Best Camping in and Near Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

93% (15 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Silverwood Lake adventure.

Beat the SoCal heat with a camping trip at this popular lakeside spot.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

93%

(15)

Mesa Campground

140 sites · RVs, Tents In Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

Miller Canyon Group Sites

In Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

Group Camping Area

In Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

84%

(32)

High Desert Hot Spring Hideout

13 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Lake Arrowhead, CA

This property is the perfect place to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature. Nestled in the mountains of the high desert, we invite you to come stay in a peaceful serene setting, where beautiful natural desert scenery and mountain views surround you. The 40 minute hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is well worth the effort, and there's so much more natural beauty to see as you explore miles of hiking and OHV trails nearby and right on the property. Weather can be extreme at times, with Winter temps ranging from 20*F to 40* F, and Summer temps peaking at 112F. The cold creek water in the Deep Creek canyon flows all year around, and the 6 creek-side hot spring pools are always full and consistently hot all year around, ranging in temperatures between 90F-108F. The hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is fairly steep and can be difficult for some people, especially in warm weather. In order to be prepared with the correct gear to make this hike and know the USFS rules that apply to the area, please educate yourself before coming by visiting the USFS website page for the Deep Creek area and our webpage for the Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground for detailed driving directions to the official trailhead located right on our property. You won't get lost if you park on our property and hike from the trailhead, so make sure you go to the right address. Know before you go! Generally, reservations are not necessary to set up a tent site, but we have a more private area set aside for hipcamp reservations that has separate facilities from the general camping area. We do not recommend bringing children due to occasional nudity that may be seen in the area and the degree of difficulty for the hike. The hike to the hot springs is fairly difficult and everyone’s physical fitness needs to be considered when deciding to take pets, or have children, elderly people, or out-of-shape/over-weight people in your group.

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Historic Pioneertown Campground

70 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Pioneertown, CA

Pioneertown was built in 1946 as a movie set for Western movies, including the movies of Gene Autry, The Cisco Kid, Annie Oakley, Judge Roy Bean, and Buffalo Bill, just to name a few!Wild West re-enactment performances take place along Mane Street in Pioneertown on weekend afternoons, between early spring and late fall.Learn more about this land:Camp under the stars in historic Pioneertown! Pioneertown Corrals provides a unique setting for campers who want to spend their vacations or getaway weekends in this peaceful desert setting. If you like to ride the trails, barbeque, sit around a campfire, and stargaze in the evening, then you've come to the right place!Pioneertown was built in 1946 as a movie set for Western movies, including the movies of Gene Autry, The Cisco Kid, Annie Oakley, Judge Roy Bean, and Buffalo Bill, just to name a few!Wild West re-enactment performances take place along Mane Street in Pioneertown on weekend afternoons, between early spring and late fall.

80%

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Off the Grid Hot Springs Camping

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents180 acres · Lake Arrowhead, CA

Located on a rural off the grid property near the Deep Creek Hot Springs, this 160 acre property is the perfect place to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature. Nestled in the mountains of the high desert, come camp and enjoy yourself in a peaceful setting where beautiful natural desert scenery and mountain views surround you. The natural high desert landscape of junipers, joshua trees, chaparral and sages, combined with the nearby San Bernardino mountains in the background, create an amazing 360* view from just about anywhere on our land. This private homestead property is located 6 miles off the pavement, just far enough to escape the sounds and lights of the city, and is surrounded by 1,000's of acres of undeveloped government managed lands. The natural rural setting creates a serene atmosphere on the property that allows one to easily relax and recharge. You can set up your own tent and campsite or rent one of our furnished glamping tents to stay in when you come to visit. Have a special event coming up or just want to celebrate? Check out our private hot spring pool sites and private cold spring pool sites we have available for up to 300 guests. There is plenty of activities nearby to keep yourself occupied, such as nature watching right on the property, or exploring numerous hiking and ohv trails just off the property. With the trailhead starting on the property, the Deep Creek Hot Springs is just a short hike away, and well worth the effort, with nearby fishing and gold panning along the creek as well. Deep Creek flows all year around, and the 6 creek-side hot spring pools are always full and consistently hot all year around, ranging in temperatures between 90F-108F. The hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is steep in places and can be fairly difficult for some people, especially in warm weather. In order to be prepared with the correct gear to make this hike and know the USFS rules that apply to the area, please educate yourself before coming by visiting the USFS website page for the Deep Creek area. Know before you go! *Although children are permitted to be on the property, we do not recommend bringing them due to occasional nudity that may be seen in the area and the degree of difficulty of the hike. The hike to the hot springs is fairly difficult and everyone’s physical fitness needs to be considered when deciding to take children, elderly people, or over-weight people.

97%

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Lakeshore Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lake Elsinore, CA

Enjoy a private lakefront camping area on Lake Elsinore. You will never get tired of the beautiful sunsets, night sky, or all the water-sports on the lake. Historic downtown is just minutes away where you will find restaurants, and stores all within walking distance. Perfect place for a basecamp for nearby hiking, biking, off-roading. Amenities include private dock, potable water, deluxe porta-potty, fire ring, 2 picnic tables(under a 10' x 10' canopy with water mister), and some shady trees🌴

91%

(41)

Bowens Ranch Hot Spring Retreat

35 sites · RVs161 acres · Apple Valley, CA

This off the grid property is the perfect place to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature. Nestled in the mountains of the high desert, we invite you to come stay in a peaceful serene setting where nature and wildlife encompasses you on this rural property surrounded by 1,000s of acres of undeveloped BLM and US Forestry land. Come escape from the city and relax at a place where you can enjoy yourself amongst others or be by yourself in your own private campsite. With 160 acres, there is lots of room for your large group to spread out or find a more private site to seclude yourself! Set up your campsite and park your vehicle at any of our developed sites that have a patch of turf, picnic tables and fire pits (grills available). Flushing toilets, pits toilets, potable water, and showers on site. The 40 minute hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is well worth the effort, and there's so much more natural beauty to see as you explore miles of hiking and OHV trails nearby and right on the property. The creek water in the Deep Creek canyon flows all year around, as does the hot spring source water that feeds the 6 creek-side hot pools, ranging in temperatures between 90F-108F. Weather can be extreme at times, with Winter temps ranging from 20*F to 40* F, and Summer temps reaching 112F+. The hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is fairly steep and can be difficult for some people, especially in warm weather, so everyone’s physical fitness needs to be considered when deciding to hike to the hot springs with pets, children, elderly people, or out-of-shape/over-weight people in your group. Although children are permitted on the property, we do not recommend bringing them due to occasional nudity that may be seen in the area and the degree of difficulty for the hike. In order to be prepared with the correct gear to make the hike to the hot springs and know the USFS rules that apply to the area, please educate yourself before coming by visiting the USFS website page for the Deep Creek area. Know before you go! The Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp is part of the historic Bowen Ranch property that was homesteaded in 1924. This property has been the camping and parking area for the Deep Creek Hot Springs for nearly a century. The Bowen Ranch property is under new ownership as of 2020 and we welcome everyone to come visit! Generally, we always have sites available and reservations are not necessary, but reserved sites are located in a more private area set aside for Hipcamp reservations with separate facilities from the general camping area. See our webpage deepcreekhotspringscampground.com for detailed driving directions to our property with the official trailhead located right on site.

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Desert Rose Collective

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Morongo Valley, CA

The Desert Rose Collective is a work in progress and is ever-changing! This unique property is being transformed into a truly 'hip' camp. It features a sun shade structure with a bar, an outdoor kitchen, a semi-outdoor bathroom, a shower room, and plenty of seating and shaded areas to relax and enjoy the fabulous views. Both days and nights are amazing from the location of this unforgettable property in the canyon. Check out additional information under our Camping, RV, and Tent Cabin listings. We look forward to your booking and to meeting you at the Desert Rose Collective!

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Get Lost Inn - Cabin Rentals

36 sites · Lodging1 acre · Running Springs, CA

Escape to the San Bernardino mountains and experience the ultimate mountain retreat! Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin for a romantic getaway, or a spacious lodge for a family vacation, we've got you covered. With a dozen stunning cabins to choose from, we offer the perfect accommodation for all seasons and activities. Embrace the winter wonderland with skiing and snowboarding, or explore the great outdoors with hiking, rock climbing, and fishing. Or simply unwind and relax in the serene mountain surroundings. Our cabins are conveniently located in Green Valley Lake, Big Bear, Running Springs, and Lake Arrowhead, each offering its own unique charm and adventure. Let us be your host and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Book your stay with us today and discover the magic of the San Bernardino mountains!

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Villa Macala

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Hemet, CA

Book your Spring camping trip now, our most beautiful season! Villa Macala is a 20-acre oasis of detailed landscape, orchards and Southern CA native planting while complimenting the natural rocks and gorgeous views. This master planned 20 acres is a great escape from city life. Come take in the views, enjoy the many hiking trails and rest in the peace, quiet and beauty of Villa Macala. *NOTE: Scroll down to RV/Tent sites to book for a larger tent camping party over 4 people or for a camper van under 14 feet. Overlooking the Hemet Valley with gorgeous panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains, Villa Macala is reminiscent of an Italian Villa. The property landscape includes Olive Orchards throughout, a growing vineyard, fig trees, pomegranate trees and more set in the natural rock landscape. (NOTE: We have tent camp sites only and can accommodate camper vans and truck campers depending on size and which site selected, however we CANNOT accommodate pull behind trailers, pull behind campers or RVs of any kind). Villa Macala is 15 minutes from Diamond Valley Lake where you can enjoy a wildflower trail, fishing or mountain bike trails, museum and water park. It is 20-30 minutes to Pachea Trail and Simpson Park where you can enjoy more great hiking and mountain bike trails. It is also a 30-minute drive to Temecula Wine Country. Enjoy walking the grounds of the 20 acres and taking in the views. We have an outdoor bathroom (please note it is a good walk uphill from the campsites) that campers can use with a shower and small fridge to store your food. We also have a playground with swing set for kids to enjoy. Please bring your own tents. OTHER SUGGESTED ITEMS TO BRING: Your own fire wood, cooking wood, starter material, lighters, utensils, etc. We offer firewood bundles for $7 you can choose to purchase at time of booking or bring cash. Your own cooler to store food close to your site and grill that you need on hand since the small fridge is a good walk from those 2 places. We sell bags of ice for $4. Bring cash if you would like to purchase. Your own camp chairs. Easy up shade. Sunblock, cool clothes. We are closed for the bulk of summer but at times daytime temperatures can reach 90+ even in late spring and early fall. Please bring your own towels for shower use. The towels provided in there are for orchard workers during the week. Thank you! PLEASE NOTE: Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance. Please make sure to select the site you wish to stay at. SITE AVAILABILITY AND OPTIONS: We have 4 Tent Sites available and A Teardrop Trailer Site. All sites have fire-pits and picnic tables. SITE 1: Elderberry Park. This site is for a large group up to 12 people. Chose site 1 for groups larger then 4 people and groups with children. There is shade cover over the picnic table. *This is the only site that can accommodate a camper van. SITE 2: Olive Orchard. This site is located on the perimeter of our olive orchards overlooking the San Jacinto Mountains. This site can fit up to 2 tents and we recommend a maximum of 4 people. SITE 3: Private Corner. This site is in a private far corner of the property. We recommend a maximum of 4 people and have determined that for safety reasons this site is for adults only. If Site 3 is chosen it would require a Polaris Shuttle from the Camp Host down to the site, a car will not be able to go direct. SITE 4: This site is under the Oak Trees and is a very small site suitable only for 1-2 people max. TEARDROP TRAILER SITE: See listing for details. Sleeps 2 comfortably if guests are under 6 feet. *All tent sites can be shown to camp guests for decision and viewing upon arrival unless multiple groups are booked. All sites have either a covered firepit or a wood burning stove and all a picnic table. *We do our best to keep our maximum capacity of 12 campers at one time. FIRES: No fires are to be lit by the campers without verbal consent from property owner and instruction. SEE property owner/camp host upon arrival about what you may use on the property. He will provide instructions. If you have questions prior to check-in, please message us. Bring your own fire wood, starter material, lighters, utensils, etc. TASTINGS: Macala Orchards Olive Oil, Various Jellies and Jams & Pomegranate Juice all made from what we grow are available for tasting upon request. Please let us know prior to arrival if you are interested in a scheduled tasting during your stay! We can provide a tasting only if we have the proper staff during your visit to accommodate. Our products are available for purchase, with or without a tasting. We recommend you bring cash if you are interested. We also take Venmo! Thank you.

Wild Wind Ranch

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Oak Hills, CA

Welcome to Wild Wind Ranch, a horse ranch conveniently situated just 1 mile off the 15 freeway in the stunning high desert! Serving as an ideal halfway point between Vegas and San Diego, we specialize in Pony Parties, horseback lessons, and much more. For horse owners, we provide a welcoming space for you and your horses. Allow your equine companions to stretch their legs and roam while you're on the road. Explore our excellent desert trails if you're seeking a unique riding experience. Our facilities include an arena and round pen, ensuring you and your horses have everything needed for a memorable and enjoyable stay. Discover the beauty of the high desert at Wild Wind Ranch!

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Down-to-Earth Ecoshire

248 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · CA

Private 35 acre Private Land Restoration Project surrounded by rolling hills, mountain views and open sky. The sunsets and sunrises are spectacular year round. Stars and open skies that you'd be hard pressed to find anywhere else in southern California. Just 15 minutes from Temecula wineries, 40 minutes from the alpine, artsy town of Idyllwild in the San Jacinto Mountains, and just 15 minutes from the 215 in Menifee toward Hemet. Best to visit from early autumn to lush springtime where we have great wildflower blooms. Cooperative managers Jim and Dawn host visitors who want to enjoy nature, participate in regenerative gardening all while off-setting their travel footprint. Fees go to our not for profit land restoration which includes planting trees, improving aquifers and enriching the soil. The property is a owned by a restorative co-op (turning a former illegal dump into an oasis of hope) where we invite you to participate in creative local solutions to our larger global problems. * If your group is larger than six adults, pease visit our group listings page. If your group needs special privacy and sound requirements and you'd like to reserve the entirer property, you will need to contact us directly. * Spaces are available on a first come, first serve basis. * Our visitor support pricing is $20 for the first person and $15 for all additional adults. Kids 6 - 12 are $5 per night. We don't want to charge for kids 6 and under, so do not include them in your booking. Thanks! * Campfire rings are only in common clearing, designated and permitted areas. Please check for seasonal fire restrictions.

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Quail ranch

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Phelan, CA

5 acres of mountain desert property with great unobstructed views of the mountains and surrounding cities of the high desert, with beautiful views property may be subject to high wind at times. So please check weather and dress accordingly. property is very peaceful and on its own hill. ovh and hiking trails all around. RV, Van, truck, trailer and tent camping welcomed. An outside mutual restroom for campers on site with hot and cold water shower. Property also has lodging on site. small cowboy bunker available for rent which has full kitchenette and is ran off of generator for power. Gas not included but a fuel can is provided. Second lodging rental is not listed here, but available on hip camp at (heavenly hideout Quail Ranch).

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Pepperwoods Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Lake Mathews, CA

Experience the tranquility on 3 acres of rural beauty with stunning views of Lake Mathews. Surrounded by nature, an ecological preserve, amazing sunsets, stars, and a beautiful view of the lake. We are quiet and serene but close to the cities of Corona, Norco, and Riverside. Lake Perris is 20 minutes away and a great place to go swimming, fishing or boating. Lake Mathews is a private reservoir, so you cannot access the lake, but Lake Perris is a public lake about 20 minutes away for swimming, fishing and boating. There are tons of hiking trails nearby and we are surrounded by ecological preserves. The area is very peaceful and serene. We are approximately 1-hour drive to: * Temecula * Idyllwild * Palm Springs * Hollywood * San Diego * Laguna/Newport/Huntington Beaches * Joshua Tree National Park * Indio/Coachella * Big Bear Ski Resort

The best camping near Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

Just west of Los Angeles, Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area is a popular spot for day use and overnight visitors alike, offering ample hiking trails, picnic areas, and biking and horseback riding opportunities, plus a massive lake that's ideal for kayaking and waterskiing. The park's Mesa Campground offers 136 campsites with fire rings (including RV sites with full hookups), plus showers, flush toilets, and a dump station. Seven tent sites are designated for hikers, many of whom are braving the Pacific Crest Trail, which runs through the park. There are also three group campgrounds with picnic tables, barbecue grills, restrooms, and showers.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Campsites can be reserved up to six months in advance on the California State Parks website or over the phone. Same-day reservations are also available.
It’s a good idea to book as early in advance as you can, particularly if you have your heart set on a summer weekend stay.
The maximum length for RVs is 30 feet (24 feet for campers). If your RV/trailer is too long, you'll need to look elsewhere or consider tent camping instead.
If you can’t secure a spot at Silverwood Lake SRA, look into camping in the adjacent San Bernardino National Forest instead.

When to go

Summer is the busiest time at Silverwood, and the weather is at its hottest from July through September. October is a great time to visit, when the crowds are fewer and temperatures are still warm, with average highs in the mid-70s. Winters are mild, with average temperatures in the 40s and 50s. While it may be too cold to hang out on the lake, it’s worth visiting to attend one of the winter bald eagle tours, which take place from January through March.

Know before you go

You can pick up groceries and supplies in Hesperia, a few minutes from the park by car.
While park staff tests Silverwood Lake for blue-green algae weekly, there's still a risk of coming in contact with the harmful bacteria. To keep safe, avoid getting water in your mouth, don’t swim with open cuts, and make a point of showering after spending time on the lake.
Dogs are allowed at the campground, but are not allowed on the swimming beaches.
Fire bans are common during high-risk periods, but camp stoves are generally still allowed.