17 campgrounds with availability this weekend
San Bernardino National Forest area features several RV parks with full hookup capabilities. Rancho Jurupa RV Park in Riverside provides concrete pads with full hookups, well-maintained grassy areas, and spacious sites for larger vehicles. Big Bear Shores RV Resort accommodates big rigs with water, electric, and sewer connections in a lakeside setting. Skypark Camp RV Resort offers both 30-amp and 50-amp electrical service with sewer hookups, though it has more limited space for larger motorhomes. Holloway's Marina & RV Park includes pull-through sites with 50-amp service and water connections near Big Bear Lake. "The cottonwood campground has concrete pads and well-maintained grass throughout. This campground may have been renovated recently by the looks of it."
Many RV parks in the region operate year-round, though mountain locations may have seasonal restrictions during winter months. Most parks require advance reservations, particularly during summer and fall weekends. Dump stations are available at several facilities including Rancho Jurupa and Holloway's Marina, with Country Hills RV Park offering 102 designated sites with full hookup capabilities. Pet policies vary by location, but most parks permit animals with standard restrictions. Cell service remains consistent in valley locations but can become spotty at higher elevations. Some travelers have reported challenges with site leveling at certain facilities. A review indicated, "We would gladly stay again if the grass side was available but not on the dirt side," highlighting the importance of requesting specific site types when booking.
"Very spacious and good for big rigs. LOTS of activities for families (splash pad)."
"The lakeview area has dirt roads, sparse grass and a few spots close to the lake. The Cottonwood campground has concrete pads and well maintained grass throughout."
from $40 - $55 / night
"This campground is free with 9 camp site on a 5 mile paved road, the site's have fire ring and picnic benches, no water. Bike trail is fun and a challenge. Camp site 1,3 & 6 are very quiet."
"It’s a bit of a drive but very scenic and should be doable in any car. My campsite was big and spacious and looked up at an outcropping of rocks. It had a makeshift fire pit and picnic table."
"Had to hang 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. Good shade and campers were friendly."
"First time at a site with hook ups with our new travel trailer. Hook ups were simple...water, 50/30/&20A electric, sewer. Sewer inlet was a bit high."
"Being reasonably close to our home base, we frequent this park with the family."
"Our campsite had a citrus tree, and it was a nice private area. We arrived right after all the snowbirds had left, so we literally had the whole place to ourself."
"I love the location of this rv resort and, although it’s not perfect for everyone, it was great for our family."
"No wood fires but they do offer gas fire pits in the community area. Nice bathrooms as well. Incredible views. Spots are a little tight if you have a bigger unit. "
from $39 - $299 / night
"The amenities were well kept, all sites were concrete slabs, and the signal was good, but it was very loud sit to close proximity to major roads and wasn’t very kid friendly."
"Palm Springs Oasis is very small but it was a great place to stay with just a 5-10 minute drive to downtown!"
"Dan was so helpful finding us a pull through spot. Most amazing sunset on a full moon night and incredibly quiet but wonderful bird sounds welcomed us at dusk as we drove into park."
"Russell confirmed our ability to stay on a late arrival and Dan was so helpful in helping us find a pull through spot for one night."
from $58 / night
"A great spot away from the main Joshua Tree strip. We visited for one night during the waning height of COVID and staff was taking all the necessary precautions."
"We did a day trip into Joshua Tree National Park, which was amazing. It was a hot day but the RV park had full hookups so we could run the AC in the RV to escape the heat."
from $15 - $55 / night
"The resort is extremely clean, well-maintained, and quiet."
"Wonderful amenities, courteous & helpful staff, loaner equipment for golf, pickle ball, etc. clean, safe & comfortable. 30 amp plug in did not work & water spigot needs a new washer."
ScoutSite is clean, many activities on weekends They also add 1000lb or catfish and trout weekly depending on season. Members were friendly. Downside is wifi when the campsite is 75+ full and only about a dozen paved spots. Major are gravel and dirt.
RangerThe first two spots are close together. First one a bit small but better cover from Santa Anna winds. Nicely in the forest and close to the village.
ScoutNice and FREE area , easy to access
TravelerHad a nice stay here twice so far this year. Nice place. Quiet and clean.
GuideNice place, rustic, unpublicized, congenial host. It can accommodate a number of vans and RVs, but I was the only guest. There is water and nothing else that is stated in the blurb. A self-contained rig is recommended.
As I explored the premises, I imagined that a small traveling couple or group could enjoy the camp as a peaceful alternative to Joshua Tree or Desert Hot Springs. There is evidence that guests stayed there before, with ample communal space for a campfire experience possibly with libations.
The camp might not be a priority business for the host, thus a work-in-progress or attempted endeavor. It has potential to be a stellar and successful camp if kempt.
Security was my concern, being solo, so I locked down more than usual when I left during the day for a music festival. No issues. I stayed three nights. The location is four miles from Morongo Valley Covington Park and the Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, a hiking attraction.
A bumpy dirt road to get to camp. Unsure if a large RV can traverse it. Call or text is the only way to book. The cellphone number is on Google Maps.
GuideThis is my go-to campground. I live in the San Diego area. It's designed for your season camper that prefers tranquility over business. It's not recommended during the weekend.
TravelerCamped with two people and had tons of space in our site. The car parking is a slightly away from the site, which we liked but maybe not other peoples’ preference
ScoutHas a security guard that thought she was God or something like that. Never seen anybody or place so petty on the place and still searching for the championship horseshoe pits and I can't stop talking about the dark green of the fishing lakes and the fish swimming on their sides
TravelerWe reserved and paid for a regular RV site specifically advertised for a 36–40 ft motorhome. We were assigned Site#28, which was so sloped and unsuitable that we could not safely extend either our living-room slide-out or bedroom slide-out. While using our leveling system, two front hydraulic jack rods broke and one rear jack became severely bent and could not retract. Our motorhome was left unsafe to drive or move. The exact mechanical cause still requires professional inspection, but the condition and slope of the assigned site are serious concerns. We immediately notified the campground by email, provided photographs, and went to the office seeking help with an incident report, emergency assistance, and a safe plan for the stranded motorhome. Unfortunately, management refused to take meaningful responsibility or help us resolve the emergency. The most disappointing part was not only the unsuitable site, but the lack of concern and assistance after a guest’s large motorhome became immobilized on the property. We had to return to work on Monday and were left trying to arrange emergency service, towing, transportation, and accommodation on our own. Based on this experience, I cannot recommend Holloway’s RV Park to owners of large Class A motorhomes. If you have a 36–40 ft RV, carefully inspect the assigned site’s slope, space, and leveling conditions before parking or deploying your jacks.
San Bernardino National Forest covers over 800,000 acres across two mountain ranges, with elevations ranging from 2,000 to 11,000 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons, with snow common at higher elevations during winter months, while summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F in valley locations. Campgrounds throughout the area offer varied terrain from lakeside settings to mountain retreats, with options for both developed camping and more remote experiences.
Mountain biking trails: Skypark Camp RV Resort provides direct access to riding opportunities with its location across from a dedicated bike park. "Perfect gateway for your adventures in the area," notes Ken C., who appreciated the proximity to trails.
Rock climbing access: Keller Peak Yellow Post Sites serve as an excellent base for climbers. "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!" mentions Kate W. The area features numerous climbing spots along the Exploration trail.
Fishing opportunities: Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground offers fishing in their small on-site lake. "Has a lake to fish for a nominal price," explains John M., while another visitor noted, "There is a nice little pond with lots of birds that my daughter loved."
Water recreation: Holloway's Marina & RV Park provides direct access to boat rentals. "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 reservations for they sell out on the weekends," advises Kevin B.
Dark skies for stargazing: Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing. "Beautiful views all around Sunrise, Sunset and Night sky. Sights of all kinds of birds like hawks and herons," reports Xochiquetzal G. Another camper noted they specifically "booked and traveled here to show the kids the stars from a desert view, and it did not disappoint!"
Privacy between sites: Keller Peak Yellow Post Sites provides well-spaced camping areas. "I really dig these spots because they are well spaced out," mentions Lynn C. Another camper noted, "There are only 9 sites stretched across 5 miles so you will have no neighbors. Each site is decent size and tucked away into the rocks."
Year-round accessibility: Many campgrounds in the region remain open throughout winter months, though higher elevation sites may have seasonal restrictions. "Weather is definitely colder than in the valley, got snow overnight in mid May," reports Jillian at Keller Peak, indicating the need for weather preparation even in spring.
Security features: Rancho Jurupa RV Park maintains controlled access. "Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes," notes Troy A. Another camper highlighted the "Friendly staff to check us in gates close at 10:pm your provided with a security gate code to get back in if your out late."
Permit requirements: Most established rv sites near San Bernardino National Forest require advance reservations, particularly during peak season. Yellow post sites operate on a first-come basis but fill quickly, especially from May through September.
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary significantly by location and season. At Keller Peak, one visitor noted, "Rangers do come by and take down information of the leader of the group. They are very strict on parties are not allowed. NO FIRES." Always check current fire restrictions before your visit.
Cell service variability: Connectivity depends on elevation and location. At Big Bear Shores RV Resort, visitors reported reliable connections, though one camper complained about the lack of WiFi: "To be so expensive, but provide no WIFI is inconceivable as most private campgrounds over $30/night provide some type of WIFI."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or transportation. At Emerald Desert RV Resort, campers report that "It's close to the freeway and the road noise is loud and never stops. There is also a freight train that frequently runs along behind the park, and it's very loud."
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Many parks offer recreational facilities specifically designed for children. "Water park and mini golf for kids. Showers and laundry convenient," notes Xochiquetzal G. at Rancho Jurupa Park. Another visitor mentioned, "Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities."
Consider group camping areas: Some locations offer designated spaces for larger family groups. "Took Girl Scouts here for group camping. Rocky and sand. The family camping was fine! Girls used Porta Potties," reports Janet S. about her experience at Rancho Jurupa Park, highlighting the importance of checking facilities.
Safety awareness: Golden Village Palms RV Resort offers security features that families appreciate. "Our kids love the pool area, grandparents love the pickleball courts, and there are always fun activities to do throughout the year. Full-timers are friendly and inclusive of newcomers and passer-throughs. Dog parks are clean and located at either corner of the park. The entrance security kiosk is staffed 24/7," reports Jason M.
Reserve early for prime spots: Family-friendly campgrounds with amenities book quickly during peak seasons. "We asked if they had recycling and they said to bag up our recycling and leave it out with the trash. We stayed here for a weekend and had no reservations and there was plenty of room in November," notes a visitor at Emerald Desert RV, suggesting off-season visits offer more flexibility.
Site leveling challenges: Some RV sites near San Bernardino National Forest require blocking. At Holloway's Marina & RV Park, Jesse C. observed, "Asphalt pad with gravel picnic area between pads. Pad was a little off level. Had to block one side."
Hookup positioning: Sewer connections can be problematic at certain campgrounds. "It was difficult to use the dump hookups as they're elevated about a foot off the ground so I had to lift the hose off my support snake many times," reports Mike R. at Holloway's Marina.
Size restrictions: Skypark Camp RV Resort has limitations for larger rigs. "Although it's not perfect for everyone, it was great for our family... Views are incredible although to squeeze in some sites they made the access roads a bit small. I would skip if I were a big rig, or call and ask for sites that are easy to get into," advises Justin C.
Reservation policies: Most RV parks require advance booking, especially during busy periods. "We had a bad experience. Note this place DOES NOT accept walk-ins (you must have a res)," warns Thomas W. about Holloway's Marina, emphasizing the importance of understanding reservation requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular RV campsite near San Bernardino National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular RV campground near San Bernardino National Forest is Rancho Jurupa RV Park with a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews.
What is the best site to find RV camping near San Bernardino National Forest?
TheDyrt.com has all 257 RV camping locations near San Bernardino National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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