Tent camping near Yucaipa sits at elevations ranging from 2,600 feet in town to over 9,000 feet in nearby San Bernardino National Forest, creating significant temperature variations between locations. The region receives most precipitation between December and March, with summer months typically dry but prone to seasonal fire restrictions. In fall, temperatures at higher elevation camping spots can drop below freezing overnight while lower elevation sites remain milder.
What to do
Hiking access: The Zanja Peak Trail begins directly from Yucaipa Regional Park, offering convenient day hiking without moving your vehicle. "Access to Zanja Peak Trail head" is available right from the campground according to Bryan H., who also notes the park has "3 lakes for fishing, water park during the summer, and friendly helpful staff."
Gold panning: Try your luck along Holcomb Creek near Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, site of gold discovery in the 1800s. "If you're into panning for gold you just might find some along Holcomb Creek. There are active claims in the area so be respectful," advises Edward W. The area requires "a high clearance vehicle" as "once you leave the pavement the going gets slower along the trails."
Mountain biking: Trails near Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites provide technical terrain for intermediate to advanced riders. "Bike trail is fun and a challenge," states Sam H. The area combines rocky sections with forest trails and connects to longer routes throughout the San Bernardino National Forest.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Sites offers significantly more seclusion than developed campgrounds. Chelsea R. says "I almost want to give this a 1 star review, just to keep it to myself a little longer. We loved this yellow post site, by far one of my favorites. Private but with cell service, tables and fire pits!"
Urban convenience: Camp near town amenities at Yucaipa Regional Park while maintaining a natural setting. Paul C. describes it as an "excellent campground. Well maintained. Large concrete pads that can handle any rig. So much to do all around a park." Anneliese S. adds that "Verizon service is only 2 bars but I can still work. Full hookup... Drug store and grocery store very close going north."
Natural water features: Fishermans Group Campground offers creek access for fishing and cooling off during hot months. Anthony K. found "plenty of room for a dozen or more & easy stream access with fish!" Daryna L. recommends "campsite #4 is the best, right by the creek. Campsite #1 probably has the most shade during summer."
What you should know
Water access: Most dispersed camping areas require bringing all water. For Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, Dickie Simmons S. notes it offers "great free camping when campgrounds are booked" but has no facilities, so all supplies must be carried in.
Road conditions: Many forest camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. Katie S. warns about Thomas Hunting Grounds: "Make sure you have a vehicle that is 4WD - getting up the mountain is long and rugged." Similarly at Mill Creek, Francisco F. cautions the road "is gravel, with lots of potholes and washboard areas, which would make it difficult for an RV."
Seasonal considerations: Higher elevation sites can experience extreme cold even in spring and fall. At Dry Lake Backpacking Campground, Kate W. reports "Although it was May and the weather was beautiful at sea level, it was cold up here! There was snow on the ground but the air was the coldest I've ever felt... The ranger said it only got down to 7 degrees."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area provides family-friendly water recreation separate from the campground. Aleena S. notes "The lake is very clean and has a lot of fish. It is privately owned so you do have to pay to fish or swim, and you pay per person, so keep that in mind if you have a large group."
Kid-friendly activities: Yucaipa Regional Park offers multiple recreational options for children. Ken B. mentions a "nice splash zone" while Katarina A. calls it "a lot of fun for the whole family. A fun place to be if you live local. A good place to go if you like to be around other people."
Beginner backpacking: Dry Lake Backpacking Campground provides an entry-level overnight backpacking trip suitable for older children. Daryna L. describes it as a "good hike for first-time backpackers" but advises to "have enough water for the hike back as most of it will be up the hill."
Tips from RVers
Schoolie-friendly camping: Yucaipa Regional Park accommodates school bus conversions when other private parks don't. Jason O. reports "Most private RV spots discriminate against Skoolies, but this place didn't seem to care. Good water pressure in the showers, which has been nice."
Free dispersed options: For self-contained rigs, Sandra L. recommends Holcomb Valley: "So I converted my Honda Fit into a camper for mine and my pup camping adventures. This was our test location. The drive was extremely easy with a couple of rocky areas that made me slow down to 5mph and under to not damage the bottom of my H Fit."
Weather preparation: Mountain weather can change rapidly. At Thomas Hunting Grounds, Katie S. advises "A fire pit is a must in the winter - chilled winds, come prepared." Temperatures frequently drop below freezing at higher elevations even when valley temperatures remain warm.
