Tent campsites near Yorba Linda, California range from established sites with amenities to primitive backcountry locations. Camping areas in the San Gabriel Mountains typically sit at elevations between 3,000-7,000 feet, creating cooler conditions during summer months when Yorba Linda temperatures often exceed 90°F. Fire restrictions change seasonally, with complete bans common during high fire danger periods.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 0.5-mile trail leads to Millard Falls from Millard Trail Campground, providing a shaded route even on hot days. "The waterfall trail is nothing but shade provided by the trees foliage and the creek kept our dogs cool as they would jump in and out of the small pools," notes Chris O.
Mountain biking: Extensive trail networks connect many campgrounds in the region. At China Camp State Park Campground, "There are definitely better mountain biking trails in Marin but keep in mind that the bar is very high for mountain biking in Marin. So China Camp won't disappoint even if it's not the most epic biking in the area," according to Nathaniel S.
Fishing: Stream access available at several backcountry campgrounds. The road to Glenn Trail Camp Campground "is lined with fishing platforms for all sorts of trout, as the road follows a river the entire way," writes Kevin L. The campground requires a 6.5-mile hike or bike ride to access.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many sites offer separation from urban environments. "This walk-in campground is part of China Camp State Park. Only 33 tent-only sites! Wheeled totes can be borrowed to haul your gear up some little hills to your campsite under oak and bay trees," reports Laura F.
Wildlife viewing: Common sightings include deer, raccoons, and birds at most campgrounds. Tim J. shares that at Valley Forge Trail Camp, "There is usually a stream for filtering water. Plenty of sites for camping. Usually quiet when not too many people around."
Natural water features: Seasonal creeks flow through several tent camping areas. "In April the creek was full, with several creek crossings on the hike and crisp, fresh water along the campsite that contribute to a beautifully green owasis of a meadow. I would imagine it would be a sad/nonexistent creek flow in the summer," notes Kelly B.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Rules vary by location and season, sometimes changing with little notice. At Mount Lowe, Tom P. warns, "Check on camp fires permitted (last time I was there ABSOLUTELY NO FIRES ALLOWED)."
Water access: Most backcountry sites require filtering or treating creek water. Manker Campground offers drinking water nearby, though sites further from roads may require filtration systems.
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity noted in multiple campground reviews. "The raccoons here are AGGRESSIVE! They won't attack you, but they will walk right up to your camp and try to steal your food," shares Rosie C. about China Camp State Park.
Parking limitations: Many trailhead lots fill early, especially on weekends. Laura F. advises, "Parking fills up within an hour on weekends so get there as soon as the parking lot opens at 6am."
Tips for camping with families
Easy starter hikes: Choose gentler trails for younger children. Tom P. recommends Millard Trail Camp: "Lots of trails all around with a nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups."
Walk-in sites with gear assistance: Some locations provide equipment to transport gear. At Doheny State Beach Campground, Veronica H. shares, "I am camping with my husband and 3 kids and our puppy. The hosts are friendly, cheap firewood, china beach village is just down the road and perfect to explore and swim."
Consider campground traffic patterns: Some sites experience high day-use activity. Jessica P. notes about Millard Trail Camp: "People come here to hike into the trails to the waterfall. Which I can say the waterfall is nice. But other than that I wouldn't recommend coming here to camp. Maybe day use only but not overnight camping."
Tips from RVers
Beach camping options: Oceanfront RV camping available at select locations. Paul N. describes Doheny State Beach: "Beautiful beachfront camping steps from the sand. Dry camping with a dump station available. Great sunsets and beautiful sand."
No hookup considerations: Bring sufficient water and power sources. "There are no hook ups but the price is right for beach front camping," reports Karissa J., who enjoys "the sound of the waves and the fog horn."
Dump station access: Some campgrounds provide services for nominal fees. Manuel P. explains, "Dump site: When we first arrive it was out of order with a 'clogged signed'. It was fixed the following day. There is a $10 fee, they have a convenient credit card machine."
