Dispersed camping options surround Big Bear City, California, at elevations ranging from 6,700 to 7,500 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer days typically reach the 70s-80s with cool nights in the 40s-50s. Yellow Post campsites offer primitive camping experiences without reservation systems, operating on a first-come basis.
What to do
Hiking near campgrounds: Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites connect to multiple trail networks including the Exploration Trail that loops around the area. "Keller Peak is incredible. Quiet and (mostly) clean sites. Tons of land to hike, on or off trail. Geocaching sites nearby. The Keller Peak Lookout was amazing," notes Steve H.
Family water activities: Multiple rv parks near Big Bear City provide lake access for boating and fishing. At Holloway's Marina & RV Park, visitors can rent boats directly from the campground. "We rented a boat on Saturday and was great just to walk out on the dock with the kids. 4 hr rental was just enough. Make reservations for they sell out on the weekends," advises Kevin B.
Climbing opportunities: The granite formations near several campgrounds offer climbing options for various skill levels. "Each site is decent size and tucked away into the rocks. Many will fit multiple people easily. The Exploration trail weaves around them up to the peak and makes a great hike and there are tons of climbing spots," shares Kristil C. about the Keller Peak area.
What campers like
Mountain views: Skypark Camp RV Resort provides panoramic vistas from its elevated location. "Ultra clean and well maintained, this park sets itself apart. Perfect gateway for your adventures in the area," reports Ken C., with another camper noting the "incredible views although to squeeze in some sites they made the access roads a bit small."
Night sky visibility: Many campers highlight exceptional stargazing conditions at the Yellow Post sites due to minimal light pollution. "I got the very first spot. It's a bit of a drive but very scenic and should be doable in any car. My campsite was big and spacious and looked up at an outcropping of rocks," says Jillian, who also noted the temperature drops, getting snow overnight in mid-May.
Site privacy: Some campgrounds offer better separation between sites than others. At Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, Jennifer O. appreciated that "Our site was on the end next to the BLM land and we had nice views of the mountains over Joshua Tree and the stars at night. The staff was very friendly. There is a nice little pond with lots of birds."
What you should know
Leveling challenges: Mountain rv parks often require leveling equipment due to terrain. At Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites, Sam H. found "I'm on site 4 in a travel trailer very large space with plenty of shade," though others mention needing blocks for leveling on sloped sites.
Reservation systems vary: While some parks take reservations months ahead, others operate differently. "This is yellow post camping so it's hit or miss if you can get one. Do your homework and learn what you need to know ahead of time - esp regarding fires," advises Kate W. about dispersed camping options.
Fire restrictions: Rules about campfires change seasonally and by location. "There are fire rings but fires are not always permitted so be sure to check with the station just at the bottom of Keller Peak road," warns one camper, highlighting the importance of verifying current fire regulations before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Rancho Jurupa RV Park offers family-friendly water features beyond just pools. "Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes. Lots of food spots within 10 minutes. Spaces are one of the cleanest I seen," according to Troy A. Another visitor mentions "Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities."
Year-round camping climate: Big Bear area camping conditions vary dramatically by season. "Weather is definitely colder than in the valley, got snow overnight in mid May. Had very bad but there at&t cell reception," reports Jillian, highlighting the importance of checking forecasts and packing appropriately even in spring.
Safety considerations: Site selection affects security. One RVer at Rancho Jurupa Park noted, "The ranger said to lock up bikes and be careful leaving out items because a local has been coming in stealing," emphasizing the need for basic security measures even at developed campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Road navigation: Routes to Big Bear Shores RV Resort and other mountain rv parks require careful planning. "Very clean spots. Make sure your unit is long enough and not too old or they will turn you away. Great facilities," advises Bryan S., pointing to strict length requirements at some upscale resorts.
Spacing considerations: Site dimensions and proximity to neighbors varies significantly between rv parks in Big Bear City. "It's basically brand new and was a great experience. We had an amazing view and lucked out for plenty of privacy (our section was just us all weekend)," reports Walter K. about Skypark Camp RV Resort, though other visitors note that "sites are a little tight if you have a bigger unit."
Size restrictions: Some parks enforce minimum RV lengths. "When you make a reservation, you are presented with a list of rules as long as your arm. During our second night there, our dinner was interrupted by a security guard who said there had been a complaint about our rig," shares one RVer about strict enforcement at premium locations.
