Best Tent Camping near Big Bear City, CA

Are you planning a tent camping trip to Big Bear City? We've got you covered. Find the best information on tent campgrounds near Big Bear City, including sites, reviews, and tips. You're sure to find the perfect tent campsite for your California camping adventure.

Best Tent Sites Near Big Bear City, CA (45)

    Camper-submitted photo from Yucaipa Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yucaipa Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yucaipa Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yucaipa Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yucaipa Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yucaipa Regional Park

    1. Yucaipa Regional Park

    20 Reviews
    20 Photos
    210 Saves
    Yucaipa, California

    Yucaipa Regional Park is a water park based in San Bernardino County beside the San Bernardino National Forest and San Bernardino Mountains. Activities include fishing in three lakes, a water park, and disc golf. Yucaipa Regional Park camping includes primitive sites, picnic tables, fire pits, full hookups for RVs, and large group shelters for up to 350 people.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites

    2. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites

    13 Reviews
    55 Photos
    88 Saves
    Angelus Oaks, California

    These five remote camping sites offer locations for tent and car camping. There are some mature shade trees near the sites, but other than a metal fire ring for campfires, these sites do NOT contain the amenities found at developed campgrounds. There is no water, no picnic tables, no restrooms nearby, and no trash containers. Please pack it in - pack it out! All sites are first-come, first-served. Campfire permits are required for any type of fire use - campfires, charcoal BBQ's, or stoves. Campfires may not be allowed certain times of the year. Contact the Mill Creek Ranger Station for current fire restriction information and road conditions. (909) 382-2882 (closed Tues/Wed) These yellow post sites are reached via forest road 1N12 (unpaved, trailers and large RVs not suitable). Please refer to the yellow-post site map available for free at the Mill Creek Ranger Station. High-clearance vehicles are recommended and four-wheel drive vehicles may also be required to reach these sites, depending on current road conditions.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Glamping
    Camper-submitted photo from Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    3. Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    8 Reviews
    19 Photos
    373 Saves
    Green Valley Lake, California

    These 9 Yellow Post sites are individual camping sites. Each campsite will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis. No reservations. Each site is limited to a maximum of 8 people at any one time. There is limited parking at these Yellow Post Sites for 2 vehicles. Amenities include 1 picnic table and 1 fire ring per site. There are no restroom facilities or drinking water. Please pack it in - pack it out! During winter, Keller Peak Road closes due to snow accumulation, but it is still possible to hike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski to these sites. These sites are near the Children's Forest Visitor Center, the Children's Forest Exploration Trail, and the Keller Peak Fire Lookout. Campfire permits are required for any type of fire use - campfires, charcoal BBQ`s, or gas stoves. Campfires and charcoal BBQ's may not be allowed certain times of the year. Click here for current fire restriction information. Keller Peak Yellow Post Site Map

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mill Creek Dispersed Camping

    4. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    4 Photos
    334 Saves
    Fawnskin, California

    Dispersed, or undeveloped, camping provides more solitude and an opportunity to “rough it.” There are many camping opportunities in general forest areas as well as in wilderness areas. Know before you go: Before traveling visit or call the nearest Ranger Station for current fire restrictions and area closures. No wood or charcoal campfires (check current fire restrictions before you go). 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!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry Lake Backpacking Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry Lake Backpacking Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry Lake Backpacking Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry Lake Backpacking Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry Lake Backpacking Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry Lake Backpacking Campground

    5. Dry Lake Backpacking Campground

    3 Reviews
    22 Photos
    156 Saves
    Forest Falls, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area

    6. Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    18 Photos
    159 Saves
    Cedar Glen, California

    Includes: Lake Arrowhead, Lake Silverwood, Crestline, Running Springs, Green Valley Lake and Keller Peak recreational activities

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfway Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfway Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfway Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfway Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfway Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfway Camp

    7. Halfway Camp

    2 Reviews
    14 Photos
    31 Saves
    Forest Falls, California

    Water available seasonally.

    Group size limited to 12 people and 8 pack/riding animals per group. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit.

    Limited, but free wilderness permits for day hiking and overnight camping are required for the San Gorgonio Wilderness and the Cucamonga Wilderness Permits – they are issued by the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association, a Forest Service partner. Parts of the San Gorgonio Wilderness, including the San Bernardino Peak Trail, are still closed due to the El Dorado fire.

    Upon completion of your reservation request. you will receive a download. Please retain this download as your permit reservation. You may keep a copy on your phone and show it to a ranger as verification of your permit or you can print it out. If you do not receive a permit use the contact link here: https://www.sgwa.org/contact-us

    The Vivian Creek Trail is the shortest and the steepest route to the summit of Mt. San Gorgonio, located in the San Gorgonio Wilderness on the Sand to Snow National Monument. One and two-tenths miles from the trailhead is Vivian Creek Camp (7,100'). Campsites are located upslope to the right of the trail after reaching the stream: one is halfway up the slope, and the other is at the top of the slope (no camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek). One and three-tenths miles from Vivian Creek Camp is Halfway Camp (8,100'). Water is obtained from the creek 200 yards before camp. Two and three-tenths miles further is High Creek Camp (water available - 9,200'). The summit of San Gorgonio (11,499') is 3 miles beyond High Creek. The upper end of this trail offers outstanding views of Yucaipa Ridge and Galena Peak, as well as sweeping panoramic views from the top of Mt. San Gorgonio. General info: No water available. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit. No camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek Wilderness Permit Required - this is a very popular trail, especially on summer weekends. It is suggested you request your permit in advance. Wilderness Permit applications are accepted up to 90 days in advance of your trip. Permits can be obtained from sgwa.org. Fee: Adventure Pass Required $5/day or $30/year. Interagency Passes also accepted.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo from Tanglewood Group Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tanglewood Group Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tanglewood Group Campground

    8. Tanglewood Group Campground

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    11 Saves
    Big Bear Lake, California

    Overview

    The Tanglewood Group Campground provides a picturesque spot for an extended family or large group getaway. It is nestled in the pine-covered mountains of Southern California, providing a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors of any age.

    Recreation

    A variety of hiking, mountain biking and off-road vehicle trails are nearby, including the scenic Gold Fever Trail. Climbing is also a popular activity. Fishing and boating in the nearby Big Bear Lake are also popular activities enjoyed by visitors to the campground. Anglers can look forward to a catch of trout, bluegill, crappie, catfish and largemouth bass, among other fish. Because of cold water temperatures and the presence of underwater obstacles near the shorelines, swimming at the lake is somewhat discouraged, unless done in designated areas.

    Natural Features

    The campground is located northeast of Big Bear Lake at an elevation of 7,542 feet. It is situated in a dense pine forest along the Gold Fever Auto Tour Trail, which provides a variety of interpretive sites that highlight the rich gold mining history of the area.

    Nearby Attractions

    A general store and restaurants are available about eight miles southwest of the campground in Fawnskin. The closest available showers are at Serrano Campground, east of Fawnskin.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Rules & Reservation Policies As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations. Any location or activity requiring a permit or lottery will have unique requirements and policies. Please check individual facility pages for pertinent information for those sites. Booking Window For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility. Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation. Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Tours & Tickets: You may request changes to tour dates at no cost before the arrival date. If you cancel before your tour date, you may be eligible for a refund. Cancellation fees apply. Please check the tour facility description details page for cancellation policies. Permits: Varies by location. Please check the permit details for the permit location. Late Cancellations Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival. Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply. Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge. No-Shows Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date. If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees. Tours: A tour or ticket no-show is one who does not cancel a ticket before arrival and does not arrive for the tour. Tour no-shows are not entitled to a refund. Refunds Customers must request refunds no later than 14 days after the scheduled departure date. Recreation.gov will not grant refund requests after 14 days of departure. Reservation Fee: For some facilities, tours or permits an additional reservation fee is charged. For some overnight and day-use facilities, an additional non-refundable reservation fee may apply. The non-refundable reservation fee for tours and tickets is $1.00. The non-refundable reservation fee for permits varies by location. Refunds for Bankcard Purchases: Refunds for bank card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank card. Refunds for Check or Cash Purchases: Refunds for Recreation.gov payments made by check or money order, and cash payments at selected campgrounds will be issued a check refund. A refund will be processed within 30 days of receipt and approval. Please Note: Refund requests made during or after departure can only be processed when approved by the facility management staff based upon local policy. Refunds for Emergency Closures: In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team will attempt to notify users and offer alternate dates (as appropriate). If this is not possible, reservations will be cancelled and all fees paid will be refunded. Reservation fees for free tickets are non-refundable in the event of an emergency closure. Recreation.gov Billing Information Reservation transaction will appear on customer's credit card statements as "Recreation.gov 877-444-6777." Changes to Policies and Procedures Recreation.gov reserves the right, when necessary, to modify reservation policies. These policies were last updated July

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $149 - $159 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Military Park Miramar Marine Corps Air Station Big Bear Recreation Facility
    Camper-submitted photo from Military Park Miramar Marine Corps Air Station Big Bear Recreation Facility
    Camper-submitted photo from Military Park Miramar Marine Corps Air Station Big Bear Recreation Facility
    Camper-submitted photo from Military Park Miramar Marine Corps Air Station Big Bear Recreation Facility
    Camper-submitted photo from Military Park Miramar Marine Corps Air Station Big Bear Recreation Facility
    Camper-submitted photo from Military Park Miramar Marine Corps Air Station Big Bear Recreation Facility
    Camper-submitted photo from Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground

    10. Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground

    1 Review
    4 Photos
    26 Saves
    Big Bear City, California

    Overview

    The Coon Creek Group Campground is located in the pine-covered mountains of Southern California. The unique campground is home to three historic cabins and a stunning view into the Coachella Valley on clear days.

    Recreation

    The campground is adjacent to a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail, a famous hike that spans more than 2,600 miles from Canada to Mexico. The trail is available for hiking and horseback riding only and offers multiple entry and exit points along its lengthy route, making it ideal for short nature walks or day hikes. In addition to touring the campground's three historic cabins, the campground also offers access to mountain stream fishing and bird and wildlife viewing. The San Gorgonio Wilderness is vast and offers a variety of trailheads and points of exploration.

    Natural Features

    The campground is situated at an 8,000-foot elevation, overlooking the San Bernardino mountains. Mature pine trees dot the area, but provide little shade over the rocky terrain.

    Nearby Attractions

    The campground is less than 20 miles away from Big Bear Lake, which offers a variety of water-related recreation opportunities. The adjoining town provides golf, shopping and restaurant options.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Rules & Reservation Policies As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations. Any location or activity requiring a permit or lottery will have unique requirements and policies. Please check individual facility pages for pertinent information for those sites. Booking Window For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility. Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation. Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Tours & Tickets: You may request changes to tour dates at no cost before the arrival date. If you cancel before your tour date, you may be eligible for a refund. Cancellation fees apply. Please check the tour facility description details page for cancellation policies. Permits: Varies by location. Please check the permit details for the permit location. Late Cancellations Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival. Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply. Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge. No-Shows Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date. If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees. Tours: A tour or ticket no-show is one who does not cancel a ticket before arrival and does not arrive for the tour. Tour no-shows are not entitled to a refund. Refunds Customers must request refunds no later than 14 days after the scheduled departure date. Recreation.gov will not grant refund requests after 14 days of departure. Reservation Fee: For some facilities, tours or permits an additional reservation fee is charged. For some overnight and day-use facilities, an additional non-refundable reservation fee may apply. The non-refundable reservation fee for tours and tickets is $1.00. The non-refundable reservation fee for permits varies by location. Refunds for Bankcard Purchases: Refunds for bank card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank card. Refunds for Check or Cash Purchases: Refunds for Recreation.gov payments made by check or money order, and cash payments at selected campgrounds will be issued a check refund. A refund will be processed within 30 days of receipt and approval. Please Note: Refund requests made during or after departure can only be processed when approved by the facility management staff based upon local policy. Refunds for Emergency Closures: In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team will attempt to notify users and offer alternate dates (as appropriate). If this is not possible, reservations will be cancelled and all fees paid will be refunded. Reservation fees for free tickets are non-refundable in the event of an emergency closure. Recreation.gov Billing Information Reservation transaction will appear on customer's credit card statements as "Recreation.gov 877-444-6777." Changes to Policies and Procedures Recreation.gov reserves the right, when necessary, to modify reservation policies. These policies were last updated July

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash

    $127 - $137 / night

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 45 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews in Big Bear City

1340 Reviews of 45 Big Bear City Campgrounds


  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Jurupa RV Park
    Jan. 27, 2025

    Rancho Jurupa RV Park

    Nice and Safe Campground

    This place was nice. 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. Ranger is on constant patrol. Low-key felt like bikini bottom. Only knock is… no wifi. Great spot overall though

  • Diane M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    Boulder Haven! True to its name!

    Amazing what a delightful place to stay! Very unique with stunning boulders through your the camp ground! Clean bathrooms too!! No showers or hook up if any kind! We have a 29ft trailer with truck got in and out ok much bigger you would have a problem many tight spaces .

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    Best campground in Joshua Tree

    I like this campground the best because the road is paved and that cuts down on the desert dust. Only drawback is there is no cell service at all at this campground. Its very picturesque against the unique Joshua Tree rocks.

  • aThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Joshua Tree
    Jan. 24, 2025

    North Joshua Tree

    Spacious, flat, windy

    Spent a night here on the way to Joshua tree. It’s close to the park would be a good alternative to staying in the park. Wide open and flat ( like a dry lake bed ) . I found it to be very windy and lots of dust storms, could have used some goggles. Spent all my time in the van. A harsh environment but tons of space. Welcome to mars.

  • Ava C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground
    Jan. 20, 2025

    Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

    Easy Booking & Kind Staff

    My boyfriend and I stayed here for about a week and we absolutely loved our stay! The staff was very friendly and hard working. They ran an easily accessible store on the campgrounds that had lots of last minute necessities. Not to mention the ducks! This RV park is also in super close proximity of the National Park. I would definitely visit again. Also, Rue loved it. 🦆👍🏼🤠

  • Julie K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Jan. 6, 2025

    Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    Close to Joshua Tree NP but not a stellar CG for $35/night

    The CG was very well maintained in that the bathrooms were clean, not much trash and very nice camp hosts.  However, the sites were close together, narrow roads and the sites were not level. We found a rock to level our van which helped, but flat spots were expected. The price per night increased on 1/1/25 which was the night we arrived. 

    NOTE: after visiting JTNP I learned that many campgrounds in the main part of the park had no water so extra props to this CG for water.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sam's Family Spa RV Resort & Motel
    Dec. 7, 2024

    Sam's Family Spa RV Resort & Motel

    Worth it for Long Term Stays

    Sam’s Family Spa offers a mixed experience with steep daily rates, decent weekly rates, and an unbeatable deal for monthly stays. The mineral-fed hot springs and heated pool area are highlights, though access requires wristbands and a bathroom code. Mail delivery is convenient, but the lack of security at the campground entrance feels like a gap. The west side of the park boasts stunning views, and the grounds feature a variety of interesting desert plants. However, the overall experience didn’t quite match the polished image portrayed on the website. Still, its proximity to Palm Springs and relaxing hot springs make it a worthwhile option for longer stays

  • Karen M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree RV & Campground
    Nov. 30, 2024

    Joshua Tree RV & Campground

    Clean, safe and friendly spot

    Located close to the town of Joshua Tree so you can still grab a bite to eat if you’re not up to cooking. Easy access to the west entry gate but this gate tends to get busy on holiday weekends. Campground is clean and quiet. They rent every other spot so you’re not quite on top of your neighbors. Camp staff super helpful and friendly. Bring your own table as outdoor tables are limited. Nice community area with picnic tables, microwave, bbq, and games.

  • Mark D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Nov. 25, 2024

    Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    Limited Space

    Campers beware that the sites are close together and have limited space for campers. We have a RTT with a fold out annex. There are boulders along the road side that do not allow you to pull into the sites. This was not obvious from the pictures or descriptions. Beautiful area. Close sites and seems to be a social area and the people were great!

    We opted instead for a first come first served site at the Belle campground. TY to the campers that gave us an alternative location!!

  • Mark D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Nov. 25, 2024

    Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    Easy access

    Reservations are required but the park is easily accessible. We picked an easy location for our maiden voyage and the need for cell service for my spouse. Cell service was just adequate. Facilities are clean and well kept. Visitors center staff was friendly and helpful. Sites are decently spaced but there will be sharing with RV’s and generators. I would stay here again but if time permits the sites within Joshua Tree NP would be my preference.

  • Annie G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sawtooth Canyon Campground
    Nov. 22, 2024

    Sawtooth Canyon Campground

    Roads aren't accessible

    Beautiful area, but I couldn't drive in.. Road is completely inaccessible and saw many others turning around as well . I'm in a Kia SUV and this road is like Godzilla shaking your rig, and giant waves of the ground make it completely inaccessible. I don't know how ppl drive here, probably are just risking their cars and rigs, that's for sure

  • Kara S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Nov. 8, 2024

    Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    Joshua tree np without the fee

    I’ve camped at Joshua tree national park numerous times but this is the first time at this site. It was great. Lots of climbing at hiking at this spot. Great Joshua tree experience without the long drive and entrance fee.

  • Kim N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Calico Ghost Town
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Calico Ghost Town

    halloween event

    Great camping site during halloween event. Very kid friendly. There were free balloon twisters, pumpkin craving, arts and crafts, toss games. We enjoyed the train ride. it was about $5 per a ride. Campsites were dirt roads. we had electric hookup. Dump station was easy to access and water/trash located next to it. No fees for water and dump. Weather was perfect in mid 70's. Would definitely take the kids back again before they get older.

  • Brittany W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Valley Lakes
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Cherry Valley Lakes

    Convenient Location for Seeing Family

    Staff all friendly and facilities while dated are kept very clean. Campers are respectful and quit at night but it’s a very noisy location right next to the freeway which took some getting used to the first few days.

  • Karen D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Ryan Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    Beautiful and quiet

    We stayed two nights here in a campervan. It's a really great location to explore the park. The rocks give some good shade. Space #9 was shady in the mornings. The toilets were fine. It was really quiet, they're were a few other campers mostly in tents. No sign of any rattlesnakes or other critters either. Except loads of cute squirrels, and some mice and lizards.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Ridge Yellow Post Sites
    Sep. 27, 2024

    South Ridge Yellow Post Sites

    Awesome dispersed site with amazing views

    Very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California elevation is high enough that temperatures were very enjoyable (mid 80's)

  • Carol L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Shabby Shanty
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Shabby Shanty

    cool

    What a stunning view from this hillside property! Overlooking the dry lake bed with a neighbor half a mile away sounds like the perfect retreat for those seeking peace and privacy. The proximity to downtown Joshua Tree and JTNP offers the best of both worlds—seclusion and convenience. If you’re considering moving to such a beautiful area, it’s important to communicate your vision clearly. That’s where https://stateofwriting.com/uk/sociology-writing-service comes in. Their expert writing services can help you craft compelling content, whether it’s for a personal blog, a real estate listing, or any other writing project. Enjoy the tranquility of this amazing location!

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground

    Canpsites a plenty

    There’s a few designated camp areas up this way. Went out in early Sept 2024 and the road was fine. I drive a lifted AWD overloaded Honda Element and I had no issue. There were two sections on the final ascent loop to the top of Thomas Mountain that were a little scratchy. You do not need to complete the final ascent to the top to enjoy the camping areas. Although if your car is capable there’s an excellent spot at the very end of the loop.


Guide to Big Bear City

Tent camping near Big Bear City, California, offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying a variety of amenities and activities. With numerous campgrounds to choose from, you'll find the perfect spot to set up your tent and unwind.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Some prices for tent camping range from $10 to $50

Tips for tent camping near Big Bear City

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Big Bear City, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Big Bear City, CA is Yucaipa Regional Park with a 4.8-star rating from 20 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Big Bear City, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 45 tent camping locations near Big Bear City, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.