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 (215)

    1. Bonelli Bluffs

    37 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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Showing results 1-10 of 215 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near San Dimas, CA

1126 Reviews of 215 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 215 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.