Discover the best campgrounds near San Bernardino, California with horseback riding

United States
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California
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San Bernardino

86% (2660 reviews)

Popular camping styles for San Bernardino

Dog-friendly getaways

Available this weekend

94%

(577)

Historic Pioneertown Campground

70 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Pioneertown, CA

Pioneertown was built in 1946 as a movie set for Western movies, including the movies of Gene Autry, The Cisco Kid, Annie Oakley, Judge Roy Bean, and Buffalo Bill, just to name a few!Wild West re-enactment performances take place along Mane Street in Pioneertown on weekend afternoons, between early spring and late fall.Learn more about this land:Camp under the stars in historic Pioneertown! Pioneertown Corrals provides a unique setting for campers who want to spend their vacations or getaway weekends in this peaceful desert setting. If you like to ride the trails, barbeque, sit around a campfire, and stargaze in the evening, then you've come to the right place!Pioneertown was built in 1946 as a movie set for Western movies, including the movies of Gene Autry, The Cisco Kid, Annie Oakley, Judge Roy Bean, and Buffalo Bill, just to name a few!Wild West re-enactment performances take place along Mane Street in Pioneertown on weekend afternoons, between early spring and late fall.

100%

(22)

Learn, Play & Heal: Farm Fun!

3 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Wildomar, CA

At Howe Ranch, we provide more than just a farm stay; we offer a healing, transformative experience that teaches relaxation and rejuvenation through profound connections with our gentle, trained farm animals. Experience the magic of immersion in the farm world of our residents—from mini cows to white donkeys, mini goats, ducks, chickens, lop bunnies, and even a barn tomcat. These animals are ambassadors of modern farming and healers in their own right. Among them is our Scottish long-haired mini cow, Buttercup, who has a remarkable ability to connect with children on the autism spectrum, offering them moments of joy and tranquility. Buttercup, along with his calf friend Flint, also provides comfort to visitors dealing with anxiety and stress. Whether it’s hugging or grooming Buttercup, meditating with him and Flint, or engaging in one-on-one sessions with our gentle goats and chickens, every interaction is designed to soothe and inspire. Proceeds from HipCamp directly support the feed and care for our farm animals, of which most are rescues (501c and private). INCLUDED IN YOUR FARM STAY: Personalized evening and morning farm animal encounters with animal feeding and care routines, unique learning experiences and opportunities to relax with the gentle barn animals, organic chicken and duck eggs for breakfast, a restroom, free use of outdoor kitchen with moderate use of propane stove, BYO charcoal grilling on the BBQ with utensils available, dish washing capabilities, free use of camping equipment (pop up canopy, chairs) and entertainment for the whole family, a safe space for children to play in with toys and games in the large sand pit, panoramic views, and access to "Extras" such as electric and water hookups, hot tup, extra parking, and breakfast. The overnight farm stay experience is generally available from Friday 1:00 p.m. until Saturday 1:00 p.m. on limited weekends of the year. If you would like to visit with us for longer or during the week, please inquire first if we have the capacity to accommodate. The camp is typically not available on Saturdays after 1:00 p.m. due to other community activities and engagements of the hosts. ABOUT THE AREA: Nestled on just under 4 foothill acres backing against the wilderness of the Santa Rosa Plateau, but only 2 minutes from shopping, coffee, and dining, our small, veteran owned ranch with a private petting zoo opportunity provides a charming and picturesque setting that encompasses the essence of rustic hospitality. There are lots of fun things to do in the area. Please reference our VISITOR GUIDE on thehoweranch.com and linked to in the photo section here.

Desert Rose Collective

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Morongo Valley, CA

The Desert Rose Collective is a work in progress and is ever-changing! This unique property is being transformed into a truly 'hip' camp. It features a sun shade structure with a bar, an outdoor kitchen, a semi-outdoor bathroom, a shower room, and plenty of seating and shaded areas to relax and enjoy the fabulous views. Both days and nights are amazing from the location of this unforgettable property in the canyon. Check out additional information under our Camping, RV, and Tent Cabin listings. We look forward to your booking and to meeting you at the Desert Rose Collective!

Jeffs Secret Park Entrance

5 sites · Tents2 acres · Colton, CA

This Property once owned by 1 family was divided and sold , so there is some neighbor shared utilities so we try and be very respectful to those utilities which includes shared roadway , garbage , and water usage , I currently live on the upper section of the property ,and enjoy regular use of the park via hiking , mountain biking , etc the camping spots are separated but campsite 2 would need to walk to the side of campsite 1 to have access to the mountain biking , hiking park / preserve . The preserve offers several different terrains from Rocky areas to rolling hills to straight down vertical cliffs , some times of year the rain was so heavy the grass and weeds have grown 4 ft tall and other times there is barely a plant insight . The hiking trails are generally wide with some of the mountain biking paths becoming a foot or 2 wide . The wildlife generally stays at our end of the preserve which includes occasionally deer have been seen , but on a regular basis you will encounter Donkeys , Coyotes , Bobcats , Fox , Rabbits , Squirrels , Hawk's , Eagles , Crow , Owl's , and not very often a mountain lion has been either seen in person , tracks spotted or a local resident has caught them on there security cameras . If your up for the day long hike you can make it all the way to the top of Blue Mountain near Grand Terrace another great spot for overlooking the nearby cities especially as it gets closer to sunset

Bowens Ranch Hot Spring Retreat

35 sites · RVs161 acres · Apple Valley, CA

This off the grid property is the perfect place to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature. Nestled in the mountains of the high desert, we invite you to come stay in a peaceful serene setting where nature and wildlife encompasses you on this rural property surrounded by 1,000s of acres of undeveloped BLM and US Forestry land. Come escape from the city and relax at a place where you can enjoy yourself amongst others or be by yourself in your own private campsite. With 160 acres, there is lots of room for your large group to spread out or find a more private site to seclude yourself! Set up your campsite and park your vehicle at any of our developed sites that have a patch of turf, picnic tables and fire pits (grills available). Flushing toilets, pits toilets, potable water, and showers on site. The 40 minute hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is well worth the effort, and there's so much more natural beauty to see as you explore miles of hiking and OHV trails nearby and right on the property. The creek water in the Deep Creek canyon flows all year around, as does the hot spring source water that feeds the 6 creek-side hot pools, ranging in temperatures between 90F-108F. Weather can be extreme at times, with Winter temps ranging from 20*F to 40* F, and Summer temps reaching 112F+. The hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is fairly steep and can be difficult for some people, especially in warm weather, so everyone’s physical fitness needs to be considered when deciding to hike to the hot springs with pets, children, elderly people, or out-of-shape/over-weight people in your group. Although children are permitted on the property, we do not recommend bringing them due to occasional nudity that may be seen in the area and the degree of difficulty for the hike. In order to be prepared with the correct gear to make the hike to the hot springs and know the USFS rules that apply to the area, please educate yourself before coming by visiting the USFS website page for the Deep Creek area. Know before you go! The Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp is part of the historic Bowen Ranch property that was homesteaded in 1924. This property has been the camping and parking area for the Deep Creek Hot Springs for nearly a century. The Bowen Ranch property is under new ownership as of 2020 and we welcome everyone to come visit! Generally, we always have sites available and reservations are not necessary, but reserved sites are located in a more private area set aside for Hipcamp reservations with separate facilities from the general camping area. See our webpage deepcreekhotspringscampground.com for detailed driving directions to our property with the official trailhead located right on site.

12 top campgrounds near San Bernardino with horseback riding

94%

(577)

Historic Pioneertown Campground

70 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Pioneertown, CA

Pioneertown was built in 1946 as a movie set for Western movies, including the movies of Gene Autry, The Cisco Kid, Annie Oakley, Judge Roy Bean, and Buffalo Bill, just to name a few!Wild West re-enactment performances take place along Mane Street in Pioneertown on weekend afternoons, between early spring and late fall.Learn more about this land:Camp under the stars in historic Pioneertown! Pioneertown Corrals provides a unique setting for campers who want to spend their vacations or getaway weekends in this peaceful desert setting. If you like to ride the trails, barbeque, sit around a campfire, and stargaze in the evening, then you've come to the right place!Pioneertown was built in 1946 as a movie set for Western movies, including the movies of Gene Autry, The Cisco Kid, Annie Oakley, Judge Roy Bean, and Buffalo Bill, just to name a few!Wild West re-enactment performances take place along Mane Street in Pioneertown on weekend afternoons, between early spring and late fall.

Bowens Ranch Hot Spring Retreat

35 sites · RVs161 acres · Apple Valley, CA

This off the grid property is the perfect place to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature. Nestled in the mountains of the high desert, we invite you to come stay in a peaceful serene setting where nature and wildlife encompasses you on this rural property surrounded by 1,000s of acres of undeveloped BLM and US Forestry land. Come escape from the city and relax at a place where you can enjoy yourself amongst others or be by yourself in your own private campsite. With 160 acres, there is lots of room for your large group to spread out or find a more private site to seclude yourself! Set up your campsite and park your vehicle at any of our developed sites that have a patch of turf, picnic tables and fire pits (grills available). Flushing toilets, pits toilets, potable water, and showers on site. The 40 minute hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is well worth the effort, and there's so much more natural beauty to see as you explore miles of hiking and OHV trails nearby and right on the property. The creek water in the Deep Creek canyon flows all year around, as does the hot spring source water that feeds the 6 creek-side hot pools, ranging in temperatures between 90F-108F. Weather can be extreme at times, with Winter temps ranging from 20*F to 40* F, and Summer temps reaching 112F+. The hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is fairly steep and can be difficult for some people, especially in warm weather, so everyone’s physical fitness needs to be considered when deciding to hike to the hot springs with pets, children, elderly people, or out-of-shape/over-weight people in your group. Although children are permitted on the property, we do not recommend bringing them due to occasional nudity that may be seen in the area and the degree of difficulty for the hike. In order to be prepared with the correct gear to make the hike to the hot springs and know the USFS rules that apply to the area, please educate yourself before coming by visiting the USFS website page for the Deep Creek area. Know before you go! The Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp is part of the historic Bowen Ranch property that was homesteaded in 1924. This property has been the camping and parking area for the Deep Creek Hot Springs for nearly a century. The Bowen Ranch property is under new ownership as of 2020 and we welcome everyone to come visit! Generally, we always have sites available and reservations are not necessary, but reserved sites are located in a more private area set aside for Hipcamp reservations with separate facilities from the general camping area. See our webpage deepcreekhotspringscampground.com for detailed driving directions to our property with the official trailhead located right on site.

Desert Rose Collective

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Morongo Valley, CA

The Desert Rose Collective is a work in progress and is ever-changing! This unique property is being transformed into a truly 'hip' camp. It features a sun shade structure with a bar, an outdoor kitchen, a semi-outdoor bathroom, a shower room, and plenty of seating and shaded areas to relax and enjoy the fabulous views. Both days and nights are amazing from the location of this unforgettable property in the canyon. Check out additional information under our Camping, RV, and Tent Cabin listings. We look forward to your booking and to meeting you at the Desert Rose Collective!

Down-to-Earth Ecoshire

248 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · CA

Private 35 acre Private Land Restoration Project surrounded by rolling hills, mountain views and open sky. The sunsets and sunrises are spectacular year round. Stars and open skies that you'd be hard pressed to find anywhere else in southern California. Just 15 minutes from Temecula wineries, 40 minutes from the alpine, artsy town of Idyllwild in the San Jacinto Mountains, and just 15 minutes from the 215 in Menifee toward Hemet. Best to visit from early autumn to lush springtime where we have great wildflower blooms. Cooperative managers Jim and Dawn host visitors who want to enjoy nature, participate in regenerative gardening all while off-setting their travel footprint. Fees go to our not for profit land restoration which includes planting trees, improving aquifers and enriching the soil. The property is a owned by a restorative co-op (turning a former illegal dump into an oasis of hope) where we invite you to participate in creative local solutions to our larger global problems. * If your group is larger than six adults, pease visit our group listings page. If your group needs special privacy and sound requirements and you'd like to reserve the entirer property, you will need to contact us directly. * Spaces are available on a first come, first serve basis. * Our visitor support pricing is $20 for the first person and $15 for all additional adults. Kids 6 - 12 are $5 per night. We don't want to charge for kids 6 and under, so do not include them in your booking. Thanks! * Campfire rings are only in common clearing, designated and permitted areas. Please check for seasonal fire restrictions.

Jeffs Secret Park Entrance

5 sites · Tents2 acres · Colton, CA

This Property once owned by 1 family was divided and sold , so there is some neighbor shared utilities so we try and be very respectful to those utilities which includes shared roadway , garbage , and water usage , I currently live on the upper section of the property ,and enjoy regular use of the park via hiking , mountain biking , etc the camping spots are separated but campsite 2 would need to walk to the side of campsite 1 to have access to the mountain biking , hiking park / preserve . The preserve offers several different terrains from Rocky areas to rolling hills to straight down vertical cliffs , some times of year the rain was so heavy the grass and weeds have grown 4 ft tall and other times there is barely a plant insight . The hiking trails are generally wide with some of the mountain biking paths becoming a foot or 2 wide . The wildlife generally stays at our end of the preserve which includes occasionally deer have been seen , but on a regular basis you will encounter Donkeys , Coyotes , Bobcats , Fox , Rabbits , Squirrels , Hawk's , Eagles , Crow , Owl's , and not very often a mountain lion has been either seen in person , tracks spotted or a local resident has caught them on there security cameras . If your up for the day long hike you can make it all the way to the top of Blue Mountain near Grand Terrace another great spot for overlooking the nearby cities especially as it gets closer to sunset

99%

(334)

Bailes Farm

5 sites · Lodging80 acres · Fallbrook, CA

One of the last remaining undeveloped parts of Southern California, De Luz Heights is located adjacent to the Cleveland National Forest, and the Santa Margarita River (just a few miles from the campsite). This 12-month flowing river is the only one in Southern California that has never been altered or dammed by humans, and features a state-managed hiking trail with many water holes along the way with clear, clean water to dip into. On my 80 acres, there are no major roads going through or next to the property. My land is 13 miles from the Pacific ocean and enjoys a relatively mild yearly climate. Giant boulders provide topographical relief and offer platforms from which to enjoy the view of the nearby Santa Margarita Mountains. The valley views are filled with olive and avocado groves, vineyards, and horse ranches. The Camp Pendleton Marine Corps base is nearby, so you might hear some artillery in the distance on some occasions. The campsite embraces all the comforts of "glamping": a hot shower, composting toilet, beds with sheets provided, gas grill with a stovetop, pots and pans, kitchenware, a sink, picnic table, shaded deck, sofa, lounge chairs, and propane fire pit. The basics are provided: toilet paper, paper towels, purified drinking water, towels, sheets, cooking oil, etc. Campers need to bring their own blankets. I've created a network of hiking trails for especially fit hikers looking for a more rigorous hike than the nearby Santa Margarita River Trail. My trails lead through creek beds, over boulders, through rocky crags, with views of the Pacific ocean on a clear day. Hikers on my trails need to wear proper hiking boots with good traction. Sections of my trails will require bouldering with hands and feet. Expect to have fatigued quadriceps, some scrapes, and a sweaty hat brim. The campsite is accessible with a two-wheel drive vehicle; I drive a Kia Forte out there regularly. However, some tips when driving a two-wheel drive car: when going uphill on a dirt road, try to keep some momentum of about 12-15 MPH. If you stop and try to start again, your tires will spin out. If that happens, just reverse down the hill, and try it again with more momentum.

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The Unhitched Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent37 acres · Colton, CA

The Unhitched Ranch is a family run Clydesdale and Texas Longhorn Ranch. Clydesdales and Texas Longhorns have been the focus of the family owned and operated ranch. The Ranch is approximately 40 acres and is tucked away in a very unique area of Southern California and has spectacular views of the local mountains and city lights. This quaint little canyon is nestled between Loma Linda and Moreno Valley, and is home to about 800 free roaming wild burros that visit frequently.Recently we have added a Gazebo that you can camp near or under as well a a horseshoe pit, and tether ball. We typically only open the ranch to one group of campers at a time so more than likely you will be alone with us on the ranch. There is plenty of room for larger groups, feel free to contact us

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Camp Durrwood

9 sites · RVs, Tents29 acres · Big Bear City, CA

Camp Durrwood is a 29-acre pristine wilderness nestled in the San Bernardino National Forest, offering an unforgettable outdoor experience. Your group will have exclusive access to all of our amenities, including a comfortable RV for lounging, picnic tables, hammocks, horseshoes, corn hole, and numerous hiking trails starting from the campground. Our property includes a porta potty, but no showers. Camp Durrwood has over 10 possible dispersed campsites for tents and ample room for over landers and campervans. We are conveniently located just 2 miles from the Santa Ana River, 5 miles from Jenks Lake, and only a 25-minute drive to Big Bear, making Durrwood the perfect private retreat for your group. Durrwood is the ideal destination for families, company retreats, club meetups, church groups, girls and boy scouts, and any other groups looking to reconnect with nature. Our beautiful surroundings and wide range of activities make us the perfect choice for your next group gathering. Please note there is no water on the property so make sure to bring your own.

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Villa Macala

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Hemet, CA

Book your Spring camping trip now, our most beautiful season! Villa Macala is a 20-acre oasis of detailed landscape, orchards and Southern CA native planting while complimenting the natural rocks and gorgeous views. This master planned 20 acres is a great escape from city life. Come take in the views, enjoy the many hiking trails and rest in the peace, quiet and beauty of Villa Macala. *NOTE: Scroll down to RV/Tent sites to book for a larger tent camping party over 4 people or for a camper van under 14 feet. Overlooking the Hemet Valley with gorgeous panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains, Villa Macala is reminiscent of an Italian Villa. The property landscape includes Olive Orchards throughout, a growing vineyard, fig trees, pomegranate trees and more set in the natural rock landscape. (NOTE: We have tent camp sites only and can accommodate camper vans and truck campers depending on size and which site selected, however we CANNOT accommodate pull behind trailers, pull behind campers or RVs of any kind). Villa Macala is 15 minutes from Diamond Valley Lake where you can enjoy a wildflower trail, fishing or mountain bike trails, museum and water park. It is 20-30 minutes to Pachea Trail and Simpson Park where you can enjoy more great hiking and mountain bike trails. It is also a 30-minute drive to Temecula Wine Country. Enjoy walking the grounds of the 20 acres and taking in the views. We have an outdoor bathroom (please note it is a good walk uphill from the campsites) that campers can use with a shower and small fridge to store your food. We also have a playground with swing set for kids to enjoy. Please bring your own tents. OTHER SUGGESTED ITEMS TO BRING: Your own fire wood, cooking wood, starter material, lighters, utensils, etc. We offer firewood bundles for $7 you can choose to purchase at time of booking or bring cash. Your own cooler to store food close to your site and grill that you need on hand since the small fridge is a good walk from those 2 places. We sell bags of ice for $4. Bring cash if you would like to purchase. Your own camp chairs. Easy up shade. Sunblock, cool clothes. We are closed for the bulk of summer but at times daytime temperatures can reach 90+ even in late spring and early fall. Please bring your own towels for shower use. The towels provided in there are for orchard workers during the week. Thank you! PLEASE NOTE: Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance. Please make sure to select the site you wish to stay at. SITE AVAILABILITY AND OPTIONS: We have 4 Tent Sites available and A Teardrop Trailer Site. All sites have fire-pits and picnic tables. SITE 1: Elderberry Park. This site is for a large group up to 12 people. Chose site 1 for groups larger then 4 people and groups with children. There is shade cover over the picnic table. *This is the only site that can accommodate a camper van. SITE 2: Olive Orchard. This site is located on the perimeter of our olive orchards overlooking the San Jacinto Mountains. This site can fit up to 2 tents and we recommend a maximum of 4 people. SITE 3: Private Corner. This site is in a private far corner of the property. We recommend a maximum of 4 people and have determined that for safety reasons this site is for adults only. If Site 3 is chosen it would require a Polaris Shuttle from the Camp Host down to the site, a car will not be able to go direct. SITE 4: This site is under the Oak Trees and is a very small site suitable only for 1-2 people max. TEARDROP TRAILER SITE: See listing for details. Sleeps 2 comfortably if guests are under 6 feet. *All tent sites can be shown to camp guests for decision and viewing upon arrival unless multiple groups are booked. All sites have either a covered firepit or a wood burning stove and all a picnic table. *We do our best to keep our maximum capacity of 12 campers at one time. FIRES: No fires are to be lit by the campers without verbal consent from property owner and instruction. SEE property owner/camp host upon arrival about what you may use on the property. He will provide instructions. If you have questions prior to check-in, please message us. Bring your own fire wood, starter material, lighters, utensils, etc. TASTINGS: Macala Orchards Olive Oil, Various Jellies and Jams & Pomegranate Juice all made from what we grow are available for tasting upon request. Please let us know prior to arrival if you are interested in a scheduled tasting during your stay! We can provide a tasting only if we have the proper staff during your visit to accommodate. Our products are available for purchase, with or without a tasting. We recommend you bring cash if you are interested. We also take Venmo! Thank you.

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Quail ranch

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Phelan, CA

5 acres of mountain desert property with great unobstructed views of the mountains and surrounding cities of the high desert, with beautiful views property may be subject to high wind at times. So please check weather and dress accordingly. property is very peaceful and on its own hill. ovh and hiking trails all around. RV, Van, truck, trailer and tent camping welcomed. An outside mutual restroom for campers on site with hot and cold water shower. Property also has lodging on site. small cowboy bunker available for rent which has full kitchenette and is ran off of generator for power. Gas not included but a fuel can is provided. Second lodging rental is not listed here, but available on hip camp at (heavenly hideout Quail Ranch).

67%

(3)

Oak Springs Ranch Campground

27 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Apple Valley, CA

Oak Springs is an 80 acre "off grid" ranch. Oak Springs was originally a stage coach stop for miners during the 1800's. Family owned and operated since 1944. Oak Springs Ranch is known for the breathtaking views, pure water, organic gardens, and friendly family atmosphere. We offer guided tours on horseback to the local hot springs, water caves or take a local ride to learn about the local Native Americans.

67%

(3)

Bare Naked Farms

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Colton, CA

Learn more about this land:This beautiful 20 acres Canyon nestled in between 2 ridges is a great place to relax. It is a startup private Non-Profit working farm / ranch that grows all organically. Plenty of Hiking. Off road ATV and Dirt bikes can ride from here. Nice breeze through the canyon Clothing Optional Site

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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San Bernardino National Forest

La Quinta, California

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Angeles National Forest

La Crescenta Montrose, California

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Cleveland National Forest

Descanso, California

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Caspers Wilderness Park

Coto De Caza, California

83%

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Saddleback Butte State Park

Lake Los Angeles, California

88%

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O'Neill Regional Park

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79%

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Lake Perris State Recreation Area

Moreno Valley, California

Camping near San Bernardino with horseback riding guide

Overview

East of Los Angeles in the Inland Empire, San Bernardino sits at the base of the San Bernardino Mountains and the San Bernardino National Forest, home to coniferous trees, hiking trails, and snow-capped peaks. Two other nearby ranges—the San Gabriel Mountains and San Jacinto Mountains—multiply the region’s alpine options, while lower-elevation parks and preserves in the valley mean hiking and camping among native plants and chaparral. Aside from the mountains, San Bernardino is also about an hour's drive to Pacific beaches and 90 minutes to Joshua Tree National Park in the Mojave Desert, making it a perfect location to explore both the highlights and hidden gems of Southern California wilderness.

Where to go

San Bernardino Surrounds

For a quick nature excursion near San Bernardino, check out Box Springs Mountain Reserve Park, where you can get a panoramic view of the area from a 3,000-plus-foot peak. Chino Hills State Park is another great local option with more than 90 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. The campground at Chino Hills has tent sites with picnic tables and restrooms, while RV travelers can also find a variety of San Bernardino RV parks with full hookups, free wifi, dump stations, and everything else needed for travel in a big rig or camper.

San Bernardino Mountains

Much of the San Bernardino Mountains north of the city are preserved by the San Bernardino National Forest. Within this park system are 42 campgrounds, hundreds of miles of trails, and the highest peak in Southern California: the 11,499-foot San Gorgonio Mountain. The Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area and Big Bear Lake are also in this range, the latter of which sits at 6,752 feet of elevation and features a winter ski run.

Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness

The Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness spans 14,000 acres in the San Jacinto Mountains. With granite cliffs, Sequoia trees, and stunning views, this region feels more like the High Sierra than Southern California. There are campgrounds and rugged hiking trails near the park in Idyllwild, or you can start in Palm Springs and let the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway whisk you to 8,516 feet, where hiking trails depart from the tram’s Mountain Station.

When to go

There are year-round camping options in San Bernardino due to its proximity to varied climates. While the San Bernardino Valley can become uncomfortably hot in summer, this is a great season to camp at the more temperate beach and mountain areas nearby. Conversely, both the valley and nearby desert sites like Joshua Tree National Park are ideal for a winter camping getaway.