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San Bernardino/Applewhite
Overview
Applewhite Campground provides a serene escape within the San Bernardino National Forest. Located along the scenic Lytle Creek, this destination offers a rustic environment for travelers seeking to reconnect with nature. It is a National Forest facility that emphasizes a primitive experience, providing a refreshing contrast to the busy urban centers of Southern California. Visitors often come here to enjoy the cool canyon breezes and the rhythmic sounds of the nearby water. This is an authentic mountain getaway where the focus remains on the landscape and the peaceful atmosphere of the canyon.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the Lytle Creek area, the park is nestled between steep canyon walls and shaded by a canopy of sycamores and alders. The campground is easily accessible from the Cajon Pass, making it a convenient stop for those traveling through the Inland Empire or heading toward the high desert. The surrounding riparian habitat creates a lush backdrop that feels worlds away from the desert floor, offering a unique microclimate that stays notably cooler during the warm summer months, providing a welcome respite for outdoor enthusiasts.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a dry camping location, meaning there are no hookups available for electricity, water, or sewer. However, the park provides essential facilities to ensure a functional and comfortable stay. Key features of the campground include:
- Paved parking spurs designed for trailers and RVs.
- Centrally located and well-maintained vault toilets.
- Access to potable water from shared hydrants located throughout the loops.
- Sturdy picnic tables and fire rings at every individual site.
The layout is designed to maximize privacy while keeping the natural terrain of the canyon floor intact. There is also a day-use picnic area located nearby for larger family gatherings.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw for most visitors is Lytle Creek, where guests can enjoy seasonal wading and creek-side relaxation. Hikers can explore the nearby Bonita Falls, a stunning waterfall reachable via a moderate trail that showcases the area's rugged beauty. For those interested in unique geology, the Mormon Rocks Interpretive Trail is just a short drive away, offering striking views of tilted sandstone formations. Additionally, the proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail offers endless opportunities for trekking through the majestic San Gabriel Mountains.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for self-contained RVers who appreciate a quiet, off-grid experience without the need for modern hookups. Because of the paved sites, it is a great choice for families with camper vans or smaller trailers looking for a quick weekend getaway. It appeals most to those who prefer nature-focused camping over resort-style amenities. If you value crisp mountain air, star-filled nights, and the sound of a rushing creek, this canyon retreat is the perfect fit for your next California RV adventure.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
robert ,eyer
After reading all the reviews we decided to book site #10 its in the upper loop. Its at the top of a ridge and we only had 2 "neigbors" but weren't close at all. We booked a sunday through Tuesday. Only took away one star because it was almost impossible to find the camp host to buy wood or pay extra fees but they drove around once or twice a day . Also the upper loop portal potties need toilet paper but we brought some so it wasn't an issue. We took walks around the park, went to the day use area and bonita park area both days and had an amazing time. Site ten is relatively flat we put our 13 man tent under the large tree and had only a gently slope. As for people saying the creek and sites have trash everywhere, as of october 21st 2025 there is NONE . I genuinely didnt see ANY trash at the campground or at the day use picnic area. We all got in the creek . Our site had a spigot right out side it and it was perfect . And the fire rings are MASSSIVVEE. We will definatly be back before it gets too cold and again in the spring !
Valerie
Stayed there for 3 days and two nights camp was clean and well maintained although on the second night the lady in charge of the park approached our campsite in the golf cart very rudely and told us we had to turn off our fire because we couldn’t have our wood exceeding the fire pit because it was windy she didn’t even say goodnight or didn’t even give us a warning there was no signs anywhere regarding this matter after she told us she kept circling around we looked at other peoples fire pits and there were some that also had wood out the fire pit
Tedd Armstrong
Very well maintained campground. I wish it was actually next to an actual stream or river but it's got very good sites with fire pit and fire grill if needed (which I don't because I have my own wood burning stove) with two concrete picnic tables each. It was very peaceful and I got a lot of reading time in... Also nice people running the place. My second time staying there and definitely not my last.
Greta Benavides
What a wonderful site. Riley, the camp manager, was very helpful and kind. The coyote roaming the hills behind the campground, barked like a dog for hours. I found it hilarious, others not so much.
Doris Lester
Took two of my grandsons to the picnic area. We played in the stream then had a nice little lunch. Was a very nice first experience for the both of us. The camp ground was full so plan ahead for a spot.