The mountainous areas surrounding Upland, California offer camping options ranging from 1,200 feet to over 8,000 feet in elevation. Temperatures can vary dramatically between seasons, with summer daytime highs often exceeding 90°F in lower elevations while mountain camps stay 15-20 degrees cooler. Most campgrounds in the area operate with fire restrictions during dry periods, typically from May through October.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Near Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground, you'll find several trail options suitable for various skill levels. "There are many hiking opportunities and chances to see wildlife (deer, wild turkey, rabbits, squirrels, racoons, and birds)," notes a visitor who appreciated the biodiversity.
Fishing opportunities: At Bonelli Bluffs, the lake offers year-round fishing access with catfish being the primary catch. As one camper mentions, "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics, you can use your jet skies in designated areas, swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more."
Explore historic sites: Within a 20-minute drive from Rancho Jurupa Park, you can visit the Mission Inn in Riverside. According to a camper, "We drove over to the Mission Inn (8 min drive) enjoyed lunch. Their is a pedestrian only shopping area with a Saturday farmer's market plus lots of restaurants."
Hiking to waterfalls: From Bonita Ranch Campground, take the short hike to Bonita Falls. "The creek running behind the camp is great to explore, and a waterfall is a short hike away. We also lucked out finding berries in August," reports one visitor who enjoyed the accessible natural features.
What campers like
Cooler mountain temperatures: At Table Mountain Campground, the 7,000-foot elevation provides relief from summer valley heat. "Gorgeous campground to be visited during wildflower season," mentions one camper, highlighting the seasonal appeal of higher elevation sites.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers frequently report animal sightings in the quieter campgrounds. At Crystal Lake, one visitor noted, "ANIMALS SEEN: Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds."
Accessibility to urban amenities: From Prado Regional Park, campers can easily access shopping and dining. "Perfect to get out of the city but still be in it. Campgrounds have more than enough privacy with each one being about 15 to 20 yards apart. A ton of recreational things to do," reports a recent visitor.
Secluded spots: Even in busy campgrounds, quieter sites can be found. At Bonelli Bluffs, a camper appreciated that "I loved this place, this hidden gem is located in the in the middle of the city, with the feel of the outdoor. Lots of trees, biking and hiking trails, fishing area, beautiful views."
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Many mountain campgrounds close completely during winter. At Manker Campground, operating season runs May to October, and one visitor noted: "We went 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."
Fire regulations: At Coldbrook Campground, fire restrictions vary throughout the year. A camper advised, "We camped during a no fire period so no campfires or outdoor propane gas stove fires. We sat in the darkness and took in the stars with the sound of the creek below us."
Weekend crowding: Most campgrounds fill quickly Friday through Sunday. At Crystal Lake, a visitor warned, "It is very crowded on the weekends. However, if you drive further towards the back of the site you can find nice, secluded sites."
Wildlife precautions: Bears and raccoons are common in mountain campgrounds. "We have camped here a few times. Had an encounter with a bear both times. Lost our marshmellows," reported a Coldbrook Campground visitor, highlighting the importance of proper food storage.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: The splash pad at Rancho Jurupa Park provides a safe alternative to lake swimming. "LOTS of activities for families (splash pad). Very spacious and good for big rigs," notes a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly amenities.
Playground access: At Rolling M. Ranch Campground, kids can enjoy designated play areas between hiking excursions. "Hiking trails to the nearby hills which provided unique perspectives on the suburban sprawl, began right out of the campground. Opportunities to cycle and hike throughout the park were abundant."
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds feature nature programs during summer months. At Bonelli Bluffs, the lakeside location allows for wildlife observation. A camper mentioned, "I brought my horses one time and it was amazing the best time of my life. The views are incredible."
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds have better security measures than others. One family camping at Prado Regional Park observed, "Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes. Lots of food spots within 10 minutes. Spaces are one of the cleanest I seen. Ranger is on constant patrol."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: For full-service camping, Prado Regional Park offers complete connections. "The sites here are pretty nice and far enough apart to have some privacy. With the local dairies are more insects than many campgrounds. Can be annoying," mentions a visitor who appreciated the site spacing.
Road access challenges: Some mountain campgrounds have difficult approach roads. At Crystal Lake, RVers should note the winding mountain access. One camper observed, "It's a very narrow and winding, single lane at times, lots of traffic (and so lots of backing up and negotiating around other cars in the narrower sections)."
Dump station information: Not all campgrounds with RV sites offer dump facilities. At Bonita Ranch Campground, campers appreciate the full hookups. "This place is awesome full hookups lots to do trails and not to mention right on top of the creek. Friendly staff helpful too restrooms r clean showers clean too."
Site leveling requirements: Mountain campgrounds often have uneven sites. At Table Mountain, a camper noted, "I stayed in site 49 and it has a great view during sunset and a couple of great places for a hammock. The ground is a little slanted in most of the sites but not enough that it's not tolerable."
