The best private sites RV parks near Big Bear Lake

·

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.

97% (222) 24 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Big Bear Lake

Boulder Gardens Sanctuary

1. Boulder Gardens Sanctuary

98%
(122)
20mi from Big Bear Lake · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our gorgeous natural desert landscape with a quiet atmosphere and vast views. Guests are welcome to hike and explore our extensive land, which includes over 500 acres of primitive hiking trails, meditation gardens, and secret caves. This is an incredible place for stargazing and views of the milky way. The landscape is similar to the national park, though guests at Boulder Gardens will have a secluded place to set up camp, away from the crowds. Pioneertown, home to the famous venue Pappy and Harriets, as well as Red Dog Saloon is within a short drive.
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic table
from 
$29
 / night
Tipi Canyon, Joshua Tree Nat’l Park

2. Tipi Canyon, Joshua Tree Nat’l Park

99%
(41)
32mi from Big Bear Lake · 2 sites · RVs
{Pack in/ pack out} Your own peaceful, tucked away desert! Enjoy the back country of Joshua Tree National Park at this private property that’s within the edge of the park boundary and overlooks it from several ridges. Surrounded by thousands of acres of park, conservation and private land while only a 10-15 minute drive to the National Park main entrance. Complete privacy nearly 2 miles in from a gated entrance at the base of a small canyon. Walk up to the ridge for panoramic views of JT National Park, Joshua Trees, mountains and valleys highlighted with brilliant greens, yellows and other blooms and a winding graded dirt road up to your exclusive camp site. Town is just a 5 minute drive away, complete with trendy shops, cafes, music venues, sightseeing and more. Note: please be aware there is some several years old fire damage at the site and nearby areas but the lush drive in and long range views remain. 😍
Pets
from 
$35
 / night
Villa Macala

3. Villa Macala

100%
(371)
41mi from Big Bear Lake · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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! GETTING TO VILLA MACALA: The road up to Villa Macala is a dirt road uphill, all vehicles fair well, we attempt to keep the road maintained as well as possible, after heavy rains it is a bit more bumpy but safe. Drive slow!
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$32
 / night
Mojave Moonlight Camping

4. Mojave Moonlight Camping

98%
(276)
25mi from Big Bear Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Located in the outskirts of Lucene ValleyLearn more about this land: Experience a blanket of stars at night, beautiful sunrise and sunsets. We have limited it to only 4 campsites so there is plenty of space and privacy on this 20 acre campsite.Hike  the  mountain, experience nature and solitude and be just 10 minutes  from a town where a supermarket, hardware store, service station, post office, sheriff's station and a variety of restaurants  are available.This is big sky and wide open California Desert. Remote enough to be away from crowds but close enough for all the essentials.Life is short ...                         Get outside.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$25
 / night
The Desert Ambassador Camp

5. The Desert Ambassador Camp

100%
(32)
31mi from Big Bear Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Experience peaceful desert camping with wide-open views, stunning sunrises and sunsets, and incredible star-filled skies in the Southern California high desert. The Desert Ambassador Camp is located just minutes from the West Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park on 2.5 acres of natural, undeveloped land. We fell in love with this area for its quiet beauty, open space, and easy access to the park, and created a simple, off-grid retreat that allows guests to fully experience the desert. We offer two campsites, Upper and Lower, situated on opposite sides of the property for added privacy. Each site provides its own space to relax, unwind, and enjoy the surrounding landscape. Spend your days resting beneath Joshua trees, hiking nearby trails, or exploring the gently rolling desert terrain. In the evenings, gather around the fire pit and enjoy clear skies filled with stars. The camp is less than two hours from Los Angeles and Orange County and only 2.5 miles from the West Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, as well as Covington Flats and Black Rock hiking and day-use areas. It is also conveniently located between the towns of Joshua Tree and Yucca Valley, with access to off-road recreation areas such as Johnson Valley OHV. The land is home to native Joshua trees, cactus, and seasonal wildflowers, with views of rocky foothills to the south and open desert valleys to the north and east. Wildlife sightings may include jackrabbits, quail, hawks, kangaroo rats, snakes, and coyotes. This is primitive, dry camping with no water, power, or hookups. Guests should bring their own tent and or RV, camping supplies, plenty of water, and a sense of adventure.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$36
 / night
Serene forest privacy for 4WD

6. Serene forest privacy for 4WD

99%
(58)
37mi from Big Bear Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$45
 / night
Xbone's Desert Life | Mojave Desert

7. Xbone's Desert Life | Mojave Desert

100%
(9)
17mi from Big Bear Lake · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Adventure • Stargazing • Off-Road Fun Welcome to Xbone’s Desert Life, your ultimate Mojave Desert getaway surrounded by majestic mountains and endless skies. Just 2 miles from the iconic Soggy Dry Lake, this campsite is a haven for off-roading, hiking, and peaceful desert living. Whether you're rolling in with your motor crew or bringing the whole family out for a weekend escape, we've got the space and vibe you're looking for. The large sitting area is perfect for birthday parties, group events, or just kicking back with your crew under the stars. ✨ At Night: Get ready for some of the clearest skies you’ve ever seen — perfect for stargazing and campfire chill sessions. ☀️ By Day: Beat the desert heat in our shaded areas and cook up something tasty in the outdoor kitchen. 🏍️ Into Riding? We’ve got KTM motors on-site and welcome all riding groups to come ride with us. 🥾 Like to Explore? Surrounded by hike-friendly mountains and open desert trails — there's no shortage of adventure. Escape the city. Live the desert life. Come join us under the Mojave sky 🌵🔥 📍 Only 20 minutes to Lucerne Valley grocery store, the local favorite 247 Café, plus Chinese and Mexican restaurants. 🌵 45 minutes to Joshua Tree National Park and close to Big Bear Lake for even more adventure.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$39
 / night
Melody's Rendezvous

8. Melody's Rendezvous

100%
(5)
24mi from Big Bear Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Unique chance of camping with full rv hookups right across the legendary Red Rog and Mane Street. 30 amp / 50 amp / water / sewer Pick nick tables - trash bins Immerse in beautiful nature a short walk to Pappy’s and Red Dog.
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
from 
$69
 / night

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.

97% (222) 24 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Big Bear Lake

Boulder Gardens Sanctuary

1. Boulder Gardens Sanctuary

98%
(122)
20mi from Big Bear Lake · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our gorgeous natural desert landscape with a quiet atmosphere and vast views. Guests are welcome to hike and explore our extensive land, which includes over 500 acres of primitive hiking trails, meditation gardens, and secret caves. This is an incredible place for stargazing and views of the milky way. The landscape is similar to the national park, though guests at Boulder Gardens will have a secluded place to set up camp, away from the crowds. Pioneertown, home to the famous venue Pappy and Harriets, as well as Red Dog Saloon is within a short drive.
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic table
from 
$29
 / night
Tipi Canyon, Joshua Tree Nat’l Park

2. Tipi Canyon, Joshua Tree Nat’l Park

99%
(41)
32mi from Big Bear Lake · 2 sites · RVs
{Pack in/ pack out} Your own peaceful, tucked away desert! Enjoy the back country of Joshua Tree National Park at this private property that’s within the edge of the park boundary and overlooks it from several ridges. Surrounded by thousands of acres of park, conservation and private land while only a 10-15 minute drive to the National Park main entrance. Complete privacy nearly 2 miles in from a gated entrance at the base of a small canyon. Walk up to the ridge for panoramic views of JT National Park, Joshua Trees, mountains and valleys highlighted with brilliant greens, yellows and other blooms and a winding graded dirt road up to your exclusive camp site. Town is just a 5 minute drive away, complete with trendy shops, cafes, music venues, sightseeing and more. Note: please be aware there is some several years old fire damage at the site and nearby areas but the lush drive in and long range views remain. 😍
Pets
from 
$35
 / night
Villa Macala

3. Villa Macala

100%
(371)
41mi from Big Bear Lake · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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! GETTING TO VILLA MACALA: The road up to Villa Macala is a dirt road uphill, all vehicles fair well, we attempt to keep the road maintained as well as possible, after heavy rains it is a bit more bumpy but safe. Drive slow!
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$32
 / night
Mojave Moonlight Camping

4. Mojave Moonlight Camping

98%
(276)
25mi from Big Bear Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Located in the outskirts of Lucene ValleyLearn more about this land: Experience a blanket of stars at night, beautiful sunrise and sunsets. We have limited it to only 4 campsites so there is plenty of space and privacy on this 20 acre campsite.Hike  the  mountain, experience nature and solitude and be just 10 minutes  from a town where a supermarket, hardware store, service station, post office, sheriff's station and a variety of restaurants  are available.This is big sky and wide open California Desert. Remote enough to be away from crowds but close enough for all the essentials.Life is short ...                         Get outside.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$25
 / night
The Desert Ambassador Camp

5. The Desert Ambassador Camp

100%
(32)
31mi from Big Bear Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Experience peaceful desert camping with wide-open views, stunning sunrises and sunsets, and incredible star-filled skies in the Southern California high desert. The Desert Ambassador Camp is located just minutes from the West Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park on 2.5 acres of natural, undeveloped land. We fell in love with this area for its quiet beauty, open space, and easy access to the park, and created a simple, off-grid retreat that allows guests to fully experience the desert. We offer two campsites, Upper and Lower, situated on opposite sides of the property for added privacy. Each site provides its own space to relax, unwind, and enjoy the surrounding landscape. Spend your days resting beneath Joshua trees, hiking nearby trails, or exploring the gently rolling desert terrain. In the evenings, gather around the fire pit and enjoy clear skies filled with stars. The camp is less than two hours from Los Angeles and Orange County and only 2.5 miles from the West Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, as well as Covington Flats and Black Rock hiking and day-use areas. It is also conveniently located between the towns of Joshua Tree and Yucca Valley, with access to off-road recreation areas such as Johnson Valley OHV. The land is home to native Joshua trees, cactus, and seasonal wildflowers, with views of rocky foothills to the south and open desert valleys to the north and east. Wildlife sightings may include jackrabbits, quail, hawks, kangaroo rats, snakes, and coyotes. This is primitive, dry camping with no water, power, or hookups. Guests should bring their own tent and or RV, camping supplies, plenty of water, and a sense of adventure.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$36
 / night
Serene forest privacy for 4WD

6. Serene forest privacy for 4WD

99%
(58)
37mi from Big Bear Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$45
 / night
Xbone's Desert Life | Mojave Desert

7. Xbone's Desert Life | Mojave Desert

100%
(9)
17mi from Big Bear Lake · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Adventure • Stargazing • Off-Road Fun Welcome to Xbone’s Desert Life, your ultimate Mojave Desert getaway surrounded by majestic mountains and endless skies. Just 2 miles from the iconic Soggy Dry Lake, this campsite is a haven for off-roading, hiking, and peaceful desert living. Whether you're rolling in with your motor crew or bringing the whole family out for a weekend escape, we've got the space and vibe you're looking for. The large sitting area is perfect for birthday parties, group events, or just kicking back with your crew under the stars. ✨ At Night: Get ready for some of the clearest skies you’ve ever seen — perfect for stargazing and campfire chill sessions. ☀️ By Day: Beat the desert heat in our shaded areas and cook up something tasty in the outdoor kitchen. 🏍️ Into Riding? We’ve got KTM motors on-site and welcome all riding groups to come ride with us. 🥾 Like to Explore? Surrounded by hike-friendly mountains and open desert trails — there's no shortage of adventure. Escape the city. Live the desert life. Come join us under the Mojave sky 🌵🔥 📍 Only 20 minutes to Lucerne Valley grocery store, the local favorite 247 Café, plus Chinese and Mexican restaurants. 🌵 45 minutes to Joshua Tree National Park and close to Big Bear Lake for even more adventure.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$39
 / night
Melody's Rendezvous

8. Melody's Rendezvous

100%
(5)
24mi from Big Bear Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Unique chance of camping with full rv hookups right across the legendary Red Rog and Mane Street. 30 amp / 50 amp / water / sewer Pick nick tables - trash bins Immerse in beautiful nature a short walk to Pappy’s and Red Dog.
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
from 
$69
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best private sites RV parks 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.