The San Bernardino mountains provide access to camping at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 7,200 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the county. Campers often experience temperature variations of up to 30 degrees between valley and mountain sites during summer months. The region's Mediterranean climate pattern produces wet winters and extremely dry summers, affecting water availability and fire restrictions at dispersed camping locations.
What to do
Explore mountain biking trails: Access to prime riding areas near Skypark Camp RV Resort, which sits directly across from popular biking terrain. "Skypark is right across the street for mountain bikes," notes Bryan S., who appreciated the convenient location for outdoor recreation.
Fish in multiple lakes: Both natural and man-made lakes provide fishing opportunities throughout the county. At Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground, anglers report consistent catches. "This lake has been good to me and my friends, always catch something, maybe not a lunker but fun," reports John H.
Visit historic districts: The proximity to restored historical areas makes for interesting day trips from campgrounds. Rancho Jurupa Park offers easy access to cultural landmarks. "We drove over to the Mission Inn (8 min drive) enjoyed lunch. Their is a pedestrian only shopping area with a Saturday farmer's market plus lots of restaurants," shares Jody R.
What campers like
Spacious, shaded sites: Many campers value the privacy and natural setting at Dogwood Campground. "Our site was a single so it only fit one car. There is extra parking available for additional cars that we could have used, but if we had a trailer we wouldn't have fit. So make sure you get a site that fits your needs!" advises Troy L.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campsites with proper maintenance receive consistently high ratings. "Bathroom facilities were immaculate. Rangers are eager to answer questions and I learned a bit about the bald eagles in the area from one of them," notes Bower about their experience at Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area.
Trail access directly from camp: The ability to hike without driving appeals to many visitors. "Campground has the atmosphere of camping in the forest with a couple of hiking trails and lots of shade. Clean restrooms. The camp was quiet and I was able to take my dog with me," shares Joanne about Dogwood.
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary by season and location: Rules about fires change frequently, particularly during dry periods. "No wood fires but they do offer gas fire pits in the community area," reports Bryan S. about Skypark Camp RV Resort.
Campsite sizes differ significantly: Not all sites accommodate large setups or multiple vehicles. "The sites are well spaced, good tree cover. Very nice patch of land. Quiet. Lake Arrowhead Village is 4 miles away," notes Andrew B. about North Shore Campground.
Weekend noise levels: Some locations experience significant differences in atmosphere between weekdays and weekends. "I've stayed here twice, the first time all the sites were booked the second time it was pretty empty. Both times, neighboring campers were blasting music. Not just a little loud, but so loud I felt the bass two loops away," reports Elly A. about Silverwood Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Locations with water features offer additional 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," Bryan H. shares about Yucaipa Regional Park.
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Several locations feature safe areas for children to ride. "We loved camping here. Beautiful, pristine campground with bike trails/walking paths around the lake. The town is bike friendly. Some road noise but quiet over night," notes Trey T. about Serrano Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings add excitement to family trips. "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!" warns Rosalina P. about her stay at Silverwood Lake.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility considerations: Access roads to some campgrounds present challenges for larger vehicles. "Spots are a little tight if you have a bigger unit," reports Bryan S. about Skypark Camp RV Resort.
Hookup variations: RV sites offer different levels of service across the region. "We stayed in the natural area with hook-ups everything worked great," reports Jody R. about Rancho Jurupa Park, which provides full-service sites near urban amenities.
Winter camping limitations: Cold weather affects facilities during winter months. "Our sewer outlet was frozen in the morning, so we had to dump when we got out of the mountains," reports Nicole W. about her late-season stay at Serrano Campground.
