Big Bear, California, is the perfect destination for everything outdoorsy. From snowboarding to horseback riding to water sports on the lake, there is no shortage of things to do or sights to see. While a lot of visitors choose to stay in local hotels or vacation rentals, we love to go camping instead.
There are plenty of well-established and reputable campgrounds to choose from in the Big Bear area. Still, every camper has different wants and needs for their experience, so we’ve checked out a bunch of camping spots.
» You might like these 10 Interesting Big Bear Lake Facts.
Keep reading to learn more about the best campgrounds in and around Big Bear and what unique features may make them the perfect choice for your next visit.
Looking for more info on Big Bear? Check out our travel guide to Big Bear, or learn about the top hiking in Big Bear and the top 12 things to do in Big Bear.
How to Choose a Camping Spot
There are dozens of options available for camping in California, including the relative comfort of RV parks, National Park campgrounds, and even open forest land that’s dedicated to walk-in camping.
Consider whether you would want to hike in to a spot or whether you’d like to have your car nearby with some creature comforts. Do you want to tent camp or RV camp?
Do some online research to find a spot that you like. There are websites dedicated to providing photos of campsites and the National Park Service website has photos of many campgrounds as well.
What Gear to Pack
I always recommend pulling out all your camping gear and having a look over everything before you pack it, just to be sure everything’s in order.
The last thing you want is to find the poles for the tent didn’t get packed! A few days before leaving, be sure to pull out all the gear and take an inventory. You can do that that with the help of this handy camping checklist.
- For comfort: Tent, sleeping bag, mattress, pillow, tarp for under the tent
- Practicalities: Lantern, first aid kit, bug spray, camp chairs
- For cooking: Camp stove, pot/pan, cups, utensils, ice cooler
Big Bear Lake Camping Spots
#1 Serrano Campground
Serrano Campground is the only campground in Big Bear that situates visitors directly on the shores of the lake, making it a very popular destination for those looking to spend some time in nature. Because of its ideal location on the lake and attachment to the well-loved Alpine pedal path, making reservations to stay at Serrano often has to be taken care of months in advance.
Along with its 109 paved campsites, this campground offers guests flush toilets, running water, nearby marinas, and several close hiking trails. Because of its close proximity to town and many local stores, Serrano Campground is an excellent option for less experienced campers or those with young children.
#2 Pineknot Campground
Pineknot campground is ideal for campers looking to spend time mountain biking or hiking, as it sits at the base of the Snow Summit Ski Resort. Mountain biking enthusiasts travel from far and wide to ride the lift up the slopes and their bikes back down the well-maintained trails. Although one may think this campground would be ideal for those interested in snow sports as well, few would recommend tent camping in the winter months over renting a warm cabin.
A selection of popular hiking trails also branches out of the campground, offering options for all levels of hikers, from beginners to experienced.
#3 Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping spots can be found in several places in and around Big Bear for those who favor a more primitive experience. Dispersed camping is known as camping outside of a designated campground. It can offer an even closer connection to nature for many.
One popular option for this is along the trails found below the San Gorgonio mountains near the San to Snow National Monument. Another is Jenks East flat, which is surrounded by forest and prevalent hiking trails.
If you choose to take advantage of dispersed camping, be sure to prepare accordingly. Campers often underestimate the amount of water and other essentials that they will need throughout their stay. It is also important to properly prepare to pack out any waste that you produce while camping in your site. The best rule of thumb is to “leave it cleaner than you found it.”
#4 Holcomb Valley Campground
Holcomb Valley Campground sits five miles north of Big Bear amidst a large pine grove. Its reliable shade throughout the warmer months is a massive draw for the campground compared to others on the list. Holcomb Valley also offers 19 tent camping sites on a first come, first served basis, as well as vault toilets, bear boxes, picnic tables, and fire pits.
Another feature that makes this campground particularly appealing to many is its close proximity to many hiking, rock climbing, and historic mining sites to explore. If you feel guilty leaving your furry friends at home, Holcomb valley may be the place for you because it is pet friendly.
#5 Yellow Post Sites
Yellow Post Sites are a lesser-known way to camp in and around Big Bear. They are fire-safe dispersed camping sites distinguished by a yellow post at each. 13 of these free sites can be found in Big Bear Valley and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site is big enough for up to eight guests, and two cars and guests are allowed to remain in each location for up to two weeks. Although they do not provide restrooms or water, guests are welcome to use the fire pit with the proper permit.
These sites are an incredible option for anyone looking to save some money or camp for a relatively extended period. Because of the lack of water and bathroom options, be sure to prepare accordingly if you plan to utilize these sites to prevent any issues or excess waste.
#6 Heart Bar Equestrian Campground
Because many hiking trails in Big Bear allow horseback riding, there is often a need for campgrounds that cater to horses and their owners. Heart Bar Equestrian Group Campground holds 65 guests and 46 corrals. Staying at this campground costs just under $300 per night and is available by reservation only.
Amenities here include showers, toilets, and potable water. Backcountry horseback riding trails are also easily accessible from the campground.
#7 Halloway’s Marina and RV Park
If you are traveling with an RV or Trailer, it can take some more specific searching to find a campground that suits your needs. Halloway’s Marina and RV Park is situated on the shores of Big Bear lake and offers 115 RV sites with full hook-up capabilities.
The park’s marina is also a great place to rent kayaks or motorboats for a day on the lake. If this isn’t enough time on the water, sign up for a charter fishing experience or even book a ride on one of the marina’s pirate tours.
Other amenities offered at Halloway’s are bathrooms, showers, a community playground, and even a convenience store.
#8 Hanna Flat Campground
Hanna Flat consists of 88 campsites that are shaded by a beautiful pine forest, making for comfortable temperatures and a scenic experience. This campground is well-established and popular among Big Bear regulars. Its amenities include vault toilets, picnic tables, trash receptacles, and access to drinking water.
Hanna Flat also backs up to large expanses of open land, ideal for on and off-trail adventures.
#9 Horse Springs Campground
Horse Springs campground is located about 12 miles north of Big Bear lake and is extremely well-known to off-road and dirt biking enthusiasts. Although this option is a bit removed, what it offers is unique and worth mentioning.
Horse Springs is set in a remote desert location and surrounded by green-sticker trails and other land available for off-roading. The campground comprises 11 first-come, first-served campsites, vault toilets, and picnic tables.
#10 Big Pine Flat
Big Pine Flat can be found in a mature pine forest eight miles from Big Bear Lake to the northeast. The campground is made up of 19 first-come, first-served campsites, as well as a group equestrian camping area. Sites can cater to tents or RVs up to 30 feet, although the roads leading in can be soft and unsuitable for such large vehicles. A picnic table, fire pit, and running water are available at each site.
Because Big Pine flat is relatively removed from the more densely visited parts of Big Bear, this campground can be a great option for last-minute trips that may find other campgrounds full or booked up. The trails surrounding the campground are utilized for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking.
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Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.