Best Campgrounds near Fawnskin, CA

Campgrounds surrounding Fawnskin, California provide diverse accommodations for outdoor enthusiasts in the San Bernardino Mountains near Big Bear Lake. Established sites like Serrano Campground and Dogwood Campground offer developed facilities with drinking water, toilets, and fire rings, while more rustic options such as Holcomb Valley Campground maintain a more primitive camping experience. The area supports both tent and RV camping, with several locations offering full hookups for larger recreational vehicles, particularly at lakeside destinations like Holloway's Marina & RV Park and Lighthouse Trailer Resort.

Seasonal operations affect campground availability throughout the region, with many facilities open from May through October during the milder mountain weather. Road conditions on forest service roads can deteriorate in winter months when snow accumulates at higher elevations. "We always stay in the Strawberry loop. Full hookups. Spaces are large with room for most class A's. Close to the lake," noted one visitor about Serrano Campground. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak summer weekends and holidays when facilities reach capacity. Most developed campgrounds require payment, while some yellow post sites in the national forest offer free camping with limited amenities and typically operate on a first-come basis.

Lakefront camping locations receive particularly positive feedback from visitors, with many commenting on the peaceful atmosphere and scenic water views. Several campgrounds provide direct lake access for fishing, kayaking, and other water activities. Campers at higher-elevation sites like Hanna Flat Campground (7,000+ feet) appreciate cooler summer temperatures and pine forest shade. While sites closer to Big Bear Lake offer convenient access to town amenities, they tend to experience more road noise and higher occupancy rates. According to one visitor, "Family run park great for kids. Bike path right across the street. There are bike and kayak rentals if you didn't bring your toys." Many campgrounds accommodate pets with some restrictions, allowing families to bring their complete household on outdoor adventures.

Best Camping Sites Near Fawnskin, California (339)

    1. Serrano

    35 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8021

    $44 - $91 / night

    "We camped just a few steps away from the lake, there were other campers there but the campgrounds are far enough away from each other."

    "The big plus was the pine needles laying around became very useful for building a fire.  There are also nearby water spigots for your water needs. "

    2. Hanna Flat Campground

    25 Reviews
    Fawnskin, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2790

    $33 - $67 / night

    "Bit of a hassle getting up the washboard dirt road from Fawnskin but what you gain is worth it! No cell service except legend has it that site 37 has service if you stand on the rocks."

    "We were tucked up into the hill side with neighbors far enough sway to make it very private. There were no showers so we brought our travel one and hung it from a branch."

    3. San Gorgonio Campground

    21 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8550

    $34 - $69 / night

    "San Gorgonio, aptly named for the famed crown peak near by, is a nice mix of family friendly and weekend escape."

    "If you live in Southern California and haven't climbed the highest peak, you need to get out there and experience nature."

    4. Pineknot

    18 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8550

    $34 - $36 / night

    "Pineknot is perfectly situated in Big Bear where you're in the woods but only a short walk to Snow Summit. "

    "The last few times we have gone we have stayed in 19 because of its location and layout."

    5. Holcomb Valley Campground

    17 Reviews
    Fawnskin, CA
    4 miles
    Website

    $27 / night

    "Lots of great trails and off trail hiking for all levels of experience plus climbing locations for the rockers out there."

    "Though this campground doesn’t have spectacular views, it is located in the historic Holcomb Valley and surrounded by tons of hiking and offroad trails to explore. Tall trees with plenty of shade!"

    6. Barton Flats Family Campground

    19 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    8 miles
    Website

    $36 - $73 / night

    "Came here for a weekend, good spot for tent camping, I went on an off trail hike, cool, fun area. Some views. Drove over to the lake but couldn’t find parking. Very quiet and clean as well."

    "mountain just a short hike away from our site, #23. "

    7. Dogwood

    33 Reviews
    Rimforest, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 336-6717

    $40 - $81 / night

    "The trees are massive and plenty and make you feel like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of California."

    "The campground overall is really pretty and in a great location in Lake Arrowhead. However, we made the mistake of booking site 005, which is right on a ridge... it was SO windy."

    8. Heart Bar Campground

    20 Reviews
    Big Bear City, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8550

    $29 - $58 / night

    "The first thing to mention is the location. The back of the campground faces west where the rolling mountains seem to part in a way that showcases the beautiful California sunset."

    "second reason; there are many many sites to choose from. this camp ground has several loops that each contain roughly 20 campsites, sometimes more. on any given day you should be able to drive up, though"

    9. Holloway's Marina & RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Fawnskin, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-5706

    "It was Memorial Day weekend pretty busy but camp site was nice rented pontoon boat just a walk from park all in all good time"

    "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. Super easy."

    10. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites

    13 Reviews
    Angelus Oaks, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2882

    "Most of the sites have incredible views looking out over Lake Hemet and of the San Jacinto mountains."

    "Fun off-road adventure to get to the site. Minimal sites so not much crowding."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 339 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Fawnskin, CA

1530 Reviews of 339 Fawnskin Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 4, 2025

    Pioneertown Corrals

    Overall great place to stay

    It’s a very cool and unique place. They have two bars/restaurants with live bands and even a bingo night, a few gift shops and plenty of open camp sites during the week. I stayed on a Monday and there was only one other camper. Not sure how it would look on a weekend. This place is worth a weekend or one night get away. Very fun. The only negative they had was no water hookups and they only have porta potties for toilets.

  • s
    Nov. 3, 2025

    Stone Creek Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    Great Trails & Views

    The site was nice and spacious, tall pines, great shade and star gazing, the falling egg corns were fun but the fire ban was a deal breaker... I reserved 1 1/2 months out so when I arrived the ban was in effect, stayed one night out of two. The trails were nice with plenty of great views, quiet walks and natural woodland creatures: woodpeckers, squirrels and birds. I'll stay again only if there's no fire ban.... Whats camping without a fire?

  • Anna R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 30, 2025

    Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    Gorgeous Views!

    Incredible campsite that is extremely accessible. It is best suited for tent camping but we were able to make it work well for our RTT. I highly recommend spot 90. It was very secluded & nestled into the rocks. If you have a tent, this is the spot to be.

  • accalia F.
    Oct. 28, 2025

    Hidden Valley Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    Hidden Valley Campground

    Stayed here our 3rd night due to it being full from Saturday-Sunday. Recommend going early Sunday morning to get the spots that are open from people leaving. Spots do fill up pretty quick. You can also walk across the street to hidden valley trail. Definitely recommend. Felt safer here due to the fact that you’re surrounded by other campers.

  • Heather K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 28, 2025

    Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA

    Great Campground

    I don’t tend to stay at KOAs but this one may change my mind. We got a spot that was big enough for two camper vans (promaster and express). The hot tubs were awesome. They even had a haunted house and hayride for the kids. Super cool spot.

  • Hans V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2025

    Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

    Huge spots for dry RV

    Large campground, not very busy in the weekend in October when we were there. 4 adults, 2 kids, 1 trailer, 1 tent & 2 cara on a dry RV site with room to spare and that for only 40 bucks. Good deal !

  • Kyle M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Pathfinder Dispersed Camping

    Free!

    No amenities. 14 day stay. Mostly secluded, except for some cow visitors. Road leading in is rough. Skill is needed to venture back.

  • Kyle M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Pathfinder Dispersed Camping

    Free!!!!

    Mostly secluded, and you get a few bovine visitors. No amenities. 14 day stays. The only important note is that the road leading up is rough, careful skill is needed.


Guide to Fawnskin

Camping near Fawnskin, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails around the campgrounds. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes, with one reviewer from Black Rock Campground noting, "The hills around the campsite are fun to hike around on."
  • Fishing: The nearby lakes provide great fishing opportunities. A visitor at Serrano mentioned, "We camped just a few steps away from the lake," making it easy to cast a line.
  • Biking: There are biking trails that wind through the campgrounds. One camper at Dogwood shared, "Great mountain bike or hiking trail about 5-6mi loop."

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy campsites. A review for Serrano highlighted, "The campground was clean, quiet, and had a decent amount of space between sites."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A visitor at Hanna Flat Campground remarked, "The camp hosts are super sweet and they give you a rundown of the whole campground."
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. One camper at Heart Bar Campground noted, "The stellar jays are up and about at sunrise to pick over your evening scraps."

What you should know:

  • Road Conditions: Some roads leading to campgrounds can be rough. A camper at Black Rock Campground warned, "The roads in are narrow and absolutely terrible."
  • No Showers: Many campgrounds do not have shower facilities. A visitor at Serrano mentioned, "Restrooms were clean although the showers were cold and do not heat up well."
  • Reservations Recommended: During peak seasons, it's wise to book in advance. A camper at San Gorgonio advised, "Reservations are recommended, on weekends you must book two nights minimum."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites that offer amenities for kids. A family at Yucaipa Regional Park enjoyed, "The kids love the lake and playgrounds."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets for chilly nights. A camper at Hanna Flat Campground noted, "It got cold enough at night but was absolutely perfect during the day."
  • Plan Activities: Have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A visitor at Lake Perris State Recreational Area mentioned, "We loved it! Short walk/drive to the lake which was also very nice for my son!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A reviewer at Sawtooth Canyon Campground said, "There are only about 20 spots here and it is popular."
  • Bring Leveling Blocks: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A camper at San Gorgonio mentioned, "I ended up with a few blocks just to level us better."
  • Stay Connected: Check cell service availability. A visitor at Heart Bar Campground noted, "TMobile signal was spotty, but enough to check the basics."

Camping near Fawnskin, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're with family or friends. With plenty of activities and beautiful campgrounds, you're sure to have a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Fawnskin Campground located in California?

Fawnskin is located on the north shore of Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California. While there's no specific 'Fawnskin Campground', several campgrounds are near this small community. Hanna Flat Campground is located north of Fawnskin off forest road 3N14, requiring travel on an unpaved, washboard dirt road. Dogwood is another nearby campground that provides convenient access to the Fawnskin area while offering beautiful mountain surroundings.

What outdoor activities can you do near Fawnskin camping areas?

The Fawnskin area offers abundant outdoor activities. Near Heart Bar Campground, you can enjoy spectacular mountain sunsets and secluded camping experiences. The Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area provides gorgeous landscapes perfect for exploration. Activities around Fawnskin include hiking, mountain biking, fishing in Big Bear Lake, OHV and Jeep trails, bouldering, and wildlife viewing. During winter, nearby snow activities become available. The area's natural beauty makes it ideal for photography and stargazing away from city lights.

What amenities are available at Fawnskin Campground?

While there isn't a specific 'Fawnskin Campground', nearby campgrounds offer various amenities. Serrano provides lakeside camping with friendly staff and is located just steps from Big Bear Lake. Big Pine Flat Campground near Fawnskin features camping spots adjacent to a meadow at a forest crossing. Most campgrounds in the area typically include basic amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Some offer potable water, but facilities vary by location. Many sites are suitable for tent camping, with some accommodating smaller RVs.