Phelan is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Phelan is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
$30 - $500 / night
"If you have a chance after - drive the whole Angeles crest highway! Worth the trouble. You are also located close to the PCT, take a hike!"
"We got a campsite that was on the outside of the loop. We were in Cherokee loop in campsite #87."
$45 - $350 / night
"Silverwood Lake was just that. Lush green mountains in the back drop that surrounded every view you turned to take in. "You need to recharge your batteries!""
"ATV with ice cream and firewood comes around right before dark. Campsites are a bit crowded for my liking. Access to the Silverwood Lake recreation area is a great benefit."
$12 / night
"Close by Hobit trails clear and inviting trails .rivers and in the winter snow....lots of campsites.... seen deer..rabbits and a multitude of squirrels. ..."
"Top of mt Baldy road.. almost as far as you can drive. Not many sites, about 20. One giant loop. No reservations needed."
"We’ve done Crystal Lake probably 6 dozen times or more in our time in California and it never disappoints on the spectacular views."
"Whenever I need to get away from LALA Land, I head up here. I grew up in the mountains of western Pennsylvania, so , sometimes , I need to kick back and recharge."
$40 - $81 / night
"The trees are massive and plenty and make you feel like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of California."
"The campground overall is really pretty and in a great location in Lake Arrowhead. However, we made the mistake of booking site 005, which is right on a ridge... it was SO windy."
$35 - $45 / night
"Easy access to a pretty trail right behind the campground. Very quiet and interspersed with long time stayers and temporary campers. I stayed in my van and had my cat and dog with me."
"It's definitely not that far away from the city roughly a 7-10 minute drive up the mountain very chill environment awesome staff very home like feel you're literally a box throw away from the creek if"
$15 - $20 / night
"I had a positive impression of this small campground, located just 5-7 miles away from the 215 highway, amidst natural surroundings."
"The fresh stream is just a short distance away, just a few steps away and you can immerse yourself in nature right across the road."
"We left LA (Hollywood) on a Friday afternoon around 3, and were setting up camp by 5! Luckily a friend got to the campground before us though, as he snagged the last of the 20 or so sites there."
"Coldbrooke is a excellent campground that is relatively close to the city. The camp host was super helpful in explaining the fire restrictions and overall questions."
$3 - $40 / night
"The lakes are nice, there are mountain views, and some cool hikes to explore in the riverbed area."
"Nice hike in campground (can drive in when gate is open). Not too many people around so you can snag a great spot with awesome views."
"We stopped here on the way into Wrightwood via the Pacific Crest Trail. The trail runs right by and there looks to be a lot of other nearby trails too."
TravelerBit of rattle and shake on the road leading in. The sites are well laid out with picnic tables and fire pits plenty of space.
ScoutI stayed for one night Wednesday just to try the showers. The showers were perfect! Hot water even! So clean and beautiful. Recommend!
ScoutI’ve camped at the Keller Peak yellow post sites more than two dozen times over the years and, at their best, they’re incredible. The scenery and isolation are superb—starry skies, quiet nights, and that deep-woods stillness that’s getting harder to find. For years this was my go-to spot.
Unfortunately, I’ve also watched trash and waste increase. Please, pack it out—these sites only stay special if we treat them with care.
My last trip was frightening enough that I haven’t returned. Late at night a group of locals came to the edge of my site, yelling and using threatening language. They assumed I was homeless despite my SUV and proper camping setup. I was using a portable propane fire pit—which is allowed—and I calmly explained that. I can understand why fire is an issue to locals. I only felt safe because my small dog has a very loud bark, which kept them from coming closer. They said they were calling a ranger. I left the next morning, shaken. On my way out, I spoke with a park ranger who confirmed propane fire pits are permitted and told me they don’t patrol up there at night because of recurring issues like this. She also mentioned they were trying to move the site to a reservation system to deter homeless use; I’m not sure if that has happened yet.
It’s a shame, because this area is one of the best around. I’m sharing this so others can make an informed choice.
Pros - Spectacular views and true solitude Cool nights, dark skies, classic forest feel
Cons - Rising litter and human waste Nighttime safety concerns due to occasional rowdy visitors Limited ranger presence after dark
I hope increased stewardship and enforcement can restore the magic here.
GuideThis spot isn't anything special, but desert camping under the stars is never a bad time. Once the wind settled in the evening, I made some tea and read a book. I saw a shooting star when I laid down in my tent. I really could not have asked for a better nights rest. There is a vault toilet and some rock fire pits scattered around the area. I was there on a Wednesday, didn't see another soul except for the couple that pulled off the highway for a quicky, LOL! The highway isn't too far but the noise is pretty minimal. It was pretty sandy, but not too bad for a street motorcycle
TravelerWasn’t hard to find a little rough but fairly easy to reach with our Sedan. Couldn’t find too much to do but if you’re looking for a weekend getaway to relax it’s a nice spot.
ScoutBeautiful views of the entire city and never bothered by anyone, can do bonfires, and even camp right out my car.
TravelerNice and clean with hookups
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.
TravelerIt was okay for a last minute camping idea.
Camping near Phelan, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to explore.
Camping near Phelan, California, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds in Phelan, CA?
The Phelan area offers excellent camping options within a short drive. Heart Bar Campground is a favorite for its secluded feel and spectacular mountain sunsets. For a unique experience, Little Jimmy Trail Campground provides backcountry camping just 2 miles off Angeles Crest Highway with several first-come, first-served sites featuring fire rings and vault toilets. Both offer the perfect mountain getaway with natural beauty and privacy. For those seeking lakeside camping, Table Mountain and Serrano campgrounds near Big Bear Lake provide additional options within driving distance of Phelan.
What amenities are available at Phelan camping areas?
Campgrounds near Phelan offer varying amenities to suit different camping styles. Bonelli Bluffs provides family-friendly RV camping with standard hookups, though lacks playground facilities. San Bernardino National Forest Green Valley Campground offers simple tent sites with campfire rings in a peaceful setting. Many area campgrounds feature vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. For more amenities, Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground provides a camp store, boat rentals, swimming areas, and hiking trails along with standard camping facilities.
Is camping allowed year-round in Phelan?
Camping availability around Phelan varies seasonally. Applewhite Campground in San Bernardino National Forest operates with seasonal closures, including weekday closures during certain periods. Holcomb Valley Campground is typically open during warmer months but closes during winter due to snow and cold conditions. Lower elevation campgrounds like Mojave Narrows Regional Park offer more year-round opportunities. Always check current status before planning your trip, as mountain campgrounds experience seasonal closures due to weather conditions, especially during winter months when snow makes access difficult.
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