The best private sites RV parks near San Bernardino, California

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.

98% (143)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

98% (143)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Boulder Gardens Sanctuary

98%

(119)

43mi from San Bernardino · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Homestead Valley, CA

Welcome to our gorgeous natural desert landscape with a quiet atmosphere and vast views. Guests are welcome to hike and explore our extensive land, which includes over 500 acres of primitive hiking trails, meditation gardens, and secret caves. This is an incredible place for stargazing and views of the milky way. The landscape is similar to the national park, though guests at Boulder Gardens will have a secluded place to set up camp, away from the crowds. Pioneertown, home to the famous venue Pappy and Harriets, as well as Red Dog Saloon is within a short drive.

2. Zephyr Mountain Avocado Grove

99%

(118)

38mi from San Bernardino · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Wildomar, CA

Just 15 minutes from restaurants, climb 700 feet up a mountainous access road in only 1.5 miles to a secluded Mountainous farm camping experience on a Regenerative Organic Avocado and Citrus grove, 501c3 Animal sanctuary and views of the city lights at night. The farm has over 700 avocados trees, citrus and nut trees. With pigs, chickens, ducks, geese and plenty of wildlife including: hawks, Owls, bunnies and more which all contribute to Regenerative Organic farming and offer viewing pleasure. The local area provides hiking, wildlife, mountain biking, lakes and 35 minutes to the nearest wine tasting in Temecula. We are an hour from the beach and roughly an hour and half to Skiing and Snowboarding at Mt. High. Minutes away from Santa Rosa Plateau for hiking. You are also a 15-30 minute drive to explore the amenities of the local cities, wine country and 45 minutes to the beach. The 21 acre property provides amazing views as well as biking and hiking along the local fire and farm roads. We offer Camping supplies such as tents or chairs if needed for a small rental fee as well as the ability to purchase fresh avocados, citrus or Farm fresh eggs from the grove. See camp host for information as well as the groves website (zephyrmountaingrove.com) for available Eggs and Merchandise as well as Avocados and Citrus to see whats in season. Get away for a short trip for a relaxing destress weekend. If you have a larger party you can message us at 951-477-5114 and we can work with you on another camp location we have for special occasions (summer months of June through September can be hot so bring shade or you can rent an ez up from us, please check the weather in Wildomar Ca before camping).

3. Tipi Canyon, Joshua Tree Nat’l Park

99%

(39)

53mi from San Bernardino · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · CA

{Pack in/ pack out} Your own peaceful, tucked away desert! Enjoy the back country of Joshua Tree National Park at this private property that’s within the edge of the park boundary and overlooks it from several ridges. Surrounded by thousands of acres of park, conservation and private land while only a 10-15 minute drive to the National Park main entrance. Complete privacy nearly 2 miles in from a gated entrance at the base of a small canyon. Walk up to the ridge for panoramic views of JT National Park, Joshua Trees, mountains and valleys highlighted with brilliant greens, yellows and other blooms and a winding graded dirt road up to your exclusive camp site. Town is just a 5 minute drive away, complete with trendy shops, cafes, music venues, sightseeing and more. Note: please be aware there is some several years old fire damage at the site and nearby areas but the lush drive in and long range views remain. 😍

4. Mojave Moonlight Camping

98%

(275)

36mi from San Bernardino · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Lucerne Valley, CA

Located in the outskirts of Lucene ValleyLearn more about this land: Experience a blanket of stars at night, beautiful sunrise and sunsets. We have limited it to only 4 campsites so there is plenty of space and privacy on this 20 acre campsite.Hike  the  mountain, experience nature and solitude and be just 10 minutes  from a town where a supermarket, hardware store, service station, post office, sheriff's station and a variety of restaurants  are available.This is big sky and wide open California Desert. Remote enough to be away from crowds but close enough for all the essentials.Life is short ...                         Get outside.

5. Villa Macala

100%

(370)

40mi from San Bernardino · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hemet, CA

Villa Macala is a 20-acre oasis of detailed landscape, orchards and Southern CA native planting while complimenting the natural rocks and gorgeous views. Enjoy the many hiking trails and rest in the peace, quiet and beauty. 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. 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. We have 2 full outdoor bathrooms, one was most recently added at our Elderberry Camp Site (site 1), and is also close to site 4 our Oaks Campsite as well. (Please note our 2nd bathroom is a good walk uphill from the campsites). Our larger bathroom 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 NOTE: Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance. 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. 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 if we have the proper staff during your visit. Our products are available for purchase, with or without a tasting. We recommend you bring cash if you are interested. We also take Venmo! GETTING TO VILLA MACALA: The road up to Villa Macala is a dirt road uphill, all vehicles fair well, we attempt to keep the road maintained as well as possible, after heavy rains it is a bit more bumpy but safe. Drive slow!

6. Rustic Wooded Ranch -Creekside Stay

100%

(9)

45mi from San Bernardino · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Temecula, CA

Welcome to **Gemini Moon Ranch**, a hidden gem nestled in the rolling hills of De Luz just outside Temecula, CA. This 5-acre historic ranch offers guests a unique chance to reconnect—with nature, with history, and with themselves. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling into one of our rustic rooms, you’ll be surrounded by oak groves, native plants, and the peaceful soundtrack of birdsong and rustling leaves. The ranch is part of a living preservation project dedicated to honoring the legacy of California ranch life and the art of master craftsman Robert Morris, whose handmade metalwork still adorns parts of the property. During your stay, you’ll notice thoughtful details that blend history with charm, from vintage touches to handmade features. **Campers** will enjoy shaded spots beneath the trees, a year round creek, access to a communal outdoor kitchen and deck, and the serenity of being completely immersed in nature. Fall asleep to the sound of the breeze through the oaks and wake up with deer passing by your tent. **Room guests** stay in one of our lovingly restored farmhouse suites—each with its own story, private entrance, and access to modern comforts while maintaining rustic authenticity. **What to Expect:** 🌿 Creek access for seasonal dips or quiet meditation 🔥 Fire pit and outdoor gathering space 🌌 Unbelievable stargazing on clear nights 🛏 Cozy rooms with character and comfort 🌸 Native gardens, fruit trees, and visiting pollinators 🚿 Outdoor shower and rustic bathroom access for campers 🎨 Optional add-ons: private chef meals, yoga, massage, or stained glass classes We’re a quiet, soulful space—perfect for couples, artists, writers, nature lovers, or anyone needing a pause from the rush. Whether you come for a night or a weekend, you’ll leave with your feet a little dirtier, your heart a little fuller, and maybe even a few stories to tell.

7. Serene forest privacy for 4WD

99%

(58)

44mi from San Bernardino · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Idyllwild, CA

Learn more about this land: Beautiful private land. Mostly undeveloped, rugged, forest. 4WD accessible cleared areas for tent sites or Jeep-top tents. Canvas tent available. Container cabin for those looking for a little less rugged accomodations. You can relax, and hike nearby trails during the day (some walking distance, some driving distance), mountain bike, or hit nearby climbing spots. Maybe you want to go into town 2 miles away and enjoy local art, music, or just the eclectic vibe of Idyllwild. Come back and star gaze in the evening. Fires are NOT allowed under ANY circumstances. Propane backpacking stoves or self contained camp stoves only. Quiet hours enforced after 8pm. Guests who are making loud noise may be asked to leave and not refunded. Composting toilet available in camping area. Bring your own tent or stay in our canvas tent (bring your own bedding). Host on-site or nearby. Wi-Fi not reliable in area.

8. Melody's Rendezvous

100%

(4)

46mi from San Bernardino · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Yucca Valley, CA

Unique chance of camping with full rv hookups right across the legendary Red Rog and Mane Street. 30 amp / 50 amp / water / sewer Pick nick tables - trash bins Immerse in beautiful nature a short walk to Pappy’s and Red Dog.

9. Xbone's Desert Life | Mojave Desert

100%

(8)

38mi from San Bernardino · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Lucerne Valley, CA

Adventure • Stargazing • Off-Road Fun Welcome to Xbone’s Desert Life, your ultimate Mojave Desert getaway surrounded by majestic mountains and endless skies. Just 2 miles from the iconic Soggy Dry Lake, this campsite is a haven for off-roading, hiking, and peaceful desert living. Whether you're rolling in with your motor crew or bringing the whole family out for a weekend escape, we've got the space and vibe you're looking for. The large sitting area is perfect for birthday parties, group events, or just kicking back with your crew under the stars. ✨ At Night: Get ready for some of the clearest skies you’ve ever seen — perfect for stargazing and campfire chill sessions. ☀️ By Day: Beat the desert heat in our shaded areas and cook up something tasty in the outdoor kitchen. 🏍️ Into Riding? We’ve got KTM motors on-site and welcome all riding groups to come ride with us. 🥾 Like to Explore? Surrounded by hike-friendly mountains and open desert trails — there's no shortage of adventure. Escape the city. Live the desert life. Come join us under the Mojave sky 🌵🔥 📍 Only 20 minutes to Lucerne Valley grocery store, the local favorite 247 Café, plus Chinese and Mexican restaurants. 🌵 45 minutes to Joshua Tree National Park and close to Big Bear Lake for even more adventure.

Camper favorites near San Bernardino

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Mojave Moonlight Camping

98%

(275)

36mi from San Bernardino · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Lucerne Valley, CA

Located in the outskirts of Lucene ValleyLearn more about this land: Experience a blanket of stars at night, beautiful sunrise and sunsets. We have limited it to only 4 campsites so there is plenty of space and privacy on this 20 acre campsite.Hike  the  mountain, experience nature and solitude and be just 10 minutes  from a town where a supermarket, hardware store, service station, post office, sheriff's station and a variety of restaurants  are available.This is big sky and wide open California Desert. Remote enough to be away from crowds but close enough for all the essentials.Life is short ...                         Get outside.

Villa Macala

100%

(370)

40mi from San Bernardino · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hemet, CA

Villa Macala is a 20-acre oasis of detailed landscape, orchards and Southern CA native planting while complimenting the natural rocks and gorgeous views. Enjoy the many hiking trails and rest in the peace, quiet and beauty. 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. 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. We have 2 full outdoor bathrooms, one was most recently added at our Elderberry Camp Site (site 1), and is also close to site 4 our Oaks Campsite as well. (Please note our 2nd bathroom is a good walk uphill from the campsites). Our larger bathroom 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 NOTE: Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance. 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. 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 if we have the proper staff during your visit. Our products are available for purchase, with or without a tasting. We recommend you bring cash if you are interested. We also take Venmo! GETTING TO VILLA MACALA: The road up to Villa Macala is a dirt road uphill, all vehicles fair well, we attempt to keep the road maintained as well as possible, after heavy rains it is a bit more bumpy but safe. Drive slow!

Rustic Wooded Ranch -Creekside Stay

100%

(9)

45mi from San Bernardino · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Temecula, CA

Welcome to **Gemini Moon Ranch**, a hidden gem nestled in the rolling hills of De Luz just outside Temecula, CA. This 5-acre historic ranch offers guests a unique chance to reconnect—with nature, with history, and with themselves. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling into one of our rustic rooms, you’ll be surrounded by oak groves, native plants, and the peaceful soundtrack of birdsong and rustling leaves. The ranch is part of a living preservation project dedicated to honoring the legacy of California ranch life and the art of master craftsman Robert Morris, whose handmade metalwork still adorns parts of the property. During your stay, you’ll notice thoughtful details that blend history with charm, from vintage touches to handmade features. **Campers** will enjoy shaded spots beneath the trees, a year round creek, access to a communal outdoor kitchen and deck, and the serenity of being completely immersed in nature. Fall asleep to the sound of the breeze through the oaks and wake up with deer passing by your tent. **Room guests** stay in one of our lovingly restored farmhouse suites—each with its own story, private entrance, and access to modern comforts while maintaining rustic authenticity. **What to Expect:** 🌿 Creek access for seasonal dips or quiet meditation 🔥 Fire pit and outdoor gathering space 🌌 Unbelievable stargazing on clear nights 🛏 Cozy rooms with character and comfort 🌸 Native gardens, fruit trees, and visiting pollinators 🚿 Outdoor shower and rustic bathroom access for campers 🎨 Optional add-ons: private chef meals, yoga, massage, or stained glass classes We’re a quiet, soulful space—perfect for couples, artists, writers, nature lovers, or anyone needing a pause from the rush. Whether you come for a night or a weekend, you’ll leave with your feet a little dirtier, your heart a little fuller, and maybe even a few stories to tell.

Serene forest privacy for 4WD

99%

(58)

44mi from San Bernardino · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Idyllwild, CA

Learn more about this land: Beautiful private land. Mostly undeveloped, rugged, forest. 4WD accessible cleared areas for tent sites or Jeep-top tents. Canvas tent available. Container cabin for those looking for a little less rugged accomodations. You can relax, and hike nearby trails during the day (some walking distance, some driving distance), mountain bike, or hit nearby climbing spots. Maybe you want to go into town 2 miles away and enjoy local art, music, or just the eclectic vibe of Idyllwild. Come back and star gaze in the evening. Fires are NOT allowed under ANY circumstances. Propane backpacking stoves or self contained camp stoves only. Quiet hours enforced after 8pm. Guests who are making loud noise may be asked to leave and not refunded. Composting toilet available in camping area. Bring your own tent or stay in our canvas tent (bring your own bedding). Host on-site or nearby. Wi-Fi not reliable in area.

Melody's Rendezvous

100%

(4)

46mi from San Bernardino · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Yucca Valley, CA

Unique chance of camping with full rv hookups right across the legendary Red Rog and Mane Street. 30 amp / 50 amp / water / sewer Pick nick tables - trash bins Immerse in beautiful nature a short walk to Pappy’s and Red Dog.

Xbone's Desert Life | Mojave Desert

100%

(8)

38mi from San Bernardino · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Lucerne Valley, CA

Adventure • Stargazing • Off-Road Fun Welcome to Xbone’s Desert Life, your ultimate Mojave Desert getaway surrounded by majestic mountains and endless skies. Just 2 miles from the iconic Soggy Dry Lake, this campsite is a haven for off-roading, hiking, and peaceful desert living. Whether you're rolling in with your motor crew or bringing the whole family out for a weekend escape, we've got the space and vibe you're looking for. The large sitting area is perfect for birthday parties, group events, or just kicking back with your crew under the stars. ✨ At Night: Get ready for some of the clearest skies you’ve ever seen — perfect for stargazing and campfire chill sessions. ☀️ By Day: Beat the desert heat in our shaded areas and cook up something tasty in the outdoor kitchen. 🏍️ Into Riding? We’ve got KTM motors on-site and welcome all riding groups to come ride with us. 🥾 Like to Explore? Surrounded by hike-friendly mountains and open desert trails — there's no shortage of adventure. Escape the city. Live the desert life. Come join us under the Mojave sky 🌵🔥 📍 Only 20 minutes to Lucerne Valley grocery store, the local favorite 247 Café, plus Chinese and Mexican restaurants. 🌵 45 minutes to Joshua Tree National Park and close to Big Bear Lake for even more adventure.

Stories from the community

mason

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Boulder Gardens Sanctuary

Wonderful place. The boulder/yoga deck location is surrounded by an incredible landscape of boulders, which make for a solitary experience as well as endless opportunity for exploration. There is also a community space not too far from the campsite with some wonderful amenities. This camp is located in a small community, and being able to partake in and meet the community is a huge plus of staying here, everyone was so welcoming and great to talk to. Highly recommend for anyone looking for some time away/connection into nature⭐️

D

Dionne

2 weeks ago

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Tipi Canyon, Joshua Tree Nat’l Park

We were here for two nights in December. It's so beautiful here!! It was quite cold in the evenings, but we have a small T@B trailer, so were able to keep warm enough. We were here as two people and six small to medium sized Dogs. Had a great time! Our host is great at communicating, so we know if any concerns had come up, they would be handled right away. But there were no concerns 🙂 I do hope to come back here! Most likely when it's a little bit warmer, possibly the spring or early summer 🙂 remember there are no hookups here, and it can get quite windy. Surprised that we didn't see any wild animals, but that's okay.

A

Annabel

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Boulder Gardens Sanctuary

What a beautiful place. Stunning views, incredible landscape to explore, total peace and a super friendly welcome. We loved it.

Brandon

3 weeks ago

17 ft campervan

2 nights at Zephyr Mountain Avocado Grove

Great view and lots of extras available for this site. The drive up the mountain was half the fun. Glad we got to check this spot out over the weekend.

M

Marcus

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Villa Macala

The eight of us had a fun time at the campsite and it was a great place to explore. Not only a spacious campsite, the bathroom and the shower is also a huge plus. 150 yards of offroad climbing to get to the campsite required some commitment for an 8 person van but it was an added fun.

Guillaume

3 weeks ago

21 ft campervan

With kids

2 nights at Melody's Rendezvous

We had an amazing time camping in Pioneertown. The campsite was immaculate, offering a breathtaking view of the desert. We could also relish the town’s lively nightlife while enjoying serene nights. The host was incredibly helpful and responsive to our inquiries. We’re definitely booking this spot again when we return to the area.

A

Antoine

3 weeks ago

12 ft campervan

With kids

1 night at Villa Macala

This campsite is truly incredible. It has a level place to set up, a beautiful landscape, clean water, warm showers. The hosts are wonderful. We will come back many times. The olive oil from the farm is also spectacular. If you have a sprinter van like we do, be careful with the edelberry spot. It's a very narrow road road surrounded by boulders.

Nga

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Zephyr Mountain Avocado Grove

Beautiful place to camp especially during the rainy season! Views are great and Shane was very communicative and friendly. He made sure we were comfortable and promptly addressed all of our needs during our stay.

H

Harrison

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Melody's Rendezvous

Perfect spot to camp if you're spending time in Pioneertown! Just a block from the Red Dog Saloon and around the corner from Pappy and Harriet's, this location was clean, easy, and safer than getting on the highway late at night. Highly recommend.

Jennifer

November 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Boulder Gardens Sanctuary

Boulder Gardens Sanctuary was amazing. We camped at the Overlook, which had an absolutely beautiful view. Shayna was there to greet us when we arrived and led us to our spot.

Mallory

November 2025

24 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Boulder Gardens Sanctuary

Feels like you are on another planet. Very responsive and sweet! Well maintained property. Lots of love and care!

Jenny

November 2025

17 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Boulder Gardens Sanctuary

10/10!!! The land is so beautiful and such a special place in the desert away from the crowds. Shayna was there to greet us and lead us to our camping spot! We would absolutely come back!

Jill

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Boulder Gardens Sanctuary

Amazing land and community of people. The yoga deck area is so lovely. Flat area for tent and truck. Close to toilet and community kitchen area. My new favorite camping spot! ❤️

C

Clarissa Justin

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Villa Macala

We had a wonderful time, with a beautiful view and lots to explore. We will definitely come back again!

S

Stephanie

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Boulder Gardens Sanctuary

The views here were stunning! Hosts were always responsive and super helpful to answer any questions. There's definitely enough space to explore and go in a hike or two. Porta potty was extremely clean.

C

Chris

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Rustic Wooded Ranch -Creekside Stay

Tracy and Peter were great hosts. Upon arriving we were greeted, given a tour of the ranch and ensured that we had everything we needed. The dogs were great company and the scenery was great.

Bob

October 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Villa Macala

Great campsite with fantastic views of the local mountains. The full hookup site we had was extremely nice, new, well setup with a clean picnic table and fire pit. The hilly area was fun to hike around and would be a terrific place for kids to run around and play. Weather was perfect with a nice breeze and clear sky’s. I would highly recommend this campground to anyone looking to get away from the city and spend time relaxing with family and friends.

E

Eric

October 2025

25 ft Class B

2 nights at Melody's Rendezvous

This is a great spot in the heart of Pioneertown for those that appreciate full hookups! We visited for 2 nights to attend a wedding and couldn’t have been more comfortable at Edo’s spot. Highly recommended for those visiting Pioneertown and the general Yucca Valley-Joshua Tree area.

Jill

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Boulder Gardens Sanctuary

The yoga deck was the perfect spot to camp. The views are amazing and it’s only a short walk to toilet and community kitchen. I love how the boulders surround the yoga deck. A magical experience. The hosts were amazing. Thank you so much!

A

Alan

October 2025

16 ft car

2 nights at Villa Macala

We had a wonderful time! The land was beautiful with views of the mountains. The campsite was beautiful, clean, spacious and had a clean bathroom with a HOT Shower. Awesome! We were only 2 people and we car camped but the site (#1 Elderberry Park) is a group site. What is cool is that there are little areas where tents could be pitched that each had a little privacy. We will definitely come back with some friends. There is hiking and a lot to explore. The icing on the cake were the folks at the farm. From David, who met us when we arrived and took us to our campsite and also gave us a tour of the land. To Rich who we met out in the olive groves harvesting olives. To Genine who prepared a wonderful tasting of the EVOO olive oils they produce and her Jelly/Jams. You could really tell that they had a love of the land and wanted to share it. Needless to say, we drove off happy (and some olive oils and jams). Until next time….

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best private sites RV parks near San Bernardino guide

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.