Best Campgrounds near Rimforest, CA
The San Bernardino National Forest surrounds Rimforest, California with numerous developed campgrounds offering both tent and RV accommodations. Dogwood Campground stands out with its large, shaded sites beneath tall pine trees and provides amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and bear boxes. Other notable options include Serrano Campground near Big Bear Lake, North Shore Campground at Lake Almanor, and the Keller Peak Yellow Post Sites for more primitive camping experiences. Most established campgrounds in the area feature toilets and drinking water, while some like Skypark Camp RV Resort and Serrano offer full hookups for recreational vehicles.
The region experiences distinct seasonal changes that affect camping availability, with many campgrounds operating primarily from spring through fall. "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," noted one visitor, highlighting the importance of site selection. Higher elevation campgrounds like Dogwood and Hanna Flat (5,000+ feet) remain cool even during summer months, with temperatures dropping significantly at night. Most developed sites require reservations through recreation.gov or The Dyrt, particularly during peak summer weekends and holidays. Cell service varies throughout the mountain communities, with better coverage near towns like Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs than in the more remote yellow post sites.
Campers consistently praise the forested settings that provide ample shade and privacy between sites. One reviewer mentioned, "With how brown and dreary everything always looks at this time of year in this drought ridden state, this campground is so gorgeously green and lush!" The campgrounds near Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake provide convenient access to water recreation, hiking trails, and mountain towns for supplies. Several campgrounds feature hiking paths directly from the sites, allowing for exploration without driving. Road noise can be heard at some locations near Highway 18, particularly at Dogwood, though most reviewers find it minimal. Families appreciate the clean facilities at Dogwood and Serrano campgrounds, with regular maintenance of bathrooms and showers when available. The yellow post sites offer more seclusion but fewer amenities for those seeking a more primitive experience.
