The San Bernardino Mountain range around Highland, California, sits at elevations between 4,000-11,000 feet, creating distinct temperature zones throughout the year. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations while summer days reach the 80s at lower campsites. Several glamping sites near Highland have adapted to this climate pattern by offering climate-controlled accommodations and insulated structures.
What to do
Hiking to Bonita Falls: Access the trailhead near Bonita Ranch Campground for a moderate hike to the waterfall. "Easy access to a pretty trail right behind the campground. Very quiet and interspersed with long time stayers and temporary campers," notes Heather L.
Biking around Big Bear Lake: Explore the paved lakeside trails that connect to Serrano Campground. "We loved camping here. Beautiful, pristine campground with bike trails/walking paths around the lake. The town is bike friendly. Weather is perfect in August," shares Trey T.
Fishing at stocked lakes: Try your luck at various stocked lakes near Highland. "There are 3 lakes that are stocked weekly or bi weekly. It's fun to watch the ducks & the pelicans flying around and landing & swimming on the water," mentions Jeanine V. about Fisherman's Retreat.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation provides relief from summer heat. "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," reports Nicole W. about Serrano.
Quiet evenings: Many campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at North Shore Campground. "The sites are well spaced, good tree cover. Very nice patch of land. Quiet. Lake Arrowhead Village is 4 miles away," explains Andrew B.
Hot springs access: Some sites offer proximity to natural hot springs. "Went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around! Two nights are perfect," says Kelly Anne M. about Deep Creek Hot Springs.
What you should know
Fire restrictions change seasonally: Check current conditions before planning campfires. "They have fire rings but fires are not always permitted so be sure to check with the station just at the bottom of Keller Peak road," advises Kristil C. about Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.
Limited facilities at some sites: Many yellow post sites lack amenities. "This is yellow post camping so it's hit or miss if you can get one. Do your homework and learn what you need to know ahead of time - esp regarding fires," explains Kate W.
Weather variability: Prepare for temperature swings. "Weather is around 75 during the day and about 50 to 36 degrees cold throughout the night. Has everything you'll need," notes Martin O. from Mojave River Forks.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water access. "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," shares Rachel H.
Spacious sites for larger groups: Some campgrounds offer larger sites for families. "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. about Serrano.
Glamping options for comfort: Luxury glamping close to Highland, California provides more comfortable family accommodation. "It has what you need but small and super close to a busy freeway. Pool, spa (not working, currently), clubhouse, playground, 2 catch and release ponds, horse shoes," shares Elizabeth S. about Cherry Valley Lakes.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for levelness: Check site descriptions carefully. "Our site wasn't super flat," notes Christian N. about North Shore Campground.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are available at certain sites. "This place is awesome full hookups lots to do trails and not to mention right on top of the creek. Friendly staff helpful too restrooms r clean showers clean too," shares Sara H. about Bonita Ranch.
Seasonal accessibility: Some glamping facilities near Highland have limited seasonal access. "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. Probably not big rig friendly," advises Ashley M. about Lighthouse Trailer Resort.
