Tent camping near San Bernardino offers varying elevations from 2,000 to 7,000 feet, creating distinct camping experiences throughout the seasons. Summer temperatures can drop 30-40 degrees at night in higher elevation sites, requiring appropriate gear even during warm months. The San Bernardino National Forest encompasses over 800,000 acres with dispersed camping opportunities beyond established campgrounds.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Yucaipa Regional Park features three lakes stocked with fish where campers can spend the day angling. "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 Bryan H. about Yucaipa Regional Park.
Rock climbing access: Holcomb Valley serves as a hub for rock climbing enthusiasts with numerous routes nearby. Les R. explains, "This area is used almost exclusively by rock climbers, but anyone is welcomed. As long as you follow the guidelines for the area, you can set up your tent anywhere you see a spot" at Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp.
Mountain biking: The terrain around Keller Peak offers challenging mountain biking trails with technical sections. "The Exploration trail weaves around them up to the peak and makes a great hike and there are tons of climbing spots," reports Kristil C., highlighting the multi-use nature of the trails in this area.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We enjoyed our hikes, and camping spot to the max," says Sandra L., who visited Thomas Hunting Grounds with her dog and appreciated the natural surroundings.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites. "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," notes Kristil C.
Free camping options: Thomas Hunting Grounds offers no-cost camping with basic setups. "These 'yellow post' sites are essentially boondocking in the forest off dirt fire service roads. The best part is that you don't need reservations and they're free," explains Mark C. about Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites.
Accessibility to towns: Many sites provide a balance of seclusion while maintaining reasonable access to supplies. "Close enough to the city to get anything you need," says Ken B. about Yucaipa Regional Park, highlighting the convenience factor that many campers value.
Night sky viewing: Higher elevation sites offer excellent stargazing opportunities away from city lights. Seth B. describes the experience at Holcomb Valley: "Not a single sound far from everybody, off the grid," emphasizing the remote setting perfect for night sky observation.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require vehicles with appropriate clearance. "The road to the trailhead is very bumpy (you definitely need a 4x4 with good clearance). Be sure to call visitor center for driving directions as Google will take you to the wrong spot," advises Daryna L. about Fishermans Group Campground.
Temperature variations: Plan for significant temperature drops at night even during summer. "We went in April, and still had a little bit of snow," reports Seth B. about Holcomb Valley, underscoring the importance of packing appropriate gear.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans are common throughout the area. Katie S. notes, "A fire pit is a must in the winter - chilled winds, come prepared," but also mentions that "only a few campsites have a fire pit" at Thomas Hunting Grounds.
Facilities availability: Amenities vary widely between established campgrounds and dispersed sites. At Mill Creek, Francisco F. emphasizes, "It's full of trees and seems fairly remote," but cautions about access issues, highlighting the primitive nature of many sites.
Tips for camping with families
Tent-only sites: Mill Creek Dispersed Camping offers spaces specifically suited for tent campers with children. "There are a lot of flat spots to choose from," notes Eileen S., which is helpful for setting up multiple tents for family groups.
Water activities: During summer months, water features provide entertainment for children. "Nice splash zone," mentions Ken B. about Yucaipa Regional Park, which offers relief from summer heat.
Weekend planning: Popular family-friendly sites fill quickly during peak season. "It's a lot of fun for the whole family. A fun place to be if you live local. A good place to go if you like to be around other people," says Katarina A., suggesting that social interaction can be a plus for families at busier campgrounds.
Educational opportunities: Mary F. notes, "There's no larger wildlife, like bears, so less stressful when you have pets or kids. Plenty of space to bring bikes and ride around. There's a large community park right next-door where you can go and play baseball, basketball, sand volleyball, or frisbee."
Tips from RVers
Site conditions: Green Valley Lake Recreation Area accommodates smaller RVs but requires careful navigation. "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," reports Aleena S.
Water and waste management: With limited facilities at many sites, RVers should arrive with full water tanks. Jason O. shares, "We're usually full-time boondockers, and this was the first time we've paid for an RV park, so we don't have a lot to compare it to. But overall it's been a pleasant stay."
Seasonal considerations: Access for larger vehicles becomes limited during winter months. "Deep in nature, beautiful area, no cost and you can almost always find a spot, even on a Saturday in summer," says Nathaniel C. about Stockton Flats, emphasizing the seasonal nature of accessibility.
Size limitations: Most yellow post sites cannot accommodate larger RVs. "The newer sites don't have a lot of mature trees, the older sites have a little more wear and tear but also bigger trees," notes Ken B. about Yucaipa Regional Park, which offers more developed options for RVers.
