Best Campgrounds near San Dimas, CA

San Dimas in California has many camping spots within driving distance. San Clemente State Beach Campground puts you right by the ocean with quick beach access. You'll find Serrano Campground in the San Bernardino National Forest with tall pines all around and basic amenities like flush toilets and showers. Lake Almanor is good for campers who want to fish or take boats out on the water. Most campgrounds can be reached on paved roads, though some spots might need a higher-clearance vehicle when it rains. Both tent campers and RVers will find suitable sites near San Dimas, and many RV spots come with full hookups. Most camps have drinking water and picnic tables. Hikers can take trails with good views and different challenge levels nearby. Fishing is good in the area's lakes and streams. Since San Dimas isn't far from Los Angeles, it's a quick nature break for city people. Weather-wise, summer gets hot, so spring and fall are better for camping. Winter brings cooler temps that work well for hiking. Always check if campfires are allowed, especially during dry times. San Dimas camping combines good natural areas with easy access.

Best Camping Sites Near San Dimas, California (213)

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Recent Reviews near San Dimas, CA

1110 Reviews of 213 San Dimas Campgrounds



Guide to San Dimas

Camping near San Dimas, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around Bonelli Bluffs. Many campers enjoy the scenic views and well-maintained paths. One reviewer mentioned, "Good access to walking and biking trails," making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Beach Access: If you’re up for a short drive, head to San Clemente State Beach Campground. It's just a 10-minute walk to the beach, perfect for a day of sun and surf. A visitor noted, "The walk to the beach was close," highlighting its convenience.
  • Fishing and Water Sports: Lake Perris is nearby, where you can enjoy fishing or paddleboarding. One camper shared, "Short walk/drive to the lake which was also very nice for my son!" making it a family-friendly option.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campgrounds like Serrano are praised for their cleanliness. A reviewer stated, "Beautiful campground. Clean restrooms and showers," which is a big plus for many.
  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach. One happy camper remarked, "Sites are quite large with bushes/trees between sites," providing a sense of privacy.
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. A visitor at Bonelli Bluffs mentioned, "Personnel very kind and friendly," which adds to the overall experience.

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy. A camper at Doheny State Beach Campground reported, "People up till 2 am with car lights on and speakers going," so be prepared for potential disturbances.
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Sawtooth Canyon Campground has no drinking water or showers, so plan accordingly.
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots like Malibu Creek State Park can fill up quickly on weekends. A visitor noted, "Sites are pretty close together," so consider going during the week for a quieter experience.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Serrano, which offers spacious sites and nearby hiking trails. A family shared, "The campground was clean, quiet, and had a decent amount of space between sites."
  • Bring Entertainment: Since some campgrounds lack playgrounds, be ready with games or outdoor activities. One reviewer at Bonelli Bluffs mentioned, "We had to get creative in finding ways to occupy their time during downtime."
  • Plan for Meals: Make sure to pack easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A camper at Dogwood appreciated the "convenient bathrooms and water stations," which can help with meal prep.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Doheny State Beach Campground noted, "If you are in an RV, you will be fine," but tent campers may find it tight.
  • Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds, like Sawtooth Canyon, don’t offer electric hookups. A reviewer mentioned, "No water and no trash service," so plan your resources accordingly.
  • Arrive Early: Popular spots can fill up fast. A camper at Malibu Creek State Park advised, "Be aware of when you’re going and what time you will want to show up."

Camping around San Dimas has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a fun family adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near San Dimas, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, San Dimas, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 213 campgrounds and RV parks near San Dimas, CA and 7 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near San Dimas, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near San Dimas, CA is Bonelli Bluffs with a 4.4-star rating from 37 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near San Dimas, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near San Dimas, CA.

  • What parks are near San Dimas, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near San Dimas, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.