Camping sites near Lucerne Valley, California offer a mix of desert and mountain environments with elevations ranging from 3,000 to 7,000 feet across the region. The area sits at the junction of the Mojave Desert and San Bernardino Mountains, creating diverse camping landscapes within a relatively short driving distance. Winter nights regularly drop below freezing while summer daytime temperatures often exceed 90°F, requiring campers to plan accordingly.
What to do
Bouldering and climbing: Sawtooth Canyon Campground attracts rock climbers with its unique formations. "This canyon is great for a couple of days of climbing. The area is unique from the Mojave topography. Plus, it is free to camp," shares Tommy B., highlighting the specialized appeal of this Sawtooth Canyon Campground.
Mountain biking: Trails near Pineknot Campground connect directly to Snow Summit resort trails. "Pineknot is perfectly situated in Big Bear where you're in the woods but only a short walk to Snow Summit. This allows you a staging area to ride mountain bikes all day at Snow Summit and around the mountain but allows you the convenience to be camped nearby," notes Berton M. at Pineknot.
Off-road exploring: The network of dirt roads throughout Holcomb Valley provides extensive off-highway vehicle opportunities. "This is a great campground with lots of OHV trails in the area. It's definitely recommended to have a vehicle with higher ground clearance since you're traversing some bumpy dirt trails to get there," explains Jo R., who visited Holcomb Valley Campground.
Day hiking: Multiple trail systems connect campgrounds to scenic viewpoints and lakes. "There are a lot of great sites surrounded by trees in the middle of the campground where we stayed. There are even a couple small hiking trails within the campground for some fun exploration," notes Troy L. who stayed at Dogwood Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer spacious sites with natural separation. "The sites are far apart, giving you more privacy. Both places have basic pit toilets and tables for eating," mentions a camper. At Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, "each site was spread out and lots of space for 2-4 tents. The distance to downtown Big Bear is around 25 minutes," explains Manny D.
Night sky viewing: The area's minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "The night sky was incredible there. We got there on a Saturday and it was pretty busy, but everyone left after the weekend," reports Brendan at Sawtooth Canyon Campground, noting how the weekday experience differs from weekends.
Easy access to Big Bear: Many camping sites provide a wilderness experience with proximity to town amenities. "I love this campground! It's right across from the Discovery Center in Big Bear, which is where a couple fun hiking trails begin. I would definitely recommend this campground to others when staying in the Big Bear area," says Sarah C., who stayed at Serrano.
Shaded sites: The forested campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. "Campground feels very secluded and the sites are far apart," says Spencer U. about Hanna Flat Campground. "Hanna Flat campgrounds are filled with lots of shade due to the big beautiful trees," adds another camper.
What you should know
Road conditions: Several campgrounds require driving on unpaved roads. "Road is completely inaccessible and saw many others turning around as well. I'm in a Kia SUV and this road is like Godzilla shaking your rig," warns Annie G. about Sawtooth Canyon. However, Scott D. offers a different perspective: "East access. 1.5 miles from pavement. Road is washboarded so keep your speed under 10mph and it's a fairly smooth 5 minute drive."
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "We camped here for the 4th, and the weather was great. Our site was large enough to fit a 24 foot trailer, truck, and a car," notes Jonathan G. at Barton Flats Family Campground, which typically operates May through October.
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water. At Sawtooth Canyon Campground, you must bring all your water as none is available on site. This contrasts with campgrounds like Barton Flats where "water is available. Flush toilets and showers available," according to Desiree M.
Bear safety measures: Proper food storage is essential. "Each site included a table, fire ring and bear safe locker," reports Manny D. about camping in the region. Another camper warns, "Please be sure to cover your ice chest, even in your vehicle, as the bears are all too familiar with them."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy spotting local wildlife during quieter times. At San Gorgonio Campground, one visitor observed: "We say rattle snakes in our walk. Deer walking around the trails." However, this also means keeping a watchful eye on children.
Bike-friendly options: Several campgrounds feature paved roads ideal for children learning to ride. "Kiddos had a great time riding their bikes around the sites. Also, great trails nearby!" shares Krystal G. about Hanna Flat Campground, highlighting activities beyond hiking.
Campground amenities: Look for sites with clean facilities when camping with children. "Very clean and fun. Took my son and his girlfriend with us a great place for families," notes Amanda A. about Serrano Campground, which maintains well-kept restrooms and common areas.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly, requiring appropriate clothing and gear. "It was May but got cold enough at night but was absolutely perfect during the day," reports Stephanie M., emphasizing the temperature swings that can challenge unprepared families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds have limited spaces for larger vehicles. At Dogwood Campground, "our site was a single so it only fit one car. There is extra parking available for additional cars that we could have used, but if we had a trailer we wouldn't have fit," explains Troy L., highlighting the importance of researching site specifications.
Dump stations: Only select campgrounds offer sanitary dump facilities. "It was difficult to use the dump hookups as they're elevated about a foot off the ground so I had to lift the hose off my support snake many times," reports Mike R. about Holloway's Marina & RV Park, showing the varying quality of facilities.
Generator restrictions: Rules about generator use vary between campgrounds. "No generators from 8 pm to 8 am, a $3000 fine if your campfire is left unattended," warns Colette K. about regulations at Pineknot Campground, which strictly enforces quiet hours.
Leveling requirements: Many mountain sites require blocks for leveling. "The pad was a little off level. Had to block one side," notes Jesse C. about RV sites at Holloway's, pointing out a common issue in mountainous campgrounds.
