Dogwood Campground sits in the San Bernardino mountains at an elevation of approximately 5,600 feet, creating mild summer conditions with temperatures 15-20 degrees cooler than surrounding valleys. The campground's forest setting features mature pine and oak trees throughout, with volcanic soil that drains well during mountain rain showers. Most campsites have 50-100 feet between neighbors, enabling privacy while camping.
What to do
Hiking trails: Access the Enchanted Loop nature trail directly from the back of the campground for scenic views. "Access to the Enchanted loop nature trail is at the back end of the camp and offers some great views," notes Jeremiah F. from Dogwood Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Perris Recreation Area offers fishing just 45 minutes from San Bernardino with regular catches. "This lake has been good to me and my friends, always catch something, maybe not a lunker but fun," says John H. from Lake Perris State Recreation Area.
Waterfall exploration: Visit Bonita Falls via a short hike from Bonita Ranch Campground. "The creek running behind the camp is great to explore, and a waterfall is a short hike away. We also lucked out finding berries in August," shares Jonathan G. about his experience at the campground.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campsites near San Bernardino offer room between neighbors. At Skypark Camp RV Resort, "the sites were very tight but had plenty of room. The staff was accommodating and friendly," according to Grant W.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain their bathrooms and common areas regularly. At Yucaipa Regional Park, "the campground was clean, quiet, and had a decent amount of space between sites. There is a biking trail that goes through the campground that was well used," notes Nicole W.
Mountain views: Elevated campgrounds provide valley vistas. "You have to see this place to believe it - The campground itself is rather expansive... campsites are all private and unique... no two are the same," describes Heidi H. about her experience camping in the mountains.
What you should know
Reservations required: Popular pet friendly camping near San Bernardino fills quickly, especially summer weekends. "We've been here twice, the first time all the sites were booked the second time it was pretty empty," explains Elly A. about Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area.
Bear safety: Food storage lockers are provided at many campgrounds. "Each campsite has a bear box to store food. The restrooms are clean with flush toilets, along with soap and water sinks," notes Shuree F.
Weather variations: Mountain elevations create significant temperature drops at night. "It was May but got cold enough at night but was absolutely perfect during the day," shares Stephanie M. about camping at Hanna Flat.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: Several campgrounds offer lakes for swimming during hot months. "Lake Perris was a fun and clean place to camp at! We did some fishing, bike riding, the water was clear, and my kids loved it," shares Lauren R.
Biking paths: Look for campgrounds with safe cycling areas. "Kiddos had a great time riding their bikes around the sites. Also, great trails nearby!" mentions Krystal G. about Hanna Flat Campground.
Pet-friendly activities: Trails and open spaces welcome dogs throughout the region. "The camp was quiet and I was able to take my dog with me," explains Joanne about her pet friendly camping near San Bernardino experience.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some mountain sites require extra blocks for leveling. "A lot of spaces are unleveled but it's not a deal breaker for me," notes Troy A. about his experience at Lake Perris.
Hookup availability: Electrical and water connections vary between campgrounds. At Bonita Ranch Campground, "full hookups lots to do trails and not to mention right on top of the creek. Friendly staff helpful too restrooms r clean showers clean too," explains Sara H.
RV size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "Campsite 49/51 is right by the trail to hike and bike," mentions Bryan S., noting the specific sites that worked well for his setup at Hanna Flat Campground.
Ranger
