Camping and Cali…they even sound made for one another. Makes perfect sense since there’s no shortage of great camping opportunities in the state of California, all 840 miles of it. The choices are virtually endless.
With all that country and all those campgrounds, how do you ferret out the best of the bunch? And how do you find ones that are close enough to home to sneak away for a long weekend …or even a short one? That’s where Outdoors comes in of course.
We’ve scoured the somewhat rugged terrain around Riverside and San Bernardino to come up with 25 great recommendations. There are great campgrounds for families, empty nesters, newlyweds and even solo campers. We’ve even created an interactive map to make choosing easy and fun.
Finally, if you’re already a local insider, and you know of a great campground within 100 miles of the San Bernardino / Riverside area that we’ve missed, please share the scoop in the comments, so we can pass it along to the rest of the Outdoors universe.
El Cariso Campground: Lake Elsinore, CA
El Cariso Campground is a U.S. Forest Service campground within the Cleveland National Forest. There are 24 campsites available for camping year-round. Reservations are not available, camping at this location is on a first come, first serve basis. Maximum vehicle size is 22 feet. There is potable water available and a vault toilet. There are no services or hookups for RVs. A number of day hikes can be based from this location, and picnicking is always available.
Recent campers say: “Nice little campground,” Inexpensive, “A little loud early in the morning due to the Ortega highway,”
Pros: inexpensive
Cons: next to highway
Cleveland National Forest Office
10845 Rancho Bernardo Road, Suite 200
San Diego, CA 92127
Phone: 858-673-6180
Rate: $15 per night per unit
Dogwood Campground: Rim Forest, CA
Named for its abundance of beautiful dogwood trees, whose spring blossoms and fall foliage both present spectacular displays, Dogwood Campground is situated in a densely wooded area with tall conifers and lush undergrowth. This is a spectacular setting not far from Lake Arrowhead. Each campsite is strategically located to offer each camper maximum seclusion. There are 93 campsites available including many for trailers and motor homes. Maximum RV size is 22 feet. Reservations are accepted. Amenities include: modern restrooms, an amphitheater, dump station, electrical hookups, fire rings, potable water, showers, and picnic tables.
Recent campers say: “Campground is very well kept, clean, and good size,” “Ideal setting for the family to have a reunion,” bring bug repellent
Pros: clean facilities
Cons: lots of bugs
Dogwood Campground
Rim Forest, CA 92378
909-336-6717
Tent: $15 -$20 per night
Rancho Jurupa Park: Riverside, CA
Visitors to Rancho Jurupa Park enjoy a gorgeous 200-acre recreational area with many amenities. Activities include a thrilling splash pad for water play, a rock climbing playground, miniature golf surrounded by spectacular waterfalls, and a disc golf course. Rancho Jurupa’s lakes, regularly stocked with trout during the colder seasons and catfish in the warmer months, provide excellent fishing opportunities, including a popular annual trout fishing derby held in January. Magnificent trails lead to countless hiking and biking adventures, including access to the Santa Ana River Trail and a 1-mile trek to the Louis Robidoux Nature Center. There are two great campgrounds in the park for tent and RV campers alike.
Reviews: Many activity opportunities for families, “I like this place and so does my dog,” read reviews to reserve the best spot for you
Pros: excellent campsite for families
Cons: not the best site for inexperienced campers
Rancho Jurupa Park
4800 Crestmore Road
Riverside, CA 92509
951-684-7032
Rates: $30-$40 per night
Banning Stagecoach KOA
Don’t have an RV? Experience the RV lifestyle by staying in one of the park’s fully-furnished park models or RV Rentals. They provide everything you will need. Just bring your clothing, groceries, and a desire to have a great time. The Banning Stagecoach KOA is located at the gateway to mile-high Idyllwild. Here you find wide, grassy spaces and great mountain views. Sites 1 through 94 are RV sites with full hookups and cable TV. Sites 95 through 99 are tent sites with water only. Activities include horseshoe pits, tetherball, volleyball, children’s playground, and indoor rec room featuring a pool table, table tennis, and TV.
Recent campers say: “The most updated campground showers I’ve ever seen,” helpful staff, “RV spots were a little on the small side,”
Pros: updated facilities
Cons: small camping sites
Banning Stagecoach KOA
1455 S San Goronio Avenue
Banning, CA 92220
951-849-7513
Rates: Variable
Lake Perris State Recreation Area: Perris, CA
Lake Perris is a wildlife haven. Many species of birds, reptiles and mammals (large and small) inhabit the area. Camping sites are plentiful and work well for RVs up to 31 feet in length. Swimming and fishing are great activities at this location. There are many events, camps and activities available at the Lake Perris State Recreation area throughout the year you can check out on their website.
Recent campers say: “Amazing for the entire family and our pets,” a lot to offer, traffic can be heard, bring bug repellent
Pros: good space for families
Cons: near highway
Lake Perris State Recreation Area
17801 Lake Perris Drive
Perris, CA 92571
951-940-5600
Tent: variable
Happy Campground: Canyon Lake, CA
The Canyon Lake Property Owners Association (the Association), incorporated in 1968, as a California nonprofit corporation, is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the common areas within Canyon Lake. The purpose of the Association is to promote the recreation and benefit and enjoyment of the homeowners within the community. The Association’s mission is to support the Canyon Lake community with exceptional services and solutions, which make this a premier place in which to live and work. Membership or the permission of an association member is required to camp here.
Recent campers say: “They do a great job of keeping it clean,” new showers, “Not open to the public”
Pros: clean
Cons: need membership to camp
Happy Campground
30550 Longhorn Drive
Canyon Lake, CA 92587
951-246-1765
Contact 951-244-6841×650
Pete’s Camp El Paraiso: Temecula, CA
Pete’s Camp invites you to visit El Paraiso–Paradise–the front door to the Sea of Cortez. Located in San Felipe on the northern shores of the Sea of Cortez in Baja California. Pete’s offers sun, sand and sea, extraordinary beaches, excellent environment, connected by the magic of the semi-desert landscape and the blue-green sea. Only an hour and forty-five-minute drive from Mexicali! They have 79 spaces right on the beach for camping. There are also restrooms and showers available. Not to mention Norma’s famous Pete’s Camp Restaurant & Cantina, which offers an assortment of refreshing beverages.
Recent campers say: Kind staff, “Secure RV camping right next to the water,”
Pros: can secure campsite day of
Cons: limited information online
Pete’s Camp El Paraiso
38025 Camino Sierra Road
Temecula, CA 92592
951-694-6704
For Reservations, email [email protected]
Sundance Meadows
Sundance Meadows offers a safe and positive environment for families to enjoy the great outdoors. Halfway between San Diego & Los Angeles, a weekend escape from the city is only an hour away. In addition to plenty of space for tent camping and RV hookups, a bunkhouse with individual rooms, a full kitchen, restroom, showers, and more provides a place for those who prefer to enjoy the outdoors without giving up the comforts of home.
Recent campers say: Family-oriented, “The facilities are great for relaxing, but the staff just doesn’t measure up,”Â
Pros: good for families
Cons: knowledgeable staff, but not friendly
Sundance Meadows
43425 Sage Road
Aguanga, CA 92536
951-767-0716
Call above or Email [email protected] for pricing
Lake Skinner Park: Winchester, CA
Nestled in the rolling hills of Winchester, CA, beautiful Lake Skinner Recreational Area offers visitors expansive natural vistas and invigorating recreational opportunities, including camping, picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, sailing, and fishing. This popular regional park is located just a few short miles east of the Temecula Wineries, close to the bustling communities of Murrieta and Menifee, and within easy access of Interstates 15 and 215. With 241 campsites, Lake Skinner’s campgrounds provide plenty of space for overnight or extended stays. Sites offer picnic benches and fire rings. Most away-from-home needs can be met with a visit to the well-stocked camp store.
Recent campers say: “Something to offer for everyone,” large flat sites, sites can flood during rain storms
Pros: wide variety of activities
Cons: rain can cause flooding
Lake Skinner Park
37701 Warren Road
Winchester, CA 92596
951-926-1541
Tents: $30-50 per night
La Laguna Resort & Boat Launch: Lake Elsinore, CA
Come enjoy rustic camping on the shores of Lake Elsinore! La Laguna Resort and Boat Launch opened in 1962 and has retained much of its charm over the years. With over 150 campsites ranging from dry (no services) to full hookups (water, electric and sewer), and dry “Group Camping Areas,” La Laguna offers something for every camper. So whether you have a tent or a 40-foot Class A, come visit us at the “La”! Campground rules are strictly enforced.
La Laguna Resort & Boat Launch
32040 Riverside Drive Lake
Elsinore, CA 92530
951-471-1212
RV w/ full hookup: $48 per night
North Shore Campground: San Bernadino, CA
North Shore Family campground is within a mixed oak and conifer forest. It is located 23 miles northeast of San Bernardino in the San Bernardino National Forest, 3 miles from Lake Arrowhead Village. There are 28 camping sites. There are 6 first come/first serve sites and 22 reservable sites. Amenities include 1 campfire ring, picnic table, flush toilets, and firewood is available for sale. A campground host is on site. Lake Gregory is 20 minutes away and offers fishing, boat rentals and a water slide park.
Recent campers say: “excellent space for beginners,” friendly staff, lots of wild life; keep an eye on belongings and pets
Pros: good campsite for beginner campers
Cons: potential danger for pets
North Shore Campground
Lat: 34.267163
Long: -117.165167
Hospital Road
San Bernadino, CA 92402
909-382-2790
$34 per night
Serrano Campground: Fawnskin, CA
This family campground is located in the San Bernardino Mountains. Serrano is located on the north side of Big Bear Lake, 2 miles east of Fawnskin. There are 93 single sites and 16 double sites. Popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, boating and fishing. Amenities and services include camp host, comfort station, dump station, RV hookups, fire rings, firewood sales, interpretive programs, interpretive trails, picnic tables, showers and restrooms. Reservations can be placed as late as 24 hours in advance based upon availability.
Recent campers say: Books up quickly, “Quiet hours observed,” Bear Boxes at each site, Campsites are close together
Pros: bear boxes and safety precautions in place
Cons: books quickly
Serrano Campground
40800 North Shore Drive
Fawnskin, CA 92333
909-866-8021
$37 per night
Barton Flats: Angelus Oaks, CA
The Barton Flats Campground provides a taste of just about everything the San Bernardino National Forest has to offer. In addition to nearby lake and river access, a variety of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails can be accessed from the campground. Visitors can relax, take in the fresh, mountain air, and enjoy beautiful scenery. Located 36 miles northeast of San Bernardino, just off the Rim of the World Scenic Byway. The level campsites are tucked among a variety of pine and oak trees, at an elevation of 6,360 feet. The campground offers dozens of single and double campsites, available for tent and RV camping. Some accessible sites are available as well. There are no hookups at the campground, however, the parking aprons are paved and a dump station is available. Each site is equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills. Accessible flush toilets, showers and drinking water are provided. Firewood is sold at the campground.
Recent campers say: Hiking trails nearby, “well-maintained,” excellent campground, dark bathrooms at night
Pros: close to hiking trails
Cons: hard to maneuver around camp at night
Barton Flats
Lat: 34.17222
Long: -116.87444
CA-38
Anngelus Oaks, CA 92305
909-382-2882
$41 per night
Boulder Basin Campground: Pine Wood, CA
The campground has a “Q” configuration with campsites on top of the letter having a delightful vista while sites on either side have tower boulders for a backdrop. Magnificent Ponderosa and Sugar pines and other conifers are found throughout the campground. This is a campground for hikers, mountain bikers, bouldering enthusiasts, and anyone looking for quiet and solitude – well worth the challenge of the road to the campground. The Black Mountain Lookout Tower is accessed via hiking a dirt road from the campground and offers breathtaking views of the area. The ground cover throughout the campground is pine needles and various size pine cones. There are 34 sites that must be reserved at least three days in advance of the visit. Bring your own water.
Recent campers say: “Spacious spots” recommend high-clearance vehicles
Pros: space to camp with family and friends
Cons: need high clearance vehicle
Boulder Basin Campground
Lat: 33.826301
Long: -116.755728
Black Mountain Road
Pine Wood, CA 92408
909-382-2600
$18 per night
Crab Flats Family Campground: Running Springs, CA
This family campground is located in an area of tall pines, oaks, and cedar trees. Crab Flats totals 28 campsites. Of them, 23 sites are reservable. The other five are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Off-highway vehicle trails are located nearby. There is no overflow parking. Trailers, fifth wheels and motorhomes over 28 feet are not recommended. The campground offers drinking water, but includes vault-style restrooms.
Recent campers say: “Each site comes with a firepit, table, and a locker to keep camping equipment in,” hard to travel to at night
Pros: excellent accommodations
Cons: difficult to get to at night
Crab Flats Family Campground
Crab Flats Road
Running Springs, CA 92382
877-444-6777
Rates: $32 per night
South Fork Family Campground
This family campground is located at 6,400 feet elevation in a pine/fir forest near the Santa Ana River along Hwy 38 between Angelus Oaks and Big Bear Lake. There are 24 campsites. Each site accommodates a maximum of 8 persons. First come/first serve; no reservations accepted. Open during the summer and fall months only. There is drinking water available at the campground, but toilets are vault-style.
Recent campers say: Inexpensive, “campsites were pretty spacious,” need a fire permit to use fire pit
Pros: inexpensive
Cons: need permit to build fire
South Fork Family Campground
Lat: 34.169634
Long: -116.827418
909-382-2790
Tent: $26-28 per night
Coyote Cove Lakeside Camping: Lake Elsinore, CA
Coyote Cove Lakeside Camping offers a different kind of camping experience. You can choose to camp and recreate anywhere on the 11-acre site. Some areas have picnic tables and fire rings for your convenience. Other areas have nothing so you can elect to build your own fire pit like the cowboys used to do. If you decide to sleep with your feet in the lake, you can do that, too. There are two modern bathroom locations on the grounds with coin-operated showers and a laundry room.
Recent campers say: “Great location for children” only had porta-potties, allows pets, new owner
Pros: family friendly
Cons: new management
Coyote Cove Lakeside Camping
32310 Riverside Drive
Lake Elisnore, CA 92530
562-449-7011
$60 per night
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: Borrego Springs, CA
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest state park in California. Within its boundaries lie 500 miles of dirt roads, 12 wilderness areas, and many miles of hiking trails to provide visitors unparalleled opportunities to experience the wonders of the California Desert. The park is located on the eastern side of San Diego County. There are a number of camping facilities within the park, but all can be reserved via ReserveAmerica. Many sites are available on a walk-up only basis. Maximum size for campers/motorhomes is 35 feet.
Recent campers say: “well maintained,” friendly staff, expensive
Pros: well maintained campsites
Cons: state park status, more expensive than other locations
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-4205
Rates: Variable
Lake Hemet Campground: Mountain Center, CA
Lake Hemet Campground is a glamping facility. You and your party can rent a variety of cabins or a tent camp – all set up and ready to go – so all that’s left is for you to enjoy your precious time in the great outdoors. Lake Hemet is surrounded by the majestic beauty of the San Jacinto Mountains. The scenery is breathtaking no matter which direction you look. Tall pines, Manzanita trees, sage, and giant oaks abound. The facility offers fishing and a waterpark as well.
Recent campers say: “cabins were very clean and cozy,” excellent views from all sites, Limited facilities
Pros: excellent views
Cons: limited bathrooms
Lake Hemet Campground
56570 CA-74
Mountain Center, CA 92561
951-659-2680
Tents: $65 per night
Idyllwild County Park: Idyllwild, CA
Popular Idyllwild Park, located on the perimeter of the eclectic mountain village of Idyllwild, boasts 202 acres of beautiful open space, mature forest, breathtaking hiking trails, and a fascinating Nature Center. Recognized as one of America’s cleanest forests, Idyllwild is a perfect venue for reconnecting with family, friends, nature, and the slower pace of small town mountain life. There’s a shaded meadow for picnicking and group outings, serving as a pleasant base for hikers, climbers, and explorers. Guests may hike any of the five trails that offer breathtaking scenery and panoramic views. For more adventurous outdoor enthusiasts, enormous granite boulders offer some of the best rock climbing challenges around. Nearby Lake Fulmor or Lake Hemet offers fishing opportunities for both casual and dedicated anglers. In winter, snow sledding is a popular activity when weather permits. The park’s rustic but well-tended campground has 88 lovely forested campsites, each with fire ring and picnic table as well as close proximity to restrooms and showers.
Recent campers say: “Nice campground,” lots of flat space, campsite surrounded by roads
Pros: spacious campsites
Cons: noisy
Idyllwild County Park
54000 Riverside County Playground Road
Idyllwild, CA 92549
951-659-2656
$30-35 per night
Palomar Observatory Campground
Science buffs and families are drawn to Observatory Campground for its proximity to the Palomar Observatory, a world-class center of astronomy research operated by the California Institute of Technology. Just two miles from the observatory, the campground provides visitors with a unique learning experience in the great outdoors. The facility offers a variety of amenities for both tent and RV camping. Hiking, biking and picnicking can be found nearby. The campground is organized around one large loop with parking spurs for each campsite. Several sites are equipped with level cement pads to allow campers to set up their telescopes. The sites can accommodate vehicles up to 32 feet in length. Drinking water, coin-operated showers (peak season only), grills, trash cans, campfire rings, picnic tables, a flush toilet (peak season only) and two vault toilets are provided.
Recent campers say: Inexpensive, Reservations online, “Beware of snakes,” bring bug repellent
Pros: inexpensive
Cons: beware of wildlife
Palomar Observatory Campground
Lat: 33.34167
Long: -116.87861
Palomar Mountain, CA 92060
760-788-0250
$23 per night
Dripping Springs Campground: Aguanga, CA
Dripping Springs Campground is a wonderful site adjacent to the Agua Tibia Wilderness area. The location is adjacent to sensitive riparian habitat which is home to the endangered Arroyo Toad. The hills surrounding the campground are covered by southern California chaparral which hosts a diverse population of mammals, birds, and other fauna. The mountaintops above the campground are lined with coniferous forests. Recreation in the area includes hiking, trail running and backpacking. The campground facilities include restrooms and potable water. No showers or other amenities are available at this location.
Recent campers say: “During the week it’s very peaceful,” great hosts, weekends can become busy, Hikers walk past campsites
Pros: quiet, friendly
Cons: can be loud
Dripping Springs Campground
39755 CA-79 Aguanga, CA 92536
760-788-0250
Rates: $23 per night
La Jolla Indians Campground: Pauma Valley, CA
Full-service campground facility is located on the lands of the La Jolla Indians along the beautiful San Luis Rey River. Facilities include options for RV camping, group sites, tent camping and walk ins. Tubing on the river is a featured activity, you can also family camp, leisure camp, or solo camp on the grounds. In any case, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful landscapes in any direction you care to gaze.
Recent campers say: “Beautiful location,” need a vehicle reservation, no river
Pros: excellent location
Cons: tubing advertised, no river
La Jolla Indians Campground
22000 CA-76
Pauma Valley, CA 92061
760-742-1297
Tent: $55 per night, RV: $65 per night
Oak Knoll Campground
Gorgeous oak trees, sunny skies, and a family-friendly atmosphere are just a part of what makes Oak Knoll Campground very special. Join these friendly folks for Southern California camping activities like hiking, biking, gaming, star gazing, bird watching, swimming, boating, and more. With Oak Knoll’s proximity to San Diego, it’s easy to enjoy day trips to see amazing attractions like the San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park or SeaWorld San Diego.
Recent campers say: “Nice camp size,” quiet and peaceful, old site
Pros: quiet location
Cons: limited updates to facilities
Oak Knoll Campground
31718 South Grade Road
Pauma Valley, CA 92061
760-742-3437
RV w/ full hookups: $50-55 per night
