Dispersed camping sites near Rancho Cucamonga, California offer access to varied terrain across elevations ranging from 1,200 to 8,000 feet in the surrounding San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains. The region experiences significant temperature variations, with mountain areas often 15-20°F cooler than the valley floor. Most primitive sites in the national forests require Adventure Passes, available for $5 daily or $30 annually at ranger stations and visitor centers.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The area near Bonita Ranch Campground provides access to several scenic waterfall trails. "Cozy getaway in San Bernardino Forest with beautiful hiking trails and waterfall," notes one visitor to Bonita Ranch Campground. Another camper mentions, "The creek running behind the camp is great to explore, and a waterfall is a short hike away."
Fishing opportunities: Several lakes in the region offer fishing access within a 30-minute drive. At Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area, visitors can fish at the lake. "Great camping spot! Close to the lake and you can rent fishing boats and jet ski's and have party's by the water," reports one camper.
Mountain biking: The hillsides and mountains surrounding Rancho Cucamonga feature numerous biking trails for all skill levels. At Rolling M. Ranch Campground, "Opportunities to cycle and hike throughout the park were abundant," according to one reviewer. Another notes, "While either mountain biking or hiking I can always find a spot to get to with no trouble."
What campers like
Access to water features: The creeks and lakes provide popular recreation spots during hot summer months. "You're literally a box throw away from the creek if you're not really big on hiking but enjoy the scenery," shares a reviewer about Applewhite Campground. They add, "You could definitely enjoy the ice cold water on a really super hot day."
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds in the area provide ample space between sites. At Dogwood, "The sites are well placed making a full campground fell spacious," notes one camper. Another mentions, "The campground has the atmosphere of camping in the forest with a couple of hiking trails and lots of shade."
Wildlife viewing: The mountain areas offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "At night was treated to owls and coyotes calling," reports one camper at Rolling M. Ranch Campground. At Mesa Campground, rangers are "eager to answer questions and I learned a bit about the bald eagles in the area from one of them."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: During high fire danger periods, many campgrounds prohibit open flames. "No fires allowed" is listed as a feature at Manker Campground, and multiple reviewers note restrictions at other sites during dry seasons, typically June through October.
Weekend crowding: Most sites near Rancho Cucamonga experience heavy weekend use, especially during summer. "It may not seem nice when you are passing through town to get in, but once you enter the gates it's beautiful," reports a camper at Rancho Jurupa Park about accessing the campground during busy periods.
Road access challenges: Many campgrounds require navigating narrow mountain roads. For Rolling M. Ranch Campground, one reviewer warns: "The drive is very narrow and winding, single lane at times, lots of traffic (and so lots of backing up and negotiating around other cars in the narrower sections)."
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Several sites offer water features specifically for children. Rancho Jurupa Park includes "Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities," according to a visitor. Another adds, "Water park and mini golf for kids. Showers and laundry convenient."
Educational opportunities: Rangers at several parks provide nature programs for children. At Table Mountain Campground, "There are a couple of trails right from the campground" that are suitable for families with children to explore local flora and fauna.
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage at many sites. "Each campsite has a bear box to store food," notes a camper at Table Mountain Campground, making it easier for families to safely store provisions.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary widely between campgrounds. "We stayed in an electric site which is integrated with tent and nonelectric sites," explains an RVer at Dogwood, noting the flexibility of the campground layout.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV sites have onsite dump facilities. At Prado Regional Park, "There's a dump station, but a couple spots with dump but they were always booked. I will book ahead next time."
Site leveling considerations: Mountain campgrounds often have uneven terrain. A camper at Bonita Ranch Campground reports, "Our Coach is beautiful, she is still 50+ years old and so far no one has been willing to break that rule for us," referring to age restrictions at other RV parks, making this campground a good alternative for older vehicles.
