Best Campgrounds near Lake Arrowhead, CA

Camping near Lake Arrowhead, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the numerous trails around the lake. Many campers rave about the scenic views and well-maintained paths. One visitor noted, "The campground is close to all the awesome hiking spots and off-roading exploring."
• Fishing: Lake Arrowhead is known for its fishing opportunities. Campers have reported catching trout and enjoying the peaceful lakeside atmosphere. A review mentioned, "The fishing is good, most of the time. They stock the lake regularly."
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. Campers have spotted various animals, adding to the charm of the area. One camper shared, "There’s plenty of wildlife to see (lizards, jackrabbits, etc.)."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer stated, "The bathrooms are very clean and maintained," which is a big plus for families and solo travelers alike.
• Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having enough space between sites. One visitor mentioned, "Most of the sites are spaced out fairly decently," making it a comfortable experience.
• Friendly Staff: The campground hosts are often highlighted for their helpfulness. A camper noted, "The staff were friendly and helpful," which can make a big difference in your stay.

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. For instance, one camper pointed out, "The campground offers the most basic accommodations as toilets; no water or showers."
• First-Come, First-Serve: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A visitor advised, "Hidden Valley is one of three campgrounds that is first come, first served. Filled up by 4 PM in mid-May."
• Weather Variability: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. One camper shared, "It does get extremely hot as it’s in the desert and there’s little to no shade," so pack accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites that cater to families. A reviewer mentioned, "The campground was very family-friendly and I felt safe even though I was alone."
• Plan Activities: Bring games or outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. One camper suggested, "We had to get creative in finding ways to occupy their time during downtime."
• Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A visitor noted, "Bring your own shade for this campsite, your own water too," which is a good reminder for families.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. One RVer mentioned, "If you have a RV/Trailer/Van you may want some block to help get you level."
• Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A camper shared, "There’s not a lot of campground etiquette either," so be prepared for some lively neighbors.
• Plan for Limited Connectivity: Many areas have poor cell service. One visitor noted, "T-Mobile has no service up there," so download maps and information before you arrive.

Camping near Lake Arrowhead, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're hiking, fishing, or just relaxing by the lake. With a little planning and the right mindset, you can have a memorable experience in this beautiful area.