230 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping near San Dimas, California ranges from full-hookup RV parks and lakeside campgrounds within city limits to primitive tent sites in the San Bernardino Mountains. The area features campgrounds like Bonelli Bluffs and Fairplex RV Park within city limits, as well as more rustic options in the surrounding mountains. Both tent and RV sites are available at mixed-use campgrounds like Crystal Lake Recreation Area, which operates seasonally from April to December. Many campgrounds offer fire rings, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails, with varying levels of amenities from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV parks.
Camping availability fluctuates with the seasons, particularly at higher elevations in the mountains where sites like Table Mountain Campground only operate from May to November. Lower elevation campgrounds such as Bonelli Bluffs and Prado Regional Park remain open year-round. Reservations are recommended for weekend camping, especially during summer months when temperatures at lower elevations can exceed 90°F. Mountain campgrounds provide cooler alternatives but may require navigation of winding mountain roads. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with better coverage at developed campgrounds closer to urban areas. As one visitor noted, "Crystal Lake would be a great spot to camp for the night if you don't have the time to drive out of the city."
Campers report that the developed campgrounds close to San Dimas balance proximity to urban amenities with natural settings. Bonelli Bluffs offers lake views and hiking trails while remaining close to shopping and dining options. More remote mountain campgrounds provide greater seclusion and cooler temperatures during summer months. Several visitors mentioned the contrast between busy weekends and quieter weekdays at most campgrounds. A review of Bonelli Bluffs described it as having "beautiful views, great hiking/biking, friendly staff." Most campgrounds provide vault toilets or flush restrooms, with shower facilities available at more developed sites. Fire restrictions commonly apply during dry summer and fall months, particularly in the national forest campgrounds where wildfire risk is heightened.
"San dimas is a really nice city full of shopping, and eating. The papa's best sandwich shop is a great place to eat as well!"
"Our experience at Bonelli Bluffs Campground was mostly positive, but there were a couple of aspects that could be improved."
from $76 - $88 / night
Check Availability"We’ve done Crystal Lake probably 6 dozen times or more in our time in California and it never disappoints on the spectacular views."
"Whenever I need to get away from LALA Land, I head up here. I grew up in the mountains of western Pennsylvania, so , sometimes , I need to kick back and recharge."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"We left LA (Hollywood) on a Friday afternoon around 3, and were setting up camp by 5! Luckily a friend got to the campground before us though, as he snagged the last of the 20 or so sites there."
"Coldbrooke is a excellent campground that is relatively close to the city. The camp host was super helpful in explaining the fire restrictions and overall questions."
"I grew up around in the area so I have been to this park quite a few times for a few different reasons. It is a very expansive and versatile area."
"It's a nice park great for long walks and trail riding on bikes great for the dog 🐕 also a bit windy so you need to keep a eye on your awning, great cell service with at&t ."
from $47 - $120 / night
Check Availability"Beautiful trails near by, next to a stream, gorgeous views, and of course that mountain air! Trees are perfect for hammocks."
"It is set back from the road a little giving you a quieter experience away from the 2. This would be a good first car camping spot for families with young children."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"This is a nice, small campground with easy access to many freeways. "
"That probably makes sense since a side entrance is only a mile down the road from us. We hike this several times a month."
from $30 - $120 / night
Check Availability"Close by Hobit trails clear and inviting trails .rivers and in the winter snow....lots of campsites.... seen deer..rabbits and a multitude of squirrels. ..."
"Top of mt Baldy road.. almost as far as you can drive. Not many sites, about 20. One giant loop. No reservations needed."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"If you have a chance after - drive the whole Angeles crest highway! Worth the trouble. You are also located close to the PCT, take a hike!"
"We got a campsite that was on the outside of the loop. We were in Cherokee loop in campsite #87."
from $30 - $500 / night
Check Availability"car there in the parking lot can seem like it's a mile away even though it's not that far away very pleased with it very noisy with the traffic going by if that's where your spot is by the road but away from"
"Campground We had been driving around the campground loops for more than an hour, and had just about given up, when we say the sign for overflow camping near the exit of the Chilao campground loop"
"Great spot to get away from the big city being only a 45min drive from the Downtown, couldn’t ask for more"
from $20 / night
Check Availability
TravelerStayed one night on our way to Utah. Super quiet on Sunday night, we were able to drive right up and pick a spot pretty secluded. Bathrooms were spotless. Camp host was friendly!
ScoutPlace is ok. Quiet so far. Nice people.
ScoutIt wasn't sure about camping there parks and camped in the tent wasn't bothered by anybody but we did see a bear so be cautious
ScoutEasy access but away from street noise. Nothing elegant or fancy but it's a nice spot to spend the weekend. RV sites are next to the baseball fields, which is fun! Some sites have shade trees (beware of dripping pine trees). Grass and trees off the RV sites. Sites are on gravel and concrete pads. Great view of the nearby mountains. Park security patrols throughout the day. We've stayed here twice and would definitely visit again!
ScoutWe just wanted a place close enough to Universal Studios so we could Uber there and not have to pay for Park Parking. Worked for that plus a 7/11 in walking distance was helpful!
Rafael could only text us but he did always answer back (sometimes it took a little bit longer which was in the middle of the day when we were updating him on our arrival time).
Overall it was a good stay and would definitely use the place again if we were wanting a place near that area.
If I had one critique, I would say it a little pricey for what it is but maybe that normal for the area.
GuideIt was easy to find and access based on information on The Dyrt posted by other users. Great for train enthusiasts. Lots of traffic noise from the highway. We even encountered a rare black coyote. Unfortunately I didn’t have the mental presence to snap a picture but it came right up to the trailer. I don’t believe in feeding wildlife but probably others had. Unfortunately there was lots of trash left behind by previous campers or local partiers. I plan to use this location regularly as a launching off point for destinations in Nevada, Utah, and Colorado. Very convenient location, there are also convenience stores, a McDonalds, and very expensive gasoline nearby.
ScoutNot very secluded, tight spaces, but very mellow campground, great staff, I really enjoyed it.
TravelerSilverwood Lake Campground offers a range of site experiences depending on where you stay. Some campsites are fairly close together and don’t offer much privacy, while others are more tucked away and feel noticeably more secluded. That said, the sites with better privacy can come with a tradeoff: there may not be enough room to comfortably pitch a tent right next to the car, which could be inconvenient if you like keeping your setup compact and organized. Overall, the campground seems best for campers who are flexible about site layout and are willing to choose between privacy and convenience. If having space to park and set up camp side by side is important, some of the more open sites may work better, even if they are less private.
TravelerCute and nice spot has all amenities has playground pool fishing spot quiet clean and staff are friendly
San Dimas camping areas sit between 900 feet and 5,700 feet elevation, creating distinct climate zones within a short driving distance. Lower elevation campgrounds near San Dimas maintain temperatures between 50-90°F year-round, while mountain options like Crystal Lake Recreation Area can drop below freezing during winter months. Campgrounds on the eastern side of the Angeles National Forest typically receive less rainfall than western locations, making them drier but more accessible during winter months.
Horseback riding at Bonelli Bluffs: Just 10 minutes from downtown San Dimas, this campground offers equestrian trails with lake views. "I brought my horses one time and it was amazing the best time of my life," writes Jessica P. about Bonelli Bluffs.
Hiking from Buckhorn Campground: Located at 6,300 feet elevation, this campground connects directly to multiple trails in the Angeles National Forest. "There's hiking trails right out of the campground. A stream runs through the campground in the spring," explains Lauralyn J. about Buckhorn Campground.
Wildlife observation at Chilao Campground: Situated in a transitional zone between desert and forest, this area supports diverse wildlife. "We sat in the darkness and took in the stars with the sound of the creek below us," reports Alexis S., adding that "the campgrounds are beautiful with the natural vegetation mix of what seem to be some sort of large succulent with an abundance of beautiful trees and shrubs."
Easy access to hiking trails: Many San Dimas camping areas connect directly to trail systems. "This is a great campground and it was only an hour drive for us from San Bernardino area," says Troy L. about Table Mountain Campground, noting it was "right next to the trail head."
Mid-week solitude: Weekday camping offers a completely different experience than weekends. "We arrived on a Wednesday afternoon in May and got my pick of sites. There were only 4-6 other campers each night so it was very quiet," writes Michelle W. about Manker Campground.
Year-round options: Unlike many mountain campgrounds that close for winter, Prado Regional Park remains open all year. "The campgrounds have more than enough privacy with each one being about 15 to 20 yards apart. A ton of recreational things to do. Quiet at night," notes Troy A.
Fire restrictions vary by location and season: Higher elevation camps often have stricter rules. "We camped during a no fire period so no campfires or outdoor propane gas stove fires," reports Alexis S. about Coldbrook Campground, although another visitor noted that "park ranger said it was okay to have fire within the pit" at Chilao Campground.
Water quality issues: Not all water sources are reliable for drinking. "Water is available but bring your own, there were boil signs everywhere," warns Jordan R. about Chilao Campground.
Insects can be problematic: Several campgrounds report seasonal insect challenges. "Lots of gnats! They swarm your face but then after you sit still for about a minute they leave you alone," reports Lizzie B. about Coldbrook Campground.
Splash pad access: Some campgrounds offer water features specifically for children. "Playground and splash pad kept the youngins entertained," mentions Wilbur L. about Prado Regional Park.
Bear-safe camping: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions. "We have camped here a few times. Had an encounter with a bear both times. Lost our marshmallows," reports Kat M. about Coldbrook Campground, highlighting the importance of proper food storage.
Easy first-time camping: For new camping families, select campgrounds with basic amenities. "Great place for first time campers or families," states Jordan R. about Chilao Campground, which has "clean vault toilets and facilities, very well maintained."
Site selection matters: RV sites vary greatly in quality and amenities. "Not every site has a fire pit," mentions Veronica P. about Bonelli Bluffs, adding that "the C9 RV spot was very spacious, I also liked the A & B area."
Space limitations at some campgrounds: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "Spaces are very tight. Good for 1 nite only stay," cautions Lawrence P. about Fairplex RV Park, adding it's "not much room to maneuver a lg. rv. in."
Better cell service at lower elevation sites: Mountain campgrounds often have limited connectivity. "No AT&T service," reports Michelle W. about Manker Campground, while campgrounds closer to town like Bonelli Bluffs typically maintain consistent cell service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find campgrounds in San Dimas?
The primary camping option in San Dimas is Bonelli Bluffs, which offers beautiful views and great hiking/biking trails in a convenient location. Just a short drive away, you'll find Little Jimmy Trail Campground in the Angeles National Forest, a backcountry hike-in site about 2 miles off Angeles Crest Highway with first-come, first-served sites and vault toilets. For more options, explore the nearby San Gabriel Mountains or head toward nearby Chino Hills for additional camping opportunities.
Is overnight camping allowed at San Dimas Lake?
Overnight camping isn't permitted directly at San Dimas Lake (Puddingstone Reservoir). However, you can camp right next to the lake at Bonelli Bluffs, which provides sites with lake views and access. If you're looking for other lake camping alternatives in the region, consider Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground or San Bernardino National Forest Green Valley Campground near Big Bear for tent camping with lake access.
Can you swim at North Shore Beach in San Dimas?
Yes, swimming is allowed at North Shore Beach on Puddingstone Reservoir in San Dimas during designated swimming seasons, typically summer months when lifeguards are present. The beach offers a designated swimming area with sandy shores. For alternative swimming options in Southern California, consider Doheny State Beach Campground or Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground, both offering excellent beachfront camping with swimming access to the Pacific Ocean.
What RV facilities are available in San Dimas?
For RV camping in the San Dimas area, Fairplex RV Park in nearby Pomona offers full hookups and big-rig-friendly sites. A short drive away, Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort provides level gravel sites with hookups, laundry facilities, and amenities for RVers. Other nearby options include Prado Regional Park with water, toilets, and big-rig accessibility for a more natural setting while still having necessary RV amenities.
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