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Established Camping

San Bernardino National Forest Crab Flats Campground

Warning 3 Alerts are In Effect

There are 3 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!

Fire restrictions are currently in effect at this campground that prohibit wood fires, charcoal fires, wood-burning camp stoves, and charcoal grills. Persons with a valid California Campfire Permit may use a portable campfire ring/pit, stove, or lantern in an area at least five feet from any flammable materials provided that the portable campfire ring/pit, stove, or lantern only burns gas, kerosene, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel, with a shut-off valve.Forest Order No. 05-12-00-25-05Forest Order No. 05-12-00-25-05 - Exhibit A

Crab Flats is difficult to reach without a high clearance vehicle. Small cars and RV's not recommended.

This location is open during the Federal government lapse in funding.

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

San Bernardino National Forest Crab Flats Campground, near Big Bear, California, is a solid choice for those who love the great outdoors and off-roading adventures. This campground offers spacious sites with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for gathering around the fire after a day of exploring.

The area is known for its beautiful scenery, with plenty of trees providing shade and a rustic vibe. Visitors have mentioned that the campground is a hub for dirt biking and off-roading, making it a popular spot for those looking to hit the trails. Just keep in mind that the access road can be a bit rough, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended.

While the facilities are basic, you’ll find vault toilets and a couple of water spigots on-site. Campers appreciate the cleanliness maintained by the camp host, who makes regular rounds. As one visitor noted, “The campsite is spacious although not private from each site,” which gives it a friendly, communal feel.

If you’re up for some fun beyond the campground, the nearby lake offers opportunities for kayaking and fishing, making it a great spot for families. Just remember to pack out your trash when you leave, as the campground operates on a leave-no-trace policy. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, Crab Flats has a laid-back atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

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Location

San Bernardino National Forest Crab Flats Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Running Springs, travel toward Arrowbear, to Green Valley Road. Turn left, drive approximately 4 miles to Crab Flats Campground sign. Turn left and continue about 4 miles to the campground.

Address

SAN BERNARDINO
CA

Coordinates

34.263451 N
117.086627 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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    Excellent Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

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Reviews

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6 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 13, 2022

Crab Flats Campsite Beautiful Sunset’s

Do not follow Edison Road This is a narrow, and intermediate trail for ATVs. Do no recommend unless you have experience, someone to spot you and high clearance Jeep or aftermarket suspension. Follow Green Valley Lake Rd to Crab Flats Rd. The campsite is spacious although, not private from each site. The camp host visit twice a day and keep the place clean. This place is primarily for dirt biking. The mosquitoes were terrible from morning to nighttime. The campground is about an hour south of Big Bear and 25 minutes from Lake Arrowhead. There are fire rings, table, trash cans and 2 bathrooms with vault toilets.

Site6
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of San Bernardino National Forest Crab Flats Campground by Manny D., July 13, 2022
  • Review photo of San Bernardino National Forest Crab Flats Campground by Manny D., July 13, 2022
  • Review photo of San Bernardino National Forest Crab Flats Campground by Manny D., July 13, 2022
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Reviewed May. 29, 2022

Beautiful location

The location was beautiful and the spots were big. No drinking water at the moment but the bathrooms were nice. Next time we will plan to use a 4 wheel / all wheel drive vehicle since the entrance road is rough but it’s not impossible.

Site002
Month of VisitMay
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  • Review photo of San Bernardino National Forest Crab Flats Campground by Anna B., May 29, 2022
  • Review photo of San Bernardino National Forest Crab Flats Campground by Anna B., May 29, 2022
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Reviewed Jul. 6, 2020

5 Miles Dirt Road Off Highway YES

Slow going on the dirt road but boy is it worth it. There are a couple of water spigots. Pack your trash out when you leave. Do not need 4WD to get there but it’s sure fun on all the truck trails if you do! Lots of trees and shade, 26 sites that are usually pretty full on the weekends. Vault toilets. Fire rings, bear boxes and picnic tables provide the basics. The drive out to the lake is also worth it if kids want to play in the water. Kayak and small boat rentals, fishing with stocked waters. All in all a great way to spend a weekend in the mountains.

Reviewed Jul. 4, 2019

Great for off roaders

Spent a weekend at crab flats. It s great if you are into off roading, in fact the last 1+ or so leading into the campsite is all dirt rods. Plenty of trails and dirt roads at your OHV disposition. The campsite itself is very basic, there is running water but not potable. Not a lot to do at the site itself, but makes for a chill, low-key visit.

Reviewed May. 9, 2019

Offroad Hub

Surrounded by well known offroad trails, Crab Flats is frequented mainly by Jeepers and other offroad enthusiasts. Not the best maintained but there are always spots and it’s relatively private.

Reviewed Jul. 31, 2018

4x4 campground

when u exit the main road, there a couple miles of rough terrain. I had my 4 Wheel Dr explorer and had a blast going through the stream and across the rocky road. we had the place to ourselves .. midweek luck. I saw no hook-ups ( though tbh I wasn’t looking)- lots of trees for climbing and hiking /exploring opportunities were plentiful!

  • Review photo of San Bernardino National Forest Crab Flats Campground by Jennifer D., July 31, 2018
  • Review photo of San Bernardino National Forest Crab Flats Campground by Jennifer D., July 31, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Crab Flats Campground?

Crab Flats Campground offers basic amenities for a rustic camping experience. The campground features 26 campsites spread throughout a wooded area, providing good shade coverage. Facilities include vault toilets and water spigots, though the water is non-potable so you'll need to bring your own drinking water. There are no hookups for RVs at this location. Each site is spacious, giving campers room to spread out. The campground is ideal for those seeking a more primitive camping experience with access to surrounding nature and trails.

What are reviews saying about Crab Flats Family Campground?

Campers appreciate Crab Flats for its spacious sites, beautiful forested setting, and relative privacy. Many highlight the excellent access to off-road trails, making it popular with Jeep and OHV enthusiasts. The campground receives praise for its tranquility, especially during weekdays when it's less crowded. While some mention the basic nature of the facilities, most find the natural surroundings and outdoor recreation opportunities worth the trip. The vault toilets are noted as being in decent condition. Some campers mention having the entire place to themselves during mid-week visits.

Is Crab Flats Campground near Big Bear Lake?

Yes, Crab Flats Campground is located in the San Bernardino National Forest near the Big Bear area. While not directly on Big Bear Lake, it's situated in the same general mountain region. The campground is accessible via Green Valley Lake Road to Crab Flats Road. This forested campground offers a quieter alternative to the busier lakeside camping options while still being within the greater Big Bear recreation area. If you're planning to visit both the campground and the lake, be prepared for some driving time between the two locations.

Are there photos available of Crab Flats Campground?

Photos of Crab Flats Campground can be found through various camping platforms and the San Bernardino National Forest website. These images typically showcase the wooded campsites, surrounding forest, vault toilets, and the general layout of the 26 camping spots. Photos often highlight the pine trees providing ample shade, the spacious sites, and the natural forest setting. For the most current visual information, check the official Forest Service website or established camping directories where visitors frequently upload recent images of their stays.

How is the road access to Crab Flats Campground?

Access to Crab Flats Campground involves traveling on dirt roads that can be challenging. The last mile or more leading to the campground is unpaved and may include rough terrain, with some rocky sections and possibly a stream crossing. While 4WD or high clearance vehicles are recommended, standard vehicles can make it with careful driving. Important note: follow Green Valley Lake Road to Crab Flats Road rather than Edison Road, which is a difficult trail meant for ATVs and experienced off-roaders. The drive in is slow-going but considered part of the adventure by many visitors.