River, stream, or creek camping near Big Bear Lake

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

87% (400 reviews)

United States
—
California
—
Big Bear Lake

87% (400 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Big Bear Lake

Community favorites near Big Bear Lake

Public campgrounds near Big Bear Lake

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

100%

(32)

Serrano Campground

109 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

100%

(5)

Crab Flats Campground

27 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

100%

(5)

Green Valley Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

100%

(4)

San Gorgonio Campground

54 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

100%

(7)

Boulder Basin Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

100%

(2)

Pineknot Campground

47 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

100%

(2)

Ironwood Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In San Bernardino National Forest

100%

(2)

Tanglewood Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In San Bernardino National Forest

100%

(8)

Marion Mountain Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

100%

(5)

Fern Basin Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

100%

(3)

Black Mountain Yellow Post Sites

6 sites · RVs, Tents In San Bernardino National Forest

100%

(1)

Skyline Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In San Bernardino National Forest

Stories from the community

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 High Desert Hot Spring Hideout

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 Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground

Such a great place! Host was so nice! Found an awesome secluded camp spot. Walk to the hot springs was fun! Will be back

Weekend Trip to High Desert Hot Spring Hideout

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!

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

I loved the site at this location! Each site is secluded enough and we were able to have a beautiful view of the stars at night. Campsite was clean and spacious 😁

Weekend Trip to High Desert Hot Spring Hideout

This property is super unique and interesting. They allow early arrival and late departure. We came early so we could eat lunch at our campsite before heading off on the hike to the hot springs. It is a tough hike but totally worth it. If you follow the directions to get there you will find it no problem: however they are not exact. I do think it would be helpful for the property owner to actually drive and note and picture the landmarks they reference. For example it may say (.6 miles) but actually be 1 mile. There was a note that said a sign would be brown and it was white…etc. I wouldn’t have felt comfortable making the drive for the first time in our big RV in the dark or rain. We did not meet Jess but her staff member was super friendly and helpful. He remembered all the campers by name. The rec tent was a cool place to hang out with some unique surprises. It is not for the prudes or children. We would come back here if we find ourselves in California again. Thanks for sharing your property.

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Another perfect little retreat in the hills. The hike-in Dragon’s Peak spot is just far enough away from the main camping area to feel alone on top of the world. Plenty of birds and little creatures to keep you company.

2 nights at Hidden Falls Preserve

We loved camping here! The site was a perfect spot with beautiful views especially the sunset view and looking at the stars. It was really nice, clean and peaceful. Really spacious away from other campsites. We will definitely come back! The hostess was very friendly and helpful easy to communicate.

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

We loved this campsite so much, hosts were very friendly. The sunsets were beautiful over the valley! Not too far from civilisation haha. Only thing was our site was very close to the toilet but would just book a site further next time. We will be back!!

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Jordan and Rheanna responded very quickly to any questions or requests we had and were super helpful! We had a great time staying at the campsite.

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

I highly recommend this place! The hosts are very friendly and accommodating. Campgrounds are beautiful and very well kept. Camp spots are spread out well so you're not right next to other campers. Most likely be back again in the future for another stay.

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Gorgeous area tucked between some hills with sprinkles of eucalyptus trees. This camp spot seems to be more secluded away from other sites which I loved! Also had plenty of space for 2 x 6 person tents as well as circle of camp chairs to watch the sunset and sit around the propane firepit. Definitely coming back!

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

88%

(90)

High Desert Hot Spring Hideout

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents160 acres · Lake Arrowhead, CA

Nestled in the mountains of the high desert, we invite you to come stay in a peaceful serene setting, where you can relax & recharge with us here in the desert and release yourself from the burdens currently placed on you for a brief moment. Staying on this rural 160 acre slice of nature allows one to escape the sounds and stresses of the city and immerse yourself in nature, where beautiful natural desert scenery and mountain views surround you. Bordering 1000's of acres of natural undeveloped BLM and USFS land. The property's rural location provides abundant opportunities to view unique and spectacular wildlife right from your campsite or on one of the numerous hiking and OHV trails in the area. 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. Although children are permitted on the property, 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.

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.

93%

(61)

Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground

33 sites · RVs, Tents161 acres · Apple Valley, CA

Rural 160 acre homestead property located in the mountains of the Mojave Desert, next to the Deep Creek Hot Springs. This off the grid property is surrounded by 1,000s of acres of undeveloped BLM and US Forestry land, providing endless views of the San Bernardino mountains and high desert scenery, Numerous hiking and OHV offroad trails right off the property. The 6 mile dirt road can be bumpy, but a 4WD isa not necessary. Low profile vehicles and large trailers Park your car, truck/trailer or RV right at one of our developed campsites that has a patch of turf, picnic tables and fire pits (grills available). Flushing toilets, pits toilets, potable water, and showers on site. *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.

100%

(2)

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.

100%

(41)

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%

(136)

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

100%

(22)

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.

100%

(1)

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!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

94%

(142)

San Bernardino National Forest

La Quinta, California

92%

(226)

Angeles National Forest

La Crescenta Montrose, California

93%

(15)

Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

Crestline, California

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!