Cabins near Forest Falls, California range from rustic to full-amenity accommodations, with availability affected by seasonal demand and post-flood reconstruction work. Located at elevations between 5,000-7,000 feet, cabin sites experience temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night during spring and fall. Winter visitors should prepare for potential snow closures on access routes, particularly Highway 38.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Hemet Campground offers trout fishing with rentals available on site. "I was able to catch one trout during our four night stay..good eatin lol," reports one visitor who stayed at a premium hook-up site with lake views.
Hiking access: North Shore Campground places you near popular trails. "There is a lovely hiking trail at the far end of the site. There is water, flush toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables," notes a camper who appreciated the dog-friendly environment.
Water activities: When temperatures climb above 90°F in summer, the mountain-cooled streams provide relief at cabin sites. At Seven Oaks Lodge, "We thoroughly enjoyed the stream the trails the pool and all the good times," according to a visitor who camped with multiple families.
What campers like
Natural hot springs: Catalina Spa and RV Resort features mineral spring-fed pools that run warmer than most hot tubs. "They're fueled by the hot springs, so the pool is at about 90 degrees and the hot tub a bit hotter," explains a visitor who appreciated the weekly rate of $35 per night.
Mountain climate: Thousand Trails Idyllwild cabins sit at higher elevations, providing cooler temperatures during summer. "We had a Great breeze every evening starting around 4pm that lasted a couple hours," notes a camper who found the site's setting beautiful despite leveling challenges.
Wildlife viewing: Several cabin areas around Forest Falls attract local wildlife. "I only assume that since check out is 11. When we arrived the camp host was waiting for us. A friendly gentleman that showed me the like s of his stray momma raccoon that he has a big heart for," mentions a visitor who enjoyed the store's essential supplies.
What you should know
Propane fire restrictions: Many cabin areas prohibit wood fires but allow propane alternatives. At Thousand Trails Idyllwild, "NO WOOD FIRES HERE - with room for our car and tent and their provided picnic table, although some of the sites are a bit close together," notes a camper who stayed during Labor Day weekend.
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels impact cabin sites marketed as lakefront. "The premium lakefront sites are no longer lakefront due to the drought so you have no dedicated shoreline as you would have had in the past," reports a visitor to Lake Hemet who paid for premium placement.
Utility limitations: Power reliability varies widely between cabin locations. "This campsite was found by my wife because we wanted to be able to have a campfire. It seems to be private property which allows you to have a campfire in their designated pits," explains a visitor who noted the campground's varied terrain.
Tips for camping with families
Water play areas: Cabin sites with stream access provide natural entertainment for children. "The site is fairly large and divided by a road of the 38 hwy. On the left side is the main office with a pool nearby a shop, restaurant and RV parking with all hook ups," describes a visitor who observed how the creek becomes crowded during hot weather.
Playground facilities: Camp Durrwood offers almost 30 acres of forest land with cabin accommodations ideal for large groups. "The location is among the vast forest in California and with almost 30 acres, the perfect spot for a large group looking to enjoy the forest together," notes a reviewer who highlighted the natural setting.
Cabin spacing considerations: When booking family cabins, note proximity to neighbors. "The sites are well spaced, good tree cover. Very nice patch of land. Quiet. Lake Arrowhead Village is 4 miles away," reports a North Shore Campground visitor who gave the site a 4-star rating.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many cabin and RV sites in mountain locations require significant leveling equipment. "Our Site was not level at all. We carry a lot of leveling blocks and are not even close to level still nose down with 4 2x8s and Jack at max extension," warns a camper who had to purchase additional lumber in town to properly level their trailer.
Winter access: Lake Hemet Campground cabins remain open year-round but with reduced services. "Weather was cold and windy but not too bad. Bring insulation for your water hose or have some type of method that will keep your water lines from freezing. Our water hose froze the first night," advises a visitor who stayed four nights.
Off-peak savings: Cabin rentals offer significant discounts during mid-week stays in non-summer months. "We stayed for 2 and a half months and enjoyed the amenities daily. There is plenty of space for kids to play, with lawns and a little playground," notes a visitor who took advantage of extended stay rates.
