Best Campgrounds near Big Bear Lake, CA

Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino Mountains draws many campers throughout the year. You'll find several good campgrounds in the area, including Hidden Valley and Indian Cove, which give you access to mountain views and plenty to do outdoors. Weather tends to be mild in summer and cold in winter, with spring and fall being the most comfortable camping seasons. Winter snow can shut down some campgrounds, so always check before heading out. The area has lots of wildlife, so proper food storage is necessary to keep bears and other animals away from your campsite. There are many hiking trails where you can see the natural surroundings. If you want to camp in a different environment, Joshua Tree National Park's Large Horse Camp isn't far away and puts you in desert terrain. Many people fish at Big Bear Lake, with good spots scattered around the shoreline. The town has stores and restaurants when you need supplies or don't feel like cooking. Large Horse Camp gives you a quieter option away from busier areas if you prefer more solitude. Always follow Leave No Trace practices while camping here. Big Bear Lake works well for short trips or longer vacations and has something most campers will enjoy. Pack clothing you can layer since temperatures often drop significantly at night. The diverse landscape and things to do make Big Bear Lake one of California's better camping areas.

Best Camping Sites Near Big Bear Lake, California (329)

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Recent Reviews near Big Bear Lake, CA

1476 Reviews of 329 Big Bear Lake Campgrounds



Guide to Big Bear Lake

Camping near Big Bear Lake, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the lake, there’s something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails around the area. Many campers rave about the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer noting, "The campground is very nice. The roads could use some work and if you have a RV/Trailer/Van you may want some block to help get you level."
  • Fishing: Big Bear Lake is known for its fishing. A visitor shared, "The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time. They stock the lake regularly so you have a good chance of catching trout, even from the shore."
  • Stargazing: The dark skies around the campgrounds provide excellent stargazing opportunities. One camper mentioned, "DARK DARK DARK sky.....wonderful," highlighting the beauty of the night sky.

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and clean campsites. A review stated, "The place is clean and quiet. Our camp site was very spacious," which is a common sentiment among visitors.
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer ample space between sites, making it feel less crowded. One camper noted, "The campground was clean, quiet, and had a decent amount of space between sites."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground staff. A visitor remarked, "The staff were friendly and helpful most of the time," which adds to the overall positive experience.

What you should know

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Hidden Valley Campground, do not have drinking water or showers. A camper pointed out, "The Campground offers the most basic accommodations as toilets; no water or showers."
  • First-come, first-served: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. One reviewer advised, "Once you claim your site, you now have to travel back to an entrance station to pay."
  • Wildlife: Be cautious of wildlife in the area. A camper shared, "The campground was very family friendly and I felt safe even though I was alone," but also noted the presence of coyotes.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for sites that are known for being family-friendly, like Indian Cove Campground. A visitor mentioned, "You could easily spend a week in this park and enjoy yourself."
  • Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. One camper suggested, "The campground itself was well-maintained, and the surrounding natural beauty made for a peaceful retreat."
  • Safety first: Always keep an eye on children, especially around water. A parent noted, "The sites are very close together so privacy was hard," emphasizing the need for supervision.

Tips from RVers

  • Check site suitability: Make sure your RV can fit in the designated spots. One reviewer advised, "The roads in are narrow and absolutely terrible," which is something to keep in mind when booking.
  • Bring leveling blocks: Many RVers recommend bringing leveling blocks for uneven sites. A camper shared, "If you have a RV/Trailer/Van you may want some block to help get you level."
  • Cell service can be spotty: Be prepared for limited cell service in some areas. A visitor mentioned, "Cell service was okay," which can be a concern for those needing to stay connected.

Camping near Big Bear Lake, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s essential to be prepared and informed about what to expect. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, the area has something to offer everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Big Bear Lake, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Big Bear Lake, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 329 campgrounds and RV parks near Big Bear Lake, CA and 29 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Big Bear Lake, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Big Bear Lake, CA is Serrano with a 4.6-star rating from 34 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Big Bear Lake, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 free dispersed camping spots near Big Bear Lake, CA.

  • What parks are near Big Bear Lake, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Big Bear Lake, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.