Guide to San Dimas Charter Bus Loading and Parking

Planning a group trip to San Dimas, California? Whether you’re headed to Raging Waters for a summer splash, Bonelli Park for an outdoor retreat, or a tournament at the San Dimas Sportsplex, getting there is only half the challenge. Once your group arrives, where does your charter bus load, unload, and park? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about staging, loading zones, idling laws, and long-term parking options for charter buses in San Dimas. If you need help booking transportation for your next event, call 840-804-5880 to speak with our reservation team!

Learn The Lingo: Staging, Loading/Unloading, Idling

Staging means your bus is waiting nearby—but NOT in the loading zone—until your group is ready to board. A staging area could be a cell phone lot (at airports), a side street, or another designated location. Most venues do not allow buses to loiter in the loading area for extended periods. Loading/unloading refers to the process of quickly boarding or disembarking passengers and their luggage. These zones often have strict time limits (sometimes as little as 5-10 minutes) to keep traffic flowing. Your group should be assembled and ready to go before the bus pulls up. Idling is when the engine remains running while stationary. Many California cities — including those in Los Angeles County — enforce anti-idling ordinances for environmental reasons. In San Dimas, avoid idling for more than 5 minutes unless absolutely necessary (such as extreme temperatures for passenger comfort).

Staging and Unloading at San Dimas Airports

Flying into Ontario International Airport (ONT)? Charter buses must use designated commercial vehicle areas. Buses are not permitted to wait curbside at baggage claim. Instead, stage in the cell phone lot until your group calls to confirm they have collected their luggage. Only then should your bus proceed to the arrivals level for rapid loading. Curbside loading at ONT is strictly enforced with a 15-minute time limit. Have all passengers present and ready to board before the bus arrives. The airport police will ticket or ask buses to move if they overstay their welcome.

Bus Parking at Raging Waters San Dimas

Raging Waters, one of California’s largest water parks, welcomes group visits all summer. Charter buses have a dedicated drop-off/pick-up lane near the main entrance. After unloading, buses must relocate to the oversized vehicle section of the parking lot — follow signs or staff directions. There is no overnight parking allowed at Raging Waters. If your bus needs to remain parked for multiple days, arrange off-site storage or coordinate daily drop-offs and pickups. Parking fees may apply during peak season, so budget accordingly.

Bus Parking at Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park

Bonelli Park offers ample space for outdoor events, festivals, and sports tournaments. Charter buses can drop off passengers at designated picnic shelters or activity areas, but cannot remain parked along internal roads. For day-use events, buses typically park in the main lots near the park entrance or in overflow areas directed by park rangers. Large events should coordinate with Los Angeles County Parks ahead of time to secure reserved bus parking or staging areas. Overnight parking is generally prohibited within the park gates unless part of a permitted multi-day event.

Bus Parking at San Dimas Canyon Community Regional Park

Visiting San Dimas Canyon for a hiking trip or nature program? The community park has limited parking, but buses can drop off students or groups at the turnaround circle near the Nature Center. After unloading, buses must exit and find street parking along Sycamore Canyon Road or return at a scheduled pickup time. Do not block driveways or park in residential areas. For large school field trips, contact the park office in advance to discuss available parking or possible exceptions for bus staging on quieter weekdays.

Bus Parking at San Dimas High School Athletic Events

If you’re transporting a sports team or fan group to San Dimas High School, bus parking is available in the student lot off West Covina Blvd. During major games or tournaments, arrive early to secure a spot, as lots fill quickly. Buses should not block fire lanes, loading docks, or access roads. Overnight parking on campus is not permitted. If attending a late-night event, arrange with school security for a designated after-hours pickup location. For multi-day tournaments, consider booking a hotel with bus parking nearby.

Where to Sleep & Park Overnight

San Dimas has several hotels that cater to groups, such as the Best Western San Dimas Hotel & Suites and Holiday Inn Express & Suites San Dimas. When booking rooms, ask the sales manager about oversized vehicle parking. Many hotels will reserve a section of their lot for charter buses, especially if you’re bringing a large group. Some properties may charge a nightly fee for bus parking or require you to sign a waiver. Never assume overnight parking is included — always confirm logistics before arrival. If your hotel cannot accommodate a bus, the nearest truck stops on I-10 or I-210 may offer paid overnight parking as an alternative.

Reserve Your San Dimas Charter Bus Rental

Understanding the difference between staging, loading/unloading, and parking is crucial for smooth charter bus operations in San Dimas. Most venues require buses to stage off-site until the group is ready, enforce strict time limits at loading zones, and prohibit overnight parking except with prior approval. Always communicate with your destination ahead of time to confirm current policies, fees, and any special accommodations for your bus. Ready to book reliable group transportation? Call Charter Bus Rental San Dimas at 840-804-5880 for a free quote on a charter bus rental tailored to your itinerary and parking needs!