Best Camping Near San Bernardino, CA

Explore San Bernardino, CA: Top KOA Campgrounds, Outdoor Adventures, and Family-Friendly Camping Experiences

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Nearby Campgrounds

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Nearby Camp Sites

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Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near San Bernardino, California

4 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
San Bernardino, California

  • Big Bear Lake - Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, this beautiful lake offers a variety of outdoor activities including boating, fishing, hiking, and skiing during the winter months.

  • Joshua Tree National Park - Located about 51 miles from San Bernardino, this iconic park is known for its unique Joshua Trees and stunning desert landscapes. It’s perfect for rock climbing, hiking, and stargazing.

  • Lake Arrowhead - A scenic mountain resort area just 23 miles from San Bernardino. Enjoy water sports on the lake or explore the charming village with its shops and restaurants.

  • San Bernardino National Forest - Spanning over 800,000 acres of diverse terrain including mountains and forests. Ideal for camping, hiking trails like the Pacific Crest Trail, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing.

  • Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area - Approximately 20 miles from San Bernardino. This reservoir offers swimming beaches, fishing spots with trout and bass stocking programs, boating facilities as well as picnic areas.

  • Rim of the World Scenic Byway - A breathtaking drive along California State Route 18 that provides panoramic views of valleys below. Great for a leisurely drive or stopping at various lookout points to take in nature’s beauty.

  • Glen Helen Regional Park - Located about 12 miles away in Devore Heights. Features two lakes for fishing activities plus a swim complex with waterslides; also hosts concerts at Glen Helen Amphitheater nearby.

Ways to camp near San Bernardino, California

RV Camping
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RV Camping

RV camping at KOA campgrounds offers clean, level sites with full hookups, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly amenities. Enjoy the comforts of home while exploring over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Cabin Camping
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Cabin Camping

Cabin camping at KOA offers a cozy outdoor experience with options like rustic Camping Cabins and fully-equipped Deluxe Cabins. Enjoy nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Tent Camping
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Tent Camping

Tent camping offers a blend of traditional camping with modern amenities. Enjoy level sites, hot showers, clean restrooms, and options like electric hookups and patios for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Extended Stays Camping
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Extended Stay

KOA campgrounds offer extended stay options that allow extended stay campers to enjoy amenities like upgraded Wi-Fi and on-site dining, whether you’re a snowbird, or just want to enjoy the outdoors longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can enjoy hiking in Palm Springs and participate in ranger programs at Joshua Tree National Park.

El Paseo offers a great shopping and dining experience in Palm Springs.

The Farmers Market is a popular spot to explore local produce and goods.

You can visit museums of interest located nearby Barstow.

The 26th Annual Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade is a notable event you can attend.

The Winery Hopper offers wine tours for enthusiasts looking to explore local vineyards.

Plan a trip to San Bernardino, California

Planning a camping trip to San Bernardino, CA, promises an adventure filled with natural beauty and outdoor fun. Nestled in the heart of Southern California, this area offers a variety of KOA campgrounds that serve as perfect bases for exploring the region.

Best Time to Visit

San Bernardino is a year-round destination, but spring and fall are particularly delightful. These seasons offer mild weather ideal for hiking, biking, and exploring nearby attractions without the summer crowds.

Weather Expectations

  • Spring: Expect blooming wildflowers and pleasant temperatures.
  • Summer: Warm days perfect for water activities; evenings cool down nicely.
  • Fall: Crisp air with stunning foliage; great for outdoor adventures.
  • Winter: Mild daytime temperatures make it suitable for hiking; nights can be chilly.

Packing Essentials

To ensure you have everything you need:

  • Clothing Layers: Pack light layers to adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day.
  • Sun Protection: Hats, sunglasses, sunscreen—essential year-round due to sunny conditions.
  • Outdoor Gear: Comfortable hiking shoes or boots are a must. Don’t forget your camera!
  • Camping Supplies: Bring along your tent or RV essentials. If staying at one of the KOA campgrounds like Barstow / Calico KOA Holiday or Banning Stagecoach KOA Journey, check if they provide amenities like firewood or grills.

Planning Your Trip

  1. Choose Your Campground:

    • Barstow / Calico KOA Holiday: Ideal for history buffs interested in ghost towns and desert landscapes.
    • Banning Stagecoach KOA Journey: Perfect stopover with easy access to Big Bear Lake’s winter sports and summer hikes.
    • Palm Springs / Joshua Tree KOA Holiday: Great base for exploring Joshua Tree National Park’s unique rock formations and stargazing opportunities.
    • Temecula KOA at Vail Lake: Wine lovers will enjoy proximity to Temecula Valley’s vineyards.
  2. Activities:

    • Explore San Bernardino National Forest's trails whether you're into hiking or mountain biking.
    • Visit Big Bear Lake for boating in summer or skiing in winter months.
    • Discover local history at Route 66 attractions near Barstow.
  3. Safety Tips:

    • Always check weather forecasts before heading out on hikes or other outdoor activities.
    • Stay hydrated and carry sufficient water especially during warmer months.

4.Local Attractions: Don't miss out on visiting nearby gems such as Death Valley National Park during cooler months where you can experience its unique landscapes without extreme heat.

With these tips in mind, your camping trip around San Bernardino will be both enjoyable and memorable! Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation amidst nature's splendor, there's something here for every camper!

Family Eating Outside of Airstream
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Save money when camping near San Bernardino, California with KOA Rewards

If you like camping, then you will love being a part of the Kampgrounds of America KOA Rewards Program. Designed with campers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, KOA Rewards is both a discount and rewards program. From earning rewards while camping to receiving discounts at select merchants, our loyalty program is designed to help you save money in a few different ways.

Reserve Your Stay Today!

Unwind at a campground near San Bernardino, California, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.