The best beach camping near San Bernardino

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Deep in the valley near San Bernardino Mountains sits San Bernardino. While it may not be the first place that comes to mind for a beach camping trip, it is just a short drive west of the Pacific coastline—making it a great starting base for adventures to sandy shores and ocean waves. About 90 minutes away away, Bolsa Chica State Beach, Doheny State Beach, and San Onofre State Beach all offer beachfront camping. With tent sites and RV hookups, the campgrounds also have picnic areas with sun shades, fire rings, restrooms, and hot showers—ideal for freshening up after a day of swimming, surfing, surf fishing, and beachcombing. Many beaches have year-round lifeguards, too. After pitching a tent or parking the RV, explore nearby tide pools to find sea stars, sea urchins, hermit crabs, and periwinkles, or enjoy water sports with paddleboard rentals from local providers. With warm and sunny SoCal weather, camping by the beach is a treat during any season.

Top-rated campgrounds near San Bernardino

1. Bonelli Bluffs RV Resort & Campground

29mi from San Bernardino · 376 sites
Nestled at the base of the stunning San Gabriel Mountains, Bonelli Bluffs offers a unique escape just 45 minutes east of Los Angeles. This serene campground provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life. At Bonelli Bluffs, you can immerse yourself in nature without ever leaving the grounds. The campground features a beautiful beach-front park, two sparkling swimming pools, and inviting outdoor fire pits, ensuring that there’s always something to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or engage in various activities, this RV resort has it all. In addition to the on-site amenities, Bonelli Bluffs is conveniently located near the charming attractions of San Dimas, California. Explore nearby hiking trails, discover local swimming holes, or indulge in delicious meals at nearby restaurants and shops. Experience the beauty of California firsthand at Bonelli Bluffs, where adventure and relaxation await.

2. Lake Hemet Campground

48mi from San Bernardino · 74 sites
Lake Hemet stands out as a unique camping destination due to its breathtaking backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, offering visitors a serene escape into nature. Nestled in Mountain Center and close to the charming town of Idyllwild, this picturesque lake is surrounded by tall pines, manzanitas, sagebrush, and majestic giant oaks, creating a stunning natural environment that captivates all who visit. As one of Southern California's most sought-after spots for camping and fishing, Lake Hemet has recently enhanced its appeal with the addition of the Soaring Pines Cafe, which serves delicious meals, and the Splashing Eagle Swim Zone, perfect for family fun during the warmer months. When you visit, don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars. The area is teeming with wildlife, including majestic eagles and hawks that can often be seen soaring through the forest and campground. With its combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and convenient amenities, Lake Hemet is the ideal getaway destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Deep in the valley near San Bernardino Mountains sits San Bernardino. While it may not be the first place that comes to mind for a beach camping trip, it is just a short drive west of the Pacific coastline—making it a great starting base for adventures to sandy shores and ocean waves. About 90 minutes away away, Bolsa Chica State Beach, Doheny State Beach, and San Onofre State Beach all offer beachfront camping. With tent sites and RV hookups, the campgrounds also have picnic areas with sun shades, fire rings, restrooms, and hot showers—ideal for freshening up after a day of swimming, surfing, surf fishing, and beachcombing. Many beaches have year-round lifeguards, too. After pitching a tent or parking the RV, explore nearby tide pools to find sea stars, sea urchins, hermit crabs, and periwinkles, or enjoy water sports with paddleboard rentals from local providers. With warm and sunny SoCal weather, camping by the beach is a treat during any season.

Top-rated campgrounds near San Bernardino

1. Bonelli Bluffs RV Resort & Campground

29mi from San Bernardino · 376 sites
Nestled at the base of the stunning San Gabriel Mountains, Bonelli Bluffs offers a unique escape just 45 minutes east of Los Angeles. This serene campground provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life. At Bonelli Bluffs, you can immerse yourself in nature without ever leaving the grounds. The campground features a beautiful beach-front park, two sparkling swimming pools, and inviting outdoor fire pits, ensuring that there’s always something to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or engage in various activities, this RV resort has it all. In addition to the on-site amenities, Bonelli Bluffs is conveniently located near the charming attractions of San Dimas, California. Explore nearby hiking trails, discover local swimming holes, or indulge in delicious meals at nearby restaurants and shops. Experience the beauty of California firsthand at Bonelli Bluffs, where adventure and relaxation await.

2. Lake Hemet Campground

48mi from San Bernardino · 74 sites
Lake Hemet stands out as a unique camping destination due to its breathtaking backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, offering visitors a serene escape into nature. Nestled in Mountain Center and close to the charming town of Idyllwild, this picturesque lake is surrounded by tall pines, manzanitas, sagebrush, and majestic giant oaks, creating a stunning natural environment that captivates all who visit. As one of Southern California's most sought-after spots for camping and fishing, Lake Hemet has recently enhanced its appeal with the addition of the Soaring Pines Cafe, which serves delicious meals, and the Splashing Eagle Swim Zone, perfect for family fun during the warmer months. When you visit, don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars. The area is teeming with wildlife, including majestic eagles and hawks that can often be seen soaring through the forest and campground. With its combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and convenient amenities, Lake Hemet is the ideal getaway destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Public campgrounds near San Bernardino

More campsites near San Bernardino

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