Will
Traveler
TravelerRim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed
You’ll hear the freeway but who cares. It’s a super easy place to pull off at and there’s a McDonalds and gas station right down the street to fill up at.
Dog-Friendly Camping near Fawnskin, CA
11 campgrounds with availability next weekend
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Serrano Campground and Dogwood Campground accommodate pets with designated pet-friendly sites throughout their Big Bear Lake facilities. Both campgrounds maintain standard pet policies requiring leashes no longer than 6 feet and proper waste disposal. Serrano features 50+ full hookup RV sites in a forested setting with bear storage lockers at campsites, while Dogwood offers electric hookups, drinking water, and market access. Holloway's Marina & RV Park provides lakefront pet-friendly camping with full hookups including water, electric, and sewer connections. Pet owners note the campground is conveniently located near bike paths leading to the village, allowing for morning dog walks with scenic lake views. Many sites accommodate tent camping alongside RV options, though East Flats offers free dispersed camping with more primitive conditions for those seeking a budget-friendly alternative.
Dog-friendly hiking trails surround these campgrounds, with the bike path across from Lighthouse Trailer Resort providing excellent pet exercise opportunities. Campers should be aware of wildlife considerations, particularly after sunset when coyotes become active in the area. Some sites feature gravel spots with concrete pads and picnic tables, offering comfortable spaces for pets and owners. During peak summer months, reservations are strongly recommended as pet-friendly sites fill quickly, especially at popular locations like Serrano where proximity to the lake makes it a favored destination. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Sites offer a more rustic camping experience with pets allowed but without amenities like drinking water or toilets, providing a more secluded alternative for those who prefer primitive camping with dogs.
Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Fawnskin (252)
1. Serrano
"Big Bear Lake near by, lake level appears to be receding. Bears and coyotes in the area, recommended not to let small dogs or cats roam unattended."
"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."
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $44 - $91 / night
2. Hanna Flat Campground
"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."
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $33 - $67 / night
3. San Gorgonio Campground
"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."
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $34 - $69 / night
4. Pineknot
"Pet friendly, our three dogs loved it! Staff was incredibly helpful and hard working. Also it was well located as it was a semi-quick drive to a few fun locations."
"Pineknot is perfectly situated in Big Bear where you're in the woods but only a short walk to Snow Summit. "
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $34 - $36 / night
5. Barton Flats Family Campground
"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. "
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $36 - $73 / night
6. Dogwood
"Each trail I used offered lovely views. This campground is huge, yet felt homey. My cat watched the squirrels play on nearby trees from the RV."
"Stayed a couple years in a row with me family. ( and dog) site large enough for two large family tents. Picnic table and fire ring."
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $40 - $81 / night
7. Heart Bar Campground
"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"
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $29 - $58 / night
8. Holloway's Marina & RV Park
"Excellent location to the village, you can ride your bike in. We stayed on the point, beautiful view of the lake. Also, boat rental right there!"
"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"
9. East Flats
"There are a number of campers, but remote locations are easily found. If you bring pets, be aware they may upset Rattlesnakes."
"What more can you ask for a few hours away from LA proper…"
10. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites
"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."
Drive Time
- 1 hr 55 min from Los Angeles, CA
- 2 hrs 28 min from San Diego, CA
- 2 hrs 36 min from Oxnard, CA
- 3 hrs 5 min from El Centro, CA
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Fawnskin, CA
176 Photos of 252 Fawnskin Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Fawnskin, CA
1687 Reviews of 252 Fawnskin Campgrounds
Sleep with O.
ScoutRolling M. Ranch Campground — Chino Hills State Park
Just what I was looking for
- TTanya T.Scout
Mountain Lakes Resort - Membership Campground
OCTOBER 2026
Site is clean, many activities on weekends They also add 1000lb or catfish and trout weekly depending on season. Members were friendly. Downside is wifi when the campsite is 75+ full and only about a dozen paved spots. Major are gravel and dirt.
Aaron S.
RangerRound Valley Campsite — Mount San Jacinto State Park
Gooseberry Site, Alpine Wilderness & A Critical Backcountry Safety Wake-Up
Reviewed by: The Crew at Hitched4fun.com
If you are looking for a true alpine backcountry adventure right in Southern California, backpacking into Round Valley Primitive Campsites inside the Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness is an incredible experience. By pairing the world-famous Palm Springs Aerial Tramway with a weekend wilderness trek, you can leave the scorching low desert and step into sub-alpine granite peaks within minutes. Our crew recently packed our gear, caught the tram, and set up basecamp at the Gooseberry site for a Friday-to-Saturday summit push of Mount San Jacinto.
The scenery and wilderness delivered on every level—but the trip also served as a stark reminder that high-altitude nature commands respect.
The Route & Camp Setup (Gooseberry Site)
Taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway bypasses thousands of vertical feet of grueling desert switchbacks, depositing you at Mountain Station:
- The Trek into Round Valley: From the tram station, it is a scenic~2.5-mile backpack into Round Valley, which sits at an elevation of roughly 9,100 feet.
- The Gooseberry Campsite: Gooseberry is a fantastic primitive backcountry site. Tucked among the lodgepole pines and granite boulders, it offers great shelter, peace, and that genuine wilderness seclusion you crave.
- The Summit Push: We spent Friday night acclimating and resting at basecamp. Early Saturday morning, we pushed for the summit of Mount San Jacinto Peak(10,834 feet). After taking in the panoramic views stretching from the Pacific to the Salton Sea, we descended back to Round Valley, packed up camp, and made the return trek to the tram for the ride down.
The October Shoulder Season: Nature Changes in Minutes
We chose to hike late in the season during October, and anyone heading up during shoulder months needs to understand high-elevation weather:
- T****he Forecast Mirage: On the morning of our summit push, the official forecast predicted clear, sunny skies by noon.
- The High-Alpine Reality: Noon rolled around, and the weather did the exact opposite—we were hit with biting snow flurries and temperatures plunging straight into the 20s.
- Within just two hours, a crisp autumn morning morphed into full-blown freezing winter conditions.
A Serious Backcountry Advisory: 50 Years on the Trail Speaks
As someone with over 50 years of hiking and backpacking experience spanning every corner of the American West, what we witnessed on the trail between Round Valley and the peak was alarming.
We encountered dozens of hikers completely unprepared for foul weather:
- The Outfit: People trekking toward a 10,834-foot alpine peak in short shorts, cotton t-shirts, light sneakers, and carrying little more than a tiny hydration bladder with a couple of snack bars. No insulation, no wind protection, no emergency gear.
- Missing Essentials: Not a single one of the Ten Essentials in sight.
- The Dangerous Mindset: Yes, 99% of the time, casual hikers get lucky and escape without incident. But cell service, 911, and volunteer Search& Rescue teams are not your personal safety net—preparedness and basic common sense are.
- The Golden Rule: Any hiker stepping foot into this wilderness must carry the gear to survive an unexpected night out in freezing conditions. An ankle sprain, altitude sickness, or a sudden squall can turn a fun day hike into hypothermia, acute suffering, or worse. Don't be that guy or gal.
The Hitched4fun Verdict
Mount San Jacinto Wilderness and Round Valley’s Gooseberry site delivered everything an outdoor enthusiast could want: pristine trails, incredible pine-scented air, and raw wilderness beauty. Just never forget that nature can bite hard if you let your guard down. Pack your layers, bring your essentials, respect the mountain, and you will have an unforgettable journey.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars— Highly Recommended by the Hitched4fun.com crew!
Kimberly E.ScoutBear Lake
Exceptional camping experience. Beautiful, secluded, but not far from town. Would recommend a vehicle you feel comfortable with off roading terrain.
Hans V.RangerSouth Ridge Yellow Post Sites
The first two spots are close together. First one a bit small but better cover from Santa Anna winds. Nicely in the forest and close to the village.
- jjulie G.Scout
Stoddard Valley OHV Area - North
OHV area in desert
Nice and FREE area , easy to access
Robyn C.TravelerStone Creek Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park
Nice stay
Had a nice stay here twice so far this year. Nice place. Quiet and clean.
FiftysevenNine T.
GuideDesert Rose Collective RV Parking
functional
Nice place, rustic, unpublicized, congenial host. It can accommodate a number of vans and RVs, but I was the only guest. There is water and nothing else that is stated in the blurb. A self-contained rig is recommended.
As I explored the premises, I imagined that a small traveling couple or group could enjoy the camp as a peaceful alternative to Joshua Tree or Desert Hot Springs. There is evidence that guests stayed there before, with ample communal space for a campfire experience possibly with libations.
The camp might not be a priority business for the host, thus a work-in-progress or attempted endeavor. It has potential to be a stellar and successful camp if kempt.
Security was my concern, being solo, so I locked down more than usual when I left during the day for a music festival. No issues. I stayed three nights. The location is four miles from Morongo Valley Covington Park and the Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, a hiking attraction.
A bumpy dirt road to get to camp. Unsure if a large RV can traverse it. Call or text is the only way to book. The cellphone number is on Google Maps.
Guide to Fawnskin
The San Bernardino National Forest near Fawnskin, California sits at elevations between 6,700 and 8,200 feet, creating a distinct alpine climate with cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowland areas. Seasonal camping options vary with most campgrounds operating from May through October due to winter snowfall. Forest regulations require all food storage in bear-resistant containers when camping in this region.
What to do
Hiking access from campgrounds: Hanna Flat Campground offers direct trail connections for hikers seeking woodland exploration. "Nice campground. Campsite 49/51 is right by the trail to hike and bike," notes camper Bryan S. The Pacific Crest Trail runs nearby, providing excellent day hiking options.
Mountain biking adventures: The alpine terrain around Pineknot makes it ideal for mountain biking enthusiasts. "Pineknot is perfectly situated in Big Bear where you're in the woods but only a short walk to Snow Summit. This allows you a staging area to ride mountain bikes all day at Snow Summit and around the mountain but allows you the convenience to be camped nearby," writes Berton M.
Lakeside recreation: Jenks Lake provides fishing and water recreation near Heart Bar Campground. Camper Amy B. shares: "You can drive 10 minutes to Jenks Lake for some fishing and lake views." The small alpine lake offers trout fishing and shoreline trails with minimal crowds during weekdays.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural meadow at Heart Bar Campground creates excellent wildlife viewing conditions. "This camp sits right over a small meadow that borders the San Gorgonio wilderness... This campground is excellent for wildlife viewing and entry to the wilderness for hiking and exploring," explains Nick L. Deer are commonly spotted at dawn and dusk.
Secluded camping options: For those seeking privacy, Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Sites provides free dispersed camping with minimal facilities. Chelsea R. notes: "I almost want to give this a 1 star review, just to keep it to myself a little longer. We loved this yellow post site, by far one of my favorites. Private but with cell service, tables and fire pits!"
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at San Gorgonio Campground, particularly the restroom facilities. Steve R. comments: "Great campground. The host was friendly and very helpful. There is clean water, clean restrooms and showers. The showers go hot and cold in a second but this is a water conservation area so no big deal and they are free."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Bear-resistant food storage is mandatory throughout the Fawnskin camping area. At East Flats and other dispersed sites, campers must bring their own bear canisters, while established campgrounds provide bear boxes. Jennifer D. warns about Heart Bar: "Don't leave Ice chest out & Please be sure to cover your ice chest, even in your vehicle, as the bears, are all too familiar with them."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire restrictions affect all camping areas near Fawnskin, particularly at dispersed sites. Joe V. notes about East Flats: "No facilities, but if you have your supplies, it's great." Check with the ranger station for current fire regulations before arrival.
Road conditions: Access roads to several campgrounds require higher clearance vehicles. Katie S. advises about Thomas Hunting Grounds: "Make sure you have a vehicle that is 4WD - getting up the mountain is long and rugged." Forest service roads can become rutted after storms.
Tips for camping with families
Spacious group sites: Dogwood Campground features well-designed family camping spaces. "The campgrounds are spacious and restrooms and water are nearby each site. Each campsite has a fire pit and a bench," reports Joe G. Reserve double sites for larger family gatherings.
Child-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer junior ranger programs during summer months. Paige K. shares about Dogwood: "Dogwood is gorgeous. Beautiful, large, private campsites... Bathrooms were clean. However, I do wish all campground bathrooms had more benches or shelves for you to place your toiletries."
Educational trails: The nature trails near established campgrounds provide learning opportunities. "There is an outdoor amphitheater close by," mentions TheWolfman Z. about San Gorgonio Campground, where ranger-led programs are sometimes offered during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Holloway's Marina & RV Park offers full service connections for RVs seeking pet-friendly camping near Fawnskin. Jesse C. explains: "First time at a site with hook ups with our new travel trailer. Hook ups were simple...water, 50/30/&20A electric, sewer. Sewer inlet was a bit high. Had to lift my hose many times to drain fully."
Site leveling considerations: Many mountain campsites require leveling equipment. Kevin B. notes about Holloway's: "We have a 265bh transcend and parked it in a site on the water. Great views and enjoyed watching the fish jump in the evenings. The sight was a little small but made it work. Had to hang the rear of the trailer over the river bank about 8'."
Size limitations: Forest campgrounds have varying size restrictions for RVs. Colette K. advises about Pineknot: "The campground is very cozy, countless tall pine trees, clean bathrooms, clean sites, water from taps, no hookups, and not for big rigs." Check specific campground restrictions before booking.
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