Established Camping
Holcomb Valley Campground
Holcomb Valley Campground, near Big Bear, California, is a solid choice for those seeking a peaceful escape in the San Bernardino National Forest. This spot offers spacious sites where you can kick back and enjoy the natural surroundings, though you should come prepared since there’s no drinking water or electric hookups available.
Campers rave about the clean facilities, especially the vault toilets, which are surprisingly well-maintained. The campground is first-come, first-served, so arriving early is key if you want to snag a good spot. As one visitor put it, “The sites are dispersed farther apart than most Californian campsites,” giving you a bit of breathing room.
For adventure seekers, the area is surrounded by numerous hiking and off-road trails, perfect for exploring the rugged beauty of the landscape. If you’re into 4x4ing, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to put your vehicle to the test. Just remember, wood fires are allowed in designated metal circles, so gather some firewood and enjoy a cozy evening under the stars.
While the campground may not boast spectacular views, the tall trees provide ample shade and a serene atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or a longer stay, Holcomb Valley Campground has the essentials for a memorable outdoor experience.
Description
National Forest
San Bernardino National Forest
This family campground has 19 single-family campsites.__All sites are__first-come-first-serve basis (no reservations). Holcomb Valley campground is located approximately 5 miles north of Big Bear Lake off__Forest Service Road 3N16.__Although this__campground is open year round,__vehicle access will be based on road__conditions. Please__contact the Big Bear Discovery Center__for current road conditions.Each family campsite accommodates a maximum of 8 people. Amenities include a picnic table, 1 fire ring, bear boxes and vault toilets. There is no water available. A campground host is on site during mid May through October.
Location
Holcomb Valley Campground is located in California
Directions
Directions from Redlands:Take I-10 East to Redlands. Take the University Street exit, EXIT 80. Turn left (northbound) on University Street. Turn right onto E. Lugonia Avenue/SR-38. Continue on State Highway 38 into Big Bear City, to E. Big Bear Blvd. Turn left onto E. Big Bear Blvd./SR-38. Turn right onto Greenway Drive/CA-18/SR-38. Turn left onto North Shore Drive, SR-38. Continue on North Shore Drive/Hwy 38 until you reach the Van Dusen Canyon Road, Forest Service Road 3N09. Make a right hand turn on Van Dusen Canyon Road. Continue on the Forest Service Road 3N09 for approximately 4 miles. Make a left on Forest Service Road 3N16. Holcomb Valley Campground will be located on the right.Directions from San Bernardino:Take I-10 East to San Bernardino. Merge onto CA-210 W via Exit 77 toward CA-330/Highland. Merge onto CA-330 N via Exit 81 toward Mtn Resorts. CA-330 N becomes CA-18 in the town of Running Springs. Take CA-18 to Big Bear. At the Dam/Bridge, turn left onto CA-38 at the signal light towards Fawnskin. Continue on North Shore Drive/CA-38 through Fawnskin. Continue on North Shore Drive/Hwy 38 until you reach the Van Dusen Canyon Road, Forest Service Road 3N09. Make a\_\_left \_\_hand turn on Van Dusen Canyon Road. Continue on the Forest Service Road 3N09 for approximately 4 miles. Make a left on Forest Service Road 3N16. Holcomb Valley Campground will be located on the right.For winter access take Polique Canyon Road when Van Dusen Canyon Road is closed for winter. \_\_From Fawnskin, continue on North Shoe Drive/Hwy 38 to Polique Canyon Road. Make a left, Polique Canyon Road becomes Forest Service Road 2N09. Continue on 2N09 for approximately 4 miles. Make a right hand turn (east ) on 3N16 for of a mile. Holcomb Valley Campground will be on your left hand side.
Coordinates
34.302593 N
116.895933 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonGood
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 49 min from Los Angeles
- 3 hrs 21 min from San Diego
- 3 hrs 31 min from Oxnard
- 3 hrs 41 min from El Centro