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Best Campgrounds near San Dimas, CA

1,155 Reviews

The Angeles National Forest and San Bernardino Mountains provide diverse camping options near San Dimas, California. The area features established 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.

Map showing campgrounds near San Dimas, CaliforniaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near San Dimas, California (221)

    1. Bonelli Bluffs

    38 Reviews
    South El Monte, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 599-8355

    $76 - $88 / night

    "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."

    2. Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground

    26 Reviews
    Valyermo, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (626) 335-1251

    "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."

    3. Coldbrook Campground

    18 Reviews
    Glendora, CA
    12 miles
    Website

    "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."

    4. Prado Regional Park

    21 Reviews
    Chino, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 597-4260

    $47 - $120 / night

    "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 ."

    5. Buckhorn Campground

    20 Reviews
    Juniper Hills, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (818) 899-1900

    $12 / night

    "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."

    6. Rolling M. Ranch Campground — Chino Hills State Park

    14 Reviews
    Chino Hills, CA
    14 miles

    $30 - $120 / night

    "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."

    7. Manker Campground

    13 Reviews
    Mount Baldy, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (626) 335-1251

    $12 / night

    "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."

    8. Table Mountain Campground

    21 Reviews
    Wrightwood, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 249-3526

    $30 - $500 / night

    "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."

    9. Fairplex RV Park

    4 Reviews
    Pomona, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 593-8915

    "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"

    10. Chilao Campground

    17 Reviews
    Mount Wilson, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (818) 790-1151

    $12 / night

    "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"

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Recent Camping Photos near San Dimas, CA

377 Photos of 221 San Dimas Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near San Dimas, CA

1155 Reviews of 221 San Dimas Campgrounds

  • B
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    Stunning but Safety Concerns

    I’ve camped at the Keller Peak yellow post sites more than two dozen times over the years and, at their best, they’re incredible. The scenery and isolation are superb—starry skies, quiet nights, and that deep-woods stillness that’s getting harder to find. For years this was my go-to spot. 

    Unfortunately, I’ve also watched trash and waste increase. Please, pack it out—these sites only stay special if we treat them with care. 

    My last trip was frightening enough that I haven’t returned. Late at night a group of locals came to the edge of my site, yelling and using threatening language. They assumed I was homeless despite my SUV and proper camping setup. I was using a portable propane fire pit—which is allowed—and I calmly explained that. I can understand why fire is an issue to locals.  I only felt safe because my small dog has a very loud bark, which kept them from coming closer. They said they were calling a ranger. I left the next morning, shaken. On my way out, I spoke with a park ranger who confirmed propane fire pits are permitted and told me they don’t patrol up there at night because of recurring issues like this. She also mentioned they were trying to move the site to a reservation system to deter homeless use; I’m not sure if that has happened yet. 

    It’s a shame, because this area is one of the best around. I’m sharing this so others can make an informed choice.  

    Pros - Spectacular views and true solitude Cool nights, dark skies, classic forest feel

    Cons -  Rising litter and human waste Nighttime safety concerns due to occasional rowdy visitors Limited ranger presence after dark

     I hope increased stewardship and enforcement can restore the magic here.

  • Nickchris G.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Horsemen's Center

    Horseman's center!

    Beautiful views of the entire city and never bothered by anyone, can do bonfires, and even camp right out my car.

  • Wayne S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest

    Nice little park

    Very small campground. Camping sites are spread out. The access road is very narrow. We did it with a 22 foot fifth wheel. Space 41 could hold a much longer rig but it would be a challenge even getting to that space. There were only two other campers here while we were here. Lots of trees but not so thick you dont get some sun. The road getting to the campgrounds is somewhat narrow and has some hairpin turns so again it might be difficult for someone with a long trailer We camped at Applewhite Campground in a Fifth Wheel.

  • ROCKSTAR C.
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Hare School Park

    It’s the sports fields parking lot

    I’ve been here for a couple days and nobody’s mess with us. There’s other people that are staying in another parking lot attached that are homeless in their vehicles mostly cars and vans. I’m in a 25 foot Fleetwood RV. There’s a dog park kind of area with a big field they can run around and just clean up after them.There’s no public bathrooms, but there are trash cans so clean up after yourself please. It’s not tent friendly. I don’t believe.

  • Lizzette M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Hollywood RV Park

    Gem near the big city

    I came 3 days ago in my class C. Showers and restrooms were clean and supplied. The RV is cute very Hollywood movies vibes. Trees lovely gardens to walk the dogs. Commerce walking distance. I’m staying 8 more days.✌️

  • A
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    Bobcat Campsite

    Awesome campsite. Free showers. Electrical outlets by the restrooms at a handicap site. Water spigots scattered around the bobcat site. Dumpsters within walking distance from your site. The locals in the area will take your site if you arrive late. Just head back to the campground entrance and they will send a park ranger to remove them. The restrooms get cleaned daily around 8-10am. More than enough room at site 380

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Canyon RV Park

    Relaxed, clean, friendly, infor.ative, quiet

    Been passing this exit on the 91 freewqy for 25 years and had no idea canyon Rv park was tucked in beween corona and yorba linda. I was quite amazed with the tidy faculitie a d wqs very peacefull. When U are smake dab in the middle of asfalt jungle. I litteraly forgot where i was because its like a little bubble on you .exot the freeway a d e ter the park everything behind you just melts away and i felt like i was in the woods, and at times i swear i was the only camper here. If you are into easy going peacefull quite camp sites this is one of them

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

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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