The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Tent Camping near Green Valley Lake, CA

1,343 Reviews

Tent campsites around Green Valley Lake, California offer varied settings ranging from established Forest Service grounds to primitive dispersed options in the San Bernardino National Forest. Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites provide secluded tent camping near Running Springs, while Mill Creek Dispersed Camping allows for free backcountry tent camping in undeveloped areas. The Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area offers additional tent camping within proximity to the small lake and town amenities.

Most tent camping areas in this region feature basic amenities with dirt or forest floor surfaces and significant spacing between sites. Keller Peak sites include picnic tables and fire rings but lack water sources, requiring campers to bring all necessary supplies. A visitor commented, "These sites are beautiful - especially #9! It pokes out over the mountains and has the most unbelievable view." Fire restrictions frequently apply during dry seasons, with rangers actively enforcing regulations. During summer weekends, established campgrounds fill quickly, while primitive sites may remain available even during peak periods.

The mountain terrain creates distinctive tent camping experiences across various elevations. Sites on Keller Peak Road stretch across 5 miles with substantial privacy, offering cooler temperatures than valley locations. One camper noted that "spots are easy to see because of the yellow signs" but warned that "weather is definitely colder than in the valley, got snow overnight in mid May." Walk-in tent locations typically provide greater solitude than drive-in options. Several areas connect to hiking trails, including the Children's Forest and Keller Peak fire lookout, providing access to panoramic views. Mill Creek's dispersed camping areas accommodate tent campers with high-clearance vehicles, offering more primitive backcountry camping experiences with fewer neighbors but requiring self-sufficiency and proper waste management.

Map showing campgrounds near Green Valley Lake, CaliforniaExplore the Map

Best Tent Sites Near Green Valley Lake, California (60)

    1. Yucaipa Regional Park

    20 Reviews
    Yucaipa, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 790-3127

    "The bathrooms are decent, no showers.

    We stayed in group campsite A. Tent camping is only allowed in group sites. They do have about 30 to 40 RV sites as well."

    "Great tent camping facilities, privacy from neighbors, access to Zanja Peak Trail head, 3 lakes for fishing, water park during the summer, and friendly helpful staff"

    2. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites

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

    "These sites aren't monitored and don't have picnic tables or any amenities, although there is a restroom down the road a little ways where the campsites start, but that's it."

    "This particular site has 8 campsites which do have signs to mark the general area, although it is entirely up to you to where to set up camp in the general area."

    3. Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    9 Reviews
    Green Valley Lake, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2600

    "This campground is free with 9 camp site on a 5 mile paved road, the site's have fire ring and picnic benches, no water. Bike trail is fun and a challenge. Camp site 1,3 & 6 are very quiet."

    "Some chairs, hammock, water, and utensils were left at the picnic table. Everything was dirty so we assumed they were left by previous campers."

    4. Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    Cedar Glen, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 867-2009

    "Green valley lake campground is an awesome place for a fun getaway. We wanted to get away for the Fourth of July but waited too long to book in Big Bear."

    "After years of venturing into and around Lake Arrowhead (often a mere stop on my way to Big Bear/Fawnskin) I finally started exploring off the beaten path by accident last year and holy cow!"

    5. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Fawnskin, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2790

    "First come first served dispersed camping just outside Big Bear. Near bike trails. Was not crowded mid week, but spots were filling up closer to the weekend."

    "I went a to the second fork after the Bluff lake fork. There’s a private campground near the Bluff Lake entrance which made noises i can hear from my site which was before Bluffs lake fork."

    6. Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp

    7 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    12 miles
    Website

    "There are no developed facilities (i.e., no firepits, outhouses, etc.) but it is beautiful and there are plenty of flat places to set up a tent."

    "Arriving at the campground, the deposit place, obviously on weekends we were not thrilled by everyone around us, as well as the loud noise until past the curfew."

    7. Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground

    5 Reviews
    Arkabutla Lake, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 515-7525

    $10 - $119 / night

    "Easy access to the hot springs and no services to speak of. Basically a patch of dirt you can occupy for $10 a night. Loved it."

    "Super fun place to visit with the hot springs trail. Went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around! Two nights are perfect."

    8. Fishermans Group Campground

    3 Reviews
    Green Valley Lake, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2600

    $10 / night

    "I was backpacking along the Pacific Crest Trail & decided to hike down the Crab Flats Trail to checkout Tent Peg & Fisherman's Campground."

    "Be sure to call visitor center for driving directions (or follow the ones on USDA National Forest website) as Google will take you to the wrong spot. Good hike for first-time backpackers."

    9. Big Pine Flat Campground

    1 Review
    Fawnskin, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2790

    "Big Pines Flats is set right next to a meadow at a forest crossing heading to Holcomb Valley, Victorville, Fawnskin, and Green Valley Lake."

    10. Limber Pine Bench Campground

    2 Reviews
    San Bernardino National Forest, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2882

    "It was my first backpacking campsite, and I've revisited once since then. There are lots of established campsites and they're easy to find. Expect very high winds at night."

    "The positives. Beautiful sites, lots of wildlife, plenty of trails for biking and hiking. The negatives. It was a bit of trash pretty much all over the place. The mini golf course needs maintenance."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 60 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Green Valley Lake Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Tent Camping Photos near Green Valley Lake, CA

64 Photos of 60 Green Valley Lake Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Green Valley Lake, CA

1343 Reviews of 60 Green Valley Lake Campgrounds

  • Chino F.
    Jul. 1, 2019

    San Bernardino National Forest Green Valley Campground

    Great campsite $25 per night

    The campground is located about ten minutes drive from green valley lake. This camp ground has 32 spots available they require a $25 per night fee and check out is at 12 noon. The site is equipped with water. And bathrooms (extremely clean) Your next door neighbors are but a few feet away from you, but the site is set up to make it feel as secluded as possible. We never had an issue with our neighbors and I hope they didn’t with us. This being said if you forget anything more than likely someone in the camp has it. All in all this campsite is easy to recommend and if you’re a first timer this is the place for you! It’s also very family friendly so teens beware and keep noise and “loudness ;)” to a minimum.

  • Tony C.
    Sep. 20, 2020

    Little Jimmy Trail Campground

    Local gem of a campsite

    This campsite is located in California and is one of my favorites. Located above Crystal Lake you’ll find Little Jimmy, it’s a backcountry hike-in only campground nestled just 2 miles off the Angeles Crest Highway. It has around 7 first-come, first-served sites with fire rings, vault toilets (which are currently not in service), and vintage backcountry ovens. After parking at Islip Saddle, cross the highway and begin hiking for 2 miles up the switchbacks until you reach Little Jimmy Campground on your right. Popular with Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, this scenic spot offers a chance to get away from established campgrounds and live amongst the Coulter Pines and Big Doug Firs. Campers turned hikers have easy access to hop on the legendary Pacific Crest Trail which runs through the camp. There is no fee to camp here other than an Adventure pass for your parking. In the summertime, bears can be common visitors so make sure and secure your food in provided bear boxes or bring your own bear canisters. As always, make sure you follow the "Leave No Trace" principles and pack everything in and out!

  • Ryan W.
    Aug. 8, 2020

    Stone Creek Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    Just Far Enough to Feel Remote. Just High Enough to Make Hiking Difficult.

    Stone Creek Campground in San Jacinto Mountain State Park is the perfect getaway for coastal Southern California residents. It is a few hours out of the major metro areas, but close enough to get to for just a night or two. 

    Located near Idyllwild, this is the smaller, less rowdy campground associated with the tourist town. There is also a camp right in town if you're looking for shopping and bars, and a few more further up hill.

    Stone Creek has about 35 sites. The outer ring sites are huge, and most of them are fairly private especially the loop to the right of the entry. Our site was #7, and after thoroughly campsploration it is unquestionably the best for individuals. If you're in a group rent the inner ring where the backsides of all the sites run together.

    We were trying to get away from people, from the pandemic, and spend some time doing something normal. Stone Creek was perfect for that. The only human interaction was having to check -in at the entry with a ranger. They wore a mask, and we spoke through a window in the ranger shed. They did have to hand me a parking pass, but after that we were on our own.

    Site 7 is extremely large, and extremely private with multiple flat spots that could accommodate tents, two large picnic tables, multiple spots for hammocks and a fire ring that has seen better days. We could see a car across the loop, but couldn't actually see other campers without effort from where we set up the tent or even the fire ring.

    This particular site extends back over a ridge and downhill. It was so private back there we strung up our camp shower next to a giant boulder for a shower without feeling like we needed to set up a privacy shade/curtain.

    Camp is just high enough to prevent most bugs, but there were a few flies and mosquitos. The vault toilets were clean, and well stocked with TP and antibacterial soap. There were three on-site. One in the middle of the center ring which was the busiest, but none of the solar lights were working making it difficult to find in the dark. No obvious trail. The other we used near the entrance was well lit, had a wooden path and seemed to be forgotten by most other campers.

    Multiple hiking trails led out of camp including one right from next to our site that led to multiple other trails heading up San Jacinto Mountain. The trails were a mix of gravel fire road, dirt trail and a few sandy areas through the flats. They were mostly well-signed, but one sign was down causing us to miss a turn so…bring a map. They're available at stands at the front of camp. Trails are…vertical unless explicitly labeled as short scenic hikes.

    There were warning signs for snakes, mountain lions, plague-infected squirrels and bears, but all we saw were deer. They didn't seem to consider bears a serious threat as there were no bear boxes or locks on trash cans. However, having bear-proof (Ha!) food storage is important.

    We really have no complaints about this place, and will definitely be back to explore more trails.

    Pro-Tip: It is a windy, windy road up into the mountains, and people travel too fast. We saw some serious accident sites when people were traveling too fast, and caught up to a slow moving camper around a curve. Drive carefully.

    Pro-Tip: We had full phone/wifi service here. We didn't want or need it, but if we were working from the road this would be an easy stop to set up.

    Pro-Tip: Outer ring is more private. Inner ring better for groups.

    Pro-Tip: In the summer add 5-10 degrees to the temperature which is taken from a higher elevation weather station.

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 6, 2018

    Buckhorn Campground

    Most beautiful campground in the Angeles National Forest!

    We've wanted to camp here for so long, but we've never been able to get a spot. We finally did this weekend, and it fully lived up to our expectations. Because this campground is set within a ravine that has a stream during the rainier months, so the landscape feels very different than the other nearby campgrounds - very green with tall trees. The campsites have plenty of space between neighbors, so we felt we had privacy and weren't disturbed by any noise from other sites. Each site has a picnic table, firepit, and bear box for food storage. There is a water spigot at the campground, but the ranger advised that it's not potable.

    There's day parking at the end of the campground for the trailhead to Cooper Canyon Falls. In the summer the "waterfall" is barely a trickle, but the hike still has a nice stream and is worth doing.

  • E B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 8, 2025

    South Ridge Yellow Post Sites

    Yellow post number 2

    Yellow Post #2 – San Bernardino National Forest Secluded, free, first-come-first-served tent site tucked deep in the forest near Hemet, CA. No amenities—no toilet, water, or trash—so pack in and out. Fire ring and picnic table on-site. Shaded by mature trees with a dirt/sand/rock surface. Site fits up to 8 people and 2 vehicles.

    Access road is rough and rocky but doable in dry conditions with a careful 2WD. Signage is limited—offline maps recommended. Site sits near a dry creek bed and has a short walk to a west-facing boulder with expansive views of the valley.

    Wildlife includes deer, lizards, snakes, woodpeckers, and lots of squirrels. Mosquitoes come out at dusk—repellent is a must. Fire bans usually in effect during summer. Great for quiet retreats, hiking, light climbing, and off-grid solitude.

    A rugged but rewarding forest stay for self-sufficient campers.

  • Michael A.
    Jul. 6, 2020

    San Bernardino National Forest Crab Flats Campground

    5 Miles Dirt Road Off Highway YES

    Slow going on the dirt road but boy is it worth it. There are a couple of water spigots. Pack your trash out when you leave. Do not need 4WD to get there but it’s sure fun on all the truck trails if you do! Lots of trees and shade, 26 sites that are usually pretty full on the weekends. Vault toilets. Fire rings, bear boxes and picnic tables provide the basics. The drive out to the lake is also worth it if kids want to play in the water. Kayak and small boat rentals, fishing with stocked waters. All in all a great way to spend a weekend in the mountains.

  • Kate W.
    Sep. 26, 2019

    Dry Lake Backpacking Campground

    Memorable and COLD

    We camped here on our way to summiting San G (as we lovingly call it).  Although it was May and the weather was beautiful at sea level, it was cold up here!  There was snow on the ground but the air was the coldest I've ever felt.  

    We got to the camping area and it's tucked in the woods so there's lots of nooks and crannies even though it's a primitive open group camping area.  It's right next to a dry lake - go figure - and there are lots of areas to go explore beyond the trail that leads to the top.  

    The ranger was there to spend a few nights and said that the night before hit negative digits!  We thought we were prepared with our "all weather" bags and backpacking tent, but I promise you I have never been so cold in my life.  I laid there awake the entire night, and couldn't move a muscle or freezing air would seep in.  The ranger said it only got down to 7 degrees.  When light finally hit we heated some water and went to sit on the frosty ground in the open field/lake and when the sun finally hit us it was like life-changing.  

    FYI it's leave no trace and don't attract bears

  • Manny D.
    Jul. 13, 2022

    San Bernardino National Forest Crab Flats Campground

    Crab Flats Campsite Beautiful Sunset’s

    Do not follow Edison Road This is a narrow, and intermediate trail for ATVs. Do no recommend unless you have experience, someone to spot you and high clearance Jeep or aftermarket suspension. Follow Green Valley Lake Rd to Crab Flats Rd. The campsite is spacious although, not private from each site. The camp host visit twice a day and keep the place clean. This place is primarily for dirt biking. The mosquitoes were terrible from morning to nighttime. The campground is about an hour south of Big Bear and 25 minutes from Lake Arrowhead. There are fire rings, table, trash cans and 2 bathrooms with vault toilets.

  • N
    Sep. 14, 2018

    Heart Bar Campground

    Best off hwy 38

    By far this has got to be the best and largest campground on the 38. First reason is the pricing. At only $21 per night for a single site, this is the best priced campground in the area excluding free yellow post sites. With this price however you get the basics. No showers, no rv dump station, just water from the pipe, toilets, picnic tables, fire ring, and a bear box. can’t complain about that though.

    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 a reservation is definitely still recommended.

    3rd; the location. Topography-wise this camp sits right over a small meadow that boarders the San Gorgonio wilderness. it sits higher above the highway and displaces sound nicely. this spot is excellent for wildlife viewing and entry to the wilderness for hiking and exploring. The campground is also littered with tall standing pines and even some massive junipers, providing ample shade. You can’t help but feel like your are elsewhere like the Eastern Sierra with the dry desert winds the blow in and chill on the mountains and the smell of the sage brush. This campground is only about 20 min out from big bear lake as well, and does have cell reception (unfortunately).

    Highly recommend sites 32, 37, 47, 58, or 24 & 49 which are both double sites. This was due to their more isolated positioning to other spots, shade, flat ground, and proximity to bathrooms and the beautiful little meadow where deer graze in the evenings. happy trails.

Guide to Green Valley Lake

Tent camping near Green Valley Lake, California, offers a serene escape into nature, with various campgrounds providing unique amenities and activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tips for tent camping near Green Valley Lake

  • Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites: This site allows for a peaceful camping experience with no reservations required, making it perfect for spontaneous trips.
  • Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campsites: Accessible via a rugged road, this campground offers a secluded atmosphere ideal for those looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle.
  • Halfway Camp: A great choice for hikers, this campground requires a permit and is known for its beautiful surroundings and wildlife sightings.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • Yucaipa Regional Park: This campground features spacious group sites with built-in grills and running water, perfect for family gatherings.
  • Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area: With picnic tables and a market nearby, this site provides convenient amenities for a comfortable camping experience.
  • Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground: Offering showers and drinking water, this campground ensures that campers have access to essential facilities while enjoying the natural hot springs.

Local activities for outdoor enthusiasts

  • Mill Creek Dispersed Camping: Located near bike trails, this area is perfect for those looking to explore the outdoors on two wheels.
  • Fishermans Group Campground: Situated near a creek, this campground is ideal for fishing enthusiasts and offers easy access to hiking trails.
  • Boulder Group Campground: This site is close to the Pacific Crest Trail, making it a great base for hikers looking to explore the scenic trails of the San Bernardino National Forest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Green Valley Lake, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Green Valley Lake, CA is Yucaipa Regional Park with a 4.8-star rating from 20 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Green Valley Lake, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 60 tent camping locations near Green Valley Lake, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

Keep Exploring