Tent camping near Temecula, California ranges from high mountain sites at 9,100 feet to lower elevation options closer to town. The San Jacinto Mountains create significant temperature variations, with mountain sites often 20-30 degrees cooler than valley locations. Many campgrounds require advance planning, especially during peak seasons from April through October when permits for backcountry sites can book up to 8 weeks ahead.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Yucaipa Regional Park, three lakes provide fishing spots for campers of all experience levels. "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.
Hiking the San Jacinto Peak: At Round Valley Campsite, campers can challenge themselves with a summit hike. "We stayed at the round valley campground in March of this year. There was still some snow and it was beautiful. We took the tram up from palm springs and backpacked to the campground before summiting up San Jacinto peak. The views were breathtaking and the elevation was a killer," reports Katie O.
Beach camping: For something completely different than mountain camping, try coastal sites. "Sweet campsite at Dana point surf break. Had a big crew along for spring break. Super nice but book early!" writes Rich J. about Doheny State Beach Campground, providing campers a beach alternative when mountain weather becomes challenging.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: The Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites offer free, secluded camping. "I almost want to give this a 1 star review, just to keep it to myself a little longer. We loved this yellow post site, by far one of my favorites. Private but with cell service, tables and fire pits! Listen to great horned owls while taking in the views!" shares Chelsea R.
Wildlife viewing: Many tent campers report diverse wildlife encounters in the mountain sites. "Labor Day weekend. We occupied the only spot out of five. Lots of wildlife. Raccoons in the night, gray squirrel, other squirrels, many birds," states Rhyn E. about Tool Box Springs.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds near Temecula cost nothing, offering the best tent camping near Temecula for budget travelers. "Excellent place to camp. And free, no less. Need high clearance or 4wd vehicle for a rough road but once you get to the top, the sites are great!" writes Steve about Thomas Hunting Grounds.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Access to many mountain sites requires appropriate vehicles. For Tool Box Springs Yellow Post Campground, Jake P. warns: "I loved the site! It has a bathroom at the very start, but can be a little ways from the sites. I had service up there, not too crowded and the spots are a good ways away from each other! The only downfall is without a high clearance vehicle, it took me an hour and a half to go six miles up, and still scraped and almost got stuck."
Weather preparedness: Mountain temperatures fluctuate dramatically regardless of valley heat. "High elevation means cold at night and I read other reviews that talked about there being bugs but when I went in February there were no bugs," shares Matt M. about Tool Box Springs.
Bug protection: Insects can be problematic at certain campgrounds during warmer months. "This site would've been perfect, and I mean perfect, but the flies were unbearable. I planned to stay two nights but I couldn't make it past the next morning. If I stood still even for a second I was swarmed," reports Steve H. from Tool Box Springs.
Tips for camping with families
Urban-adjacent camping: Kumeyaay Lake Campground offers convenient tent camping near civilization. "Perfect campground located right in San Diego. Great for families with small kids and there are many close trails. There is something for everyone. Bring a picnic to eat by the dam and let the kids explore," recommends Katie O.
Safety planning: When bringing children to remote sites, extra precautions help. "We didnt see a single person camping, it was very isolated so make sure to let friends/family know your travel plans and when to expect you to return," advises a camper from Round Valley.
Water activities: Summer visits benefit from water features. "Park is small, very family friendly, clean and well managed. Lots of places to walk/hike, large sites," reports Christine from Yucaipa Regional Park, which also features a water park during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site conditions: Falcon Group Campground provides accommodations but requires preparation. "I took a group of 14 first time campers here on July 15th and we had a blast! It is very hot during this time so we ended up going down to the Lake to cool off. The campground was very well priced and it had bolted toilets and a water spout. No showers or sinks," explains Jessica C.
Utility hookups: Some campgrounds offer hookups for those who need them. "Excellent campground. Well maintained. Large concrete pads that can handle any rig. So much to do all around a park. Does get very cold, was in the teens overnight when I was there in Feb. Fires allowed which is nice," notes Paul C. at Yucaipa Regional Park.
