Applewhite Campground Introduce
If you're searching for "Camping Near Me" and seeking a mountain retreat in Southern California that's both accessible and offers a touch of nature, Applewhite Campground, situated at 487 N Lytle Creek Canyon Road, Lytle Creek, CA 92358, USA, is worth considering. You can reach them at (909) 382-2851 or +1 909-382-2851 for reservations and inquiries. Based on recent customer feedback, Applewhite Campground provides a generally positive camping experience characterized by helpful management, convenient location, and spacious sites, though potential visitors should be aware of reported issues with the restrooms.
Serene Mountain Environment and Convenient Location:
Applewhite Campground is nestled in the Lytle Creek Canyon area, which is part of the San Bernardino National Forest. This location offers a mountain environment with natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities. The surrounding hills and woodlands provide a backdrop for a tranquil camping experience, allowing guests to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. The presence of wildlife, such as the coyote mentioned in one review, adds to the natural ambiance of the area.
One of the significant advantages highlighted by a reviewer is the easy accessibility of the campground, noting "no crazy elevation which is nice." This makes Applewhite Campground a potentially attractive option for those who prefer a less challenging drive to their campsite, especially for families or individuals who might be less comfortable navigating steep mountain roads. The ease of access does not compromise the feeling of being in a natural setting, offering a good balance of convenience and immersion in nature.
Another notable environmental aspect, appreciated by a camper, is that the campsites are "not too close together." This spacing allows for a greater sense of privacy and personal space, enhancing the overall camping experience. It contributes to a more relaxed atmosphere where campers can enjoy their own area without feeling crowded by neighboring sites.
Services and Helpful Staff:
The reviews consistently praise the staff at Applewhite Campground. One camper specifically mentioned Riley, the camp manager, as being "very helpful and kind." Positive interactions with campground management can significantly enhance a camping trip, providing assistance with check-in, answering questions, and ensuring a smooth and pleasant stay.
Another reviewer highlighted the positive experience with the "camp host," who was described as "really cool." This host played an active role in the campground community by checking guests in and providing important updates regarding the weather and campfire regulations due to windy conditions. This proactive communication demonstrates a commitment to guest safety and ensuring everyone is informed and prepared for the current conditions.
The presence of a "nearby local market" is also noted as a significant convenience. This amenity can be invaluable for campers who may have forgotten essential supplies or wish to purchase additional items without having to drive a long distance. Having a local market in close proximity adds a layer of practicality and ease to the camping experience.
Features and Potential Considerations:
Applewhite Campground offers several features that contribute to a positive camping experience, including its natural mountain setting, easy accessibility, and spacious campsites. The helpful and kind staff, including the camp manager and host, further enhance the welcoming atmosphere of the campground.
However, one significant drawback mentioned in a review concerns the condition of the restrooms. The reviewer noted that "One of the women's restroom had a door missing and didn't flush and the other would leak water." These are notable issues that could impact the comfort and convenience of campers. While the reviewer downplayed it as "not a huge deal" and humorously suggested bringing "some waterproof shoes," potential visitors should be aware of these reported problems and consider them when planning their trip. The condition of restrooms is often a key factor in the overall satisfaction of a camping experience.
Another feature, which elicited mixed reactions, was the presence of wildlife sounds. One camper found the coyote barking "like a dog for hours" to be "hilarious," while others were presumably less amused. This highlights that the natural environment of the campground can include wildlife encounters and associated sounds, which some campers may appreciate as part of the experience, while others might find disruptive.
Overall, the features of Applewhite Campground point to a cozy and well-located mountain getaway with a focus on a positive guest experience through helpful staff and convenient amenities like the nearby market. However, the reported issues with the restrooms are a significant factor that potential visitors should be mindful of.
Promotional Information (Inferred and Potential):
Based on the positive aspects highlighted in the reviews, Applewhite Campground could promote itself based on the following:
- Easy Mountain Access: Emphasizing the convenient drive without challenging elevations.
- Spacious and Cozy Campsites: Highlighting the ample space between sites for privacy and comfort.
- Friendly and Helpful Staff: Showcasing the positive interactions with the camp manager and host.
- Proximity to Nature: Advertising the serene mountain environment and potential wildlife encounters (with a note about possible noise).
- Convenient Local Market: Pointing out the ease of accessing supplies.
- Quick Getaway from the City: Positioning itself as an easily reachable escape for urban dwellers.
Given the reported restroom issues, it would be prudent for the campground management to address these concerns and potentially communicate any improvements to potential visitors. Transparency about the current conditions and any steps being taken to rectify problems can build trust and manage expectations.
Potential promotions might include highlighting the off-season tranquility, family-friendly atmosphere, or the ease of access for first-time campers due to the gentle drive. They could also emphasize the unique experience of being in the San Bernardino National Forest without the stress of difficult mountain roads.
It is also possible that the campground has repeat visitors who appreciate the overall experience despite the restroom issues, suggesting a loyal customer base that values the other positive aspects of Applewhite Campground.
Conclusion and Recommendation:
Applewhite Campground appears to offer a generally appealing "Camping Near Me" option for those seeking a mountain getaway in the Lytle Creek area. Its easy accessibility, spacious campsites, and friendly staff, including a helpful manager and proactive camp host, are significant positives highlighted by campers. The convenience of a nearby local market adds to the practicality of a stay here.
However, potential visitors must be aware of the reported issues with the restrooms, as this seems to be the most significant drawback mentioned in the available feedback. Depending on individual comfort levels and priorities, this could be a minor inconvenience or a major deterrent. It would be wise to inquire with the campground directly about the current status of the restroom facilities before making a reservation.
Overall, Applewhite Campground seems to provide a "great cozy campground" experience with a focus on ease and a connection with nature. If the restroom situation is addressed or if campers are prepared for the reported conditions, it could be a wonderful site for a quick and accessible escape from the city within the scenic Lytle Creek Canyon. It is recommended to weigh the positive aspects of location and staff against the potential inconvenience of the restrooms when making your decision about "Camping Near Me."
Applewhite Campground Photos










Applewhite Campground Location
Applewhite Campground
487 N Lytle Creek Canyon Road, Lytle Creek, CA 92358, USA
Applewhite Campground487 N Lytle Creek Canyon Road
Resort Campgrounds Inc277 Lytle Creek Rd
Bonita Ranch Campground900 S Fork Rd
Lytle Creek - Cajon Pass Recreation AreaLytle Creek
Stone House Crossing CampgroundMiddle Fork Rd
Joe Elliot Yellow Post SitesW Cucamonga Truck Trail
Coldwater Canyon Yellow Post SitesLytle Creek Road
Glen Helen Regional Park Campground17800 Glen Helen Rd
Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites4079 Sheep Creek Truck Trail
Gobbler's Knob Yellow Post Sites3000 Lytle Creek Rd
Kelly CampMt Baldy
Rio Baranca Valle Group CampgroundHesperia
Paiute Canyon Yellow Post SitesBaldy Rd
Applewhite Campground Reviews
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.
Apr 27, 2025 · Greta BenavidesGreat cozy campground! I like that it's easy to get to- no crazy elevation which is nice. I also like that they have a nearby local market in case you forget to bring something. I also like that the sites are not too close together. Overall, everyone kept to themselves and was respectful of the rules. The camp host was also really cool- checked us in and went around giving updates regarding the weather and if campfires would be allowed since it was windy that day. The only thing that was a bummer were the restrooms. One of the women's restroom had a door missing and didn't flush and the other would leak water. Not a huge deal but I'd be mindful of being some waterproof shoes lol. Still, it was a Great quick getaway from the city. 👍
Apr 05, 2025 · Shelby A.Stayed here mid October '24 on a Friday overnight with my dog. There were plenty of spots to choose from for First Come First Serve when I arrived around 4p. It was self serve for the payment and claiming an un-reserved spot, which was unexpected with so many reviews talking about a host. I didn't have change, so I overpaid. Unfortunately, the spot that I chose was on the lower loop and there were a lot of large loud groups and barking dogs on that side. The "quiet hours" were not enforced at all - the lower loop was still loud after midnight, and a group started doing a call-and-repeat before 7a. There was also some kind of night construction happening, too. The only time I saw a ranger or "host" was twice in the morning a few hours apart, who told me to leave before check out at noon. I guess because the group with the reservation had come early, even though check in doesn't start until 2p?The camp overall has lots of bathrooms close walking distance from all campsites. There's also faucets with running water, but I think the water isn't potable so I brought my own. There was plenty of toilet paper in the bathrooms (no showers) and they were clean enough with plumbing. Campfires were allowed despite High/Red warning in the provided pits w/ grates, and there's also a stone bbq and picnic table for each campsite. It was very hot in the day and very cool after it got dark. It was a little too cloudy at night for a good view of the stars, but otherwise could be planned for nice visibility with the stretch of road nearby to the shooting range.I wasn't able to find any good trails or ways to access the creek without going to the picnic areas nearby. I did a little hiking in the stretch of road to the shooting range, to where the creek would have been, but it's too hot now for any water there and it wasn't a pleasant hike since there's no trails and just rocks. Highly recommend thick pants if you go out there for some solitary nature experience - there's SHARP plants! If you go to the picnic areas, you do NOT need to pay additionally for the Adventure Day PASS; just keep your reservation in the window.Finding a "first come first serve" spot on a Saturday night without a prior reservation would have been much more difficult, if not impossible, so I wouldn't recommend it.Overall, I may come here again for the price, the creek nearby, and sky visibility. However, I'll be sure to reserve on the upper loop next time and bring exact change.
Oct 13, 2024 · J Allard (Scribble-Tier)First time camping here. We had so much fun! Hot weekend, water was ice cold. You can walk up to the creek (upon exiting the campgrounds, make a right, short walk up and picnic area / creek is on your left). Lots of pincher bugs, mosquitoes, etc. on the camp site (I only mention this in case you're a picky camper). We booked spot #28, no shade at all, so I suggest bringing a canopy. However, the camp site to our left and in front has plenty of trees and a water spout (that we used). The camp host appear to be a couple, and their dog - super kind and welcoming! There are no showers on site, so we brought our own pop-up shower. Bathrooms are close and convenient, didn't mind foot traffic from other campers. Dog friendly. No cell phone reception. Can't wait to return!
May 17, 2023 · Noemi JerezTook 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.
Apr 15, 2025 · Doris Lester
More Camping Near Me
Resort Campgrounds Inc4.0 (151 reviews)277 Lytle Creek Rd, Lytle Creek, CA 92358, USA
Bonita Ranch Campground4.0 (479 reviews)900 S Fork Rd, Lytle Creek, CA 92358, USA
Lytle Creek - Cajon Pass Recreation Area4.0 (34 reviews)Lytle Creek, CA 92358, USA
Stone House Crossing Campground5.0 (3 reviews)Middle Fork Rd, Lytle Creek, CA 92358, USA
Joe Elliot Yellow Post Sites5.0 (2 reviews)W Cucamonga Truck Trail, Lytle Creek, CA 92358, USA
Coldwater Canyon Yellow Post Sites4.0 (27 reviews)Lytle Creek Road, Lytle Creek, CA 92358, USA
Glen Helen Regional Park Campground3.0 (54 reviews)17800 Glen Helen Rd, San Bernardino, CA 92407, USA
Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites4.0 (14 reviews)4079 Sheep Creek Truck Trail, Lytle Creek, CA 92358, USA
Gobbler's Knob Yellow Post Sites4.0 (15 reviews)3000 Lytle Creek Rd, Lytle Creek, CA 92358, USA
Kelly Camp4.0 (23 reviews)Mt Baldy, CA 91759, USA
Rio Baranca Valle Group Campground4.0 (33 reviews)Hesperia, CA 92345, USA
Paiute Canyon Yellow Post Sites4.0 (2 reviews)Baldy Rd, Lytle Creek, CA 92358, USA
Categories
Popular Camping Sites
Clearview MHP3.0 (133 reviews)
Pine Bluff Camp Sites LLC4.0 (14 reviews)
PGE Pelton Park Campground4.0 (100 reviews)
Cane Creek Recreation Area4.0 (11 reviews)
Walnut Valley Mobile Home Park3.0 (5 reviews)
Airport Campground4.0 (12 reviews)Most Searched Camping Sites
Trending Camping Blog Posts
10 Must-Visit Campgrounds in the Midwest for Your Next Outdoor Adventure
Romantic Camping Spots for Couples: Perfect Getaways in Nature
Ultimate Guide to Off the Grid Camping in Remote Locations
Vanlife in Winter: My Personal Experience Living on the Road
How to Cook Over a Campfire Safely for an Enjoyable Outdoor Experience
From City to Camp: My Journey to Nature and What I Learned 
