Running Springs sits at an elevation of 6,000 feet in the San Bernardino Mountains, surrounded by pine and cedar forests. The mountainous terrain around Running Springs creates weather patterns that shift quickly, with winter lows often dipping below freezing and summer highs reaching the mid-80s. The area's varied elevation provides multiple options for horseback riding enthusiasts seeking trail access throughout the year.
What to do
Hike to hot springs: Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground offers a challenging trail leading to natural mineral pools. "The hike to the hot springs was fairly tough, but we found it easily with the trail starting right on the property! Definitely recommend camping here, just make sure you download directions prior," notes Jessica B.
Explore riverside terrain: Seven Oaks Lodge provides access to the Santa Ana River for fishing and exploration. "With this price however you get the basics. No showers, no rv dump station, just water from the pipe, toilets, picnic tables, fire ring, and a bear box," writes Nick L. about nearby facilities.
Mountain biking: The alpine bike path near Heart Bar Campground connects to numerous forest routes. "Accommodates travel trailers/rv well, water spigots around. Lots of trees, shade & blue jays. Alpine bike path!" reports Ricky S.
Wildlife viewing: The meadow areas around Heart Bar Campground provide good wildlife spotting opportunities. "This spot is excellent for wildlife viewing and entry to the wilderness for hiking and exploring. The campground is also littered with tall standing pines and even some massive junipers," according to Nick L.
What campers like
Natural hot springs access: Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp Retreat offers private mineral pools. "The spring pools at our site were so relaxing to have all to ourselves and well worth it to reserve for our party!" shares Jessica B.
Dispersed camping with amenities: Yellow post sites maintain basic facilities while offering seclusion. "For a spot that's free and no limit on cars or tents, Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites is great for 2 days trip and it's close to big bear city," writes SkippyScott.
Well-spaced sites: Campers appreciate the separation between spaces at established campgrounds. "When I go camping, I like getting away from people, and Heart Bar is one of the campgrounds with bigger sites so we can do that easier," shares Amy B.
Water features: Stream access provides cooling options during summer heat. "After a quick back and forth with the most ideal spot and a quick set up, it was in the river we went. With temperature nearing 90 or at least it dealt like it, the mountain cooled stream was just what our fam needed," reports Armando C.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many forest roads close during winter conditions. "These campsites are all closed during the winter due to snow and early into spring," warns Kayla H. about Coon Creek access.
Cell service variability: Signal strength changes dramatically with elevation. "Verizon sim had 2 bars with my cell booster. Enjoyed my stay! Very peaceful and quiet," reports Derek M. about his stay at Coon Creek.
Trail conditions: Bowen Springs Camp Retreat requires preparation for rugged terrain. "You will have to drive 6 miles of mountainous dirt roads to reach the property, but it takes you away from all signs of the city and surrounds you in nature," cautions Jessica B.
Water availability: Bring containers when venturing to remote sites. "You'll pass an equestrian campground on the way in that you might be able to get water from," suggests Amanda L. regarding Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites.
Tips for camping with families
Double sites for groups: Heart Bar Campground offers connected spaces for larger parties. "This specific site is very spacious with double of the parking spots (4 cars total), 2 fire pits, and 2 benches," describes Chrystal M. about a double site.
Bear box storage: Some sites provide secure food storage options. "With this price however you get the basics. No showers, no rv dump station, just water from the pipe, toilets, picnic tables, fire ring, and a bear box," notes Nick L.
Wildlife concerns: Take precautions with food storage in all camping areas. "There are plenty of water faucet and a couple dumpster which should be used because of raccoons," cautions Antonio B. about Seven Oaks Lodge.
Local attractions: Plan day trips to nearby recreational areas. "Not too far from Jenks lake to do some fishing," suggests Alfonso C., describing options near Heart Bar Campground.
Tips for RVers
Road conditions: Mojave Narrows Regional Park provides level sites with good access. "Level, paved, separated FHU sites with picnic tables and fire rings. Hiking and bike trails," notes Rich J.
Campsite positioning: Request sites away from high-traffic areas for better equestrian camping. "One suggestion is to book sites outside of the loop as you'll get more of a nice view of the mountains," advises Chrystal M.
Water and hookups: Heart Bar offers partial amenities for larger vehicles. "Heart Bar is the largest campground off of the 38, lots of sites and far enough from the road to be very quite," notes Mike M.
Parking space concerns: Sites vary considerably in size and configuration. "The sites are beautiful and clean, and there is a beautiful meadow to hike through," explains Amy B. about Heart Bar, an option for equestrian camping near Running Springs.
