205 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp offers free dispersed pet-friendly camping in the forest near Big Bear Lake. This camp features no developed facilities such as firepits or outhouses, but provides unlimited backcountry camping with dogs permitted throughout the area. Campers can set up tents anywhere off roads and trails, with plenty of flat spots available for camping. Other pet-friendly options include Hanna Flat Campground with approximately 90 campsites, where dogs must remain leashed. Most campgrounds in the region provide basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-safe storage lockers at each site. Campers report the dirt roads accessing these campgrounds can be rough but manageable for most vehicles, though high-clearance vehicles are recommended for Holcomb Valley.
The trails surrounding these campgrounds are dog-friendly, making them ideal for hiking with pets. Holcomb Valley features numerous single-track paths for exploration, while Hanna Flat offers a hiking trail that starts directly from the campground and heads north, suitable for both children and dogs. Campers should be prepared with their own water supplies, especially at Holcomb Valley where no drinking water is available. The campgrounds' forest settings provide ample shade and natural exploration opportunities for pets, though visitors should be aware that rattlesnakes may be present in the area. Dispersed camping areas allow more privacy and quiet compared to established campgrounds, which can become crowded on weekends and during peak seasons.
"Big Bear Lake near by, lake level appears to be receding. Bears and coyotes in the area, recommended not to let small dogs or cats roam unattended."
"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."
from $44 - $91 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $33 - $67 / night
Check Availability"Pet friendly, our three dogs loved it! Staff was incredibly helpful and hard working. Also it was well located as it was a semi-quick drive to a few fun locations."
"Pineknot is perfectly situated in Big Bear where you're in the woods but only a short walk to Snow Summit. "
from $34 - $36 / night
Check Availability"Because the National forest allows dispersed camping, as long as your off the roads and trails, the camping spots are unlimited."
"Arriving at the campground, the deposit place, obviously on weekends we were not thrilled by everyone around us, as well as the loud noise until past the curfew."
"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."
from $34 - $69 / night
Check Availability"Excellent location to the village, you can ride your bike in. We stayed on the point, beautiful view of the lake. Also, boat rental right there!"
"It was Memorial Day weekend pretty busy but camp site was nice rented pontoon boat just a walk from park all in all good time"
"Each trail I used offered lovely views. This campground is huge, yet felt homey. My cat watched the squirrels play on nearby trees from the RV."
"Stayed a couple years in a row with me family. ( and dog) site large enough for two large family tents. Picnic table and fire ring."
from $40 - $81 / night
Check Availability"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. "
from $36 - $73 / night
Check Availability"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"
from $29 - $58 / night
Check Availability"Very close to walking and biking trails."
"Big spot, shade of trees, walk down to lake. Full hookup. 7 minutes to big bear lake town. Hiking trails out front gate. Probably not big rig friendly."
from $55 - $90 / night
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TravelerComfortable partial hookup sites, pet friendly, and nice people. Theres a dog park next door. The bathrooms are clean, and the laundry facilities work well (although coin only, no cards).
GuideWe rolled in after dark. The office is open until 9 pm which was very nice. They sell snacks and supplies. There are cabins for rent along with tent sites in addition to backup and pull through sites. Our site had full hookups. The dog park at the back of the campground was decent size with a gorgeous view of the mountains. There are arched overhead lights through the lanes to help light in the dark. A word of warning, the campground has many oleander flower bushes which are toxic to humans and pets if ingested, so please use caution. There are signs warning of this.
RangerVery clean, dog friendly ( with dog park) helpful nice staff, propane available, small playground and swimming pool, picnic tables and grills at each site
GuideNot a very attractive drive in. Lots and lots of trash in the shrubbery and fields along the highway. Reservation and check in was easy. Staff were very friendly and accommodating. The RV park itself is attractive and seems to be fairly well maintained. It seems there are two rv areas. A lower older area and an upper newer and more attractive area. We were in the older area. Site was gravel with a small concrete area. Unfortunately, no one there seems to care about the dog poop everywhere (not exaggerating!). We and the people behind us parking had to clean dog poop off our site before we could set up. When walking our dog we saw poop everywhere. Dog park was ok, but on the small side and would be better with a gravel base instead of the dirt (very, very dusty and results in a dirty, dusty dog). There is a huge field adjacent and owned by the rv park that you can walk and or run your dog. But also full of poop. Bathroom smaller, older in the lower area. Much nicer, more modern bathrooms in the newer area. Two laundry rooms but no front loaders and the older laundry room only had two washers and two dryers. Can use quarters or an app. Pool and spa seemed pretty popular but we didn’t use. Area could really use some lighting at night. Very dark with minimal lighting in the older section. Trash is picked up every morning if you leave outside your site.
GuideYou need a military ID to enter this base. There are more than 30 sites available FCFS, water, sewer, 30 amp and 50 amp electric, level concrete slabs surrounded by gravel. The only trees are around the perimeter. Two washers, two dryers, and an ice machine are available for no charge. Fenced dog park with grass. All sites are back in with water and Electric at the back.
GuideBeing reasonably close to our home base, we frequent this park with the family. Major grocery and shopping establishments are nearby, with Target directly across the street, In-n-Out, local parks, and the like. Our kids love the pool area, grandparents love the pickleball courts, and there are always fun activities to do throughout the year. Full-timers are friendly and inclusive of newcomers and passer-throughs. Dog parks are clean and located at either corner of the park. The entrance security kiosk is staffed 24/7, and they'll even help spot you while parking your rig. We cannot say enough good things about this place.
Check their website for events and specials.
GuideRV Park full of residence and full timers. Will accommodate one or more nights. Good place to recharge and do laundry. Everything looks mostly clean and the pool was nice too. Small dog park with real grass.
GuideI’m just stopping to sleep, but this campground has friendly staff and good amenities. I’m parked under a canopy of trees, which must help on hot summer days.
They had a general store, bath houses, cabins, dog park and more.
RangerThis campground was small, but cozy. They have an unheated pool (which looked a little dirty) no hot tub, and about 3 recreational rooms. One had a pool table with a comfy looking couch, and the other had tables for card playing.
There was a dog park outside, but not much more. There was a picnic table and a grill in just about every spot.
Water pressure was fantastic, and I got t-mobile cell service here.
Pet-friendly camping near Lucerne Valley, California offers access to forests at 6,750-8,200 feet elevation in the San Bernardino National Forest. The area's higher altitudes provide cooler summer temperatures, often 15-20 degrees below the desert floor. Most dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles to navigate dirt forest roads, with conditions worsening after winter storms or summer monsoons.
Mountain biking on forest trails: The Pineknot area offers excellent mountain biking opportunities close 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," explains camper Berton M.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Several fishing spots are within a 30-minute drive from forest campsites. "If you want a nice site seeing walk, you can ask the host for directions to the meadows," suggests Chrystal M. about Heart Bar Campground, adding "Hiking spots is about 30 mins away towards Big Bear."
Off-road exploring: The area has numerous dirt roads for 4x4 adventures. "All the trail roads are mostly for 4 x 4 vehicles that really enjoy just going at it throughout the day. A lot of fun to witness that," notes Seth B. about exploring beyond designated campgrounds.
Privacy and isolation: Many visitors appreciate the secluded nature of forest camping sites. "Because the National forest allows dispersed camping, as long as your off the roads and trails, the camping spots are unlimited. We like coming here if we want to be guaranteed a spot, no early arrivals or reservations needed," says Les R. about Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp.
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation provides relief from desert heat. "We went in April, and still had a little bit of snow," explains Seth B. who enjoyed camping beyond established sites in Holcomb Valley.
Spacious campsites: Forest service campgrounds typically offer more space than private ones. "This specific site is very spacious with double of the parking spots (4 cars total), 2 fire pits, and 2 benches," notes Chrystal M. about Heart Bar Campground's double sites, making it ideal for larger groups camping with pets.
Water availability varies: Many forest campsites require you to bring your own water supply. At San Gorgonio Campground, a camper notes "There is clean water, clean restrooms and showers. The showers go hot and cold in a second but this is a water conservation area so no big deal and they are free."
Fire restrictions change seasonally: Fire danger can prompt restrictions or bans. "Even with the fire ban, still enjoyed a great stay in the woods!" reports Esther Y. about camping in the forest during dry periods.
Road conditions can be challenging: Forest roads require careful driving. "The road up to the camp area is a bit rough. We were in a Sprinter and definitely nervous for parts. But, it was worth it once we got there!" explains Allie N. about accessing dispersed camping areas.
Look for campgrounds with activities: Dogwood Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "The campground has the atmosphere of camping in the forest with a couple of hiking trails and lots of shade. Clean restrooms. The camp was quiet and I was able to take my dog with me," reports Joanne.
Choose shaded sites for summer visits: Shade makes a difference for comfort with kids and pets. "Hanna Flat campgrounds are filled with lots of shade due to the big beautiful trees... Each site was spread out and lots of space for 2-4 tents," explains Manny D.
Bear boxes are essential: Most established campgrounds provide bear-safe storage. "Each site included a table, fire ring and bear safe locker," notes Manny D. about camping with family at forest campsites where wildlife protection is necessary.
Length limitations apply: Lighthouse Trailer Resort accommodates smaller RVs. "Little family owned RV spot—some long termers. Everyone super nice. Big spot, shade of trees, walk down to lake. Full hookup. 7 minutes to big bear lake town. Hiking trails out front gate. Probably not big rig friendly," advises Ashley M.
Limited hookup options: Most forest campgrounds lack full hookups. "No hookups. Great spot tucked away in the wood. Campsite 49/51 is right by the trail to hike and bike," notes Bryan S. about camping near Big Bear.
Dump station availability: Plan for limited 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," explains Mike R. about RV services at campgrounds in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Lucerne Valley, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Lucerne Valley, CA is Serrano with a 4.6-star rating from 35 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Lucerne Valley, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 205 dog-friendly camping locations near Lucerne Valley, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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