River, stream, or creek camping near Big Bear Lake

Play outside, no matter the season, in this San Bernardino National Forest community.

87% (368 reviews)

United States
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California
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Big Bear Lake

87% (368 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Big Bear Lake

Community favorites near Big Bear Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Big Bear Lake

A view of the south shore, from the north shore. In the fall, of course!

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Serrano Campground

109 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

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Crab Flats Campground

27 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

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Green Valley Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

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San Gorgonio Campground

54 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

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Pineknot Campground

47 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

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Boulder Basin Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

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Ironwood Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In San Bernardino National Forest

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Tanglewood Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In San Bernardino National Forest

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Marion Mountain Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

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(5)

Fern Basin Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

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(4)

Black Mountain Yellow Post Sites

6 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

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(1)

Skyline Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In San Bernardino National Forest

Stories from the community

Patty

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Kingsfoil Hollow

Love this place. Will be my new “go to” campground. Serene and beautiful and everything an outdoor enthusiast could need… including a fire pit! Pippen and Merry the two cats that patrol the property made the trip. Spent lots of time at my camp. Christine was a great host and made sure I had everything I needed. So relaxing and enjoyable.

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Hidden Falls Whispering Winds is a truly serene escape into nature. The surroundings are breathtaking—lush greenery and gentle winds, creates a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to beat. One of the standout features is the thoughtful spacing between campsites, offering a level of privacy that’s often hard to find at other campgrounds. You really feel like you have your own personal slice of the outdoors. At night, the softly glowing solar lights along the pathways add a magical touch. They’re subtle enough not to disturb the natural ambiance, yet bright enough to safely guide your way. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in the overall experience.

Weekend Trip to Camp Durrwood

Almost perfect. This is an amazing site -- big enough for 100 people! We only had 9 and used a tiny part of the site. There is no running water (we knew that). The drive only took about 2.5 hours from the south bay. There is nice shade and the canyon feels secluded and remote. The only downside is that you can hear the traffic on the highway. Not loud, but breaks the illusion of being in the wild. We camped next to the picnic tables and the RV. Perhaps if we kept driving deeper into the canyon the would be no noise. The porta potty was nice and clean. There were two hammocks setup. The host was very helpful and responsive. He recommended an excellent hike with just a 5 min drive.

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

I really enjoyed the rolling hills and eucalyptus trees. We stayed in valley view 1 and the sight was very large with great view into the valley below and lovely breezes. The whole campground was super nice to hike around in to get up to some even better views that are still accessible for younger kids. We saw a family of owls in the trees of our campsite each night and early morning and got to hear a lively pack of coyotes each night. Even got to see a big toad down near the playground area. We definitely had a great time and would come here again :)

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Jordan and Rheanna were awesome! Everything went awesome. Beautiful campsite, great communication , quiet area. I had problem starting the fire pit and they were there right away to help me ! 100 % recommend. Will be back !

2 nights at Bowen Ranch Deep Creek Hot Springs

Quiet and beautiful place, the perfect get away, and the hot springs was a trip to never forget, there was quite a bit more people there than we thought but all of them were amazing to talk to and made the trip a whole lot better tbh, most of them are backpackers on the pct trail this time of year (April).

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Awesome place! Feels very spread out compared to a state park campsite. Well maintained and hosts were very kind and responsive.

1 night at Bowen Ranch Deep Creek Hot Springs

I had a great time at Deep Creek Camp. The directions to the camp are exactly as described, so follow them closely. The host I met, Bob, was friendly and helpful. The camp sites had almost no litter. Plenty of picnic tables and no crowds, though it was a weeknight. It’s no more than 5 minute drive to the DC trailhead. Great place to see the stars at night. Lots of squirrels and other rodents around to steal your food. Keep an eye on it.

Weekend Trip to High Desert Hot Spring Hideout

Great spot just northeast of LA! Lots of campsites available. We got T-mobile 5G at the campsite. Sinks, water, and toilet were all in working condition. Showers did not work. Definitely planning to go again.

1 night at Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

The property has a sweet, private enclosure to pitch your tent with a firepit, table and chairs, and water. And some pretty sweet dogs to greet you. :) It was also cool to see the early stages of a desert permaculture farm.

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Awesome place awesome view. Beautiful campground with a lot of wilderness and nature. Unplug from all the city noise and come down here! 10/10 out of recommend!

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

We stayed at Whispering Winds. Great campsite! Loved how spacious it was and it was beautiful. I particularly liked it had a good amount of space between us and other campsites. While at the camp site, we bumped into the host and he was very helpful with our questions and making sure we were situated. From our site, the Portapotties were about 100 yards away and were very clean. One recommendation - use google maps not Apple Maps to navigate here! Apple Maps took us through an old abandoned road not in use. Had to use Google maps to find the campgrounds. I would stay here again and recommend it!

1 night at Hidden Falls Preserve

Lovely host and campsite area. I stayed at Jensen Pean and the view was outstanding. Highly recommend staying here.

2 nights at Hidden Falls Preserve

Really nice campgrounds! Everybody was pleasantly surprised. There's some cool spots to check out and no shortage of great views. The owners were very nice and accommodating as well. Definitely check it out!

Weekend Trip to Bowen Ranch Deep Creek Hot Springs

I had a blast out here! The campsites felt spaced out well, perfect combination of privacy while still feeling secure sleeping in proximity to other folks. Everybody I met here, especially those running the camp, made me feel welcome and cared for. They cultivated a space for you to enjoy and be able to really unwind. Not to mention having access to showers and running water my whole time there… just an awesome place. Owners also provided easy directions to reach the hot springs, which are nothing short of a dream! I’ll be coming back forsure… Thank you guys so much <3

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Beautiful spot! Hosts were very helpful. The entire campground extends back into the valley. You get some residual noise echoing into the canyon from distance motorcycles or low flying aircrafts, but slept like a baby. The sites are separated enough that you're not on top of each other. I recommend the Shadetree Overlook or Jensen's Peak sites if you're after a great view. They're a bit more elevated and because you're closest to the entrance, you have an incredible view of the sunset and layers of mountains in the distance. Jensen's Peak being the furthest forward with no obstructions. I was able to walk over there and enjoy the sunset from Jensen's Peak when no one was there! Gorgeous views! For motorcyclists, it's a great spot when dry. I brought my cruiser up to the Shadetree Overlook. I have shocks that give me extra ground clearance and some decent tread. I took the steep dirt route up after the host highlighted it as a potential problem. Good news is you have two ways of going to that site 1) steepish road to left after the entrance or 2) go into the campground and loop back into Shadetree Overlook which is less steep. Dirt, ADV, and Scramblers would be just fine either way. If you have a lowered street bike, I'd stick to the sites below. If it's been raining or suspect it to be muddy for any reason, I probably wouldn't attempt Shadetree Overlook or Jensen's Peak unless you've got a dirt bike, knobby tires, a 4WD or AWD vehicle you trust.

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

My boyfriend and I truly loved it on Jordan and Rheanna's land and have already been talking about when we can go back and visit again. The chilly mornings are beautiful and the sunsets are better. At this location there are available hikes, bathrooms were amazingly clean, and the owners were polite and responsive! I am definitely recommending this location to friends in the future.

Weekend Trip to Bowen Ranch Deep Creek Hot Springs

Not at all what I expected from the photos... which was actually nice because it made it a great surprise! We had a great time and it was definitely a unique camping experience. Not really a place to bring kids if you want to enjoy the rec center on site (pool table, nude jacuzzi, sauna, and other adult surprises) and deep creek is also nude friendly. But otherwise, was a fun and interesting experience for our stay. The camp site was cool and the stars were out in full force.

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

We really enjoyed camping here and want to try out some of the other site next time. Such a beautiful place and so close to home. Incredible view, lovely sunsets and beautiful sunrises from this campsite for sure!

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Great spot to camp, beautiful valley field with trees and wildlife. Feels like you are away from everything, yet it’s still close to town. I will definitely bring my family back here. Thanks for sharing your your peace of nature with the rest of us!

9 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Big Bear Lake

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Bowen Ranch Deep Creek Hot Springs

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · 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.

Hidden Falls Preserve

16 sites · Tents80 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 seasonal 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 potable 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 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.

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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.

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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 overlanders, RVs, 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.

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Kingsfoil Hollow

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Oak Glen, CA

Beautiful private camping with well water tucked away in Oak Glen, the heart of Southern California Apple Country! Whether you're enjoying harvest season, spring apple blossoms, or summer hikes in cooler climes, there's always something to do up here! Walking distance from Los Rios, Apple Annie's and Snowline Apple Farms, private hikes, and Oak Glen Conservancy Ecological Preserve. This is a perfect spot for families or romantic getaways! A quick drive away from Los Angeles and the I.E. enjoy our tiny startup farm with apple trees, and medicinal herbs, surrounded by lush evergreens.

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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(you supply your own propane tank), and charcoal bbq(you bring your own charcoal), 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, and a charcoal bbq on front patio(you supply your own charcoal).. Both cabins: Require 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

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Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

1 site · Tent5 acres · Silver Lakes, CA

Escape to a living oasis on our family land lab in the middle of the Great Mojave Desert! Located right off Historic Route 66, Wild Wash Ranch is situated at the top of a hill boasting 360 degree views of the Mojave River to the West, The San Bernardino Mountains to the South, Silver Lakes to the North, and the vast open desert to the East. THIS IS A WORKING REGENERATIVE FARM. We harvest rainwater from our farm structures, produce our own energy, grow and raise fruit trees, fodder trees, native plants, chickens, rabbits, and dogs. Our farm is carefully managed every day in order to ensure a regenerative future of local ecological resilience. We welcome anyone interested in learning about and participating in protecting our desert and working with nature to produce abundance for all! Less than 5 miles away from the farm is the community of Silver Lakes, with grocery stores, restaurants, beaches, and parks. Very close by you’ll find famous Route 66 attractions such as Elmers Bottle Ranch, Cross Eyed Cow Pizza, and Antique Station. Locals in this area also frequent nearby attractions such as Palisades Ranch, Deep Creek Hot Springs, and Silverwood Lake. Immerse yourself in the future of farming at our evolving, experimental ranch, where dryland innovation meets off-grid charm. Unplug, unwind, and witness the beauty of dynamic desert resilience as you explore our rolling landscape. Watch the sunset over the Mojave River, camp under the stars and join us on a journey to redefine sustainable living – a unique adventure awaits on this eco-friendly retreat! Wild Wash Ranch is a working regenerative farm serving as the flagship demonstration site for Seeds Of Succession, a permaculture nonprofit working to empower local communities through land stewardship practices aimed toward reversing desertification, and promoting food sovereignty. Fire pit, firewood, and outdoor seating provided, as well as a rocket stove for quick, fuel efficient outdoor cooking so you won’t have to miss the sunset to prepare dinner!

Arrowhead Tree Top Lodge

20 sites · Lodging2 acres · Lake Arrowhead, CA

Located on the heart of the forest, surrounded by the scent of pine, cedar and dogwood trees and fresh, pure air at an altitude of 5,100 feet, Arrowhead Tree Top Lodge offers our guests an opportunity to rejuvenate and relax away from the everyday routine. The serenity and beauty of the natural environment here is unparalleled. Our quaint Lodge is an excellent choice for your perfect getaway from the city, but not from modern conveniences. Our architecture is sensitive to the topography and integrates seamlessly into the existing natural environment. With the stunning scenery and wildlife comes a natural peacefulness. Whether you are looking for rest, relaxation, a romantic getaway from “the flatlands”or the thrill of being at one with Mother Nature and all she has to offer in our Nature Trail, you are sure to find it here at Arrowhead Tree Top Lodge. Our promise to our guests: Our rustic alpine rooms are both comfortable and spacious. A true home away from home. Your stay will be extraordinary and relaxing. We will provide you with old-fashioned personal service. The beautiful Lake Arrowhead Village community offers countless recreational activities, such as hiking, backpacking, bicycling, lake tours, water and snow skiing, fishing, horseback riding, performing arts, galleries, fine dining, golf, and so much more!

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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 !

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Other options near Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Shores RV Resort

33 sites1 acre · Fawnskin, CA

Welcome to Big Bear Shores RV Resort, the only 5-star RV destination nestled in the stunning Big Bear Lake area! What sets us apart is our exclusive on-site Sales and Rental Office, ensuring you have everything you need for a perfect getaway right at your fingertips. Situated in the picturesque San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, Big Bear Shores offers an unparalleled RV experience. Our resort features a gated entrance for added security and peace of mind, along with a variety of amenities including a tennis court, swimming pool, spa, and private access to the serene lake. We provide full hookups for your convenience, including water, electricity, and sewer services. Whether you’re interested in fishing, golfing, hiking, boating, or simply unwinding in nature, our resort has it all. Explore the breathtaking backcountry, discover nearby swimming holes, or enjoy local restaurants and shops. At Big Bear Shores RV Resort, your adventure awaits!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures in the United States! Whether you're an experienced outdoors enthusiast or a first-time camper, we've got you covered. With over 620 options near Big Bear Lake, California that offer a river experience, you're sure to find the perfect spot to relax and reconnect with nature. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out Splitrock Farm and Retreat (320 reviews), Bailes Farm (209 reviews), and Diana's Descanso Camp (138 reviews). Plus, with popular amenities like potable water, showers, and toilets, you can enjoy the comforts of home while immersing yourself in the great outdoors. Get ready for an unforgettable camping experience filled with boating, paddling, and climbing. Average price per night is $55, with options as low as $17. Start planning your trip now and book your dream camping spot on Hipcamp!