Best Campgrounds near Crestline, CA

The San Bernardino National Forest surrounding Crestline, California contains multiple developed campgrounds and dispersed camping areas at elevations between 4,000-7,000 feet. Dogwood Campground offers shaded sites with fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, while Skypark Camp RV Resort provides full hookups for recreational vehicles. The region includes both tent-friendly and RV-accessible options, with several campgrounds featuring cabin accommodations. North Shore Campground near Lake Almanor and Bonita Ranch Campground in nearby Lytle Creek provide additional camping areas with varying amenities and terrain types.

Road conditions and campground accessibility vary significantly by season, with many sites operating only from spring through fall due to winter snow at higher elevations. "The campground itself was fairly clean, and all the sites were very large and spaced well away from each other," noted one visitor about Lake Campground. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months when campgrounds frequently reach capacity, especially on weekends. Several campgrounds like Serrano and Dogwood require advance booking through recreation.gov, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Fire restrictions commonly apply during dry summer and fall months, with complete bans possible during high fire danger periods.

Campers consistently rate the mountain views and forest settings as highlights of the Crestline area camping experience. Sites near Big Bear Lake receive particularly high ratings for their proximity to water recreation. According to reviews, "Dogwood Campground is one of my favorites. The campground itself is rather expansive... campsites are all private and unique with no two the same." Many campgrounds feature clean restrooms and some offer shower facilities, though amenities vary widely between developed and primitive sites. The proximity to hiking trails, including sections of the Pacific Crest Trail, provides additional recreational opportunities. Visitors mention that campgrounds closer to Crestline tend to have more traffic noise, while those deeper in the forest offer greater solitude but require longer drives on unpaved roads.

Best Camping Sites Near Crestline, California (318)

    1. Dogwood

    33 Reviews
    Rimforest, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 336-6717

    $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."

    2. Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    Cedarpines Park, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 389-2281

    $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."

    3. North Shore Campground - Lake Almanor

    14 Reviews
    Cedar Glen, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8550

    $29 - $58 / night

    "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."

    4. Skypark Camp RV Resort

    11 Reviews
    Skyforest, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 744-9927

    $50 - $100 / night

    "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!"

    5. Bonita Ranch Campground

    12 Reviews
    Lytle Creek, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 887-3643

    $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"

    6. Hanna Flat Campground

    25 Reviews
    Fawnskin, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2790

    $33 - $67 / night

    "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."

    7. Serrano

    35 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8021

    $44 - $91 / night

    "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."

    8. Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest

    9 Reviews
    Lytle Creek, CA
    11 miles
    +1 (909) 382-2716

    $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."

    9. Mojave River Forks Regional Park

    5 Reviews
    Arkabutla Lake, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 389-2322

    $3 - $40 / night

    "Nice place to camp, weather is around 75 during the day and about 50 to 36 degrees cold through out the night. Has everything you'll need. Bathrooms are close by, showers HOT water available."

    "The Pacific Crest Trail passes nearby.

    It is away from the populated cities, but not far from them. It still gives you a sense of seclusion."

    10. Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    Cedar Glen, CA
    7 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."

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Recent Reviews near Crestline, CA

1285 Reviews of 318 Crestline Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    serrano camp grounds

    Great place

    I stayed for one night Wednesday just to try the showers. The showers were perfect! Hot water even! So clean and beautiful. Recommend!

  • B
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    Stunning but Safety Concerns

    I’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.

  • Kyle K.
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Stoddard Valley OHV

    Nothing special, low expectations and an open mind!

    This 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

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    East Flats

    Nice Peaceful Area

    Wasn’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.

  • Nickchris G.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Horsemen's Center

    Horseman's center!

    Beautiful views of the entire city and never bothered by anyone, can do bonfires, and even camp right out my car.

  • Julie
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bogart County Park

    Bogart Regional park

    It was okay for a last minute camping idea.

  • Julie
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bogart County Park

    Yucaipa Regional park

    Great customer service, easy access, restrooms, fishing, swimming and paddle boats.

  • Wayne S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest

    Nice little park

    Very small campground. Camping sites are spread out. The access road is very narrow. We did it with a 22 foot fifth wheel. Space 41 could hold a much longer rig but it would be a challenge even getting to that space. There were only two other campers here while we were here. Lots of trees but not so thick you dont get some sun. The road getting to the campgrounds is somewhat narrow and has some hairpin turns so again it might be difficult for someone with a long trailer We camped at Applewhite Campground in a Fifth Wheel.


Guide to Crestline

Camping sites near Crestline, California range in elevation from 4,000 to 7,000 feet within the San Bernardino National Forest. Most campgrounds operate spring through fall, with limited winter accessibility due to seasonal snowfall. Several campgrounds feature vault toilets and fire pits, though fire restrictions vary based on local conditions and time of year.

What to do

Hiking access: At Hanna Flat Campground, trails connect directly to campsites. "The Pct is near by and has a couple of trails right there," notes Morgan F., while another camper mentions that "site 49/51 is right by the trail to hike and bike."

Fishing opportunities: Green Valley Lake near Lake Arrowhead Recreation Area offers stocked fishing. "Good lake for fishing. Trails near the sites. There are some great views as you hike up the mountain," says Stephen S. Note that the lake requires an additional fee, and "you do have to pay to fish or swim, and you pay per person," according to Aleena S.

Water recreation: North Shore Campground provides lakeside access for kayaking and swimming. "We love that we can tent camp by the water!" states Sandi B. The campground is "a stones throw away" from the lake according to Janae P., making it convenient for morning swims or evening shoreline walks.

What campers like

Spacious sites: Bonita Ranch Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "Spaces aren't too close together either. The creek running behind the camp is great to explore, and a waterfall is a short hike away," reports Jonathan G. Multiple campers mentioned the nearby waterfall access as a highlight.

Clean facilities: Restrooms at several campgrounds receive positive reviews for cleanliness. At Skypark Camp RV Resort, "Restrooms are very clean and each private room includes a shower," according to Lannie B. Another visitor noted the campground is "Ultra clean and well maintained, this park sets itself apart."

Scenic locations: Mountain views are abundant at many sites. "We got a great spot where we saw an amazing sunset," reports Gina C. about Hanna Flat. At Skypark Camp RV Resort, "Views are incredible" though Justin C. notes some sites require careful navigation: "to squeeze in some sites they made the access roads a bit small."

What you should know

Reservation requirements: Many popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially in summer. Mojave River Forks Regional Park was "entirely sold out for both weekend nights, so plan ahead," advises Bower. For late arrivals, some campgrounds provide entry instructions: "We arrived after hours, and the gate code was included in the reservation information."

Fire restrictions: Rules vary by campground and season. At Serrano Campground, "Fire pit and picnic tables are at each site," says Sarah C. However, some locations like Skypark Camp RV Resort don't allow wood fires but "do offer gas fire pits in the community area," according to Bryan S.

Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience higher noise levels on weekends. At North Shore Campground, campers reported being "situated next to a group that violated both times [quiet hours]." At Mojave River Forks, one visitor noted a group with "a live DJ who played one night until 2 AM" with "no camp host here" to enforce quiet hours.

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds feature family amenities. Serrano Campground offers "bike trails/walking paths around the lake. The town is bike friendly," according to Trey T. Another visitor recommends: "Bring your bikes" as children can safely ride throughout the campground.

Shaded sites: Look for campgrounds with tree cover for summer comfort. Hanna Flat offers "lots of shade due to the big beautiful trees," shares Manny D. This natural shade keeps sites cooler during hot summer days, making afternoon naps and meal times more comfortable for children.

Proximity to amenities: Consider distance to town for supplies. Green Valley Lake campground is "within a mile from the lake and little town there," reports Stephen S. Bonita Ranch visitors noted "The town is cute and worth checking out as well. We grabbed dinner there one night."

Tips from RVers

Site accessibility: Some mountain campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Skypark Camp RV Resort, "Spots are a little tight if you have a bigger unit," warns Bryan S. Another camper suggests to "skip if I were a big rig, or call and ask for sites that are easy to get into."

Hookup options: Full-service sites are limited but available. At Dogwood Campground, "They have electric and water hook up for RVs in a few sites that are reservable," mentions David V., who appreciates that "the majority of the sites are primitive" yet the campground maintains essential amenities.

Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal needs. Mojave River Forks Regional Park provides a dump station on-site, while North Shore Campground offers "water and sewage" at some lake-front sites. RVers should confirm availability when making reservations, as not all sites with hookups include sewer connections.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Crestline, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Crestline, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 318 campgrounds and RV parks near Crestline, CA and 25 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Crestline, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Crestline, CA is Dogwood with a 4.7-star rating from 33 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Crestline, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 25 free dispersed camping spots near Crestline, CA.

What parks are near Crestline, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Crestline, CA that allow camping, notably Mojave River Dam and San Bernardino National Forest.