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Camping opportunities around Running Springs, California range from primitive to developed sites within the San Bernardino National Forest. The area includes established campgrounds like Dogwood and Skypark Camp RV Resort, along with more rustic options such as the Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites. Most campgrounds accommodate tent camping, while select locations like Skypark Camp RV Resort provide full hookups for RVs. The region's diverse camping areas are situated at elevations between 6,000-7,000 feet, offering cooler temperatures and pine forest settings.
Seasonal considerations heavily influence camping availability in the Running Springs area. Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules, with peak season typically running May through October when mountain roads are clear of snow. Winter camping requires additional preparation as temperatures frequently drop below freezing. The Keller Peak Yellow Post sites provide free camping but no water or toilets, while developed campgrounds like Green Valley offer flush toilets and potable water. A visitor noted: "Keller Peak is incredible. Quiet and mostly clean sites. Tons of land to hike, on or off trail. The Keller Peak Lookout was amazing."
The San Bernardino National Forest campgrounds near Running Springs receive consistently positive reviews for their cleanliness and natural setting. Several campers highlight the privacy between sites at locations like Green Valley Campground, which features "real toilets and urinal" making it "the cleanest National Forest campground" according to one review. Skypark Camp RV Resort stands out for its proximity to local attractions and maintained facilities. Yellow Post sites appeal to those seeking more solitude, though several reviewers mention they "fill up fast May-Sept." Some camping areas present access challenges - a reviewer observed that "some of the spots are hard to get to, so you might want to bring 4X4." Most campgrounds maintain fire restrictions during dry seasons, requiring visitors to check current regulations before arrival.
"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."
from $40 - $81 / night
Check Availability"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."
"This camp site is located walking distance to the lake. There are bike paths and walking trails located near the camp ground."
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"Silverwood Lake Campground offers a range of site experiences depending on where you stay."
"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!""
from $45 - $350 / night
Check Availability"Spaces are pretty close together and small, but we got lucky and didn’t have anyone around us (likely due to bad air quality). If you kayak this is a great place to camp, it’s right next to the lake."
"Lake arrowhead isn't a public lake so it's a bit of a drive to do any water activities, but there was a close offroad trail."
from $29 - $58 / night
Check Availability"Tons of hiking trails and within 30 min drive of major shopping/grocery stores. Big Bear is about an hour away with and awesome drive up the mountain."
"Close to the city but far enough away from the lights. There is a ton of stuff to do here. Fishing, kayaking, hiking, water slides, disc golf, bike trails. The RV spots are beyond huge!"
"Most of the sites have incredible views looking out over Lake Hemet and of the San Jacinto mountains."
"Fun off-road adventure to get to the site. Minimal sites so not much crowding."
"Lake Arrowhead is close for supplies or food. "
"Views are worth it and this is so conveniently located next to Santa's Village. Will definitely be coming back again sooner than later!"
from $39 - $299 / night
Check Availability"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"Pineknot is perfectly situated in Big Bear where you're in the woods but only a short walk to Snow Summit. "
"The last few times we have gone we have stayed in 19 because of its location and layout."
from $34 - $36 / night
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TravelerCamped with two people and had tons of space in our site. The car parking is a slightly away from the site, which we liked but maybe not other peoples’ preference
ScoutHas a security guard that thought she was God or something like that. Never seen anybody or place so petty on the place and still searching for the championship horseshoe pits and I can't stop talking about the dark green of the fishing lakes and the fish swimming on their sides
TravelerWe reserved and paid for a regular RV site specifically advertised for a 36–40 ft motorhome. We were assigned Site#28, which was so sloped and unsuitable that we could not safely extend either our living-room slide-out or bedroom slide-out. While using our leveling system, two front hydraulic jack rods broke and one rear jack became severely bent and could not retract. Our motorhome was left unsafe to drive or move. The exact mechanical cause still requires professional inspection, but the condition and slope of the assigned site are serious concerns. We immediately notified the campground by email, provided photographs, and went to the office seeking help with an incident report, emergency assistance, and a safe plan for the stranded motorhome. Unfortunately, management refused to take meaningful responsibility or help us resolve the emergency. The most disappointing part was not only the unsuitable site, but the lack of concern and assistance after a guest’s large motorhome became immobilized on the property. We had to return to work on Monday and were left trying to arrange emergency service, towing, transportation, and accommodation on our own. Based on this experience, I cannot recommend Holloway’s RV Park to owners of large Class A motorhomes. If you have a 36–40 ft RV, carefully inspect the assigned site’s slope, space, and leveling conditions before parking or deploying your jacks.
Travelervery pretty sight the mountain air is incredible. the staff is very helpful and friendly. at night the drunks go crazy and the bears steal their food.
ScoutThe scenery is unique and enjoyable, with nice views of either sunrise or sunset, depending on site. I found the lake itself very pretty. However when we arrived 4 vehicles are in our spot, people were nice enough moving but we had to go door to door knocking on camper to ask who's cars they were due to no signal and no rangers nearby. Our site was pretty dirty with lots of trash, copious ants near the drainage attachments, and two of the nearby groups had excessive tents extending into the back of our site making our view look more like a homeless encampment and less like a serene mountain sunset. They also were littering, urinating outside, and excessively drinking and partying like crazy until the wee hours. As a family group we felt really uncomfortable. It seemed like not all spots are like this, however, on my walk around deer loop in the morning. If you do go, the water activities and rentals look fun, the walking trail/biking trail was nicely done, and you could optimize your spot by booking a whole group of spots (instead of booking one, book one on the right and left side to avoid feeling like you have entered homeless refuge). It maybe was a bit worse as we were here over a holiday weekend. But we most likely won't be back, there are other places that are less expensive and with better enforcement and a family atmosphere. If you want to party it is probably a fine spot, and if you love water sports also likely ok. I thin it's a beautiful place with unique scenery and a lot of potential, but needs more enforcement regarding guest code of conduct.
Edited and gave 3 stars instead of 2. Views are really nice now that our poorly behaved neighbors left. Worth considering a visit during less busy times.
TravelerNice campground, clean and well maintained - would pick a different spot a bit further from street. If you want to go to lake, its a bit away so need car.
ScoutEasy to get to. I have an AWD sprinter no problem. Son has an Acura TLX made it up no issue had a few spin outs on steeper parts. Higher sites are nice and spaced.
RangerNo lake view, which was a bit disappointing. Nice wooded area though with tree climbing. A bit loud music from the neighbors, not until very late so was OK. Limited amount of toilets for the amount of spots
TravelerCamp site is in walking distance of Idyllwild. Has has a couple of sites with electric hookups. Bathrooms are clean, showers need a token for $1. Being close to the road makes it noisy during the daytime .
Camping spots near Running Springs, California range from densely forested sites to mountain view campgrounds between 6,000-7,000 feet elevation. Temperatures can drop sharply at night, with winter camping requiring preparation for sub-freezing conditions and potential snow access issues. Several campgrounds in this mountain region offer year-round operation, though amenities vary significantly by location and season.
Mountain biking at Snow Summit: Just a short distance from Running Springs, Pineknot Campground connects directly to popular mountain biking trails. "The best part of this campground is it is within walking distance of Snow Summit. We walked over and took the ski lift up to the top and hiked around the loop. BEAUTIFUL!" reports Rose B.
Explore Santa's Village: Visitors staying at Skypark Camp RV Resort can access this popular attraction without driving. "Beautiful clean new, the view is worth the price of admission. Host was awesome made our trip special. Super beautiful and clean site," writes Jon S., who appreciated the convenient location across from Santa's Village.
Hiking local trails: The forest offers numerous trails for all skill levels. At Dogwood Campground, visitors can access hiking directly from camp. "Access to the Enchanted loop nature trail is at the back end of the camp and offers some great views," according to Jeremiah F., who enjoyed the convenient trailhead access.
Spacious, private campsites: Many campers appreciate sites that offer some seclusion. At Dogwood Campground, the layout creates a sense of privacy. "Beautiful, large, private campsites. I didn't have much interaction with the staff at when I did they were polite. We were very happy with our site (#5)," notes Paige K., who found even the less desirable sites still quite good.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. "Clean facilities and great staff! We will be back for sure! Oh and HUGE plus is that it's totally dog friendly!" remarks Martha S. about Serrano Campground, adding that the restrooms were well-maintained though sometimes busy.
Free, remote camping options: For those seeking more solitude, Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Sites offer no-cost options. "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!" says Chelsea R.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. "We happened to find a great spot here on Labor Day weekend. Total luck shot. We got a great spot where we saw an amazing sunset," reports Gina C. about San Gorgonio Campground, emphasizing the rarity of walk-up availability during peak times.
Vehicle requirements for remote sites: High-clearance vehicles may be necessary for yellow post sites. "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, cautioning about road conditions.
Bear safety: Food storage is critical in this area. "Please be sure to cover your ice chest, even in your vehicle, as the bears are all too familiar with them. My sister did not heed my warning, and we woke in the middle of the night to the local resident (a bear) tipping and subsequently going through her cooler," warns Jennifer D., speaking from experience at San Gorgonio Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer amenities specifically for children. At Yucaipa Regional Park, families find numerous options. "This is your typical regional park Campground. There's a lot to do here, including fishing, playgrounds, and even a waterpark in the summer," explains Mary F., noting the lack of bears makes it "less stressful when you have pets or kids."
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Serrano Campground provides safe biking opportunities for children. "We loved camping here. Beautiful, pristine campground with bike trails/walking paths around the lake. The town is bike friendly," shares Trey T., highlighting the additional recreation options.
Group camping possibilities: Some sites work well for multi-family trips. "Between the two spaces, was a huge open area, which was great for the kids and dogs to play," Brian L. notes about Pineknot Campground, recommending sites 1 and 3 for families camping together.
RV site selection: When booking an RV site, research the specific location carefully. At Skypark Camp RV Resort, Bryan S. advises: "Great park. New clean. Staff is very helpful and friendly. Spots are a little tight if you have a bigger unit," suggesting larger rigs may face challenges at some sites.
Hookup availability: Full hookup options exist but are limited in the area. "I used an electric site which is integrated with tent and nonelectric sites. The restrooms are clean with flush toilets, along with soap and water sinks," reports Shuree F. about Dogwood Campground, noting the mix of site types.
Winter considerations: RVers camping late or early season should prepare for cold weather impacts. "We camped here the last weekend before they closed for the winter, after Thanksgiving. Our sewer outlet was frozen in the morning, so we had to dump when we got out of the mountains," shares Nicole W. about her experience at Serrano Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping facilities and amenities are available at Running Springs camp?
Campgrounds near Running Springs typically offer basic but functional facilities. Heart Bar Campground provides a secluded experience with beautiful mountain views and sunset vistas, positioned far enough from town to ensure peace and quiet. The campground features standard amenities including fire rings and picnic tables. For those seeking more developed facilities, Holcomb Valley Campground has clean, well-maintained sites with a camp host who monitors the area. While specific amenities vary by location, most Running Springs area campgrounds offer vault toilets, designated fire rings, picnic tables, and trash collection. Water availability is limited at many forest sites, so campers should come prepared with their own supply.
Are there cabins available for rent in Running Springs?
Yes, the Running Springs area offers cabin rental options for those seeking more comfortable accommodations than tent camping. While traditional campgrounds like Serrano focus on tent and RV sites near the lake, the Running Springs community has private cabin rentals available through vacation rental services. Skypark Camp RV Resort near Running Springs offers cabin-style accommodations with amenities like water and toilets. These cabins provide a cozy alternative to traditional camping, especially during colder months when snow is common in the area. For cabin rentals, advance reservations are strongly recommended, particularly during peak seasons and weekends.
Where are the designated campgrounds in Running Springs?
Running Springs offers several designated campgrounds in the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest. Keller Peak Yellow Post Campground is just minutes from Running Springs on the road to Children's Forest and Keller Peak Fire Lookout, with well-spaced sites for a quick forest getaway. Another nearby option is Green Valley Campground, which offers tent sites with campfire rings in the Big Bear area. These campgrounds provide access to hiking trails and outdoor recreation opportunities while being accessible from Running Springs. Most sites in the area are first-come, first-served, so weekday visits are recommended for better availability.
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