San Bernardino camping options range across multiple climate zones, from high desert to alpine forests reaching elevations above 8,000 feet. Summer temperatures can vary by 20-30 degrees between mountain and valley locations, requiring different camping preparations depending on the destination. Cellular connectivity decreases significantly above 5,000 feet elevation, with certain canyons creating complete signal dead zones.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Wilderness Lakes RV Resort features canals stocked with fish where families can enjoy bank fishing. "Sights of all kinds of birds like hawks and herons. Water park and mini golf for kids. Showers and laundry convenient. Camping spots all have fire pit and spacious area for RVs and tents," notes a camper at Rancho Jurupa RV Park.
Mini golf and water activities: Several campgrounds offer recreational facilities on-site. "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics, you can use your jet skies in designated areas, swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more," describes a visitor at Bonelli Bluffs.
Hiking to viewpoints: Keller Peak offers hiking trails leading to panoramic views. "Hike up to the watch tower and check out all the hummingbirds! This is yellow post camping so it's hit or miss if you can get one. Do your homework and learn what you need to know ahead of time - esp regarding fires," advises a camper.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Campgrounds with well-spaced sites are highly valued. "I really dig these spots because they are well spaced out. It's right around the corner from my cabin so it's a great spot to get outside for the weekend without an epic drive," notes a visitor at Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.
Gated security measures: Several rv campgrounds in San Bernardino, California prioritize security. "Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes. Lots of food spots within 10 minutes. Spaces are one of the cleanest I seen. Ranger is on constant patrol," mentions a camper.
Cleanliness of facilities: Regularly maintained bathrooms and showers make a difference in camper experience. "The Bathrooms and showers take a code to get in. Not sure what thats all about, they were clean," reports a visitor at Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds operate on different reservation models. "They ask for reg, insurance, on both truck and trailer when you arrive," notes a camper at Wilderness Lakes. Yellow post sites typically operate first-come, first-served.
Wildlife interactions: Expect wildlife encounters, both pleasant and challenging. "My biggest complaint with this resort is the geese, which apparently are always there, are loud and their poop is everywhere. The sites are also really packed in," warns a visitor.
Limited fire permissions: Fire regulations change seasonally and by location. "There are fire rings but fires are not always permitted so be sure to check with the station just at the bottom of Keller Peak road," advises a camper at Skypark Camp RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for hot days: Splash pads and pools provide relief from summer heat. "Very well maintained and clean campsites! Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities. Nice staff! Would of liked to be on grass like the sites across but they were clean!" shares a visitor at Rancho Jurupa.
Group camping considerations: Some campgrounds offer designated group sites. "Took Girl Scouts here for group camping. Rocky and sand. The family camping was fine! Girls used Porta Potties. I'm hoping they have finished construction on something better since then. However, there are some great kid friendly activities," notes a camper.
Security awareness: Despite secure campgrounds, normal precautions are advised. "Only downside was that the ranger said to lock up bikes and be careful leaving out items because a local has been coming in stealing," warns a Rancho Jurupa camper.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing and access: Choose campgrounds based on your RV size. "Hard to review this place objectively. We had a bad experience. Note this place DOES NOT accept walk-ins (you must have a res). Well we didn't realize this and found ourselves in a bind later at night," cautions a visitor at Holloway's Marina & RV Park.
Electrical capacity limitations: Campers note varying electrical services. "They don't have enough 50amp sites and not all of them are always working. This park is first come / first served and they don't prohibit a 30amp rig from taking a 50amp site, so you can see the problem," explains an RVer.
Dump station positioning: The location and design of dump facilities can affect ease of use. "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," notes a camper at Holloway's Marina.
