Camping spots near Lake Arrowhead, California are mostly found at elevations between 5,000 and 7,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with occasional snow, while summer days typically range from 75-85°F. The surrounding San Bernardino National Forest contains over 800 miles of hiking trails that connect many camping areas.
What to do
Hiking on Cougar Crest Trail: Access this trail easily from Serrano Campground where "Access to Cougar Crest Trail is super easy and safely cross under the road via tunnel," according to TheWolfman Z. The trail offers mountain and lake views.
Mountain biking: Bring bikes to Skypark Camp RV Resort which sits directly across from Santa's Village bike park. As Steven F. notes, it's "Clean and directly across from Santa's village and the bike park." The campground also offers community fire pits since individual fires aren't permitted.
Fishing at Green Valley Lake: Just a short drive from Green Valley Lake Recreation Area, this smaller lake offers fishing with fewer crowds than Big Bear. "The lake is very clean and has a lot of fish. It is privately owned so you do have to pay to fish or swim, and you pay per person," explains Aleena S.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Dogwood Campground, the layout provides more seclusion than other area campgrounds. Heidi H. describes, "campsites are all private and unique... no two are the same. The trees are massive and plenty and make you feel like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of California."
Fire lookout views: From Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites, visit the fire lookout tower for panoramic views. Steve H. reports, "The Keller Peak Lookout was amazing. I thought it was just a tourist attraction but it's really a staffed (with volunteers) active fire lookout. Worth the trip for sure."
Free camping options: Yellow post sites offer no-cost camping with more primitive conditions. At Thomas Hunting Grounds, Chelsea R. found "Private but with cell service, tables and fire pits! Listen to great horned owls while taking in the views!" These sites require no reservations but fill quickly during peak seasons.
What you should know
Fire restrictions change: Always check current fire regulations before your trip. David V. notes about Keller Peak: "Rangers do come by and take down information of the leader of the group. They are very strict on parties are not allowed. NO FIRES. They have had issues with drug use and parties so that's why they are strict."
Bathroom availability varies: While some campgrounds offer modern facilities, yellow post sites have none. At Hanna Flat Campground, Karl A. reported: "I went during a severe California drought so I understand that there are no 'flushing' bathrooms working. Porta-potties were available which I didn't mind much."
Weather changes rapidly: Mountain weather can change quickly even in summer. Bryan S. notes at Hanna Flat: "Site is north of Fawnskin off of 3n14 which is an unpaved road. Nice campground but can be a bit crowded on weekends." Lower elevation sites generally have milder conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity variety: Yucaipa Regional Park offers multiple recreation options. Mary F. reports: "There's a lot to do here, including fishing, playgrounds, and even a waterpark in the summer. The bathrooms are decent, no showers."
Consider site privacy: At Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area, Ken K. advises: "Nice campground with flush toilets. ATV with ice cream and firewood comes around right before dark. Campsites are a bit crowded for my liking."
Bear boxes for storage: Some area campgrounds provide bear boxes for food. Shuree F. at Dogwood Campground confirms: "Each campsite has a bear box to store food. The restrooms are clean with flush toilets, along with soap and water sinks."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area, Bower advises: "We stayed in campsite 108 (which had full hookups) and did not feel that the campsites were too close to one another. Each campsite has a nice picnic table and fire pit with a grill."
Road conditions can be challenging: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. At Skypark Camp RV Resort, Bryan S. warns: "Spots are a little tight if you have a bigger unit. Skypark is right across the street for mountain bikes."
Winter camping precautions: Nicole W. at Serrano Campground shares: "We camped here the last weekend before they closed for the winter, after Thanksgiving. Our sewer outlet was frozen in the morning, so we had to dump when we got out of the mountains."
