Campsites near Victorville, California range from high desert scrub terrain at 2,700 feet to pine-studded mountain retreats at elevations over 6,000 feet. The area experiences dramatic temperature swings between daytime highs and nighttime lows, particularly in spring and fall when temperature differences can exceed 30°F. Many campgrounds implement fire restrictions during summer and early fall due to high wildfire danger in the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest.
What to do
Hike to Bonita Falls: Access this waterfall trail from Bonita Ranch Campground, where multiple hikers confirm the path is easily found. "Cozy getaway in San Bernardino Forest with beautiful hiking trails and waterfall," notes Justin I., while Sara H. adds, "The falls are located fairly close unfortunately people suck and have managed to turn it into a tagging area but if you can see past that it's quite enjoyable."
Mountain biking: Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites offers access to forest trails suitable for intermediate riders. "Bike trail is fun and a challenge," reports Sam H., who stayed in a travel trailer at site 4. The nearby Exploration Trail weaves around the campsites and leads to the peak, offering both hiking and biking opportunities.
Kayak on Lake Arrowhead: From North Shore Campground, kayakers can access the lake within minutes. "We had our kayaks and it is a beautiful lake to kayak. But when it gets windy, know your limits," advises Ed E., who recommends morning paddling "before the afternoon winds come in as the weather cools down."
What campers like
Private hot springs access: Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp Retreat offers exclusive spring pools for campers. Jessica B. notes, "The deep creek hot springs were absolutely fabulous, as they were situated next to a cold creek where we could do therapeutic hot cold plunges." The retreat requires driving 6 miles on mountainous dirt roads but rewards with complete seclusion.
Spacious desert campsites: Mojave River Forks Regional Park earns praise for its well-spaced sites. Bower comments, "The campsites in the area where we were, were spacious and spread out. We liked very much not being on top of one another and appreciated how vast this campground is." Sites include water and electrical hookups, along with a dump station.
Privacy at Yellow Post sites: Campers value the seclusion at backcountry sites. "There are only 9 sites stretched across 5 miles so you will have no neighbors," explains Kristil C. about Keller Peak. Another camper, Kate W., specifically recommends "site #9! It pokes out over the mountains and has the most unbelievable view!"
What you should know
Extreme weather conditions: Desert campgrounds near Victorville experience significant temperature fluctuations. At Mojave River Forks, Bower warns, "It was incredibly windy when we went in April 2021. In addition to the wind, it was very chilly in the evenings and through the night. Plan accordingly." Rick S. advises, "I would avoid camping here during the summer since it does get very hot."
Limited site amenities: Many campgrounds offer basic services only. At Deep Creek, Jake P. reports, "Showers, pit toilet, running water, but it's 10$ a night. Hardly any shade unless you get a good site." Be prepared with your own provisions as most campgrounds have minimal facilities.
Cell service limitations: Bonita Ranch Campground and other mountain locations have spotty connectivity. At Mojave River Forks, one reviewer notes, "T-Mobile signal was poor and Verizon and AT&T cell signals were slightly better." Download maps and directions before heading to remote sites.
Tips for camping with families
Choose yurt camping for comfort: Yurt camping near Victorville, California offers families a comfortable alternative to tents. North Shore Campground by Lake Arrowhead features yurts that Janae P. describes as "a nice little getaway from the hustle bustle with decent shade (depending on site) and relatively cool neighbors." The campground is "a stones throw away" from the lake.
Check family-friendly amenities: Barstow-Calico KOA provides extensive recreation options for children. Jennifer H. reports, "Kids loved the pool, playground, gate room with pool, foosball, ping pong and more. They had a few other new friends to play with and a huge space out back to start a pick up wiffle ball game."
Consider noise levels: Family campers should be strategic about site selection. At North Shore Campground, Summer A. warns, "The noise restrictions after 10pm are not enforced so bring ear plugs. Expect a lot of people walking through your site." Sites closer to lakeshores tend to have more foot traffic.
Tips from RVers
Level sites are essential: At Serrano Campground, Martha S. notes, "Nice 'big' spots so you don't feel like you're on top of one another," but suggests checking site specifications carefully. North Shore sites can be challenging as Christian N. mentions, "Our site wasn't super flat," which can create difficulties for larger rigs.
Watch for hookup placement: Michael M. at Barstow-Calico KOA advises checking utility locations: "The sewer drain being at the front end of the site (I had to put an extension on my poop pipe)." Many desert RV sites have full hookups but may require additional hose or cable length to reach connection points.
Winter RV considerations: Nicole W. shared her Serrano experience: "We camped here the last weekend before they closed for the winter, after Thanksgiving. Our sewer outlet was frozen in the morning, so we had to dump when we got out of the mountains." RVers should winterize appropriately when yurt camping Victorville California area mountains during colder months.
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