Best Campgrounds near Johnson Valley, CA

Johnson Valley has several good camping options throughout the area. Hidden Valley Campground in Joshua Tree National Park puts you right among the famous rock formations and desert plants. Serrano Campground near Big Bear Lake has decent-sized sites and includes water access and restrooms. If you're bringing horses, Large Horse Camp gives you plenty of room for your animals and trailers. All these spots are close to hiking trails, which is handy if you want to get out and explore. You can go rock climbing, look at stars at night, or watch for wildlife while you're there. Just remember the desert gets really hot during the day and cold at night. Always pack extra water and sunscreen when camping here. Most campsites don't take reservations, so try to arrive early to get a spot. The camping experience varies depending on where you stay - from dry desert areas to the more wooded sections around Big Bear. Johnson Valley works for tent camping or RVs, depending on what you prefer. Don't forget to look up any current fire bans or rules before heading out.

Best Camping Sites Near Johnson Valley, California (290)

    1. Serrano

    34 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    18 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."

    "This camp site is located walking distance to the lake. There are bike paths and walking trails located near the camp ground."

    2. Heart Bar Campground

    19 Reviews
    Big Bear City, CA
    17 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"

    3. Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    48 Reviews
    Yucca Valley, CA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-5554

    $35 / night

    "Originally booked this site because it is a good endpoint for the California Riding & Hiking trail though the national park, so if you’re looking to run or complete the traverse, it is a good spot"

    "The ranger and host at the store were very helpful with information about the surrounding area.

    • Trails run right out of camp...lots of them...of all different difficulty levels."

    4. Holcomb Valley Campground

    17 Reviews
    Fawnskin, CA
    17 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!"

    5. Pineknot

    18 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    18 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."

    6. San Gorgonio Campground

    21 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    20 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."

    7. Hanna Flat Campground

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

    $33 - $67 / night

    "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."

    "We arrived at Hanna Flat campground around 11 am on Friday, August 21. First thing about the campground is that the road to get to it is pretty rough."

    8. Barton Flats Family Campground

    19 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    20 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. "

    9. Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

    27 Reviews
    Landers, CA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 366-1213

    $15 - $55 / night

    "A great spot away from the main Joshua Tree strip. We visited for one night during the waning height of COVID and staff was taking all the necessary precautions."

    "Away from highway noise a place to recharge."

    10. Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites

    10 Reviews
    Big Bear City, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2882

    "There's other rough roads further in and access to hikes nearby. I loved how quiet it was, except for neighbors since sound carries so easily even though spots are quiet apart from each other."

    "Trees provide lots of shade and some privacy despite campsites being fairly close to one another.

    Easy road in most anything can drive it."

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Showing results 1-10 of 290 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Johnson Valley, CA

1431 Reviews of 290 Johnson Valley Campgrounds



Guide to Johnson Valley

Camping near Johnson Valley, California, offers a unique experience with stunning desert landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, rock climb, or just relax under the stars, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the area. Campers have noted that the hiking trails near Indian Cove Campground are fantastic. One reviewer mentioned, "The rock formations are incredible. If you like hiking, you should enjoy this area."
  • Rock Climbing: For those who love climbing, Hidden Valley Campground is a hotspot. A visitor shared, "The campground flanks some large rock formations that host rock climbers during the day."
  • Stargazing: The clear desert skies make for amazing stargazing opportunities. A camper at Sawtooth Canyon Campground said, "DARK DARK DARK sky.....wonderful."

What campers like

  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the tranquility of the area. One reviewer at Black Rock Campground said, "Beautiful place. Cell service was very good," highlighting the serene environment.
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the spaciousness of the sites. A visitor at Serrano Campground noted, "The campground was clean, quiet, and had a decent amount of space between sites."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Campers often spot wildlife. One camper at Hanna Flat Campground mentioned, "We saw rattlesnakes in our walk. Deer walking around the trails."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Hidden Valley Campground, do not have drinking water or showers. A camper pointed out, "The Campground offers the most basic accommodations as toilets; no water or showers."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A visitor at California Hidden Valley noted, "Filled up by 4 PM in mid-May."
  • Weather Variability: The desert can get extremely hot during the day and cold at night. A camper at Indian Cove Campground warned, "It does get extremely hot as it’s in the desert and there’s little to no shade."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds that are known for being family-friendly, like Serrano Campground. A reviewer said, "The campground was very family-friendly and I felt safe even though I was alone."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to plan activities that everyone can enjoy. A camper at Hanna Flat Campground mentioned, "There are some lovely trails to walk here."
  • Keep an Eye on Pets: If you bring pets, be cautious. One camper at Black Rock Campground advised, "Recommended not to let small dogs or cats roam unattended."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Levels: Many campgrounds have uneven sites. A visitor at Black Rock Campground noted, "The roads could use some work and if you have a RV/Trailer/Van you may want some block to help get you level."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Some campgrounds, like Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, have limited services. A camper mentioned, "The hookup utilities worked without issue and positioned well."
  • Plan for Wind: The desert can be windy, so secure your setup. A reviewer at Sawtooth Canyon Campground said, "It can be quite windy at times."

Camping near Johnson Valley, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but be prepared for the unique challenges and rewards of desert camping!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Johnson Valley, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Johnson Valley, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 290 campgrounds and RV parks near Johnson Valley, CA and 31 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Johnson Valley, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Johnson Valley, CA is Serrano with a 4.6-star rating from 34 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Johnson Valley, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 31 free dispersed camping spots near Johnson Valley, CA.

What parks are near Johnson Valley, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Johnson Valley, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.