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Best Tent Camping near Running Springs, CA

1,333 Reviews

Several tent campgrounds around Running Springs, California, provide access to mountain forests and elevated terrain in the San Bernardino Mountains. Yellow Post sites near Keller Peak offer primitive tent camping with picnic tables and fire rings, while more developed tent campsites can be found at the Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area. These locations provide a base for exploring high-elevation trails and forest roads within San Bernardino National Forest.

Most tent campgrounds in this area feature minimal amenities, with Keller Peak Yellow Post Sites offering picnic tables but no drinking water, showers, or toilets. The Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites provide similar primitive conditions but with the added benefit of reservable sites. One camper noted that "the dirt road that leads up to the first spots is a doozy, and very long," indicating high-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing many of these remote tent sites. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with permits often required during dry months. Campers should verify current fire regulations before arrival, as enforcement is strict at many sites.

Areas farther from town offer deeper seclusion and less noise for tent campers seeking solitude. The nine Yellow Post sites at Keller Peak stretch across five miles of paved road, creating significant distance between campsites. A review mentioned that "the sites were interestingly laid out and some had little wooded areas that you actually camp behind, others had interesting ground layouts with multiple levels." Sites with views are particularly sought after, with Keller Peak's Site #9 offering panoramic vistas. Walk-in tent sites require more effort to access but typically reward campers with greater privacy. Weather conditions can change rapidly at these elevations, with snow possible even in May, making proper tent equipment and season-appropriate gear essential for comfortable camping experiences.

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Best Tent Sites Near Running Springs, California (61)

    1. Yucaipa Regional Park

    20 Reviews
    Yucaipa, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 790-3127

    "The bathrooms are decent, no showers. We stayed in group campsite A. Tent camping is only allowed in group sites. They do have about 30 to 40 RV sites as well."

    "Great tent camping facilities, privacy from neighbors, access to Zanja Peak Trail head, 3 lakes for fishing, water park during the summer, and friendly helpful staff"

    2. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites

    13 Reviews
    Angelus Oaks, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2882

    "These sites aren't monitored and don't have picnic tables or any amenities, although there is a restroom down the road a little ways where the campsites start, but that's it."

    "This particular site has 8 campsites which do have signs to mark the general area, although it is entirely up to you to where to set up camp in the general area."

    3. Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    9 Reviews
    Green Valley Lake, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2600

    "This campground is free with 9 camp site on a 5 mile paved road, the site's have fire ring and picnic benches, no water. Bike trail is fun and a challenge. Camp site 1,3 & 6 are very quiet."

    "Some chairs, hammock, water, and utensils were left at the picnic table. Everything was dirty so we assumed they were left by previous campers."

    4. Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    Cedar Glen, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 867-2009

    "After years of venturing into and around Lake Arrowhead (often a mere stop on my way to Big Bear/Fawnskin) I finally started exploring off the beaten path by accident last year and holy cow!"

    "Green valley lake campground is an awesome place for a fun getaway. We wanted to get away for the Fourth of July but waited too long to book in Big Bear."

    5. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Fawnskin, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2790

    "First come first served dispersed camping just outside Big Bear. Near bike trails. Was not crowded mid week, but spots were filling up closer to the weekend."

    "I went a to the second fork after the Bluff lake fork. There’s a private campground near the Bluff Lake entrance which made noises i can hear from my site which was before Bluffs lake fork."

    6. Fishermans Group Campground

    3 Reviews
    Green Valley Lake, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2600

    $10 / night

    "I was backpacking along the Pacific Crest Trail & decided to hike down the Crab Flats Trail to checkout Tent Peg & Fisherman's Campground."

    "Be sure to call visitor center for driving directions (or follow the ones on USDA National Forest website) as Google will take you to the wrong spot. Good hike for first-time backpackers."

    7. Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground

    5 Reviews
    Arkabutla Lake, MS
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 515-7525

    $10 - $119 / night

    "Easy access to the hot springs and no services to speak of. Basically a patch of dirt you can occupy for $10 a night. Loved it."

    "Super fun place to visit with the hot springs trail. Went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around! Two nights are perfect."

    8. Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp

    7 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    14 miles
    Website

    "There are no developed facilities (i.e., no firepits, outhouses, etc.) but it is beautiful and there are plenty of flat places to set up a tent."

    "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."

    9. Big Pine Flat Campground

    2 Reviews
    Fawnskin, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2790

    "Big Pines Flats is set right next to a meadow at a forest crossing heading to Holcomb Valley, Victorville, Fawnskin, and Green Valley Lake."

    10. Limber Pine Bench Campground

    2 Reviews
    San Bernardino National Forest, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2882

    "It was my first backpacking campsite, and I've revisited once since then. There are lots of established campsites and they're easy to find. Expect very high winds at night."

    "The positives. Beautiful sites, lots of wildlife, plenty of trails for biking and hiking. The negatives. It was a bit of trash pretty much all over the place. The mini golf course needs maintenance."

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Running Springs, CA

64 Photos of 61 Running Springs Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Running Springs, CA

1333 Reviews of 61 Running Springs Campgrounds

  • Tony C.
    Sep. 20, 2020

    Little Jimmy Trail Campground

    Local gem of a campsite

    This campsite is located in California and is one of my favorites. Located above Crystal Lake you’ll find Little Jimmy, it’s a backcountry hike-in only campground nestled just 2 miles off the Angeles Crest Highway. It has around 7 first-come, first-served sites with fire rings, vault toilets (which are currently not in service), and vintage backcountry ovens. After parking at Islip Saddle, cross the highway and begin hiking for 2 miles up the switchbacks until you reach Little Jimmy Campground on your right. Popular with Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, this scenic spot offers a chance to get away from established campgrounds and live amongst the Coulter Pines and Big Doug Firs. Campers turned hikers have easy access to hop on the legendary Pacific Crest Trail which runs through the camp. There is no fee to camp here other than an Adventure pass for your parking. In the summertime, bears can be common visitors so make sure and secure your food in provided bear boxes or bring your own bear canisters. As always, make sure you follow the "Leave No Trace" principles and pack everything in and out!

  • Ryan W.
    Aug. 8, 2020

    Stone Creek Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    Just Far Enough to Feel Remote. Just High Enough to Make Hiking Difficult.

    Stone Creek Campground in San Jacinto Mountain State Park is the perfect getaway for coastal Southern California residents. It is a few hours out of the major metro areas, but close enough to get to for just a night or two. 

    Located near Idyllwild, this is the smaller, less rowdy campground associated with the tourist town. There is also a camp right in town if you're looking for shopping and bars, and a few more further up hill.

    Stone Creek has about 35 sites. The outer ring sites are huge, and most of them are fairly private especially the loop to the right of the entry. Our site was #7, and after thoroughly campsploration it is unquestionably the best for individuals. If you're in a group rent the inner ring where the backsides of all the sites run together.

    We were trying to get away from people, from the pandemic, and spend some time doing something normal. Stone Creek was perfect for that. The only human interaction was having to check -in at the entry with a ranger. They wore a mask, and we spoke through a window in the ranger shed. They did have to hand me a parking pass, but after that we were on our own.

    Site 7 is extremely large, and extremely private with multiple flat spots that could accommodate tents, two large picnic tables, multiple spots for hammocks and a fire ring that has seen better days. We could see a car across the loop, but couldn't actually see other campers without effort from where we set up the tent or even the fire ring.

    This particular site extends back over a ridge and downhill. It was so private back there we strung up our camp shower next to a giant boulder for a shower without feeling like we needed to set up a privacy shade/curtain.

    Camp is just high enough to prevent most bugs, but there were a few flies and mosquitos. The vault toilets were clean, and well stocked with TP and antibacterial soap. There were three on-site. One in the middle of the center ring which was the busiest, but none of the solar lights were working making it difficult to find in the dark. No obvious trail. The other we used near the entrance was well lit, had a wooden path and seemed to be forgotten by most other campers.

    Multiple hiking trails led out of camp including one right from next to our site that led to multiple other trails heading up San Jacinto Mountain. The trails were a mix of gravel fire road, dirt trail and a few sandy areas through the flats. They were mostly well-signed, but one sign was down causing us to miss a turn so…bring a map. They're available at stands at the front of camp. Trails are…vertical unless explicitly labeled as short scenic hikes.

    There were warning signs for snakes, mountain lions, plague-infected squirrels and bears, but all we saw were deer. They didn't seem to consider bears a serious threat as there were no bear boxes or locks on trash cans. However, having bear-proof (Ha!) food storage is important.

    We really have no complaints about this place, and will definitely be back to explore more trails.

    Pro-Tip: It is a windy, windy road up into the mountains, and people travel too fast. We saw some serious accident sites when people were traveling too fast, and caught up to a slow moving camper around a curve. Drive carefully.

    Pro-Tip: We had full phone/wifi service here. We didn't want or need it, but if we were working from the road this would be an easy stop to set up.

    Pro-Tip: Outer ring is more private. Inner ring better for groups.

    Pro-Tip: In the summer add 5-10 degrees to the temperature which is taken from a higher elevation weather station.

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 6, 2018

    Buckhorn Campground

    Most beautiful campground in the Angeles National Forest!

    We've wanted to camp here for so long, but we've never been able to get a spot. We finally did this weekend, and it fully lived up to our expectations. Because this campground is set within a ravine that has a stream during the rainier months, so the landscape feels very different than the other nearby campgrounds - very green with tall trees. The campsites have plenty of space between neighbors, so we felt we had privacy and weren't disturbed by any noise from other sites. Each site has a picnic table, firepit, and bear box for food storage. There is a water spigot at the campground, but the ranger advised that it's not potable.

    There's day parking at the end of the campground for the trailhead to Cooper Canyon Falls. In the summer the "waterfall" is barely a trickle, but the hike still has a nice stream and is worth doing.

  • E B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 8, 2025

    South Ridge Yellow Post Sites

    Yellow post number 2

    Yellow Post #2 – San Bernardino National Forest Secluded, free, first-come-first-served tent site tucked deep in the forest near Hemet, CA. No amenities—no toilet, water, or trash—so pack in and out. Fire ring and picnic table on-site. Shaded by mature trees with a dirt/sand/rock surface. Site fits up to 8 people and 2 vehicles.

    Access road is rough and rocky but doable in dry conditions with a careful 2WD. Signage is limited—offline maps recommended. Site sits near a dry creek bed and has a short walk to a west-facing boulder with expansive views of the valley.

    Wildlife includes deer, lizards, snakes, woodpeckers, and lots of squirrels. Mosquitoes come out at dusk—repellent is a must. Fire bans usually in effect during summer. Great for quiet retreats, hiking, light climbing, and off-grid solitude.

    A rugged but rewarding forest stay for self-sufficient campers.

  • Connie H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Pine Knot Campground

    Nice Campground Close to Town

    This campground is located pretty much in town right off Summit Blvd, on a side street right next to Snow Summit. We stayed here a couple nights with our pop-up camper in site #17. Cost was $34 a night. We pulled in a little later than planned, around 7:30, there were about 10 other sites occupied with a few more reserved. There are 48 sites throughout the campground. All primitive sites. Generators are allowed, but must stay on paved areas, and not run during quiet hours, 10:00 PM- 6:00 AM. Sites have a picnic table, fire ring, grill and bear box provided. There are 4 bathroom houses around the campground with flush toilets and sinks, they were pretty clean and well kept. Potable water was available. We did hear the coyotes at night and even had one or two come through our site. Campfires are allowed at this campground as of Oct. 9, 2025. We had great T-Mobile and AT&T cell service. The camp hosts were friendly and helpful.

  • Michael A.
    Jul. 6, 2020

    San Bernardino National Forest Crab Flats Campground

    5 Miles Dirt Road Off Highway YES

    Slow going on the dirt road but boy is it worth it. There are a couple of water spigots. Pack your trash out when you leave. Do not need 4WD to get there but it’s sure fun on all the truck trails if you do! Lots of trees and shade, 26 sites that are usually pretty full on the weekends. Vault toilets. Fire rings, bear boxes and picnic tables provide the basics. The drive out to the lake is also worth it if kids want to play in the water. Kayak and small boat rentals, fishing with stocked waters. All in all a great way to spend a weekend in the mountains.

  • Kate W.
    Sep. 26, 2019

    Dry Lake Backpacking Campground

    Memorable and COLD

    We camped here on our way to summiting San G (as we lovingly call it).  Although it was May and the weather was beautiful at sea level, it was cold up here!  There was snow on the ground but the air was the coldest I've ever felt.  

    We got to the camping area and it's tucked in the woods so there's lots of nooks and crannies even though it's a primitive open group camping area.  It's right next to a dry lake - go figure - and there are lots of areas to go explore beyond the trail that leads to the top.  

    The ranger was there to spend a few nights and said that the night before hit negative digits!  We thought we were prepared with our "all weather" bags and backpacking tent, but I promise you I have never been so cold in my life.  I laid there awake the entire night, and couldn't move a muscle or freezing air would seep in.  The ranger said it only got down to 7 degrees.  When light finally hit we heated some water and went to sit on the frosty ground in the open field/lake and when the sun finally hit us it was like life-changing.  

    FYI it's leave no trace and don't attract bears

  • N
    Sep. 14, 2018

    Heart Bar Campground

    Best off hwy 38

    By far this has got to be the best and largest campground on the 38. First reason is the pricing. At only $21 per night for a single site, this is the best priced campground in the area excluding free yellow post sites. 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. can’t complain about that though.

    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 a reservation is definitely still recommended.

    3rd; the location. Topography-wise this camp sits right over a small meadow that boarders the San Gorgonio wilderness. it sits higher above the highway and displaces sound nicely. 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, providing ample shade. You can’t help but feel like your are elsewhere like the Eastern Sierra with the dry desert winds the blow in and chill on the mountains and the smell of the sage brush. This campground is only about 20 min out from big bear lake as well, and does have cell reception (unfortunately).

    Highly recommend sites 32, 37, 47, 58, or 24 & 49 which are both double sites. This was due to their more isolated positioning to other spots, shade, flat ground, and proximity to bathrooms and the beautiful little meadow where deer graze in the evenings. happy trails.

  • Kayla H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2019

    Sawtooth Canyon Campground

    Desolate, Beautiful rock formations, great hiking

    This campsite is on BLM land, you can stay up to 14 days. There a wide variety of campsites from single to group sites. Restrooms available. Some sites have shaded structures, picnic tables and fire rings. Popular spot for rock climbers, giant rock formations jet out from the ground. Great hiking and awesome spot in spring for some beautiful wild flowers. Would definitely go back in spring or fall months when not too hot.

Guide to Running Springs

Dispersed camping opportunities abound in the San Bernardino National Forest near Running Springs, California, at elevations between 6,000 and 8,000 feet. The mountainous terrain offers access to mixed conifer forests dominated by Jeffrey pine, white fir, and incense cedar. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with snow possible from November through April, while summer days typically range from 70-85°F.

What to Do

Hiking to panoramic viewpoints: The area surrounding Limber Pine Bench Campground connects to the San Bernardino Peak trail system. "It's not too far, and the hill isn't too steep, but it is a 9000ft elevation, so it's a bit of work. Well worth it though, and a fun place to stay," notes Daniel J.

Fishing in nearby lakes: Green Valley Lake, located within a mile of Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area, provides fishing opportunities. "Good lake for fishing. Trails near the sites. There are some great views as you hike up the mountain," reports Stephen S.

Off-highway vehicle exploration: Forest roads throughout the area offer extensive OHV access from Big Pine Flat Campground. "Big Pines Flats is set right next to a meadow at a forest crossing heading to Holcomb Valley, Victorville, Fawnskin, and Green Valley Lake. There are shooting ranges, OHV trails, Jeep trails, hiking, you name it," explains Mike M.

What Campers Like

Secluded tent camping spots: Tent camping near Running Springs often means finding hidden spots away from crowds. "I really dig these spots because they are well spaced out. It's right around the corner from my cabin so it's a great spot to get outside for the weekend without an epic drive," mentions Lynn C. about Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.

Natural water features: Streams and small lakes enhance the camping experience. "My husband and I did our camping trip for the weekend here! Beautiful, private, and secluded. The campgrounds were wonderful- fair warning only a few campsites have a fire pit," notes Katie S. about Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Sites.

Abundant wildlife viewing: The forested environment supports diverse animal populations. "Quiet and (mostly) clean sites. Tons of land to hike, on or off trail. Geocaching sites nearby," reports Steve H. who appreciated the natural surroundings at Keller Peak.

What You Should Know

Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed camping areas require appropriate transportation. "You definitely need a high clearance vehicle. There are campgrounds in the area and also yellow post campsites. There wasn't many other vehicles around the times I've been out there," advises Edward W. about Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp.

Weather considerations: Mountain weather can change rapidly, requiring proper preparation. "We went in April, and still had a little bit of snow. All the trail roads are mostly for 4 x 4 vehicles that really enjoy just going at it throughout the day," explains Seth B. about Holcomb Valley.

Varying amenities: Services differ widely between established campgrounds and dispersed sites. "Excellent campground. Well maintained. Large concrete pads that can handle any rig. So much to do all around a park. Does get very cold, was in the teens overnight when I was there in Feb," shares Paul C. about Yucaipa Regional Park.

Tips for Camping with Families

Lake activities for kids: Several nearby recreational areas offer family-friendly water features. "The newer sites don't have a lot of mature trees, the older sites have a little more wear and tear but also bigger trees. Nice splash zone," mentions Ken B. about Yucaipa Regional Park.

Multi-generational camping spots: Some campgrounds better accommodate varied age groups. "It's a lot of fun for the whole family. A fun place to be if you live local. A good place to go if you like to be around other people," shares Katarina A. about Yucaipa Regional Park.

Educational opportunities: Forest exploration provides learning experiences. "The Keller Peak Lookout was amazing. I thought it was just a tourist attraction but it's really a staffed (with volunteers) active fire lookout. Worth the trip for sure," recommends Steve H.

Tips from RVers

Small RV access limitations: Larger vehicles face challenges on forest roads. "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! It's secluded and has enough trees for a hammock," notes Allie N. about Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp.

Winter camping preparations: Cold-weather RV camping requires additional planning. "Most private RV spots discriminate against Skoolies, but this place didn't seem to care. Good water pressure in the showers, which has been nice," explains Jason O. about Yucaipa Regional Park.

Site selection strategy: Research helps identify the best spots for RVs. "Great free camping when campgrounds are booked. Easy to navigate with GPS. Many large and small sites along the road. Some spots more secluded than others. Smaller rigs, medium clearance and lite off-road capabilities recommended," advises Dickie Simmons S. about Mill Creek Dispersed Camping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Running Springs, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Running Springs, CA is Yucaipa Regional Park with a 4.8-star rating from 20 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Running Springs, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 61 tent camping locations near Running Springs, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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