Best Campgrounds near Big Bear Lake, CA

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.