Best Campgrounds near Yucaipa, CA

Join the fun near Yucaipa. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Yucaipa is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Discover great camping spots near Yucaipa, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Yucaipa, California (377)

    1. Yucaipa Regional Park

    20 Reviews
    Yucaipa, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (909) 790-3127

    "Loved camping at yucaipa been twice so far are favorite place so peaceful and beautiful a lil bummed lakes were closed but still had a fun week"

    "There are a lot of available activities and the Yucaipa Community Park is also next door. Drug store and grocery store very close going north. Going south you can find all kinds of stuff."

    2. Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    38 Reviews
    Moreno Valley, CA
    14 miles

    $25 - $300 / night

    "It is right next to the lake which has a swimming area, bike path, climbing area, Hiking trails, along with a camp store which has boat rentals and much more!  "

    "Paved full hookup sites right next to each other but quiet neighbors. Campground is just 5minutes from busy town."

    3. Dogwood

    33 Reviews
    Rimforest, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 336-6717

    $40 - $81 / night

    "The trees are massive and plenty and make you feel like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of California."

    "The campground overall is really pretty and in a great location in Lake Arrowhead. However, we made the mistake of booking site 005, which is right on a ridge... it was SO windy."

    4. Serrano

    35 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8021

    $44 - $91 / night

    "We camped just a few steps away from the lake, there were other campers there but the campgrounds are far enough away from each other."

    "This camp site is located walking distance to the lake. There are bike paths and walking trails located near the camp ground."

    5. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites

    13 Reviews
    Angelus Oaks, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2882

    "Most of the sites have incredible views looking out over Lake Hemet and of the San Jacinto mountains."

    "Fun off-road adventure to get to the site. Minimal sites so not much crowding."

    6. San Gorgonio Campground

    21 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8550

    $34 - $69 / night

    "San Gorgonio, aptly named for the famed crown peak near by, is a nice mix of family friendly and weekend escape."

    "If you live in Southern California and haven't climbed the highest peak, you need to get out there and experience nature."

    7. Barton Flats Family Campground

    19 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    13 miles
    Website

    $36 - $73 / night

    "Came here for a weekend, good spot for tent camping, I went on an off trail hike, cool, fun area. Some views. Drove over to the lake but couldn’t find parking. Very quiet and clean as well."

    "mountain just a short hike away from our site, #23. "

    8. Hanna Flat Campground

    25 Reviews
    Fawnskin, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2790

    $33 - $67 / night

    "We were tucked up into the hill side with neighbors far enough sway to make it very private. There were no showers so we brought our travel one and hung it from a branch."

    "We arrived at Hanna Flat campground around 11 am on Friday, August 21. First thing about the campground is that the road to get to it is pretty rough."

    9. Heart Bar Campground

    20 Reviews
    Big Bear City, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8550

    $29 - $58 / night

    "The first thing to mention is the location. The back of the campground faces west where the rolling mountains seem to part in a way that showcases the beautiful California sunset."

    "second reason; there are many many sites to choose from. this camp ground has several loops that each contain roughly 20 campsites, sometimes more. on any given day you should be able to drive up, though"

    10. Pineknot

    18 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8550

    $34 - $36 / night

    "Pineknot is perfectly situated in Big Bear where you're in the woods but only a short walk to Snow Summit. "

    "The last few times we have gone we have stayed in 19 because of its location and layout."

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Recent Reviews near Yucaipa, CA

1631 Reviews of 377 Yucaipa Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    serrano camp grounds

    Great place

    I stayed for one night Wednesday just to try the showers. The showers were perfect! Hot water even! So clean and beautiful. Recommend!

  • B
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    Stunning but Safety Concerns

    I’ve camped at the Keller Peak yellow post sites more than two dozen times over the years and, at their best, they’re incredible. The scenery and isolation are superb—starry skies, quiet nights, and that deep-woods stillness that’s getting harder to find. For years this was my go-to spot. 

    Unfortunately, I’ve also watched trash and waste increase. Please, pack it out—these sites only stay special if we treat them with care. 

    My last trip was frightening enough that I haven’t returned. Late at night a group of locals came to the edge of my site, yelling and using threatening language. They assumed I was homeless despite my SUV and proper camping setup. I was using a portable propane fire pit—which is allowed—and I calmly explained that. I can understand why fire is an issue to locals.  I only felt safe because my small dog has a very loud bark, which kept them from coming closer. They said they were calling a ranger. I left the next morning, shaken. On my way out, I spoke with a park ranger who confirmed propane fire pits are permitted and told me they don’t patrol up there at night because of recurring issues like this. She also mentioned they were trying to move the site to a reservation system to deter homeless use; I’m not sure if that has happened yet. 

    It’s a shame, because this area is one of the best around. I’m sharing this so others can make an informed choice.  

    Pros - Spectacular views and true solitude Cool nights, dark skies, classic forest feel

    Cons -  Rising litter and human waste Nighttime safety concerns due to occasional rowdy visitors Limited ranger presence after dark

     I hope increased stewardship and enforcement can restore the magic here.

  • Elise F.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Fry Creek Campground

    Loved it

    We absolutely loved Fry Creek. It might be our favorite place to camp so far. Our site was removed from others so we weren’t bothered by neighbors. It was a nice large site next to the bathrooms (which were very clean and well maintained) and close to a water spigot and trash can. This campground is definitely a birder’s paradise. We were constantly surrounded and graced by the sounds of woodpeckers, pigeons, mountain quail, bluebirds, jays, and more. One important note though is this entire area is swarmed with flies. We brought nets to put around our faces and without these, I don’t think I would have survived. So definitely bring nets for your face, bug spray, and citronella. Despite this, it was a lovely place. Will be returning one day.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    East Flats

    Nice Peaceful Area

    Wasn’t hard to find a little rough but fairly easy to reach with our Sedan. Couldn’t find too much to do but if you’re looking for a weekend getaway to relax it’s a nice spot.

  • Nickchris G.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Horsemen's Center

    Horseman's center!

    Beautiful views of the entire city and never bothered by anyone, can do bonfires, and even camp right out my car.

  • DeWayne G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Giant Rock Dispersed

    Big Rock camping

    Came out to Big Rock for the meteor shower in August. Yes, it was hot, but I like the heat. We set up our two-day camp along the ridge about 300 yards past Big Rock. Verizon Cell service was non-existent at our site, but we would get 5G at the Rock.

    Other than some graffiti the area was clean and well-kept.

  • Julie
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bogart County Park

    Bogart Regional park

    It was okay for a last minute camping idea.

  • Julie
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bogart County Park

    Yucaipa Regional park

    Great customer service, easy access, restrooms, fishing, swimming and paddle boats.


Guide to Yucaipa

Camping near Yucaipa, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning landscapes and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails around Joshua Tree National Park. Many campers rave about the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer noting, “So much exploring to be had right from your campsite. The high desert is fascinating.”
  • Rock Climbing: If you’re into climbing, the rock formations at Hidden Valley Campground are a must-visit. A camper mentioned, “The campground flanks some large rock formations that host rock climbers during the day.”
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One visitor at Indian Cove Campground shared, “Talk about waking up with the sound of coyotes in your camp; it was so peaceful.”

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the beautiful surroundings. A review for Jumbo Rocks Campground highlights, “It’s a beautiful campground surrounded by giant rocks.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like San Mateo Campground, are praised for their cleanliness. One camper noted, “Clean bathrooms and showers, but we stayed midweek and the place was very, very minimally occupied.”
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Lake Hemet Campground are great for families. A reviewer mentioned, “Great place for family and kids. Affordable.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, such as Black Rock Campground, have limited amenities. A visitor noted, “The roads could use some work and if you have an RV/Trailer/Van you may want some blocks to help get you level.”
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Campgrounds like Hidden Valley operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A camper advised, “Filled up by 4 PM in mid-May. NO water, no electric, no internet.”
  • Noise Levels: Some areas can be noisy, especially near highways. A reviewer at San Clemente State Beach Campground mentioned, “You can try to imagine it’s the sound of the water, but it doesn’t really work out when it’s off sync with the sound of the waves.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Indian Cove Campground, which is noted for being “very family-friendly and I felt safe even though I was alone.”
  • Plan Activities: Bring games or outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. One parent shared, “We had a hard time to level our trailer though,” indicating the need for some planning.
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Make sure to have plenty of snacks and drinks on hand, especially if you’re hiking. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground suggested, “Bring your own shade for this campsite, your own water too.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Black Rock Campground mentioned, “The roads in are narrow and absolutely terrible.”
  • Bring Leveling Blocks: Many RVers recommend bringing leveling blocks. One camper noted, “The sites are nicely spread out. Bathrooms are extremely clean.”
  • Use Dump Stations Wisely: Be aware of dump station locations. A visitor at San Mateo Campground mentioned, “The dump site was closed this weekend, but with our day pass we were able to use the dump site at San Clemente State Beach.”

Camping near Yucaipa is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're in a tent or an RV. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the tent camping sites at Yucaipa Regional Park?

Yucaipa Regional Park offers peaceful tent camping sites throughout the park's beautifully maintained grounds. The tent sites are located in designated camping areas that provide a tranquil natural setting. While some sites offer better shade than others, most provide a comfortable space for setting up tents. The campground layout allows for a peaceful camping experience while still being close to park amenities and the lake area. For those seeking a backcountry experience nearby, Little Jimmy Trail Campground offers hike-in only sites about 2 miles off Angeles Crest Highway with more primitive facilities.

What amenities are available at Yucaipa campgrounds?

Campgrounds in the Yucaipa area offer a range of amenities to enhance your stay. Serrano provides friendly staff, lakeside camping spots, and wildlife viewing opportunities with proper safety warnings. For those seeking more luxurious accommodations, Bonelli Bluffs features clean facilities, though families should note the limited playground options. Many campgrounds in the region offer full hookups for RVs, clean restrooms and showers, fire rings, and picnic tables. The area's campgrounds typically provide good cell service (though sometimes limited), access to lakes and hiking trails, and proximity to community parks with additional recreational facilities.

Can I rent an RV in Yucaipa, California?

Yes, you can rent an RV in the Yucaipa area to enjoy the region's beautiful campgrounds. While there are several RV rental companies operating in and around Yucaipa, you might consider staying at an RV-friendly destination like Pechanga RV Resort, which offers excellent facilities including proximity to a casino, pool, golf course, restaurants, and sports facilities. The resort's location also makes it convenient to explore nearby attractions via rideshare services. Alternatively, O'Neill Regional Park provides clean RV sites with access to free showers and numerous recreational activities, making it ideal for families looking to rent an RV for a weekend getaway.

What recreational activities are available at Lake Yucaipa?

Lake Yucaipa offers numerous recreational activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating on the lake when it's open (note that lake closures occasionally occur). The area surrounding Heart Bar Campground provides spectacular sunset views over rolling mountains and a secluded atmosphere perfect for nature appreciation. For those seeking land-based activities, Applewhite Campground in nearby San Bernardino National Forest offers access to hiking trails amid natural surroundings. The Yucaipa area also connects to community parks with additional recreational facilities, making it easy to combine lake activities with other outdoor pursuits during your visit.