Applewhite Campground (Ca)
Applewhite Campground (Ca)
$15.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
"The campground charges $15-$20 per night for standard non-electric sites. Discounts, taxes, and incremental charges are not included. An additional...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$20.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider909-382-2716
About this campground
Discover your perfect outdoor escape at this hidden gem, where pristine wilderness meets modern camping comfort. Whether you're seeking a weekend retreat from city life or planning an extended adventure, this campground offers the ideal basecamp for exploring nature's wonders. Wake up to birdsong, spend your days hiking scenic trails, and end each evening around a crackling campfire under a canopy of stars.
Applewhite Campground offers tent camping and limited RV camping without hookups. Group camping and primitive or glamping accommodations are not available.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with stories spanning centuries. This area has served as a crossroads of human history, from ancient indigenous peoples who first called these lands home to early settlers who carved out new lives in the wilderness. Interpretive trails and markers throughout the campground reveal fascinating glimpses into the past, including historic structures, archaeological sites, and cultural landmarks that connect today's visitors with generations of adventurers who came before.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of four distinct seasons at this year-round destination. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and mild temperatures perfect for hiking, while summer brings warm days ideal for water activities and evening campfire gatherings. Fall transforms the landscape into a tapestry of golden and crimson hues, offering crisp air and spectacular photography opportunities. Winter enthusiasts will find a wonderland of snow-covered trails and cozy camping experiences, with proper gear ensuring comfort even in cooler months.
ElevationPerched at an elevation that offers the best of both worlds, this campground provides refreshing mountain air without the challenges of extreme altitude. The moderate elevation creates a comfortable climate throughout the camping season, with cooler temperatures that provide natural relief from summer heat. Visitors will enjoy expansive views across the surrounding landscape, while the gentle terrain makes exploration accessible for campers of all ages and abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a diverse ecosystem where towering trees create a natural cathedral overhead and crystal-clear streams wind through the landscape. The campground showcases nature's artistry at every turn, from dramatic rock formations sculpted by millennia of wind and water to peaceful meadows that burst with seasonal wildflowers. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with deer, birds, and small mammals frequently spotted by observant campers. Each campsite is thoughtfully positioned to maximize privacy while offering stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
Geological RegionSet within a fascinating geological wonderland, this campground sits atop layers of Earth's history written in stone. The surrounding formations tell a story millions of years in the making, featuring exposed rock faces, ancient fossil beds, and mineral deposits that sparkle in the sunlight. Amateur geologists and curious campers alike will marvel at the visible evidence of volcanic activity, glacial movement, or sedimentary processes that shaped this remarkable landscape. Interpretive programs and guided walks help visitors understand the powerful forces that created this natural playground.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible flush toilets and water spigots. The paved parking aprons may be narrow, but they are present throughout the campground.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious by users, with one review stating, 'Each camping site allows two cars and up to 8 people, and the spaces are very large.'
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy between campsites varies. Some reviews noted spacious and well-spaced sites, while others mentioned the close proximity of campsites and lack of seclusion.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Site 10 is well-shaded and near water spouts; site 40 is quiet and spacious; site 15 offers proximity to the creek."
Best Campsites"User reviews praised sites 10, 15, and 40 for cleanliness, spaciousness, and natural shade."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
"Check-in at 2:00 PM."
Check-out
"Check-out by 12:00 PM."
Stay Limit
"Maximum consecutive stay is 5 nights, with a total of 14 nights per year."
Guests Allowed Per Site
"Maximum of 8 people per campsite."
Groups
No group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout"The campground is divided into Upper and Lower Loops."
Open and Closed Season"The campground is open year-round."
Reservation Platforms"Reservations can be made online through Recreation.gov or by calling the contact center."
Walk-in Availability"Limited walk-up availability; not recommended to rely on this for site access."
Cancellation Policy"Cancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations."
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Applewhite Campground provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the nearby Lytle Creek, which is a popular spot for relaxation. The creek is accessible across the road from the campground. OHV enthusiasts can find trails about 20 minutes away in Cajon Pass.
Hiking
The campground offers access to hiking trails in the Lytle Creek area. Reviews recommend hiking to Bonita Falls, a 45-minute trail nearby. However, some trailheads are reported to be 'a little bit of a walk away from the campground.'Swimming
Users have enjoyed cooling off in Lytle Creek. One reviewer mentioned, 'The creek across the street is awesome to go and get cool for a few.' Another stated, 'Water was ice cold and very refreshing.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible in the area, as the natural setting and nearby creek provide opportunities to observe local fauna.Winter Activities
No specific details about winter activities are provided for this campground.Water Sports
The creek offers opportunities to play and relax in the water, but no specific water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- "Campfires are permitted, and each site includes a fire pit and grill."
- "Quiet hours are strictly enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM."
Hazards
General hazardsnull
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
61
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
null
Good to know
Peak season dates"Peak season rates apply from January 1 to December 31 annually."
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available at the campground, but there is no specific mention of recycling services. Some reviewers commented on the need for better maintenance.
Proximity to water features"Lytle Creek is across the road from the campground."
Common complaintsnull
Host"Hosts were noted as friendly and helpful, providing crayons and coloring pages for children and keeping the campground clean."
Campground Map
Driving directions"Continue 3 miles past the Lytle Creek Ranger Station. Campground is on the right with Upper Loop campsites on the left and Lower Loop Campsites on the right."
nullNearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.2
105 reviews
Applewhite Campground (Ca) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Applewhite Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment of 4.16 for general experiences and 3.95 for campground-specific reviews. Positive aspects include its affordability, proximity to nature, and friendly camp hosts. Common complaints revolve around cleanliness and safety concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 105 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the affordability and convenience of the campground, with one reviewer stating, 'Camping here will not break the bank.' The creek nearby is a highlight for many guests. Others...
Based on 105 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Cleanliness issues, noisy neighbors, and safety concerns were commonly reported. One user mentioned, 'Bathrooms could use a bit of renovation,' while another noted, 'There was a lot of fighting and...
Based on 105 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray and a canopy for shade. A pop-up shower may be helpful, as there are no on-site shower facilities. Visit Lytle Creek for a refreshing experience, and be cautious when crossing the...
Based on 105 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Weekends tend to be crowded and noisy, while weekdays are quieter. Summer months are ideal for enjoying the creek, but bugs and heat can be a nuisance.
Based on 105 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Camping here will not break the bank.'
- 'There are no showers on-site, so we brought our own pop-up shower.'
- 'The host was fantastic. She even bought my daughter colored pencils and a picture...
Based on 105 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #10: 'Pretty good shade under the huge pine tree.'
Campsite #28: 'No shade at all, so I suggest bringing a canopy.'
Campsite #38: 'Really nice and quiet. Acting Camp Host, Lynn, was great.'
Based on 105 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible flush toilets and water spigots are provided. Parking aprons are paved, but some users noted these can be narrow.
Based on 105 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on a leash. One user mentioned, 'Bring precautions for foxtails if camping with dogs.'
Based on 105 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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