Tent Camping Near Rancho Cucamonga
Looking for the best Rancho Cucamonga tent camping? Finding a place to camp in California with your tent has never been easier. Search nearby tent campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Tent Sites Near Rancho Cucamonga, CA (64)
1. Manker Campground
Mount Baldy, California12 Reviews•26 Photos•417 SavesCamp high in the clouds at Manker Flats Campground. This campground sits at 6000-feet and offers 21 campsites open year-round. However, piped-water is turned once temperatures reach freezing. Each site comes with a spacious spot for all your family camping needs and includes a picnic bench, fire ring, and vault toilets. It's located within a short drive to historic Mt. Baldy Schoolhouse and Visitor Center where visitors can discover the land's Native American roots. Close by, hikers have several options to begin their day's adventure including, Mt. Baldy Bowl trailhead. This trailhead can be combined with another major route, Devil's Backbone, to reach the summit (10,069') to form an impressive 11.3-mile loop hike. For the more casual hiker, a 1.4 mile round trip to the 75-foot San Antonio Falls is available. Bears are very active in this area, so it is recommended that all campers use provided bear boxes, personal bear canisters, or seal all food as to eliminate scent.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
- Trash
$12 / night
2. Yucaipa Regional Park
Yucaipa, California20 Reviews•20 Photos•207 SavesYucaipa Regional Park is a water park based in San Bernardino County beside the San Bernardino National Forest and San Bernardino Mountains. Activities include fishing in three lakes, a water park, and disc golf. Yucaipa Regional Park camping includes primitive sites, picnic tables, fire pits, full hookups for RVs, and large group shelters for up to 350 people.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
3. China Camp State Park Campground
Chino Hills, California10 Reviews•15 Photos•144 SavesAll campsites at China Camp Campground are HIKE-IN SITES for tent-camping only. Visitors must handcarry all equipment from the parking lot to the campsites. Campsites range from 50-300 yards from the parking lot. Eight persons maximum are allowed in each site. Check in time is 2pm or later and check out is Noon.
Enroute camping is available for RV's with a grey water holding tank for one night only. No dump station or hook-ups are available. Enroute Camping is limited to space availability. Check in for enroute camping is 6pm and check out is 9am.
A "Hike and Bike" site is available for those who travel to China Camp on foot or by bicycle.
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
$175 / night
4. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites
Angelus Oaks, California13 Reviews•55 Photos•85 SavesThese five remote camping sites offer locations for tent and car camping. There are some mature shade trees near the sites, but other than a metal fire ring for campfires, these sites do NOT contain the amenities found at developed campgrounds. There is no water, no picnic tables, no restrooms nearby, and no trash containers. Please pack it in - pack it out! All sites are first-come, first-served. Campfire permits are required for any type of fire use - campfires, charcoal BBQ's, or stoves. Campfires may not be allowed certain times of the year. Contact the Mill Creek Ranger Station for current fire restriction information and road conditions. (909) 382-2882 (closed Tues/Wed) These yellow post sites are reached via forest road 1N12 (unpaved, trailers and large RVs not suitable). Please refer to the yellow-post site map available for free at the Mill Creek Ranger Station. High-clearance vehicles are recommended and four-wheel drive vehicles may also be required to reach these sites, depending on current road conditions.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Glamping
5. Little Jimmy Trail Campground
Valyermo, California7 Reviews•23 Photos•121 SavesCurrently NO toilet facilities at this site.
Just above Crystal Lake lies Little Jimmy trail camp...a backcountry campground nestled just 2 miles off the Angeles Crest Highway.
It features seven first-come, first-served sites with picnic tables, fire rings, vault/composting toilets, and vintage backcountry ovens.
Hike-in only (2.5 miles one-way). After parking your vehicle at Islip Saddle, cross the highway and begin hiking for 2.5 miles up the switchbacks until you reach Little Jimmy Campground on your right.
Popular with Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, this scenic spot offers a chance to get away from established campgrounds and live amongst the Coulter Pines and Bigcone Douglas Firs.
Campers turned hikers have easy access to hop on the legendary Pacific Crest Trail which runs through the camp.
There is no fee to camp here other than an Adventure Pass for your parking. In the summertime, bears can be common visitors, so it please secure your food and scented items in bear-proof boxes provided or bring your own bear canisters. As always, make sure you follow the "Leave No Trace" principles and pack everything in and out!
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
6. Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites
Green Valley Lake, California8 Reviews•19 Photos•368 SavesThese 9 Yellow Post sites are individual camping sites. Each campsite will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis. No reservations. Each site is limited to a maximum of 8 people at any one time. There is limited parking at these Yellow Post Sites for 2 vehicles. Amenities include 1 picnic table and 1 fire ring per site. There are no restroom facilities or drinking water. Please pack it in - pack it out! During winter, Keller Peak Road closes due to snow accumulation, but it is still possible to hike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski to these sites. These sites are near the Children's Forest Visitor Center, the Children's Forest Exploration Trail, and the Keller Peak Fire Lookout. Campfire permits are required for any type of fire use - campfires, charcoal BBQ`s, or gas stoves. Campfires and charcoal BBQ's may not be allowed certain times of the year. Click here for current fire restriction information. Keller Peak Yellow Post Site Map
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
7. Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
Wrightwood, California4 Reviews•6 Photos•260 SavesThese remote camping sites offer isolated scenic locations ideal for tent and car camping or a relaxing picnic far from the crowds. Other than a pit for campfires, these sites do NOT contain the amenities found at developed campgrounds. There is no water, no picnic tables, no restrooms nearby, and no trash containers. Please pack it in - pack it out! All sites are first-come, first-served. Campfire permits are required for any type of fire use - campfires, charcoal BBQ's, or stoves. Campfires may not be allowed certain times of the year. See Current Conditions below or call the Lytle Creek Ranger Station (909-382-2851). These Yellow Post Sites are reached via Forest Road 3N06. Please refer to the Yellow-post site map available by clicking on this link or for free at the Lytle Creek Ranger Station. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching all sites. Four-wheel drive vehicles may also be required depending on current road conditions.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area
Cedar Glen, California6 Reviews•18 Photos•157 SavesIncludes: Lake Arrowhead, Lake Silverwood, Crestline, Running Springs, Green Valley Lake and Keller Peak recreational activities
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
9. Glenn Trail Camp Campground
Duarte, California4 Reviews•2 Photos•223 Saves10 Sites Open. Facilities are accessible to visitors using wheelchairs. Walk or bike in only, except for physically challenged groups who may obtain a permit to drive to the campground. Permits are available through the Glendora office - call (626) 335-1251. Located approx. 6 1/2 miles behind a locked gate. Stream water (treat before using). Vault toilets. This is a non-fee campground, although an Adventure Pass is required for parking outside the camp and at the trailhead. The road leading to the campground is a designated National Scenic Bikeway. Native trout fishing area; catch and keep from the gate to the second bridge - catch and release from second bridge upstream to Cogswell Reservoir. Several accessible fishing platforms provided.
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Toilets
$5 / night
10. Hoegees Trail Camp Campground
Mount Wilson, California5 Reviews•14 Photos•117 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Picnic Table
Recent Tent Reviews in Rancho Cucamonga
1289 Reviews of 64 Rancho Cucamonga Campgrounds
- TTroy A.
Scout
Prado Regional Park
Great Local Getaway
Perfect to get out of the city but still be in it. Campgrounds have more than enough privacy with each one being about 15 to 20 yards apart. A ton of recreational things to do. Quiet at night.
- F
Frances L.
Guide
San Clemente State Beach Campground
One of the nicer of californias state beaches
Be mindful of their shower token system. Otherwise, a nice spot. Not too close to the highway. We saw a coyote, so watch your dogs.
- KKolten J.
Traveler
Wildomar Campground
Decent space.
Roads were bumpy but made it in a super low clearance rv (21ft). Had the place all to ourselves. A bit close to the other sites. Not bad
Annie G.Traveler
Sawtooth Canyon Campground
Roads aren't accessible
Beautiful area, but I couldn't drive in.. Road is completely inaccessible and saw many others turning around as well . I'm in a Kia SUV and this road is like Godzilla shaking your rig, and giant waves of the ground make it completely inaccessible. I don't know how ppl drive here, probably are just risking their cars and rigs, that's for sure
- RRich J.Guide
Doheny State Beach Campground
Beach Camp
Sweet campsite at Dana point surf break. Had a big crew along for spring break. Super nice but book early!
- AAna B.Scout
San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
Comfortable- Yes…but not jaw dropping.
I can’t say that it was awesome but it wasn’t jaw dropping. Nothing to write home about but not uninviting.
Brittany W.Scout
Cherry Valley Lakes
Convenient Location for Seeing Family
Staff all friendly and facilities while dated are kept very clean. Campers are respectful and quit at night but it’s a very noisy location right next to the freeway which took some getting used to the first few days.
- RRosalina P.Scout
Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area
Fun for groups!
Just had the best weekend even with the 3 bears that decided to come by. Group of 30 . Definitely a good time. Be careful with the bears! 😮💨🥰🏕️
Chris M.Scout
North Shore Campground - Lake Almanor
Filthy, Dusty, Rude, One and Done
Booked this campground for 3 nights, in large part for the hot showers. The showers and bathroom facilities are frankly disgusting and not something we would us, nor would our friends who were there with us. The staff was rude and provided the typical"we don't provide refunds" when we told them respectfully we we're leaving after the first night. The campground was a wierd mix of what looked liked full-time campers but mostly no one was occupying the sites that there campers and belongings were left at. Post apocalyptic vibe, can you say ghost town. North Shore Campground is a dusty one and done for us. Caveat emptor.
Ben M.Scout
The Secret Place
Incredible view
Well secluded sites each with an incredible view!
Suly&Fabian L.Guide
Southfork Campground
Nature beautiful, human horrible
There are 21 campsites and not all have tree’s but its walking distance from the creek. Its nestled between mountains and the night sky is gorgeous. We saw wild ducks too and some other desert critters. Has it not been for the nasty animals called inconsiderate humans blasting their music and fighting amongst themselves bringing their family drama until 6am, the camp site would have been marvelous. No ranger to domesticate those animals and remind them of quiet hours. Another group even brought a dj and karaoke. Seriously, no consideration for the rest of the campers. They want to get away from the hustle and bustle and be with nature but they can’f live without the modern day amenities and bring that noise we are all trying to escape to a place of nature. They even had BB guns and shooting them within the campsite. Idiots. The day the ranger did come by he was giving tickets to vehicles with no pass. Wish he came at night when he was most needed. Bathrooms are poorly maintained too. Never coming back for an overnight stay, a day trip will suffice.
jennifer G.Traveler
O'Neill Regional Park
Great little campground in south OC!
Clean, quiet campground located in one of the OC Parks, with plenty of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian use. I stayed here on a weekday, and there were a few couple of vacant campsites in my area, so it was an extremely quiet visit. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked for my stay. I didn’t use the showers since I was only staying one night, but I heard they were free!
Rangers were very friendly and firewood was only $5 for a decent bundle that lasted me over 2 hours.
The city of Rancho Santa Margarita is right up the hill, so you can grab food and any necessities if needed.
My site backed to the creek, so I never had people walking through my campsite.
My dog & I slept in my van, but there was room for multiple tents, and a decent amount of shade in my spot.
My spot didn’t have its own water spigot, but there was one at a site across from me.
I was fortunate that all of the campers around me were quiet and considerate. I know that it doesn’t always work out that way, and having obnoxious neighbors can really ruin your experience.
Anita A.Guide
Bonelli Bluffs
Less crowded ocale while visiting family nearby
Visiting family in Santa Ana and LA. Not to far for them to come to us and all to go to beach. Park clean and well maintained, personnel very kind and friendly Beautiful view from our site on area B. Crowded on weekend, much less during week Campground is not associated to adjacent Frank Bonelli Regional. Charge $12 to enter with vehicle but no fee to ride in on bikes
- mmelinnaScout
Holcomb Valley Campground
2 nights at Holcomb Valley Ranch campground
Just got back from a 2 night stay with a group of 6 at this camp. Enjoyed the ample space between camps because it allows for extra privacy and less noise from other campers. However, we stayed on a night where a wedding reception was taking place and the DJ sound system was blasting until about 10:15 pm— this is unacceptable for a campground. They should’ve closed the sites all around the wedding area down, we were about a 3 minute walk away and this really tarnished the experience for Saturday afternoon thru evening. Pros- clean accessible bathrooms and showers, gorgeous horse meadow with about 40 horses roaming free. The road into the camp is totally unpaved, so truck & suv recommended. Camp manager Ed was very kind and helpful.
Kim N.Traveler
Crystal Cove Backcountry — Crystal Cove State Park
beautiful beach
Clean dump station, beautiful sites, very strict on rules. We came 10 minutes early before check in time, they made us wait. Campsite comes with wifi but very weak. We have t mobile and had bad reception. Would come back again for beautiful views, small hike, sandy beaches with lots of sand crabs.
Jamie C.Traveler
Buckhorn Campground
Perfect peaceful getaway
Just stayed 8/15-18/24, although hot during the day, it was the getaway we needed. The Burkhart trail to the waterfall was beautiful. Clean campsites. Some neighboring camps were louder than you'd hope but it is what it is. Our second trip here and will return for sure.
Michael W.ScoutThe Secret Place
Peaceful, Private, Beautiful
Although we booked a campsite, it felt more like we were invited to Mazen's home. He was communicative and responsive, happily answered all of our questions, and was beyond generous. I can't say enough about the beautiful views of Lake Elsinore! We can't wait to visit this campground again!
- JJennifer T.Traveler
Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground
Beach view
The parking lot is next to the beach on the one side but also next to the highway on the other side. So the view and the breeze is beautiful, but the traffic noise in the evening and morning is not so nice. With earplugs everything is fine! ;) The host Jim is very kind and helpful!
Laura M.
LegendSawtooth Canyon Campground
Great, and free
This is a great BLM campground, FREE, individual sites with varying levels of privacy and levelness, no reservations. Each site has a shade structure, table, fire pit, and grill. There are pit toilets but no other amenities. No water and no trash service- please pack your trash out! We had to pick up after some other campers which is just so dumb to have to do. There was a camper there who looked like they had set up for long term residency, and the sheriff came by and kicked them out.
This is also a big rock climbing destination so you’ll have climbers coming in for the day as well. There are some “dispersed” type sites in the brush area so if you show up and all the spots are taken, you can sleep in one of those spots in a pinch until morning. We were there in late December and there were only a couple of other campers, and then again in early January and it was busy on weekends but quiets down during the week.
The road coming in is 1.6 miles of washboard and some big dips, but it’s doable. Cell service is very spotty throughout the campground. Parts of decent ATT or Verizon service, and parts have zero. Lots of hikes and trails and places to walk and scramble.
- MMary K.Traveler
San Clemente State Beach Campground
Camping
It was overall a nice campsite. Our site seemed to be pretty large it came with a picnic table & fire pit. The walk to the beach was close seemed maybe about 10 minute till we reached the beach from our site. It is on a hill you need to walk down & back up. The only down side was the bathrooms on the same road as our site were pretty dirty did not seem to have any maintenance during our stay.
- IIsidoro V.Scout
The Secret Place
Friendly, knowledgeable and respectful hosts, best views I have ever experienced.
We couldn't find any campgrounds, after calling multiple places we came across "The Secret Place". They have the best views I have ever experienced! Especially during sunset and as the city lights start to twinkle. Very nice and quiet place. No full hookups, but good bathrooms and showers available. The camp host was knowledgeable about the area and recommended great things to do. Very helpful, very respectful and very friendly. Will definitely stay here again, made our honeymoon trip very memorable! A+ recommend.
- DDee M.Traveler
Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
Over a dozen sites
There are lots of sites on this road. The closer you are to the road the more dust will get in your site from the vehicles passing. The road here. I went a to the second fork after the Bluff lake fork. There’s a private campground near the Bluff Lake entrance which made noises i can hear from my site which was before Bluffs lake fork. There are over a dozen sites along the main road. If you can pull in, it’s a site. Some better than others and spaced out so you may not see your neighbors from your site. 2x4 accessible as long as it’s not muddy or after snow. I saw a Prius on the trail.
- GGrant M.Traveler
Blue Jay Campground
Hidden gem
Awesome spot, lots of sights and some even have overlooks of the entire park. Can get crowded but no one was there on a Friday night in July. Bathrooms, trash, water and even buckets to fill to put out your fire. Fire pits, benches and grills nothing more you could want.
Connor M.GuideMill Creek Dispersed Camping
Plenty of Spots
Overall great campground, there are definitely some permanent residents but there is more than enough spots to have some privacy.
- JJeff E.Scout
Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park
Great family campground
Great campground for families. Lots of activities for the kids to do, like smores by the fire, art, splash pad, and play ground. Facility was clean
- AAndrew P.Scout
San Gorgonio Campground
Great, quiet camping spot!
We really enjoyed our time at San Gorgonio. The campgrounds were really quiet, the camp host was nice, and the bathrooms were clean.
We were there for the Fourth of July, and while the campgrounds were packed, it was really quiet and not crazy busy.
We stayed at the Group Campsite. There was plenty of space and lots of shade.
There’s beautiful short trails around the campgrounds.
One reminder is that the bathrooms don’t supply soap or towels, so bring your own when you use the bathrooms.
- Lori C.Scout
Pine Knot Campground
Close to town and chair lift
We booked for a weekend, in spot 37. This campground is basically in town. You enter its access road through the Snow Summit parking lot, and the chair lifts border it. That's a pro if you are looking to access the mountain bike park, but a con if you are trying to get out of town. The campground was packed when we were there, seemed every site had 6 to 8 people. It was a real party scene, again, a pro if that's what you are looking for. Lots of people with string lights up that they kept on all night.
The site itself, 37, was terrible. Most trees had been removed, and it's on the corner of two camp roads with no screening at all. The only flat tent pad was next to the road and dumpsters. We actually didn't stay or second night
Pros: close to town and mountain bike park. You could walk to both, or the free trolley. Cons: crowded, many sites have no privacy. On some weekends loud and lots of lights
Guide to Rancho Cucamonga
Nestled near Rancho Cucamonga, California, tent camping offers a perfect escape into nature, with a variety of campgrounds that cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility.
Local Activities for Tent Campers
- Enjoy hiking and mountain biking at China Camp State Park Campground, where trails wind through beautiful landscapes and offer stunning views of San Francisco Bay.
- Experience the scenic beauty of Little Jimmy Trail Campground, located near the Pacific Crest Trail, perfect for those looking to combine camping with a memorable hike.
- Explore the picturesque surroundings of Manker Campground, which is close to various trails and offers a peaceful retreat in the Angeles National Forest.
Tips for Tent Camping Near Rancho Cucamonga
- Pack essentials for a hike-in experience at Glenn Trail Camp Campground, where you can enjoy a serene environment with access to a stream for water.
- Be prepared for wildlife encounters at Big Rock Campground, where bears and other wildlife may visit, so secure your food properly.
- Bring your own firewood to Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area, as it allows campfires but does not provide firewood on-site.
Tent Campers Should Check Out Manker Campground
- Experience a well-reviewed camping spot at Manker Campground, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature while being close to hiking trails.
- Take advantage of the amenities at Jackson Flats, which offers picnic tables and access to flush toilets, making it a comfortable choice for families.
- Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at Peavine Campground, where you can immerse yourself in nature while being surrounded by tall pines and abundant wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Rancho Cucamonga, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Rancho Cucamonga, CA is Manker Campground with a 4-star rating from 12 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Rancho Cucamonga, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 64 tent camping locations near Rancho Cucamonga, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.