Camping options near Rimforest, California range from rustic forest sites to full-service RV parks. Located in the San Bernardino Mountains at approximately 5,600 feet elevation, Rimforest experiences distinct seasonal changes with snow in winter months and mild summers that rarely exceed 85°F. Most campgrounds in this area offer weekend availability year-round, though mountain roads can become hazardous during winter storms.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: At Skypark Camp RV Resort, campers have direct access to biking trails across the street. "Location across from the skypark is great for families with small kids," notes Justin C., who adds that the campground features "fire pits and games for the kids."
Waterfall hiking: The area offers accessible waterfall trails within short driving distance. A camper at Bonita Ranch Campground shares, "Easy access to a pretty trail right behind the campground" and "beautiful scenery and we even got a dusting of snow!" These trails are particularly popular during spring runoff.
Lake activities: Multiple water-based recreation options exist at local lakes. One reviewer at Holloway's Marina & RV Park explains, "We rented a boat on Saturday and was great just to walk out on the dock with the kids. 4 hr rental was just enough. Make sure you take reservations for they sell out on the weekends."
What campers like
Peaceful forest camping: Yellow post sites provide secluded spots for those seeking quieter camping experiences. A reviewer at Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites describes the appeal: "These sites are beautiful - especial #9! It pokes out over the mountains and has the most unbelievable view! The hiking is great around here and there are lots of trails to explore."
Family-friendly amenities: Multiple camping areas cater specifically to families with children. At Rancho Jurupa RV Park, campers appreciate the activities: "Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities. Nice staff! Would of liked to be on grass like the sites across but they were clean!" The park also features fishing opportunities for children.
Clean facilities: Many RV parks maintain high cleanliness standards. A camper at Bonita Ranch notes the campground is "definitely not that far away from the city roughly a 7-10 minute drive up the mountain very chill environment awesome staff very home like feel you're literally a box throw away from the creek."
What you should know
Site limitations: Some campgrounds restrict RV size or age. At Big Bear Shores RV Resort, a reviewer warns: "Make sure your unit is long enough and not too old or they will turn you away." They note the park is "very clean spots" but enforces strict requirements.
Seasonal challenges: Winter camping requires preparation for snow and limited access. During colder months, some yellow post sites become inaccessible, while others see fewer visitors, making them ideal for solitude seekers comfortable with cold weather camping.
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites book quickly, especially during summer and holiday weekends. At Holloway's Marina & RV Park, a camper notes: "Just drove up and snagged a spot with full hookup. Staff is very friendly." However, another advises this approach doesn't always work: "Note this place DOES NOT accept walk-ins (you must have a res)."
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Several campgrounds offer water-based recreation specifically designed for families. One camper at Rancho Jurupa RV Park shares, "Great family campground. Fishing and a splash water park. This place has two campgrounds. Cottonwood and Lakeside. Cottonwood is the nicest of the two."
Safety considerations: Some camping areas provide better security than others. A reviewer at Bonelli Bluffs notes: "SO quiet. Numerous residents, but spots are mostly keep up nicely. Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking(!) and full hookups." Many RV parks in the area offer gated access for added security.
Educational opportunities: The region includes several options for combining outdoor recreation with learning experiences. Near Keller Peak, families can "Hike up to the watch tower and check out all the hummingbirds!" This fire lookout provides mountain views and wildlife watching opportunities year-round.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: When booking rv sites near Rimforest, California, choose carefully based on specific needs. At Skypark Camp RV Resort, one RVer advises: "Some folks don't mind having neighbors 3 feet apart but for us we prefer more distance." They note "there are amazing views of the valley and incredible sunsets" that compensate for tight quarters.
Road navigation: Mountain roads present challenges for larger rigs. A camper at Holloway's Marina warns: "Make sure you take the back way up the mountain. It's no joke pulling a trailer up there." They mention their site required hanging "the rear of the trailer over the river bank about 8'. Not a big deal but took the rear stabilizer out of play for the weekend."
Utility connections: Hook-up height and positioning varies between parks. One RVer at Holloway's Marina noted: "Sewer inlet was a bit high. Had to lift my hose many times to drain fully." Another mentioned: "Asphalt pad with gravel picnic area between pads. Pad was a little off level. Had to block one side."
