Dispersed camping opportunities near Rimforest, California range from 5,000 to 8,000 feet in elevation, offering distinct seasonal conditions throughout the San Bernardino National Forest. Winter camping often faces snow and freezing temperatures even into May, while summer can be warm but cooler than valley temperatures. Several areas provide tent sites with varying levels of accessibility depending on vehicle type and seasonal road conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Green Valley Lake Recreation Area provides accessible fishing for families with a small stocked lake just minutes from the campground. According to camper Aleena S., "The lake is very clean and has a lot of fish. It is privately owned so you do have to pay to fish or swim, and you pay per person, so keep that in mind if you have a large group."
Rock climbing routes: Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp serves as a free basecamp for rock climbers exploring the numerous granite formations in the area. Les R. notes, "This area is used almost exclusively by rock climbers, but anyone is welcomed. As long as you follow the guidelines for the area, you can set up your tent anywhere you see a spot."
Hiking trails: The mountains surrounding Rimforest offer extensive trail networks for day hikes. At Manker Campground, camper Michelle W. shares, "I went on a Wednesday afternoon in May and got my pick of sites. Bathrooms were clean and supplied with TP," making it an ideal base camp for accessing nearby trails.
Hot springs access: For those willing to make a short trek, Deep Creek Hot Springs offers natural soaking pools. "The hike down is super chill and the hot springs at the end are so worth the hike back up after!!!" reports carina M. after her overnight stay.
What campers like
Temperature relief: The elevation at Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Sites provides cooler temperatures during hot months. Katie S. explains, "Beautiful, private, and secluded. The campgrounds were wonderful—fair warning only a few campsites have a fire pit. A fire pit is a must in the winter - chilled winds, come prepared."
Secluded sites: Yellow post sites throughout the area offer more privacy than developed campgrounds. "I really dig these spots because they are well spaced out. It's right around the corner from my cabin so it's a great spot to get outside for the weekend without an epic drive," says Lynn C. about Keller Peak Yellow Post Sites.
Local amenities: Many campers appreciate Yucaipa Regional Park for its blend of nature and convenience. Bryan H. notes, "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."
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Rimforest host abundant wildlife. David F. describes the San Gabriel Mountains area: "Because of its large size and tall summits over 10,000 feet high and the range offers tremendous diversity, encompassing granite peaks with stunning views, lush alpine forests of pine and cedar, lovely stream fed canyons lined with old growth oaks."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed sites require high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. At Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, Francisco F. cautions, "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."
Seasonal access: Snow can restrict access well into spring at higher elevations. A camper at Keller Peak experienced "overnight snow possible even in May," highlighting the need to check conditions before traveling.
Fire regulations: Fire restrictions vary throughout the year and by location. Before planning any camping trip near Rimforest, contact the ranger station for current fire regulations, as they frequently change based on seasonal conditions.
OHV noise: Certain camping areas face disruption from off-highway vehicles. At Big Pine Flat Campground, Elijah C. reports, "Sites are nice, there is potable water and toilets BUT there is also a OHV staging area directly across from the campsites. There was a group of 20+ people partying and playing corridos so loud I couldn't fall asleep."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area provides family-friendly swimming options. Salem L. says, "This area is amazingly gorgeous and a lot of what it has to offer gets lost on the people who always do what I did: follow the crowd into town, walk the pier, the park, and the shops, and head home."
Educational opportunities: The fire lookout tower near some camping areas offers learning experiences for kids. Kate W. recommends, "Hike up to the watch tower and check out all the hummingbirds!"
Family-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer additional facilities that appeal to families with children. At Yucaipa Regional Park, Ken B. notes, "The newer sites don't have a lot of mature trees, the older sites have a little more wear and tear but also bigger trees. Nice splash zone."
Biking trails: Multiple camping areas provide access to family-appropriate biking paths. Ronny G. shares about Green Valley Lake, "We did some hiking, fishing near by and costed big bear as it is not too far away," indicating the variety of activities available for families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RV camping at Big Pine Flat Campground, choose sites away from the OHV staging area to minimize noise. Mike M. advises this campground "is suited more for tenting or overland types," suggesting smaller RVs would work better here.
Alternative vehicles: Some sites accommodate unconventional camping vehicles. Jason O. notes about Yucaipa Regional Park, "Most private RV spots discriminate against Skoolies, but this place didn't seem to care."
Pad specifications: RVers should look for campgrounds with appropriate surfaces. Paul C. says of Yucaipa Regional Park, "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."
Electrical capacity: Check power availability when selecting sites. Anneliese S. confirmed, "Full hookup. Some sites have better shade than others. I'm here in the heat but my AC is keeping up."
