Camping options near Lake Arrowhead range from full-service sites to remote backcountry locations within the San Bernardino National Forest. At 5,100 feet elevation, this mountain region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 80°F during day and dropping to 50°F at night. Many campgrounds remain open year-round despite winter snow conditions that can affect accessibility.
What to Do
Hiking the Exploration Trail: The trail system near Keller Peak offers various difficulty levels for day hikers. "There are a lot of great sites surrounded by trees in the middle of the campground where we stayed. The upper sites don't seem to have as much shade as they are at the top of the hill. There are even a couple small hiking trails within the campground for some fun exploration," notes Troy L. from Dogwood Campground.
Fishing at Green Valley Lake: Purchase a day pass to fish this stocked lake just minutes from camping areas. "The town is very small and cute. 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, so keep that in mind if you have a large group," shares Aleena S. about Green Valley Lake Recreation Area.
Mountain Biking: Trail systems accommodate various skill levels with interconnected routes. "The Pct is near by and has a couple of trails right there. Campsites are pretty spaced out and have a bit of privacy," writes Morgan F. about Hanna Flat Campground.
What Campers Like
Bear Boxes at Sites: Food storage safety is provided at many established campgrounds. "Each campsite has a bear box to store food. The restrooms are clean with flush toilets, along with soap and water sinks. There are many areas with water stations to fill up your containers," explains Shuree F. from Dogwood Campground.
Site Privacy: Many campgrounds offer good separation between sites despite being established facilities. "The campsites are within a forest, so they provide a lot of shade. The campgrounds are spacious and restrooms and water are nearby each site. Each campsite has a fire pit and a bench," notes Joe G. about Dogwood Campground.
Yellow Post Camping: These free, dispersed sites offer solitude but fill quickly. "I almost want to give this a 1 star review, just to keep it to myself a little longer. We loved this yellow post site, by far one of my favorites. Private but with cell service, tables and fire pits! Listen to great horned owls while taking in the views!" shares Chelsea R. about Thomas Hunting Grounds.
What You Should Know
Winter Conditions: Freezing temperatures affect facilities even in late fall. "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. Our sewer outlet was frozen in the morning, so we had to dump when we got out of the mountains," reports Nicole W. from Serrano Campground.
Fire Restrictions: Regulations vary seasonally and by location. "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 sites.
Campsite Selection: Site quality varies significantly even within the same campground. "We were initially in a spot that was virtually unable to accommodate our 24' trailer but luckily someone had canceled and we moved to a better location. I guess some folks don't mind having neighbors 3 feet apart but for us we prefer more distance," explains Greg about Skypark Camp RV Resort.
Tips for Camping with Families
Bike-Friendly Options: Several campgrounds offer safe cycling opportunities. "We loved camping here. Beautiful, pristine campground with bike trails/walking paths around the lake. The town is bike friendly. Some road noise but quiet over night," notes Trey T. about Serrano Campground.
Splash Zones: Water recreation options exist beyond Lake Arrowhead itself. "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," describes Bryan H. about Yucaipa Regional Park.
Wildlife Education: Look for interpretive programs at visitor centers. "Hike up to the watch tower and check out all the hummingbirds! 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," recommends Kate W. about Keller Peak sites.
Tips from RVers
Hookup Availability: Sites with services are limited and require advance booking. "We used an electric site which is integrated with tent and nonelectric sites. I drive a 19 foot RV van which backed up easily into our campsite, and had plenty of room to spare," shares Shuree F. about Dogwood Campground.
Road Conditions: Access to dog friendly campgrounds near Lake Arrowhead can be challenging for larger vehicles. "Need high clearance or 4wd vehicle for a rough road but once you get to the top, the sites are great! Limited shade during middle of day but well worth the trip," advises Steve about Thomas Hunting Grounds.
Site Leveling: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven terrain. "The parking spots are a bit small in some campsites. Each site included a table, fire ring and bear safe locker. Each site was spread out and lots of space for 2-4 tents," reports Manny D. about Hanna Flat Campground.
