Discover the best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Big Bear City, California

United States
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California
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Big Bear City

84% (326 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Big Bear City

Under $50

12 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Big Bear City

88%

(52)

Bowen Ranch Hot Spring Camp Retreat

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

Relax and recharge at this 160 acre off the grid campground surrounded by beautiful natural desert scenery and mountain views, and located just a short hike away from Deep Creek Hot Springs. Set up your own tent and campsite or rent one of our furnished glamping tents to stay while on the property. Events welcome! Check out our private hot spring pool sites and private cold spring pool sites we have available. Property hosts up to 300 guests.

92%

(42)

Bowens Ranch Hot Spring Retreat

35 sites · RVs, Tents161 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.

Hidden Falls Preserve

16 sites · Tents56 acres · Winchester, CA

This secret off-grid getaway on 56 acres gives stunning views at private tent sites with hiking, bird-watching, and wildflower-spotting. Relax in the shade of a eucalyptus grove, enjoy the sun shining over the sage scrub, enjoy the dark night, and find the hidden waterfalls. A short drive to Temecula, Diamond Valley Lake, and Lake Skinner, our private, scenic campsites offer both serenity and nearby activities including wine tasting, restaurants, hot air balloons, and paragliding. We are 100% off-grid with no hookups or water sources (yet), no showers (yet) in the middle of a conservation area. A significant portion of our proceeds goes directly to a local non-profit for habitat restoration efforts within the Conservation Area, and other bird study projects. We hope to attract campers that want an off-the-beaten-path type experience without having to go to the mountains.

Serene forest privacy for 4WD

3 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Idyllwild, CA

Learn more about this land: Beautiful private land. Mostly undeveloped, rugged, forest. 4WD accessible cleared areas for tent sites or Jeep-top tents. Canvas tent available. Container cabin for those looking for a little less rugged accomodations. You can relax, and hike nearby trails during the day (some walking distance, some driving distance), mountain bike, or hit nearby climbing spots. Maybe you want to go into town 2 miles away and enjoy local art, music, or just the eclectic vibe of Idyllwild. Come back and star gaze in the evening. Fires are NOT allowed under ANY circumstances. Propane backpacking stoves or self contained camp stoves only. Quiet hours enforced after 8pm. Guests who are making loud noise may be asked to leave and not refunded. Composting toilet available in camping area. Bring your own tent or stay in our canvas tent (bring your own bedding). Host on-site or nearby. Wi-Fi not reliable in area.

99%

(129)

Creekside Vintage Cabins w/hot tubs

3 sites · Lodging1 acre · Forest Falls, CA

Two Cabins to choose from, each with its own vintage charm. Both on the same dirt road across the street from each other, separate properties, both with their own private hot tubs, kitchen, claw foot tub in bathroom, heating. Rent separate or rent both and bring your friends! Here are the special additions at each cabin: Creekside Cabin: 468 sq. ft, a beautiful deck backing up to the national forest, with propane fire pit, and charcoal bbq, overlooking fresh water creek, outdoor shower, large fireplace, open floor plan, living room with cozy queen bed, open to upstairs loft 2 full beds, and a twin bed. This cabin has the option to add the vintage trailer in the driveway June - October only as an additional space. Does not have electricity, bathroom or heating for $75 per day. Trailer not available other times of the year due to cold night temps. Vintage 1937 Cabin: larger indoor space 1304 sq. ft. , a rock front patio, Wood stove in living room, open to upstairs loft 2 full beds, private large bedroom with another wood stove w/ queen bed and twin fold out couch, laundry room, enclosed patio with gas bbq. Requires 4 wheel drive and chains or two wheel drive and chains during winter storm snow days due to remote location. Big falls waterfall is just a short hike away, as well as the trailhead for Vivian creek Trail. Come spend time nestled in the Coulter Pines, oaks, and maple trees. Your neighbors are raccoons, and bears, property is situated on the edge of the San Bernardino National Forest at the top of the mountain. You truly feel like you're in the high Sierras just 1.5 hours from Los Angeles. Big Bear Lake is a 45 minute drive away. In town you will find Elkhorn General Store and El Mexicano Mexican Restaurant, both close early:). San Bernardino County Short Term Residential Rental Unit Permit CESTRP-2022-00524

Booked 2 times

The Shire

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Lytle Creek, CA

Welcome to The Shire ! Come and relax in Lytle Creek -Private 5 acre ranch -3 RV sites full hookups and Wi-fi -Tent sites with water, electricity and Wi-fi Hiking, waterfalls, creek swimming, shooting ranges, and OHV trails Walking distance to a Melody’s Market, restaurant and bar We are looking forward to seeing you !

87%

(54)

High Desert Hot Spring Hideout

10 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.

100%

(16)

Camp Durrwood

9 sites · Tents29 acres · Big Bear City, CA

Camp Durrwood is a 29-acre pristine wilderness nestled in the San Bernardino National Forest, offering an unforgettable outdoor experience. Your group will have exclusive access to all of our amenities, including a comfortable RV for lounging, picnic tables, hammocks, horseshoes, corn hole, and numerous hiking trails starting from the campground. Our property includes a porta potty, but no showers. Camp Durrwood has over 10 possible dispersed campsites for tents and ample room for over landers and campervans. We are conveniently located just 2 miles from the Santa Ana River, 5 miles from Jenks Lake, and only a 25-minute drive to Big Bear, making Durrwood the perfect private retreat for your group. Durrwood is the ideal destination for families, company retreats, club meetups, church groups, girls and boy scouts, and any other groups looking to reconnect with nature. Our beautiful surroundings and wide range of activities make us the perfect choice for your next group gathering. Please note there is no water on the property so make sure to bring your own.

Riverside Homeland

4 sites · Tents6 acres · Apple Valley, CA

There is great space to enjoy a walk in nature, see the sky and rest from city noise. You can find owls and raccoons on the property, too, just setup a nice fire. The colors and the peace you can have is like you are in the Forrest and you are inside the City but you can get away and live the outdoors experience in the back of our property with privacy.

Highly Ghosted Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Anza, CA

Learn more about this land:5 acres of varied flat land and scrub brush. Old post office site from 1957. kiddie pool and shaded areas. across the street from casino. Fishing and horse back riding down the road. TV and movie production lot. We film the TV show Highly Ghosted from this location. We now have a chicken and duck coup in the back. The local market is next door and the bar is around the corner from the property. Lot is fully fenced with security cameras in front.

85%

(72)

Sky Ranch in Big Bear

5 sites · Lodging5 acres · Big Bear, CA

This is a truly unique piece of land, for travelers who want to experience pure nature and the spirit of a bygone age. The ranch sits at 7,000 feet, surrounded by towering old-growth Jeffrey pines. While nearly all the other camping spots in Big Bear Valley are packed tightly together, as soon as you enter our private five-acre Sky Ranch, you can discover true seclusion. This land was homesteaded by a Swiss woman, who called it home from 1915 until 1988. Step onto the broad wooden Star Deck, and you're looking at an alpine forest which has changed little since the Serrano Indians first arrived here 3,000 years ago. There are no homes visible -- and immediately adjacent to your camping spot, you'll find the trails of the San Bernardino National Forest, winding through hundreds of square miles of pure nature. This property is quiet night and day, the perfect break from harried city life. The only sounds you're likely to hear are wind through the trees, and birds which glide from tree to tree. And when the brilliant colors of sunset subside, thousands of stars emerge to remind you of why the Milky Way got its name. -------------------------------- * Yes, dogs can come too! * During holidays, we may ask a 3-night minimum stay. * For special events, see calendar at Big Bear website. -------------------------------- The Sky Ranch is adjacent to hundreds of square miles of forest. The famous Pacific Crest Trail, which stretches 2,663 miles from Canada to Mexico, passes just east of us. This land is a perfect retreat — whether you’re escaping the city or taking a break from a PCT trek. Even on big holiday weekends, you'll be completely isolated from traffic and crowds. In the Summer, Big Bear Valley offers countless hiking trails, boating and fishing in the lake, mountain and road biking, horseback riding, golf, ziplining, the zoo, and many other outdoor activities. In Winter, there's skiing/boarding, snowshoeing, sledding, and more. For kids, there's a "fort," swings, and a huge sandbox in a boat. They're also welcome to help feed our chickens. That's always a big hit! And we have a telescope for stargazing. Some guests swear they can feel the spirits of the Native Americans and others who lived here. Is it real? You tell us. * * * About Town: The nearest stores and restaurants are within five minutes by car or bus. The center of Big Bear Lake is 10 to 20 minutes away, and offer scores of restaurants, boutiques, and galleries. There are also two supermarkets, multiple drug stores, and a hospital. Also within minutes by car/bus are... > Two ski and snowboard resorts, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, offering 26 lifts and 55 runs. There are excellent schools and family areas, as well as serious terrain parks and an Olympic-size halfpipe. This is where Shaun White learned to fly! > Big Bear's famous alpine lake, which offers fishing, all forms of boating, and other water sports. > Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk & Wildlife Preserve, where you can stroll the boardwalk, have a picnic in the gazebo, or just sit and enjoy the lake and mountain views. > The U.S. Forest Service Discovery Center, which offers a variety of nature programs. > A truly remarkable animal park -- one of only two alpine zoos in the U.S. -- housing grizzlies, wood bison, cougars, timber wolves, eagles, and much more. > Big Bear Valley Museum. Although you're staying in one of the rarest historical homes in California, the museum has some great exhibits as well, including an example of a stamp mill which was used to crush gold ore in the era when this cabin was built. > Bear Mountain Golf Course. At 7,000 feet, it's an entirely different game. For those seeking a true wilderness adventure, the San Bernardino Mountains offer spectacular terrain. While the Serranos have called these mountains home for many centuries, Europeans didn't venture into this rugged land till 1850. It's one of the youngest mountain ranges in the world (in geological terms) and features scores of steep, challenging peaks, which stretch from the natural hot springs of Deep Creek in the west, to huge Yucca forests in the east. 11,500-foot Mount San Gorgonio, named by Spanish missionaries in the early 17th century, is at the center of the first designated wilderness area in America. Also known as "Old Greyback," San Gorgonio and the 11 surrounding peaks over 10,000 feet are home to an extremely rare herd of bighorn sheep. The headwaters of the Santa Ana and Mojave rivers offer premier wild trout streams such as Bear Creek, accessible only by foot. Hundreds of miles of unpaved National Forest roads offer every type of off-road experience -- ranging from an easy drive to Pioneertown, to the most radical 4WD trails imaginable (11 Difficults, six Most Difficults). The Cabin is right in the middle of the major routes. After a day here, you may find it hard to believe that you're just 100 miles (and perhaps a century) away from Downtown Los Angeles. Welcome. ------------------------------ (See additional info below the Japanese.) ロスアンゼルスから車で２時間、青い空と自然にかこまれ、静かでゆったりした時間を過ごすことができます。春、夏は美しいビッグベア湖でカイヤッキングや魚釣り、または数あるハイキングコースにチャレンジ。冬は、サミットとベアマウンテン、２つのスキー場でスキーやスノーボードを楽しんだ後、満天の星を見ながらジャクジーで疲れをいやすのはいかがですか？ロスアンゼルス空港からの送迎も可能です。その他、ご質問等ございましたら日本語でお気軽にお問い合わせ下さい。 ------------------------------ Useful Notes: Dogs are always welcome, and a spacious dog corral is available. We do ask guests to pay an added fee of $5 per pup per day. Propane stoves are OK, and we have a natural-gas BBQ grill available for use. Outdoor wood fires and/or lighter fluid are never allowed. There is easy parking for any number of cars. RVs and trailers are no problem either. Total charges will depend of the number of guests and vehicles. Cell phones on Verizon and Sprint will have coverage. The AT&T and T-Mobile networks still do not cover this area, however the wifi near our home enables calls/texts on most phones. The public bus stop is a short walk. Surprisingly, it is possible to take public transit from any train station in SoCal all the way to our bus stop (and vice versa). Cheaper than driving, and no worries about weather. Ask us for details. If you're bringing kids, let us know the ages. You may get a discount. :) For equestrians, we have a two-acre horse corral, plus hay barn and covered stall. ------------------------------ Legal Note: Upon booking, you will gain access to a Ranch Manual, which includes the rental contract for your stay. Be sure to familiarize yourself with all terms in advance.

Booked 1 time

Wrightwood Log Cabin W/Hot Tub

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Wrightwood, CA

Log cabin with jacuzzi and gazebo private with curtains. Close to Mt. High ski resort 6 minutes and downtown 2 minutes. Enjoy the mountain air. Propane BBQ. Fireplace. Cookware included. Anything with locks is off limits. Kitchen fully equipped. Window AC units. Noise complaints and fines will be fined to guests so follow rules please. Turn off lights and appliances before leaving. Pet friendly. Hot tub heated 24/7 no charge. No need to make beds or fold towels just put in hamper.

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River, stream, or creek camping near Big Bear City guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for all things camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Big Bear City, California, with a preference for being near a river, we've got you covered. With over 616 options specifically tailored to your location and preferences, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Prices range from as low as $17 per night to an average of $55 per night. Looking for some top-rated campsites? Check out Splitrock Farm and Retreat (320 reviews), Bailes Farm (209 reviews), and Diana's Descanso Camp (138 reviews). Popular amenities at these campsites include campfires, trash disposal, and toilets. And if you're into snow sports, horseback riding, or wind sports, you'll find plenty of opportunities to indulge in your favorite activities. Happy camping!