Riverside Camping California

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Riverside, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Riverside is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Riverside camping trip.

Best Camping Sites Near Riverside, CA (341)

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    1. Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    32 Reviews
    56 Photos
    7 Saves
    Moreno Valley, California

    Owl Loop (sites 203-220, 283-317)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • Picnic Table
    • WiFi

    $25 - $300 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood

    2. Dogwood

    33 Reviews
    85 Photos
    1006 Saves
    Rimforest, California

    Overview

    Dogwood Campground is a family-friendly facility located in the heart of the San Bernardino National Forest. All sites must be reserved to enjoy the area's scenic surroundings and plentiful recreational opportunities.

    Recreation

    Ample opportunities for short, day hikes exist in the surrounding area. Within the campground, the Dogwood Trail and Enchanted Loop Trail both provide scenic views and are less than a mile in length.

    Natural Features

    The campground is located about 20 miles northeast of San Bernardino in a dense forest of cedar, oak, pine and fir trees. The lush forest is home to a variety of wildlife and birds.

    Nearby Attractions

    The nearest community is Lake Arrowhead, which provides a variety of restaurants and quaint shops. It is just five minutes from the campground. Lake Gregory, which offers boating, fishing and a water slide park, is about 15 minutes away.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (909) 866-8550.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Rules & Reservation Policies As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations. Any location or activity requiring a permit or lottery will have unique requirements and policies. Please check individual facility pages for pertinent information for those sites. Booking Window For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility. Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation. Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Tours & Tickets: You may request changes to tour dates at no cost before the arrival date. If you cancel before your tour date, you may be eligible for a refund. Cancellation fees apply. Please check the tour facility description details page for cancellation policies. Permits: Varies by location. Please check the permit details for the permit location. Late Cancellations Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival. Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply. Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge. No-Shows Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date. If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees. Tours: A tour or ticket no-show is one who does not cancel a ticket before arrival and does not arrive for the tour. Tour no-shows are not entitled to a refund. Refunds Customers must request refunds no later than 14 days after the scheduled departure date. Recreation.gov will not grant refund requests after 14 days of departure. Reservation Fee: For some facilities, tours or permits an additional reservation fee is charged. For some overnight and day-use facilities, an additional non-refundable reservation fee may apply. The non-refundable reservation fee for tours and tickets is $1.00. The non-refundable reservation fee for permits varies by location. Refunds for Bankcard Purchases: Refunds for bank card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank card. Refunds for Check or Cash Purchases: Refunds for Recreation.gov payments made by check or money order, and cash payments at selected campgrounds will be issued a check refund. A refund will be processed within 30 days of receipt and approval. Please Note: Refund requests made during or after departure can only be processed when approved by the facility management staff based upon local policy. Refunds for Emergency Closures: In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team will attempt to notify users and offer alternate dates (as appropriate). If this is not possible, reservations will be cancelled and all fees paid will be refunded. Reservation fees for free tickets are non-refundable in the event of an emergency closure. Recreation.gov Billing Information Reservation transaction will appear on customer's credit card statements as "Recreation.gov 877-444-6777." Changes to Policies and Procedures Recreation.gov reserves the right, when necessary, to modify reservation policies. These policies were last updated July

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $40 - $42 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs

    3. Bonelli Bluffs

    37 Reviews
    84 Photos
    326 Saves
    South El Monte, California

    Lakeside camping in LA county is possible at Bonelli Bluffs RV resort and campground in San Dimas, California! Our lush property is much more than a place to pull into and rest your head. It's a community surrounded by majestic mountain views, lush landscapes, and resort-style amenities. Vacations should feel special and revitalizing - at Bonelli Bluffs, it's easy.

    We're located just 45 minutes east of Los Angeles, at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. Here, Bonelli Bluffs offers a peaceful reprieve from city life. Come enjoy nature, relax and explore the nearby attractions in San Dimas, California. Moreover, you don't even need to leave the campgrounds to have a good time. Our amenities include a beach-front park, two sparkling pools, outdoor fire pits, and activities galore.

    While the natural beauty and views bring most visitors to Bonelli Bluffs, the nearby town of San Dimas is also highly appealing. Here, and in the nearby town of Pomona, you'll discover fantastic restaurants, shops and plenty to see and do.

    So, if you're looking for the perfect place to bring your RV or to pitch a tent and camp, you've found it at Bonelli Bluffs. Moreover, we offer hundreds of sites on our 2,000 acres of meticulously preserved campgrounds for RVs and tents. Visit our RV resort in San Dimas, California, to experience the beauty for yourself.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $76 - $88 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Prado Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prado Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prado Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prado Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prado Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prado Regional Park

    4. Prado Regional Park

    20 Reviews
    28 Photos
    189 Saves
    Chino, California

    This park is loaded with outdoor recreation and adventure offering, fishing, camping, hiking, biking and nature trails, splash pad, disc golf and outstanding picnic facilities are just a sampling of what this park has to offer.

    Prado Regional Park offers many options of camping and is dog-friendly. There are many camping options as well as amenities to enjoy with family and friends.

    75 full hookup sites
    Group tent camping
    Tents & RV’s all sizes
    Dump station
    Hot showers and restrooms
    ADA accessible restrooms
    Fire rings
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $47 - $120 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park

    5. O'Neill Regional Park

    28 Reviews
    68 Photos
    436 Saves
    Trabuco Canyon, California

    The Arroyo campground offers 79 campsites varying in size to accommodate RVs or tent camping for up to eight people per site. Reservations for individual sites can be made online, by phone or in person. The park offers eight large group campsites for parties of 17 or more and five equestrian campsites, each equipped with horse corrals, barbeques and fire pits. Reservations for groups of 17 or more can be made by calling the park office at (949) 923-2260.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Jurupa RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Jurupa RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Jurupa RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Jurupa RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Jurupa RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Jurupa RV Park

    6. Rancho Jurupa RV Park

    16 Reviews
    32 Photos
    190 Saves
    Riverside, California

    Rancho Jurupa Park is situated along the Santa Ana River and located behind Mt. Rubidoux just west of charming historic downtown Riverside. This popular award-winning regional park boasts a natural semi-rural setting of shady cottonwood trees, graceful meadows, and two lovely lakes, while still providing easy access to the entertainment opportunities and urban conveniences of the city.

    Visitors to Rancho Jurupa Park enjoy a gorgeous 200-acre recreational area with many amenities including a thrilling splash pad for water play, a rock climbing playground, miniature golf surrounded by spectacular waterfalls, a disc golf course and two fishing lakes. Overnight guests can choose from two great campgrounds that suit the needs of tent and RV campers alike. Lakeview Campground is a popular camping spot for both RV and tent campers; while Cottonwood Campground is designed to meet the more sophisticated needs of RV-lifestyle campers. In addition, our luxurious rental cabins offer effortless comfort and convenience while still providing access to the great outdoors.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $40 - $55 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

    7. Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    47 Photos
    533 Saves
    Cedarpines Park, California

    Silverwood Lake camping includes a table, BBQ and fire ring. These sites hold up to 8 persons including children and 3 vehicles.

    There are boat ramps and boat rentals on-site.

    You can fish Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, Crappie, Trout, Catfish, Bluegill, and Carp at the lake.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $45 - $350 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Yucaipa Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yucaipa Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yucaipa Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yucaipa Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yucaipa Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yucaipa Regional Park

    8. Yucaipa Regional Park

    20 Reviews
    20 Photos
    205 Saves
    Yucaipa, California

    Yucaipa 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
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Jay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Jay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Jay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Jay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Jay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Jay Campground

    9. Blue Jay Campground

    20 Reviews
    67 Photos
    419 Saves
    Trabuco Canyon, California

    Cal Trans continues to perform highway-widening work on SR-74 Ortega Highway with periodic nightly closures.

    Located approximately 4 miles off Hwy 74 (Ortega) on the North Main Divide Road, this campsite has 50 available sites with a varying distance apart for a true "wilderness" feel. Amenities include trash cans, fire pits, grills, vaulted toilets, and plenty of local trails for hiking, biking and equestrian. For information regarding local and connecting trails, please see our Trail Guide under the Trabuco District.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    10. San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    50 Reviews
    92 Photos
    519 Saves
    San Clemente, California

    Details here: https://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/647/files/SanMateo082609.pdf San Mateo Campground lies a short distance inland from the 3.5-miles of sandy beaches within San Onofre State Beach A 1.5-mile Nature Trail connects the campground to Trestles Beach, a world class surfing site. San Mateo Creek flows just east of the campground outward towards the ocean creating key riparian and wetland habitats which host some rare and even endangered species. All campsites include a fire pit and picnic table. Hookup sites are available with electricity and water. Other amenities include an RV sanitation station, hot, coin-operated indoor showers, and flush toilets. Below are listed a few park rules that will assist you in having a fun and save visit. San Onofre - San Mateo Campground is at 830 Cristianitos, San Clemente, CA, 92672 a short distance inland from the 3.5-miles of sandy beaches within San Onofre State Beach. A 1.5-mile Nature Trail connects the San Mateo camping site to “Trestles Beach,” the world class surfing site. Surfers using redwood boards have visited San Onofre since at least the 1940s; San Mateo Creek flows just east of the campground outward towards the ocean creating key riparian and wetland habitats which host some rare and even endangered species. All campsites include a fire pit and picnic table. RV Hookup sites are available with electricity and water. Other amenities includes a dump-station, hot indoor showers, and flush toilets. Camping is available year-round.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $45 - $250 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 341 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Riverside

Recent Reviews in Riverside

1660 Reviews of 341 Riverside Campgrounds


  • Amanda B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Native Falls Campground
    Nov. 17, 2024

    Native Falls Campground

    Fun quick family stay

    Very cute set up tent sites are right next to road but it’s not to busy of a road. They have a basketball court one, lake for fishing or swimming and paddle boats to go out on the lake. There are tv hook ups and cabins. I did not see any fire pits on sites. Bathrooms are ok and have locks which you need code for.

  • Brittany W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Valley Lakes
    Oct. 5, 2024

    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.

  • Karen D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Happy Traveler RV Park
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Happy Traveler RV Park

    Run down, and expensive

    The place felt very tired, and lacking in any atmosphere. There is a pool, which was nice. There just wasn't anything else there to justify the steep price of $100 a night. Though I'd award 5 stars to the lovely German lady who checked us in and was very friendly.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Vanlife Campground Community In Coastal Mountains
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Vanlife Campground Community In Coastal Mountains

    Perfect homebase for life on the road!

    One of the most beautiful properties I've ever stayed on. Part of the Van Life Campgrounds network of community oriented homebases for vanlifers and nomads on wheels. Met some cool people, worked, hung out with goats, had a few communal dinners. What else could you ask for.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Ridge Yellow Post Sites
    Sep. 27, 2024

    South Ridge Yellow Post Sites

    Awesome dispersed site with amazing views

    Very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California elevation is high enough that temperatures were very enjoyable (mid 80's)

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground

    Canpsites a plenty

    There’s a few designated camp areas up this way. Went out in early Sept 2024 and the road was fine. I drive a lifted AWD overloaded Honda Element and I had no issue. There were two sections on the final ascent loop to the top of Thomas Mountain that were a little scratchy. You do not need to complete the final ascent to the top to enjoy the camping areas. Although if your car is capable there’s an excellent spot at the very end of the loop.

  • Kyle F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Champagne Lakes RV Resort
    Sep. 17, 2024

    Champagne Lakes RV Resort

    REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS!

    Let's start off with the fact that this"resort" has REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS living there and TWEAKERS SELLING DRUGS. When I mentioned it to the management they could care less, didn't say a word and walked away laughing. They DO NOT perform ANY BACKGROUND CHECKS and especially with children in the park I find that very disturbing. They nickel and dime you for every little thing and the rent has gone up 3x in one year. The water supply smells like sewage when you take a shower. Because they do pump outs the resort smells like human excrement most of the time. The lakes are polluted as well and completely full of cyanobacteria AKA green algae which is a respiratory hazard. POTENTIAL BEWARE.

  • Bryan S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Orangeland RV Park
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Orangeland RV Park

    Perfect

    Great little park. Heated pool, spa was hot. Nice little store with everything you need. Staff was very friendly and helpful. Only downside was the sports bar next door was pretty loud at night. And the loud music coming from the industrial building next door at 7am. Also very close to Disney with a free shuttle

  • Chris M.
    Camper-submitted photo from North Shore Campground - Lake Almanor
    Sep. 6, 2024

    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.

  • Suly&Fabian L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Southfork Campground
    Sep. 2, 2024

    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.
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Sep. 1, 2024

    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.

  • Alexander R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 2N17 Pooh’s Thotful Spot
    Aug. 31, 2024

    2N17 Pooh’s Thotful Spot

    Large spot very quiet for a holiday weekend

    A large spot big enough for a small group. However, limited flat terrain for tent/ vehicle. A creek runs by with some access to some good hammocking trees.

    A weird little shrine to Winnie the Pooh is behind the spot. Don’t know what to make of that.

  • Anita A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Aug. 30, 2024

    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

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Holcomb Valley Campground
    Aug. 26, 2024

    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.
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Cove Backcountry — Crystal Cove State Park
    Aug. 24, 2024

    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.

  • Heather L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stone Creek Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Stone Creek Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    Some of the Campsites are great, others not so much

    We traveled as a group of 17 campers and were able to disperse evenly between 4 close together campsites. We were in 19, 20, 21 and 23. Even though the website says it allowed 2 cars per site we were charged for the 2nd vehicle. In each site. I had also checked online prior to make sure we would have cell service with that many people meeting us. Only those of us that had Verizon had only a single bar. The campsites in the inner ring (ours was #21) are VERY close together. Not at all private, your camp is literally up against a couple others. We had children from the other sites running all through ours and it was so close you could hear everyone else’s private conversations. #19 and #20 were on the outer circle but just enough space to park and then walk through very sticky manzanita trees into the campsite and picnic table area. None of them had much or any shade. Our saving grace was our 4th spot - which gave us enough room to have all of us sit out of the way of the sticky trees and one tree in the middle to give us a touch of shade throughout the day. It had 2 picnic tables and was much more private so we didn’t disturb anyone and we didn’t have everyone else disturbing us. The vault toilets (yes, I know what they entail, and yes, it’s summer) were horrendous and barely useable, but we had 2 within very quick walking distance of us. They do allow dogs (we had 5 dogs and 3 cats with us) and it’s a short drive into the little town of Idyllwild. It’s a campground that served its purpose in getting all of us together and of course we had a blast, but it’s not on my “must camp here again” list.

  • Jamie C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Buckhorn Campground
    Aug. 20, 2024

    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.
    Camper-submitted photo from The Secret Place
    Aug. 19, 2024

    The 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!

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground
    Aug. 14, 2024

    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!

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Aug. 12, 2024

    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.

  • Ciara W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from East Flats
    Aug. 7, 2024

    East Flats

    Wildlife but super dusty!

    Starlink internet here was great and we stayed 2 days to work here. Saw multiple deer walking by our site.

    Easy to drag in dust and very annoying. We easily found a spot for our van.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from East Flats
    Aug. 1, 2024

    East Flats

    Great secluded location

    First time car camping. Solo trip with my fur babies. Trails a little rough but good thing I have X-Mode on my Subaru. Lol. Arrived around 5:30pm on a Wednesday. Drove past a few campers. A few with big RV’s. Closest camper is about 30 yards away. Could barely hear their generator running. Planned on staying a few nights but after the first night I was told there was a big archery event and that the whole campground was reserved so I had to pack up and leave.



Guide to Riverside

Camping near Riverside, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a beach vibe or a mountain retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Enjoy the sun and surf at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground. One camper mentioned, “Great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks overlooking the ocean. Beach access. Lots of sites.”
  • Hiking and Biking: Explore trails at San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach. A visitor noted, “Great if you want to ride along PCH. This stretch has good bike lanes that take you into Oceanside or Encinitas.”
  • Fishing: Head to Lake Hemet Campground for some fishing. One reviewer shared, “The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time. They stock the lake regularly so you have a good chance of catching trout.”

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park. One happy camper said, “The roads could use some work...but the sites are nicely spread out. Bathrooms are extremely clean.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness at Serrano Campground. A visitor remarked, “Beautiful campground. Clean restrooms and showers. Nice spacious scenic sites.”
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families enjoy the vibe at Dogwood Campground. One reviewer noted, “The place is clean and quiet. Our campsite was very spacious... Camp hosts are friendly and knowledgeable.”

What you should know:

  • Crowded on Weekends: Expect busy sites at San Clemente State Beach Campground. A camper mentioned, “It can get very crowded and packed. Hard to get a site.”
  • Limited Privacy: Some campgrounds, like Doheny State Beach Campground, have tight spaces. One visitor said, “The middle sites are small and tight, offering little privacy.”
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for noise at some locations. A camper at San Mateo Campground noted, “You can hear activity from Camp Pendleton.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites like Lake Hemet Campground. A family shared, “You can fit two 10' x10' canopies to cover the bench table, and fit 2 individual tents.”
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or scooters for kids. One parent at Bonelli Bluffs mentioned, “The campground itself was well-maintained, and the surrounding natural beauty made for a peaceful retreat.”
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks handy can keep kids happy. A camper at Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park said, “The picnic tables are what you would expect, very seasoned.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure to check if the campground has the right hookups for your RV. One RV owner at Black Rock Campground advised, “The roads could use some work...but the sites are nicely spread out.”
  • Arrive Early: To snag a good spot, arrive early, especially on weekends. A visitor at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground noted, “If you get a site at the far ends, it's a hike to go in and out.”
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials before heading to camp. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground mentioned, “Bring your own shade for this campsite, your own water too.”

Whether you're looking for riverside camping in California or a mountain escape, there’s something for everyone in the Riverside area!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Riverside, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Riverside, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 341 campgrounds and RV parks near Riverside, CA and 16 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Riverside, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Riverside, CA is Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 32 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Riverside, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 free dispersed camping spots near Riverside, CA.

  • What parks are near Riverside, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Riverside, CA that allow camping, notably Mojave River Dam and San Bernardino National Forest.