that the horn blast seems quite distant. I-5 is very noisy however. There are lots of on/off ramps in that area, and with hills to climb it just makes for a lot of engine noise.
Aaron S.
RangerRound Valley Campsite — Mount San Jacinto State Park
Gooseberry Site, Alpine Wilderness & A Critical Backcountry Safety Wake-Up
Reviewed by: The Crew at Hitched4fun.com
If you are looking for a true alpine backcountry adventure right in Southern California, backpacking into Round Valley Primitive Campsites inside the Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness is an incredible experience. By pairing the world-famous Palm Springs Aerial Tramway with a weekend wilderness trek, you can leave the scorching low desert and step into sub-alpine granite peaks within minutes. Our crew recently packed our gear, caught the tram, and set up basecamp at the Gooseberry site for a Friday-to-Saturday summit push of Mount San Jacinto.
The scenery and wilderness delivered on every level—but the trip also served as a stark reminder that high-altitude nature commands respect.
The Route & Camp Setup (Gooseberry Site)
Taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway bypasses thousands of vertical feet of grueling desert switchbacks, depositing you at Mountain Station:
- The Trek into Round Valley: From the tram station, it is a scenic~2.5-mile backpack into Round Valley, which sits at an elevation of roughly 9,100 feet.
- The Gooseberry Campsite: Gooseberry is a fantastic primitive backcountry site. Tucked among the lodgepole pines and granite boulders, it offers great shelter, peace, and that genuine wilderness seclusion you crave.
- The Summit Push: We spent Friday night acclimating and resting at basecamp. Early Saturday morning, we pushed for the summit of Mount San Jacinto Peak(10,834 feet). After taking in the panoramic views stretching from the Pacific to the Salton Sea, we descended back to Round Valley, packed up camp, and made the return trek to the tram for the ride down.
The October Shoulder Season: Nature Changes in Minutes
We chose to hike late in the season during October, and anyone heading up during shoulder months needs to understand high-elevation weather:
- T****he Forecast Mirage: On the morning of our summit push, the official forecast predicted clear, sunny skies by noon.
- The High-Alpine Reality: Noon rolled around, and the weather did the exact opposite—we were hit with biting snow flurries and temperatures plunging straight into the 20s.
- Within just two hours, a crisp autumn morning morphed into full-blown freezing winter conditions.
A Serious Backcountry Advisory: 50 Years on the Trail Speaks
As someone with over 50 years of hiking and backpacking experience spanning every corner of the American West, what we witnessed on the trail between Round Valley and the peak was alarming.
We encountered dozens of hikers completely unprepared for foul weather:
- The Outfit: People trekking toward a 10,834-foot alpine peak in short shorts, cotton t-shirts, light sneakers, and carrying little more than a tiny hydration bladder with a couple of snack bars. No insulation, no wind protection, no emergency gear.
- Missing Essentials: Not a single one of the Ten Essentials in sight.
- The Dangerous Mindset: Yes, 99% of the time, casual hikers get lucky and escape without incident. But cell service, 911, and volunteer Search& Rescue teams are not your personal safety net—preparedness and basic common sense are.
- The Golden Rule: Any hiker stepping foot into this wilderness must carry the gear to survive an unexpected night out in freezing conditions. An ankle sprain, altitude sickness, or a sudden squall can turn a fun day hike into hypothermia, acute suffering, or worse. Don't be that guy or gal.
The Hitched4fun Verdict
Mount San Jacinto Wilderness and Round Valley’s Gooseberry site delivered everything an outdoor enthusiast could want: pristine trails, incredible pine-scented air, and raw wilderness beauty. Just never forget that nature can bite hard if you let your guard down. Pack your layers, bring your essentials, respect the mountain, and you will have an unforgettable journey.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars— Highly Recommended by the Hitched4fun.com crew!
Hans V.RangerSouth Ridge Yellow Post Sites
The first two spots are close together. First one a bit small but better cover from Santa Anna winds. Nicely in the forest and close to the village.
- SSonali U.Traveler
Caravan Mobile Home Park
If it’s there, I missed it.
I went there to see, before making a reservation. I found the trailer park—maybe 100 old mobile homes—but I never found an RV park. I didn’t see anything to see. The “pool” was empty. The office was locked, and it wasn’t lunch. Just kinda not happening. I left a message to call me with the answering service, but I never got a call back.
- LLaney S.Guide
San Elijo State Beach Campground
My All Time Favoritee
I grew up camping here. It’s such a fun and surfy vibe, with great food in walking distance and the best beaches at your disposal. Last time I went the camp store and banging taco stand was closed but I haven’t been back in a while. South end is my fav.
Guide to Quail Valley
Tent camping near Quail Valley, California offers a range of environments from 1,200 feet in elevation at Yucaipa Regional Park to over 9,000 feet at wilderness locations in the San Bernardino National Forest. Winter temperatures at higher elevations can drop below freezing through May, while summer daytime temperatures regularly exceed 90°F at lower elevations. Several campgrounds offer walk-in tent sites with varying levels of amenities, from primitive yellow post sites to developed facilities with bathrooms and running water.
What to do
Hiking trails access: From Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites, campers can hike Thomas Mountain with panoramic views. One visitor noted, "We used the site to hike Thomas mountain" while another mentioned "Lots of wildlife. Raccoons in the night, gray squirrel, other squirrels, many birds."
Lake activities: Yucaipa Regional Park provides multiple water options within the campground. "There's a lot to do here, including fishing, playgrounds, and even a waterpark in the summer," reports a camper. The park features three lakes for fishing and a water park operational during summer months.
Mountain biking: Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites offers excellent trails for bikers. "Tons of land to hike, on or off trail. Geocaching sites nearby," reports one visitor. The Children's Forest and Keller Peak fire lookout at the top provide educational opportunities and expansive views of the surrounding mountains.
Wildlife watching: Many campgrounds in the area feature abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. At Thomas Hunting Grounds, campers report regular sightings of "raccoons in the night, gray squirrel, other squirrels, many birds." Early morning and evening hours provide the best viewing times when animals are most active.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites offers well-separated camping areas. "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!" noted one enthusiastic camper.
Views from higher elevations: Many sites offer panoramic vistas. At Tool Box Springs, a camper shared that "the beautiful views of the mountains, and the bird's eye view of the city of San Bernardino was definitely breathtaking."
Family-friendly environments: Green Valley Lake Recreation Area provides amenities suitable for families with children. "The sites were interestingly laid out and some had little wooded areas that you actually camp behind, others had interesting ground layouts with multiple levels, we found it really cool," one camper explained.
Affordable options: Many yellow post sites in the region are free, making tent camping near Quail Valley cost-effective. "Excellent place to camp. And free, no less," reported a visitor to Thomas Hunting Grounds.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Many yellow post sites require high-clearance vehicles. At Tool Box Springs Yellow Post Campground, a camper warned: "I loved the site! It has a bathroom at the very start, but can be a little ways from the sites... Definitelyyyy would say need a high clearance vehicle for some of the ruts, or be VERY experienced driving through rough roads."
Insect concerns: Several campgrounds report seasonal insect issues. At Tool Box Springs, one visitor noted the 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."
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations vary by season and location. Always check current restrictions before arrival. At Keller Peak, rangers are "very strict on parties are not allowed. NO FIRES. They have had issues with drug use and parties so thats why they are strict."
Weather variations: Temperature changes can be extreme between day and night, particularly at higher elevations. One camper at Thomas Hunting Grounds advised, "A fire pit is a must in the winter - chilled winds, come prepared."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Manker Campground serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby water features. "We spent 3 days and 2 nights here and enjoyed our stay, the caretaker was so nice!" reported one family. The campground's proximity to streams makes it popular with families seeking water play opportunities during hot summer months.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Yucaipa Regional Park, "There's a lot to do here, including fishing, playgrounds, and even a waterpark in the summer. The bathrooms are decent, no showers. We've been here several times over the last few years and really enjoy a nice quiet place close to home."
Site selection: Choose sites based on family needs. One camper at Green Valley Lake noted, "Our site was a flat site, water and bathrooms are central to the loops. Bathrooms were fine for a small campground. The camp hosts are very attentive and even drove by making sure we had enough firewood!"
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer learning experiences for children. At Keller Peak, "The Children's forest and Keller peak fire lookout are at the top giving you great info and great views."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Campground terrain varies significantly throughout the region. At Yucaipa Regional Park, an RVer noted, "Excellent campground. Well maintained. Large concrete pads that can handle any rig. So much to do all around a park. Does get very cold, was in the teens overnight when I was there in Feb. Fires allowed which is nice."
Alternative vehicles: Some campgrounds accommodate converted vehicles beyond traditional RVs. One camper reported, "We're usually full-time boondockers, and this was the first time we've paid for an RV park, so we don't have a lot to compare it to. But overall it's been a pleasant stay... Most private RV spots discriminate against Skoolies, but this place didn't seem to care."
Winter preparations: Lower overnight temperatures require adequate heating systems in colder months. "Does get very cold, was in the teens overnight when I was there in Feb," cautioned one RVer at Yucaipa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Quail Valley, CA?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Quail Valley, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Quail Valley, CA is Doheny State Beach Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 35 reviews.
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tent camping near
Quail Valley, CA?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Quail Valley, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 53 tent camping locations near Quail Valley, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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