Cabin camping near Upland, California provides convenient access to the San Gabriel Mountains, where elevations range from 4,000 to 8,000 feet. The area receives approximately 30 inches of annual rainfall, creating diverse forest ecosystems that transition from chaparral to pine. Winter temperatures at higher elevations can drop below freezing, while summer highs reach into the 90s.
What to do
Hiking from your cabin: Crystal Lake Recreation Area offers multiple trail options directly from the campground. "This is probably our favorite place to go considering we end up hear almost every other weekend year around... Bring your dirt bike and hit some of the trails, it's a definite must!" notes Salem L. about Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Several cabin locations provide fishing access, though conditions vary seasonally. A visitor to Mountain Lakes Resort explains, "There's two lakes in one pond there's one catfish lake and then a trout lake. The lakes are stocked on Thursday and there's no fishing on that day." The lakes remain accessible year-round for cabin guests.
Water recreation: Some cabin locations feature seasonal water activities during warmer months. At Huttopia Paradise Springs, visitors enjoy swimming options. "We loved our stay! The ultimate glamping experience, everything was so cozy and beautiful," reports Vanessa O. about their cabin experience.
What campers like
Secluded spots: Cabins at higher elevations offer greater privacy and cooler temperatures. According to Ginger V., "If you drive further towards the back of the site you can find nice, secluded sites." Many campers value the privacy options at Crystal Lake Recreation Area during weekdays.
Wildlife viewing: The foothills and mountain cabin locations provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Animals seen: Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds," noted Forest G. about their stay at Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park.
Winter cabin access: Several locations remain open year-round despite seasonal changes. "We stayed here two nights in August, it was nice and cool a good break from the heat," shares Robert A., highlighting the temperature advantages of higher elevation cabin camping near Upland.
What you should know
Winter preparation: Cabins at higher elevations require additional preparation during colder months. "It can get extremely cold at night in the canyons, even if it's in the high 80s during the day. Be prepared," warns one Crystal Cove camper.
Cash requirements: Some amenities require additional payment beyond cabin rental. A visitor to Bonita Ranch Campground advises, "This place is nice enough for a quick stop, city-sh feel but clean air. I will say it was nice to 'let go' at this place."
Seasonal closures: Not all cabin locations remain fully operational year-round. "Due to lack of rainfall and snow melt the lake is almost dry," observed Robert A. about Crystal Lake. Water-dependent activities often become limited during late summer and fall.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Family-friendly cabin locations offer structured activities throughout the week. At Mountain Lakes Resort, a regular visitor shares, "They have activities themes that very from weekend a weekend such as example there was a petting zoo they had a Western one time."
Playground access: Several cabin locations include dedicated children's areas. At Rancho Jurupa RV Park, Michele N. notes, "Great family campground. Fishing and a splash water park. This place has two campgrounds. Cottonwood and Lakeside. Cottonwood is the nicest of the two."
Safety considerations: Some locations have specific safety protocols for families. "Security was great and super friendly. Roomy camping spots and amazing views," mentions Matthew D. about Crystal Cove State Park, highlighting the security presence that many families appreciate.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When bringing an RV to cabin camping areas, location matters. "If your towable is on the long side, you might have to work a bit to back it in. The maximum length is 38. We had 30/50 amp electrical and water," advises Patrick J. from Crystal Cove about navigating larger vehicles.
Space considerations: Cabin and RV sites vary significantly in size and layout. At Fairplex RV Park, Lawrence P. cautions, "No longer a KOA. Spaces are very tight. Good for 1 nite only stay. Staff was friendly and place is clean but not much room to maneuver a lg. rv. in."
Hookup availability: Not all cabin camping areas offer full RV services. "Clean campsites! Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities. Nice staff! Would of liked to be on grass like the sites across but they were clean!" reports Marcella D. about Rancho Jurupa Park.
