Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Bear Lake

Bear Lake is located in the San Bernardino National Forest, offering a terrain of forested areas and mountainous landscapes. Temperatures can range from 30°F in winter to 85°F in summer, providing varied conditions for camping throughout the year. Nearby attractions include Big Bear Lake, where visitors can enjoy water activities, and the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain for family-friendly fun.

Description

USDA Forest Service

San Bernardino National Forest

The number of visitors admitted to the wilderness is limited. On summer weekends some wilderness areas may fill to capacity well in advance. Wilderness campsites are accessible by foot and/or horseback only and require a free wilderness permit, which may be reserved up to three months in advance. Use of certain trailheads that have facilities like restrooms require an Adventure Pass or an Interagency Pass, which must be displayed on the parked vehicle. When camping in the wilderness, lightweight stoves are recommended. Campfires are not allowed in Wilderness areas on the San Bernardino National Forest. No wood or charcoal campfires (Read the current fire restrictions) Vehicles must remain on roads and associated pullouts Do not clear vegetation Portable gas-powered stoves, lanterns and fire rings with a fuel-shutoff valve allowed with a California Campfire Permit and five feet clearance from vegetation. Camp at least 200 feet from springs, water, meadows, trails and roads Camp at least a quarter-mile from designated campgrounds, picnic areas, trailheads Camp at least a quarter-mile from private property and state highways Pack out all trash Leave no trace For more information, please read the Forest Order on use of dispersed areas: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5155166.pdf

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Location

Bear Lake is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

34.23324394 N
116.907269 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Available
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Good
  • T-Mobile
    Available

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Bear Lake needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Bear Lake?

    Bear Lake is located at 7313 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Bear Lake?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Bear Lake, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Bear Lake have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Bear Lake does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Bear Lake?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is good, AT&T is good, and T-Mobile is available.