The best family-friendly glamping near Big Bear Lake, California

Situated inside the San Bernardino National Forest, about 100 miles from Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake and its namesake town make for a popular getaway, offering year-round recreation. The seven-mile-long lake is particularly popular among anglers, and there are plenty of local companies offering fishing charters and boat tours in the warmer months. There are also two ski resorts in the area: Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Big Bear camping options include private camping cabin resorts and chalets, while many local campgrounds, including Serrano Campground and Pineknot Campground, are run by the US Forest Service.

95% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Situated inside the San Bernardino National Forest, about 100 miles from Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake and its namesake town make for a popular getaway, offering year-round recreation. The seven-mile-long lake is particularly popular among anglers, and there are plenty of local companies offering fishing charters and boat tours in the warmer months. There are also two ski resorts in the area: Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Big Bear camping options include private camping cabin resorts and chalets, while many local campgrounds, including Serrano Campground and Pineknot Campground, are run by the US Forest Service.

95% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Mineral Spring Date Farm

97%

(475)

34mi from Big Bear Lake · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Desert Hot Springs, CA

Get cozy with your Private Hot Spring ( Just for you to use) . This is a working Date Farm that is above an aquifer with a natural mineral spring water well. We are rehabilitating our Date Farm. Private Hot Spring fed tubs at each site located on a private 20-acre Date Farm on a Mineral Spring aquifer. **~18 minutes from Downtown Palm Springs. ** ~ 30 minutes from Joshua Tree **Perfect late-night check in** If you love traveling, nature, and adventure this place has features to help you maximize your travel experiences. Comfortable and right in the middle of the desert. Experience the best of both worlds. ** We keep trimmed Palm fronds on the side of our road for our goats to eat and to use as mulch. ** We are not the Hilton, a Spa or Resort. We are a working Date Farm on top of a Mineral Spring Aquifer.

2. Bowen Ranch Deep Creek Hot Springs

88%

(141)

17mi from Big Bear Lake · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lake Arrowhead, CA

Peaceful Off-the-Grid Property in the Mountains of the Mojave Desert, Hot Springs and Numerous Hiking and Off-Roading Trails Nearby... Surrounded by 1,000s of Acres of Undeveloped BLM and US Forestry Land, With Endless Views of the San Bernardino Mountains and High Desert Scenery. Bring Your Tent, Trailer, RV or Camp in your Car . Picnic Tables and Fire Pits (grills available). Flushing Toilets, Pits Toilets, Potable Water, and Showers On-Site. Breakfast Lunch Dinner Served on the Weekends *Warning! 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. Even though Deep Creek has never had any known cases of amoeba outbreaks, be advised that the warm waters around hot springs can carry a sometimes fatal amoeba. *Although children are permitted at most sites on the property (children are not permitted at the cabin or spring pool sites), 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 Campground is part of the historic Bowen Ranch property that was homesteaded in 1924 and 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. See our webpage deepcreekhotspringscampground.com for more information and detailed driving directions to our property.

3. DragonflyHill Desert Farm

97%

(297)

35mi from Big Bear Lake · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Desert Hot Springs, CA

About Welcome to DragonflyHill Desert Farm & Wildlife Habitat where you can experience desert magic, starry skies, and natural mineral water from our private well. Remote enough for a quiet retreat yet easy to get to and only a short drive to amenities and outdoor adventures! Please review our rules and read our entire listing description prior to requesting to stay here, to assure we’re the right space for you. Copies of our rules, registration documents, liability waiver and amenities are provided in our photos. Guests must agree to adhere to our rules and honor our cancellation policy to book with us. If you have any questions, please make an inquiry and we will get back to you very quickly. We really do love this work. LOCATION: We are located one mile down a well maintained and navigable dirt road, 20 minutes to Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs and Palm Desert, and 15 minutes to the 10 freeway. We're near the Cabazon outlets, 2 hours to Los Angeles, San Diego, Disneyland, mountain areas, and beaches. Nearby there are local wildlife preserves, hiking and outdoor activities. We are 45 minutes to Joshua Tree and a half hour to Coachella. We truly are in the middle of nowhere and the center of everything. For folks traveling in winter, we’re considerably warmer than Joshua Tree and the High Desert. In summer we are cooler than Palm Springs. Immediate neighbors are small farmers and ranchers. Local spas and resorts are available for day use and access to their pools and ponds for as little as $10 a day ($5 seniors). We can provide space for events and entertainment for a small fee. ARRIVAL: Upon approving your reservation we'll send you a welcome message with information we need prior to your arrival to process your reservation, prepare for your arrival and provide you with check in information and accurate directions as gps apps to our location are often wrong. Please answer that initial email as soon as possible. We'll follow up with check in information and driving directions. Once in the gate, stay on the driveway and meet us on the patio with the blue shade sails. We will provide you with an approximately 15 minute orientation and tour, register you, check identification and show you to your campsite. Guests are required to fill out a liability waiver and a simple registration form. (See photos for copies of these forms.) OUR SPACE: Our land is 130 feet wide by an eighth of a mile deep in a residential neighborhood with lots 2.5-10 acres. We can see and hear our neighbors. We maintain a very quiet space but occasionally our neighbors have their own activities and events. Let us know if the neighborhood gets too noisy and we'll try to mitigate those situations. We can also provide free earplugs for those very rare occasions. Guests wanting a totally isolated experience may want to book elsewhere. DragonflyHill Desert Farm is a working farm in a wilderness area. Guests should check weather forecasts prior to arrival and assure that they have the right equipment. We have a moderate cancellation policy that allows guests to cancel 3 days prior to their arrival date to receive a refund. This allows enough time to check weather reports. There are occasional heavy rains and frequent high winds. It can get very hot in summer and reach freezing temperatures in winter. Despite our proximity to the freeway and nearby cities, and our location in a residential neighborhood, this is very much a wilderness area. DragonflyHill is not responsible for the weather. We are not a resort. Expect dry plants and patches during summer and into the fall. As a farm, we may be a bit more rustic than your typical farm to allow for shelter for local wildlife. Our cultivation methods encourage biodiversity and though we are growing food, many of our crops resemble landscaping or natural habitat rather than garden patches. Currently we have habitat viewing areas, an herb garden, an orchard, an outdoor classroom, a sheltered social distancing patio, an outdoor kitchen, meditation gardens, our (seasonal) mineral pool, community library, game boards and toys, and a tree bath. Plant varieties, wildlife and presentation may vary by season. Our farm specializes in herbs, fruit trees, desert and native plants, and edible flowers. We also grow some sprouts and microgreens indoors. We cultivate community and share what we grow with our neighbors and our guests. Guests have shared access to the outdoor kitchen and BBQ area, the orchards, gardens, patios, and grounds of the Desert Farm and Wildlife Habitat, and (for safety reasons) limited access to the pool pond and spa -both unheated. The pool pond is filled with local mineral water from our own well. The pool pond is cleaned regularly & is chlorinated. The pool pond is not cleaned daily and is shared with wildlife. including bees and birds who drink water pool side. Debris from high winds and wildlife may contribute to the pool pond environment. Currently neither the pool pond nor the spa is heated. We also have wheelchair accessible hot water outdoor showers and wheelchair accessible porta potties. The pool area is accessible to guests year round but the pool itself is winterized and unavailable from mid October through mid to late April. We work hard to keep the home well maintained & clean; we're vigilant & do due diligence with professional quarterly visits from Truly Nolen 4 Season Pest Prevention (a green company.) We doubt you'll see any unwanted critters inside or near the house or other structures during your stay, but if you do, please advise us & we will promptly address the situation. DragonflyHill Desert Farm and Wildlife Habitat is in a remote area of the desert with lots of wildlife. To help us keep wildlife OUT of the house and campsites, please keep food out of reach of critters & clean up after every meal. We affirmatively welcome children, but as this is a working farm in a wilderness area, parents will need to be vigilant of their child's safety and activity while here. We are constantly adding activities and features for children and adults. We are child friendly and we are a good location for groups. (Just message us with your details and we can tailor your stay to meet your needs.) We have 1 cat and 1 service dog. Other guests may have pets or assistance animals. Neighbors have chickens, farm animals and pets. There are a few feral cats in the vicinity as well as a variety of desert wildlife. At night you can hear the coyotes though we’ve never seen them or their tracks on our land. Common sightings of road runners, rabbits, hares, lizards, snakes, hawks, doves, desert wrens, migrating ducks (in the Spring), scorpions, mantises, crickets, mockingbirds, insects and spiders. WHO WE ARE: DragonflyHill is a community of artisans, activists, craftspeople and farmers, working together to cultivate community, develop methodologies for living and working together in ever increasing paradigms of social justice and sustainability. We are a safe and sober space that is disability and LGBTQIA affirmative, anti-racist, anti-sexist, anti-imperialist and de-colonialist, because anything else is just a bandaid. Core values of our work include attention to detail, fine craftwork and cultivating community. Some members of the Dragonfly Team live on the premises at all times and will be here for the duration of your stay. The rest of the team are community members. All Team members work at DragonflyHill Desert Farm and Wildlife Habitat in different capacities, in cooperation and collaboration with each other. It should be noted that we are not a museum community and our collective is not on display. Only 2-3 members of the community are currently responsible for hosting guests. Community members are autonomous and, much of our community functions virtually. There are also occasional community events at the farm, including farming, though many activities are just coming back after the pandemic. We hope to offer activities in the Fall. All activities will continue to be held outdoors and social distancing is required. We speak: English and Spanish. We can communicate somewhat in French, Italian and Portuguese. DRAGONFLYHILL CONSEIRGE We love to hear about your travels and share our knowledge of our community and Southern California with our guests. Our library, located on the Blue Patio, offers children’s books, local history including indigenous history, farming and gardening, wildlife guides, hiking trails, entertainment and tourist attractions. We can recommend activities on and off site including places to go with children, local hiking, museums, restaurants and shopping. In addition to campsites, for additional fees, we offer reiki, a private jacuzzi hot water mineral bath, farm tours, firewood, tutoring, tax preparation, vehicle storage, event and space rental, and classes. Three of us are licensed to officiate weddings. RULES, DOCUMENTS & AMENITIES Carefully read our listing description and our rules to determine if we're the right space for you. We know we have excellent reviews but take the time to assure that we offer what you are looking for. Each Hipcamp host is autonomous and has their own rules, amenities and features. Hipcamp does not provide guests a copy of the house rules until after you have selected a location and then requires you to agree to the house rules before finalizing your decision. There is not enough space in the listing description to include the rules so guests can see them prior to booking. If you would like to see our rules, registration documents or a list of amenities please find them in our photos or message us prior to booking and we will send you a copy. We welcome guests new to Hipcamp but please take the time to familiarize yourself with the Hipcamp platform. Hipcamp travel is very different from public campgrounds. At DragonflyHill Desert Farm and Wildlife Habitat you will be guests in our home. We welcome and encourage guests with service and support animals to stay with us. All animals must have current vaccination records.

4. Tammy Reeves

95%

(379)

38mi from Big Bear Lake · 29 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Joshua Tree, CA

Simply Camping is a great place to come appreciate, respect and enjoy the peace and beauty of the Mojave Desert! It is a blessing to own this amazing property in Joshua Tree for all to come and enjoy the wonderful stars at night and the breath taking sunrise and sunsets! We look forward to greeting you!

5. The Castle House: Estate

95%

(877)

37mi from Big Bear Lake · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Joshua Tree, CA

Units designed to make the everyday extraordinary. Step into a realm where luxury meets rugged beauty at The Castle House: Estate, your gateway to the ULTIMATE "GLAMPING" experience! As seen on HGTV, our tiny home oasis in Joshua Tree redefines accommodation with a unique medieval twist, seamlessly blending indoor-outdoor living and exceptional entertainment. Nestled in the heart of Joshua Tree and just minutes away from the awe-inspiring Joshua Tree National Park, The Castle House: Estate stands as a testament to opulence in the desert. Set on 12 picturesque acres, surrounded by vast private undeveloped land, our estate offers an unparalleled sense of tranquility and exclusivity. Experience a stay like no other in our award-winning haven, recognized with The BNB's prestigious Traveler Best Reviewed Property. But the enchantment doesn't end there—immerse yourself in the rejuvenating embrace of our tiered hexagonal aqua blue cowboy pool, strategically placed on a stunning IPE wood deck. This artistic oasis is a visual masterpiece, inviting you to bask in the sun or stargaze by night. Indulge in the luxury of our room service, available until midnight, offering a curated selection of local fare to tantalize your taste buds. At The Castle House: Estate, we redefine glamping by marrying comfort and adventure, creating an unforgettable escape that transcends the ordinary. Elevate your stay, reinvent yourself, and make memories that last a lifetime at The Castle House: Estate—where every moment is a masterpiece waiting to unfold. Book your extraordinary desert retreat now and be a part of an experience that's truly fit for royalty!Campers will be required to complete a check-in waiver before the date of their stay - providing a valid ID, DOB, and address.

6. SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

95%

(192)

10mi from Big Bear Lake · 39 sites · Lodging · 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!

7. Native Falls Campground

91%

(117)

46mi from Big Bear Lake · 40 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Temecula, CA

We are very glad you found us! Our hours are from 9am to 5pm everyday. Check in time starts at noon. Accommodations include fully furnished cabins, RV sites, and tent camping. The campground includes a lake with a waterfall, a sandy beach, lake toys, and catch & release fishing. Additional amenities include a Pickleball Court, shuffleboard, Pool Table, fire pits, picnic tables, hiking trails, and more!

8. Camp Deb's Place

99%

(143)

26mi from Big Bear Lake · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Yucca Valley, CA

Camp Deb's Place is located in Flamingo Heights on a 5 acre well-maintained property that is easily accessible from the highway. Tent and RV sites are currently available. This serene outdoor retreat offers a variety of delightful activities without leaving the grounds. If you enjoy nature, you will love the majestic sunrises, wildlife sightings, and stargazing. Many nearby attractions include Joshua Tree National Park, Pappy + Harriet's, Integratron, Pioneertown, Giant Rock, La Copine, Johnson Valley OHV area, and hiking trails. Deb's Place is perfect for singles, couples, families, and large groups. Reserve one or more campsites or request the entire venue for those seeking a more private experience. On-site amenities include a large covered outdoor kitchen with water and electric, a barbecue, bar, dining area, and a refrigerator; a restroom, shower, and fire-pits are available for guest use.

9. Villa Macala

100%

(367)

41mi from Big Bear Lake · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hemet, CA

Villa Macala is a 20-acre oasis of detailed landscape, orchards and Southern CA native planting while complimenting the natural rocks and gorgeous views. Enjoy the many hiking trails and rest in the peace, quiet and beauty. 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. 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. We have 2 full outdoor bathrooms, one was most recently added at our Elderberry Camp Site (site 1), and is also close to site 4 our Oaks Campsite as well. (Please note our 2nd bathroom is a good walk uphill from the campsites). Our larger bathroom 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 NOTE: Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance. 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. 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 if we have the proper staff during your visit. Our products are available for purchase, with or without a tasting. We recommend you bring cash if you are interested. We also take Venmo!

Camper favorites near Big Bear Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Tammy Reeves

95%

(379)

38mi from Big Bear Lake · 29 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Joshua Tree, CA

Simply Camping is a great place to come appreciate, respect and enjoy the peace and beauty of the Mojave Desert! It is a blessing to own this amazing property in Joshua Tree for all to come and enjoy the wonderful stars at night and the breath taking sunrise and sunsets! We look forward to greeting you!

The Castle House: Estate

95%

(877)

37mi from Big Bear Lake · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Joshua Tree, CA

Units designed to make the everyday extraordinary. Step into a realm where luxury meets rugged beauty at The Castle House: Estate, your gateway to the ULTIMATE "GLAMPING" experience! As seen on HGTV, our tiny home oasis in Joshua Tree redefines accommodation with a unique medieval twist, seamlessly blending indoor-outdoor living and exceptional entertainment. Nestled in the heart of Joshua Tree and just minutes away from the awe-inspiring Joshua Tree National Park, The Castle House: Estate stands as a testament to opulence in the desert. Set on 12 picturesque acres, surrounded by vast private undeveloped land, our estate offers an unparalleled sense of tranquility and exclusivity. Experience a stay like no other in our award-winning haven, recognized with The BNB's prestigious Traveler Best Reviewed Property. But the enchantment doesn't end there—immerse yourself in the rejuvenating embrace of our tiered hexagonal aqua blue cowboy pool, strategically placed on a stunning IPE wood deck. This artistic oasis is a visual masterpiece, inviting you to bask in the sun or stargaze by night. Indulge in the luxury of our room service, available until midnight, offering a curated selection of local fare to tantalize your taste buds. At The Castle House: Estate, we redefine glamping by marrying comfort and adventure, creating an unforgettable escape that transcends the ordinary. Elevate your stay, reinvent yourself, and make memories that last a lifetime at The Castle House: Estate—where every moment is a masterpiece waiting to unfold. Book your extraordinary desert retreat now and be a part of an experience that's truly fit for royalty!Campers will be required to complete a check-in waiver before the date of their stay - providing a valid ID, DOB, and address.

SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

95%

(192)

10mi from Big Bear Lake · 39 sites · Lodging · 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!

Native Falls Campground

91%

(117)

46mi from Big Bear Lake · 40 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Temecula, CA

We are very glad you found us! Our hours are from 9am to 5pm everyday. Check in time starts at noon. Accommodations include fully furnished cabins, RV sites, and tent camping. The campground includes a lake with a waterfall, a sandy beach, lake toys, and catch & release fishing. Additional amenities include a Pickleball Court, shuffleboard, Pool Table, fire pits, picnic tables, hiking trails, and more!

Camp Deb's Place

99%

(143)

26mi from Big Bear Lake · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Yucca Valley, CA

Camp Deb's Place is located in Flamingo Heights on a 5 acre well-maintained property that is easily accessible from the highway. Tent and RV sites are currently available. This serene outdoor retreat offers a variety of delightful activities without leaving the grounds. If you enjoy nature, you will love the majestic sunrises, wildlife sightings, and stargazing. Many nearby attractions include Joshua Tree National Park, Pappy + Harriet's, Integratron, Pioneertown, Giant Rock, La Copine, Johnson Valley OHV area, and hiking trails. Deb's Place is perfect for singles, couples, families, and large groups. Reserve one or more campsites or request the entire venue for those seeking a more private experience. On-site amenities include a large covered outdoor kitchen with water and electric, a barbecue, bar, dining area, and a refrigerator; a restroom, shower, and fire-pits are available for guest use.

Villa Macala

100%

(367)

41mi from Big Bear Lake · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hemet, CA

Villa Macala is a 20-acre oasis of detailed landscape, orchards and Southern CA native planting while complimenting the natural rocks and gorgeous views. Enjoy the many hiking trails and rest in the peace, quiet and beauty. 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. 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. We have 2 full outdoor bathrooms, one was most recently added at our Elderberry Camp Site (site 1), and is also close to site 4 our Oaks Campsite as well. (Please note our 2nd bathroom is a good walk uphill from the campsites). Our larger bathroom 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 NOTE: Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance. 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. 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 if we have the proper staff during your visit. Our products are available for purchase, with or without a tasting. We recommend you bring cash if you are interested. We also take Venmo!

Stories from the community

A

Andrew

2 weeks ago

1 night at The Castle House: Estate

Loved the experience, the hosts are very helpful and their property is as advertised. If you're looking for a unique experience out in the middle of Joshua Tree I highly recommend.

M

Michelle

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Mineral Spring Date Farm

We had a great time at the Date Farm. It felt very secluded and peaceful. The hosts were very hospitable and friendly and helpful. We'd stay there again!

V

VANESSA

3 weeks ago

1 night at Mineral Spring Date Farm

Very happy with the stay. Stayed for one night on a Sunday. Enjoyed the pool & jacuzzi (not heated) in the day time very refreshing on a hot day. Enjoyed our private space, tent with King bed, fire pit, and of course the private hot mineral spring pool. Ron is very communicative. Everything simple, no stress. Just what the doctor ordered, thank you!

S

Sara

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Bowen Ranch Deep Creek Hot Springs

Tent was warm and bed was comfy. Would recommend bringing your own linen. Hot showers and flushable toilets were nice. Campsites have everything you need. Juniper flats does allow nudity so don’t come if you think people won’t be doing it… they will be. It was clean and well taken care of, staff was available when needed

Beautiful clean site with a fire pit, wood, BBQ tables, chairs and a light.

P

Paul

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Mineral Spring Date Farm

Great spot, the owner was super friendly, we had an amazing chill weekend

N

Nick

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

Angel's Nest is a gem - especially at the price! It's a beautiful mountain cabin that has family entertainment in mind. We played shuffleboard all afternoon and switched it up with the arcade machine and basketball; the kids had a blast! Really lovely kitchen, bedrooms and living areas as well! Great for a family mountain getaway. Only warning is: there are lots of stairs and a very steep driveway. Keep that in mind when if that's an issue for you. Martin was also very responsive and hospitable! We will definitely be back!

y

yesica

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

My family and I enjoyed our stay at SB Mountain cabin. The view was amazing the cabin was nice and clean and very relaxing. We will definitely be back!

H

Holly

3 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at Mineral Spring Date Farm

A tranquil and magical camping experience. Beautiful site, lovely hot spring, Ron was great host. The availability of electricity and the common kitchen was a real plus.

G

Gina

3 weeks ago

2 nights at Mineral Spring Date Farm

Ron has a perfect setup for those looking for a camping upgrade, a definite glamping experience!! We loved the privacy and our very own tub with warm mineral spring water and an option for a hot tub at our site. Ron provides the right amount of hosting and was always available to answer questions. We can’t wait to find an excuse to come back.

S

Sindy

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Mineral Spring Date Farm

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We absolutely loved our visit to The Oasis! Ron was amazing — so nice, helpful, and friendly from the moment we arrived. The privacy and peaceful silence made it the perfect relaxing escape. The mineral pools were incredible and left us feeling completely refreshed. This will definitely be our #1 getaway spot from now on! 🌿💦

Josh

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mineral Spring Date Farm

We a great weekend enjoying the hot spring tub. The hosts were friendly and accommodating. They have firewood available and ramen for dinner so we didn’t need to leave the camp. The tent is spacious with a memory foam bed, air-conditioning, and electricity. Would definitely return!

K

Kayla

October 2025

With kids

1 night at Mineral Spring Date Farm

We loved our camp experience on Ronald’s farm! The scenery was beautiful with each the evening starlight and the morning sun, especially when soaking our feet in the tub. Our toddler loved the dome experience and all there was to explore as well. The ramen is also a must-order…perfect spice level and so tasty. We loved the farm!

G

Guiding

October 2025

1 night at Mineral Spring Date Farm

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Amazing, Private, and Romantic Retreat What an unforgettable stay! The setting felt truly wild and alive — we even heard coyotes howling in the night. 🐾It was peaceful, private, and incredibly romantic. The food was beyond expectations — the ramen was one of the best bowls I’ve ever had, full of flavor and warmth. The dates were fresh and delicious, and you can truly feel the minerals in the water — my skin felt amazing afterward. The tent was cozy and comfortable, with soft bedding and surprisingly great air conditioning. After a day in the sun, relaxing in the shade and ending the night by the fire felt like pure magic. I can’t wait to come back.

Susan

October 2025

2 nights at Mineral Spring Date Farm

The date farm was really peaceful. We enjoyed soaking in our private mineral tub. They made sure we were comfortable. We recommend this for privacy and quiet.

H

Holly

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Mineral Spring Date Farm

Our own private oasis is how I would describe Mineral Date Farm and Springs. Welcome greetings from the owner, guided into camping spot, and then he shared information about the farm and mineral springs.

m

melissa

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Mineral Spring Date Farm

We had such a blast camping at this secret desert oasis, and the host was awesome and super welcoming. The ramen was amazing too; you gotta try it if you stay there!

A

Anthony

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mineral Spring Date Farm

My wife, dogs and I enjoyed this experience , the yurts were clean and had everything we needed to enjoy our time at the property. We will definitely be coming back. Ron was very helpful the whole weekend.

N

Nikole

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Mineral Spring Date Farm

We love it here. It is a big yurt with a bathroom and shower and a comfy queen size bed and amall kitchen. Out the door is a private mineral spring tub and waterfall. You can see the stars at night from the tub and the most incredible views in the morning. It even has a fire pit. Ron is an excellent host. Its close enough to OC for a quick getaway when you want to relax and rejuvenate. Highly recommend!

p

pat

October 2025

7 nights at SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

Great place, peaceful, beautiful, well maintained, and clean none toxic cookware! Haha I know that’s a funny thing to be excited about but as a cook I love stainless steel and all were stainless steel, also master bed and pillows very comfortable, Tempur-Pedic I believe. Lots of stairs, so just be aware we brought our elder dog and was a little tricky for him to navigate; but other than that, host replied quickly to all questions and highly recommended!

A

Aiko

October 2025

Group trip

2 nights at Camp Deb's Place

Deb was so welcoming and accommodating! The amenities were very nice. I would recommend to anyone!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best family-friendly glamping near Big Bear Lake guide

Where to go

The Peninsular Ranges

The southernmost U.S. stretch of the Coast Ranges, the Peninsular Ranges create a natural buffer between the desert and the urban sprawl of Los Angeles County. This region is full of opportunities to hike, camp, and swim without having to stray far from LA. Natural areas in the region include the San Bernardino and Angeles National Forests, Mt San Jacinto State Park, and the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument.

California’s Desert Region

If you head east from Big Bear Lake, you'll quickly find yourself out in the desert. While getting to the Mojave Desert National Preserve is a bit of a trek, Joshua Tree National Park and the Salton Sea oasis both offer otherworldly landscapes within a short drive of town.

The Southern California Coast

In many people’s minds, California is synonymous with beaches, and if you’re a fan of swimming and sunbathing, SoCal offers the best coastal options in the state. While San Diego and Los Angeles have plenty of great beaches to choose from, many of which have their own campgrounds, some of the prettiest options are off the coast of Orange County, between the two cities.

When to go

Big Bear Lake is a year-round destination, offering snow in the winter and water activities the rest of the year. The lake is open for boating from spring through fall, and summer is particularly popular for stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing, and swimming. July and August are the warmest months, though temperatures rarely soar above the low 80s, making the area attractive for Angelinos looking for a cooler escape from the city.

Nearby attractions

Experience the joy of camping near Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Overlooking the shimmering Puddingstone Lake, it offers abundant recreational activities, making your camping trip fun-filled and memorable.