Fawnskin, California sits at 6,752 feet elevation on the north shore of Big Bear Lake, experiencing moderate summers and snowy winters. The surrounding San Bernardino National Forest creates a transition zone between mountain and desert ecosystems with temperature fluctuations of up to 30°F between day and night. Yurt camping options near Fawnskin remain open year-round, though weather conditions limit accessibility during winter months.
What to do
Alpine Pedal Path access: Located directly across from Serrano Campground, this 2.5-mile paved trail offers scenic lake views accessible for all skill levels. "I love this campground! It's right across from the Discovery Center in Big Bear, which is where a couple fun hiking trails begin," notes Sarah C. about Serrano's convenient location.
Mountain biking trails: The area features numerous interconnected trails within 10 minutes of most campsites. "We loved camping here. Beautiful, pristine campground with bike trails/walking paths around the lake. The town is bike friendly," shares Trey T. about biking from Serrano.
Fishing from shore: Fish for trout and bass directly from the lake's north shore with California fishing license required (daily permits available for $15). "We had a double spot and it was very spacious which is what we were looking for because we had 5 kids, 4 dogs, and 7 adults," mentions Brittany N., highlighting the ample space at North Shore Campground for families with fishing gear.
What campers like
Spacious yellow post sites: These first-come, first-served sites provide more isolation than standard campgrounds. "I really dig these spots because they are well spaced out. It's right around the corner from my cabin so it's a great spot to get outside for the weekend without an epic drive," writes Lynn C. about Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain restrooms and common areas daily. "Great clean campground. Flush toilets, clean restrooms, well stocked. Didn't use the showers. Good location. Close to Big Bear Lake," reports TheWolfman Z. about their stay at Serrano.
Yurt accommodations: Available at select locations when weather permits, these structures combine tent camping with solid amenities. "Little family owned RV spot—some long termers. Everyone super nice. Big spot, shade of trees, walk down to lake. Full hookup. 7 minutes to big bear lake town. Hiking trails out front gate," notes Ashley M. about her stay at Lighthouse Trailer Resort & Marina.
What you should know
Site reservations: During peak season (May-September), campsites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "We were in Serrano for 2 nights past Memorial Day and it was wonderful. The campsites are clean, have clean bathrooms/shower access, and they sell firewood for $10. Town is only 10 minutes away for groceries and other necessities," explains Rachel H.
Wildlife encounters: Bears and raccoons are active in the area, requiring proper food storage. "Only thing I wish is that the bathrooms were closer to the hookup spots. I know most RVs have bathrooms but most pop ups don't and from space 58 to the nearest bathroom is a 1/4 mile walk. Not horrible but at night when it's PITCH black it can be a bit scary!" warns Martha S. about nighttime walks at Serrano.
Variable weather conditions: Mountain weather can change rapidly even in summer. "We camped here the last weekend before they closed for the winter, after Thanksgiving. The campground was clean, quiet, and had a decent amount of space between sites... Our sewer outlet was frozen in the morning, so we had to dump when we got out of the mountains," shares Nicole W. from Mojave River Forks Regional Park.
Tips for camping with families
Pokemon activities: Several campgrounds have Pokestops for kids who enjoy digital activities. "Good location. Close to Big Bear Lake. Not much road noise for being located between two roads. Access to Cougar Crest Trail is super easy and safely cross under the road via tunnel. Pokemon stops for the kids," mentions TheWolfman Z.
Child-friendly yurt options: Look for yurt camping near Fawnskin with family accommodations. "It was quite clean and fun. Took my son and his girlfriend with us, a great place for families," reports Amanda A. about her Serrano experience.
Generational camping: Several sites accommodate extended family gatherings. "This campsite is great. Me and my wife stay here a couple times a year and we also bring our grown kids and with our little grandkids," explains Steven E. about Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground, noting their multi-generational camping tradition.
Tips from RVers
Winter preparations: RV campers staying during colder months need to prepare for freezing temperatures. "We camped here the last weekend before they closed for the winter, after Thanksgiving... Our sewer outlet was frozen in the morning, so we had to dump when we got out of the mountains," notes Nicole W.
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain sites require leveling blocks due to uneven terrain. "We managed to find a spot but they do take reservations and that's your best bet. We chose the loop closest to the lake, just about a minute walk for a nice view. Very shady," Jennifer D. explains about Serrano's layout.
Campground loop selection: Different loops offer varying experiences and amenities. "Nice little getaway from the hustle bustle with decent shade (depending on site) and relatively cool neighbors. We got there and found no showers but they did have running toilets and cool tap water near our site," Janae P. shares about her North Shore experience.
