Tent camping near Riverside, California ranges from high-elevation forest sites to lakeside options, with elevations between 2,000-7,000 feet across the San Bernardino Mountains. Summer temperatures in mountain camping areas average 15-20°F cooler than Riverside's valley floor, providing relief during hot months. Winter camping is limited at higher elevations due to snow closure from November through April.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Green Valley Lake offers fishing opportunities just a short drive from the campground. "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," notes a visitor to Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area.
Mountain biking on forest trails: The San Bernardino Mountains feature extensive trail networks accessible from several campgrounds. "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. Hike up to the watch tower and check out all the hummingbirds!" shared a camper at Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.
Beach activities at Doheny: For campers willing to drive to the coast, beach camping provides a different experience. "Beautiful beachfront camping steps from the sand. Dry camping with a dump station available. Great sunsets and beautiful sand," reports a visitor to Doheny State Beach Campground.
What campers like
Isolation and privacy: Many campers value the seclusion available at yellow post sites. "Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post sites offer more primitive experiences. "I almost want to give this a 1 star review, just to keep it to myself a little longer. We loved this yellow post site, by far one of my favorites. Private but with cell service, tables and fire pits! Listen to great horned owls while taking in the views!" shares a camper at Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites.
Walk-in camping atmosphere: Some tent campers prefer sites separated from vehicles. "This is more of your traditional campground where you must carry all your food and gear to the campsite. It is a short hike from the parking lot to the camping area and the camp hosts can provide containers to carry your items. The campground was not busy and this allowed me to pick a spot hidden away from others," explains a camper at China Camp State Park Campground.
Family-friendly facilities: Yucaipa Regional Park gets high marks for amenities and activities. "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," notes a reviewer at Yucaipa Regional Park.
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary seasonally: Check current restrictions before planning campfires. "Need high clearance or 4wd vehicle for a rough road but once you get to the top, the sites are great! Limited shade during middle of day but well worth the trip. Has restrooms etc at the top for the campsites," explains a Thomas Hunting Grounds visitor.
Water availability limited: Many primitive sites require bringing all water. "The sites were interestingly laid out and some had little wooded areas that you actually camp behind, others had interesting ground layouts with multiple levels, we found it really cool. Our site was a flat site, water and bathrooms are central to the loops," notes a Green Valley Lake camper.
Weather can change rapidly: Mountain elevations experience significant temperature swings. "We stayed at campsite #9. It has a great view and secluded. Some chairs, hammock, water, and utensils were left at the picnic table. Everything was dirty so we assumed they were left by previous campers," reports a Keller Peak Yellow Post visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Check campground layouts: Some sites are more suitable for children than others. "Park is small, very family friendly, clean and well managed. Lots of places to walk/hike, large sites," says a visitor to Yucaipa Regional Park.
Consider distance to facilities: When camping with kids, proximity to bathrooms matters. "We've been here several times over the last few years and really enjoy a nice quiet place close to home. We stayed in group campsite A. Tent camping is only allowed in group sites. The tent camping sites come with plenty of space for group camping. There's a built-in grill and running water."
Plan for wildlife encounters: Prepare children for local wildlife. "Very peaceful midweek. There is shade. Lots of wildlife! A coyote walked right by us. Brave raccoons. Yellow jackets are pesky. Quarter showers! Trees for hammocks," notes a China Camp State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
RV access limitations: Many tent camping areas near Riverside have restricted RV access. "Complete Serenity! My husband and I did our camping trip for the weekend here! 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."
Road conditions matter: Forest service roads to primitive sites often require high-clearance vehicles. "Make sure you have a vehicle that is 4WD - getting up the mountain is long and rugged," warns a Thomas Hunting Grounds visitor.
Site dimensions vary: RV campers should research site sizes before arrival. "Excellent campground. Well maintained. 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. Fires allowed which is nice."
