- Glamping with pets allowed
The best dog-friendly glamping sites near Highland
92% (2.9K) • 110 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Highland
Splitrock Farm and Retreat
1. Splitrock Farm and Retreat
96%
(1640)
48mi from Highland · 32 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
About Splitrock Farm and Retreat
Far Away, Close to Home
Instagram page @splitrockfarmandretreat. Tag your photos #splitrockfarmandretreat #SplitrockFAR #farawayclosetohome
Or, contact the Camp Host through Hipcamp direct message or the direct line 760-645-5431.
Splitrock Farm and Retreat started in January 2021 after a global search of a place to set roots, live off the land, and create an amazing place for recreation, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
Splitrock was part of a 160-acre avocado farm that prospered from 1970 to 2017, generating over 1million pounds of avocados per year until the previous owners switched off the water in 2017. Ben purchased 101 acres in 2021 with plans to harvest the dead avocado trees for firewood and replant with organic, sustainable crops such as grapes, citrus trees, and flowers.
Splitrock's attraction comes from its unique groves, magnificent granite boulders, and sweeping vistas. Mixed within the avocado groves are several ancient groves and solitary trees that include 150+ foot tall pines, hundreds of old oaks, and soaring palms. Freckled throughout the hillsides are thousands of humongous granite boulders, offering a prehistoric feel to the landscape. Above all, Splitrock offers unrivaled views. Over 40 miles of coastline includes views to Point Loma, the Carlsbad power station, and the Pendleton Hospital. To the northeast are views of near 11K foot snowy peaks of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio, with rolling hills of De Luz and Fallbrook in the foreground.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$22
/ night
Storybook Nook- secluded cabin!
2. Storybook Nook- secluded cabin!
100%
(6)
9.2mi from Highland · 1 site
Step into the pages of a fairytale at The Storybook Nook! Featuring storybook style interior design, this cozy cabin has been attentively curated to create the feel that you have stumbled upon an enchanted cottage. It is nestled on its own private plateau, on a heavily wooded, secluded a hillside. Perfect for a romantic getaway, writer's retreat, two friends, or a solo traveler looking to unwind in serene nature. Pet friendly! Only 1 mile to The Village; 7 mins to Sky Park-Santa's Village!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$180
/ night
Snow Bunny Cottage
3. Snow Bunny Cottage
100%
(9)
10mi from Highland · 1 site
Snow Bunny Cottage is your mountain basecamp for crisp air, forest trails, and lake days — without giving up the comforts of home. Perched at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac and framed by tall pines, this cozy, fully furnished hideaway offers peace, privacy, and plenty of charm.
Just a short stroll brings you to the private shores of Green Valley Lake and the San Bernardino National Forest. In warmer months, cast a fishing line or hit nearby hiking and biking trails. Come winter, the area transforms into a snow-dusted wonderland, with Snow Valley Ski Resort only minutes away. Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead are also close for even more adventure.
After a day outdoors, unwind on the spacious deck under twinkling string lights. Grill up dinner (BBQ provided) and watch the moon rise through the trees. Please note: campfires are not allowed at the property for safety, but you’ll still find plenty of ways to enjoy the evenings.
Inside, you’ll find high-speed internet for remote work or trip planning, a 55" TV with cable for cozy movie nights, and a welcoming fireplace for chilly evenings (bring your own firewood).
We love pets and happily welcome approved four-legged guests — because adventures are better with your trail buddy by your side.
This cabin is also our personal seasonal home, so it’s cared for with love and attention. We ask that you treat it — and our friendly neighbors — with the same respect. Please review and agree to our house rules before booking so everyone enjoys their time here.
Come breathe the fresh air, explore the trails, and discover why Snow Bunny Cottage is a hidden gem in every season!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$112
/ night
The Tree Top Chalet 1-2 Hrs from LA
4. The Tree Top Chalet 1-2 Hrs from LA
100%
(1)
10mi from Highland · 1 site
Thoughtfully designed, this home is nothing short of exceptional comfort, a perfect mix of modern and cabin cozy. Walk into an open concept living room to find yourself sitting amongst the forest trees.
The Tree Top Chalet is approximately one mile (20 min walk 3 min drive) to Lake Gregory and the boathouse and a quick 15 minutes to Lake Arrowhead, Santa's Village, Sky Park or 7 minutes from Sycamore Ranch Winery!
Welcome to The Tree Top Chalet! Come to relax and get away in this serene mountain home where you will be surrounded by forest vibes. Kick back amongst the canopy of trees and experience the restorative nature of the woods. Located in the St Moritz area of Crestline, fully remodeled and ready to welcome you to enjoy some R&R. Located just a quick drive from LA and OC, come for fun times with family and friends! Remote workers are welcome, we have ultra fast wifi!
If you're looking for a quiet place to relax in nature and recharge you've found the right spot so please let us host you at The Tree Top Chalet!
The kitchen is equipped with brand new appliances, Keurig and espresso machine, pantry staples, spices, and cookware to whip up anything you might wish. The deck provides a serene place to lounge and cozy up next to the firepit on a summer evening and a dining area to enjoy a BBQ on the natural gas grill.
Upstairs find 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom (1 queen, 1 king, 1 twin day bed). Find a cozy room where the kiddos (or adults) can enjoy a snooze on the twin day bed or pull out for more room into a king.
Downstairs bedroom (1 king), and 1 pull out queen in the living area, a 2nd bathroom and another living room for lounging, movie night or cozying with a book by the fireplace. There’s also a Peloton and exercise equipment if you don’t want to skip leg day. Washer and dryer is downstairs and is also yours to use.
Both bathrooms are stocked with shampoo, body wash, and conditioner so you don't have to worry about a thing so you can freshen up after a day at the beach on the lake or slopes alike.
Don't worry about a baby sitter, bring the entire fam we have a pack and play, baby gate, and high chair available.
Two dedicated workspaces are available with large monitors to plug in a laptop (cables provided) and remote workers are welcomed and encourage to spend their workdays overlooking the forest. The house is equipped with ultra fast wifi and you can even take meetings out in the fresh air on the deck!
Guests have access to both floors, indoor space and deck of the tree house. There is a keypad on the front door for easy self check-in and check-out. We will send you a unique access code before you arrive.
Feel free to bring your furry friends along, under 55lbs. doggie's are welcome, with prior approval, message me for details. Not on furniture please :)
The driveway is on a slight incline and can fit up to 4 parked cars (a rarity in the mountains). Please do your best to squeeze in and avoid street parking. Guests must be able to navigate going up and down stairs to access this home. Unfortunately it is not ADA accessible.
- We want you to have fun but please be mindful of the neighbors & avoid loud noise or external speakers outdoors. Please be considerate of the quiet calm of the neighborhood between 9pm and 10am.
- No smoking indoors or outdoors as we are in a high fire risk area. We may fine you for any evidence of smoking.
- Fines for rule violation are issued by San Bernardino County (minimum of $1000) and will be the responsibility of the guest
-Your safety matters. There is Ring door located upstairs in addition to an exterior security camera facing the front outdoor entry and some of the driveway.
Snow Season Reminders:
*The Tree Top Chalet on a street that is plowed by the county. Please be sure to check weather conditions and CalTrans for updates prior to your arrival. On occasions, depending on in climate weather and road conditions, tire chains are mandated by CalTrans and you will not be allowed to drive up the mountain without them in snowy conditions. Please note there will be checkpoints set up along the road where there will also be people to assist with chain installation for a fee.
*Normal winter weather/road conditions are not grounds for reservation changes or cancellations.
*We can provide snow removal service before guest check in, there are snow shovels and additional salt for you to utilize during your stay. We are glad to coordinate additional snow shoveling/blowing services at cost if desired, just let us know :)
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$378
/ night
Bayview Bungalow
5. Bayview Bungalow
100%
(3)
15mi from Highland · 1 site
We host a cozy 3 bed/1 bath bungalow one block up from Boulder Bay in Big Bear Lake! We have kayaks for the lake in the summer and are a short drive to the slopes in winter. Spring and Fall bring gorgeous hikes and weather!
Fully stocked home for your comfort and fenced backyard with table and gas firepit. Dogs welcome.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from
$265
/ night
92% (2.9K) • 110 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Highland
Splitrock Farm and Retreat
1. Splitrock Farm and Retreat
96%
(1640)
48mi from Highland · 32 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
About Splitrock Farm and Retreat
Far Away, Close to Home
Instagram page @splitrockfarmandretreat. Tag your photos #splitrockfarmandretreat #SplitrockFAR #farawayclosetohome
Or, contact the Camp Host through Hipcamp direct message or the direct line 760-645-5431.
Splitrock Farm and Retreat started in January 2021 after a global search of a place to set roots, live off the land, and create an amazing place for recreation, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
Splitrock was part of a 160-acre avocado farm that prospered from 1970 to 2017, generating over 1million pounds of avocados per year until the previous owners switched off the water in 2017. Ben purchased 101 acres in 2021 with plans to harvest the dead avocado trees for firewood and replant with organic, sustainable crops such as grapes, citrus trees, and flowers.
Splitrock's attraction comes from its unique groves, magnificent granite boulders, and sweeping vistas. Mixed within the avocado groves are several ancient groves and solitary trees that include 150+ foot tall pines, hundreds of old oaks, and soaring palms. Freckled throughout the hillsides are thousands of humongous granite boulders, offering a prehistoric feel to the landscape. Above all, Splitrock offers unrivaled views. Over 40 miles of coastline includes views to Point Loma, the Carlsbad power station, and the Pendleton Hospital. To the northeast are views of near 11K foot snowy peaks of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio, with rolling hills of De Luz and Fallbrook in the foreground.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$22
/ night
Storybook Nook- secluded cabin!
2. Storybook Nook- secluded cabin!
100%
(6)
9.2mi from Highland · 1 site
Step into the pages of a fairytale at The Storybook Nook! Featuring storybook style interior design, this cozy cabin has been attentively curated to create the feel that you have stumbled upon an enchanted cottage. It is nestled on its own private plateau, on a heavily wooded, secluded a hillside. Perfect for a romantic getaway, writer's retreat, two friends, or a solo traveler looking to unwind in serene nature. Pet friendly! Only 1 mile to The Village; 7 mins to Sky Park-Santa's Village!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$180
/ night
Snow Bunny Cottage
3. Snow Bunny Cottage
100%
(9)
10mi from Highland · 1 site
Snow Bunny Cottage is your mountain basecamp for crisp air, forest trails, and lake days — without giving up the comforts of home. Perched at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac and framed by tall pines, this cozy, fully furnished hideaway offers peace, privacy, and plenty of charm.
Just a short stroll brings you to the private shores of Green Valley Lake and the San Bernardino National Forest. In warmer months, cast a fishing line or hit nearby hiking and biking trails. Come winter, the area transforms into a snow-dusted wonderland, with Snow Valley Ski Resort only minutes away. Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead are also close for even more adventure.
After a day outdoors, unwind on the spacious deck under twinkling string lights. Grill up dinner (BBQ provided) and watch the moon rise through the trees. Please note: campfires are not allowed at the property for safety, but you’ll still find plenty of ways to enjoy the evenings.
Inside, you’ll find high-speed internet for remote work or trip planning, a 55" TV with cable for cozy movie nights, and a welcoming fireplace for chilly evenings (bring your own firewood).
We love pets and happily welcome approved four-legged guests — because adventures are better with your trail buddy by your side.
This cabin is also our personal seasonal home, so it’s cared for with love and attention. We ask that you treat it — and our friendly neighbors — with the same respect. Please review and agree to our house rules before booking so everyone enjoys their time here.
Come breathe the fresh air, explore the trails, and discover why Snow Bunny Cottage is a hidden gem in every season!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$112
/ night
The Tree Top Chalet 1-2 Hrs from LA
4. The Tree Top Chalet 1-2 Hrs from LA
100%
(1)
10mi from Highland · 1 site
Thoughtfully designed, this home is nothing short of exceptional comfort, a perfect mix of modern and cabin cozy. Walk into an open concept living room to find yourself sitting amongst the forest trees.
The Tree Top Chalet is approximately one mile (20 min walk 3 min drive) to Lake Gregory and the boathouse and a quick 15 minutes to Lake Arrowhead, Santa's Village, Sky Park or 7 minutes from Sycamore Ranch Winery!
Welcome to The Tree Top Chalet! Come to relax and get away in this serene mountain home where you will be surrounded by forest vibes. Kick back amongst the canopy of trees and experience the restorative nature of the woods. Located in the St Moritz area of Crestline, fully remodeled and ready to welcome you to enjoy some R&R. Located just a quick drive from LA and OC, come for fun times with family and friends! Remote workers are welcome, we have ultra fast wifi!
If you're looking for a quiet place to relax in nature and recharge you've found the right spot so please let us host you at The Tree Top Chalet!
The kitchen is equipped with brand new appliances, Keurig and espresso machine, pantry staples, spices, and cookware to whip up anything you might wish. The deck provides a serene place to lounge and cozy up next to the firepit on a summer evening and a dining area to enjoy a BBQ on the natural gas grill.
Upstairs find 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom (1 queen, 1 king, 1 twin day bed). Find a cozy room where the kiddos (or adults) can enjoy a snooze on the twin day bed or pull out for more room into a king.
Downstairs bedroom (1 king), and 1 pull out queen in the living area, a 2nd bathroom and another living room for lounging, movie night or cozying with a book by the fireplace. There’s also a Peloton and exercise equipment if you don’t want to skip leg day. Washer and dryer is downstairs and is also yours to use.
Both bathrooms are stocked with shampoo, body wash, and conditioner so you don't have to worry about a thing so you can freshen up after a day at the beach on the lake or slopes alike.
Don't worry about a baby sitter, bring the entire fam we have a pack and play, baby gate, and high chair available.
Two dedicated workspaces are available with large monitors to plug in a laptop (cables provided) and remote workers are welcomed and encourage to spend their workdays overlooking the forest. The house is equipped with ultra fast wifi and you can even take meetings out in the fresh air on the deck!
Guests have access to both floors, indoor space and deck of the tree house. There is a keypad on the front door for easy self check-in and check-out. We will send you a unique access code before you arrive.
Feel free to bring your furry friends along, under 55lbs. doggie's are welcome, with prior approval, message me for details. Not on furniture please :)
The driveway is on a slight incline and can fit up to 4 parked cars (a rarity in the mountains). Please do your best to squeeze in and avoid street parking. Guests must be able to navigate going up and down stairs to access this home. Unfortunately it is not ADA accessible.
- We want you to have fun but please be mindful of the neighbors & avoid loud noise or external speakers outdoors. Please be considerate of the quiet calm of the neighborhood between 9pm and 10am.
- No smoking indoors or outdoors as we are in a high fire risk area. We may fine you for any evidence of smoking.
- Fines for rule violation are issued by San Bernardino County (minimum of $1000) and will be the responsibility of the guest
-Your safety matters. There is Ring door located upstairs in addition to an exterior security camera facing the front outdoor entry and some of the driveway.
Snow Season Reminders:
*The Tree Top Chalet on a street that is plowed by the county. Please be sure to check weather conditions and CalTrans for updates prior to your arrival. On occasions, depending on in climate weather and road conditions, tire chains are mandated by CalTrans and you will not be allowed to drive up the mountain without them in snowy conditions. Please note there will be checkpoints set up along the road where there will also be people to assist with chain installation for a fee.
*Normal winter weather/road conditions are not grounds for reservation changes or cancellations.
*We can provide snow removal service before guest check in, there are snow shovels and additional salt for you to utilize during your stay. We are glad to coordinate additional snow shoveling/blowing services at cost if desired, just let us know :)
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$378
/ night
Bayview Bungalow
5. Bayview Bungalow
100%
(3)
15mi from Highland · 1 site
We host a cozy 3 bed/1 bath bungalow one block up from Boulder Bay in Big Bear Lake! We have kayaks for the lake in the summer and are a short drive to the slopes in winter. Spring and Fall bring gorgeous hikes and weather!
Fully stocked home for your comfort and fenced backyard with table and gas firepit. Dogs welcome.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from
$265
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jacob
December 2025
2 nights at Splitrock Farm and Retreat
Camping here was great! Seeing the goats and other animals roaming around was a sweet surprise. The VW bus we camped out in was comfortable and clean. Having restrooms and a shower nearby made it even better. Would recommend
See more
M
Michael
December 2025
With kids
This cabin really is straight out of a fairy tale! So many thoughtful touches made this cozy little cabin the perfect spot to bring my 9 year old on a short adventure to the mountains. The holiday decor added just the right whimsical touches to keep the magic of the season going while away from home. We will be back!
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M
Madeline
December 2025
3 nights at Splitrock Farm and Retreat
The view was stunning, the bus was comfy and was an added part of the experience for sure. Every morning I was woken up by the running of the goats lol. They would stop sometimes and hang out as well. Had a lovely solo camping trip here and would definitely return again!
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B
Brittany
November 2025
3 nights at Splitrock Farm and Retreat
Magical! Great response from host when I had questions before & after booking about what to bring. The VW bus was nice and warm at the end of November. Absolutely adored the goats: super sweet. I loved seeing ALL the animals there. There was not one thing I didn’t love about this campsite: private, lovely views, bathroom within close walking distance, literally all the things. 5/5 stars, 100% would do again.
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Kelly
November 2025
Group trip
The Bayview Bungalow was very cute and cozy. It had everything we needed for a fun weekend in Big Bear. The bungalow is close to the lake and village, and the hot tub is a nice bonus. Thanks for the hospitality, Melissa!
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A
Amanda
October 2025
1 night at Splitrock Farm and Retreat
Tucked away on a dirt hill, the bright orange VW bus sits shaded against a huge boulder. It opens completely in the back for a cool breeze and paints a retro picture. There are two metal chairs besides it.
I was expecting a picnic table, but that was absent. Luckily, I brought a table. The wooden platform below the bus was a really nice touch. I would have loved an outdoor rug to complete the look. I would recommend bringing your own lighting (lanterns, headlamps, lights). Overall, it's a unique, van life camping spot.
See moreS
Steve
September 2025
With kids
This is a great place to camp, and so close to home! Beautiful land. Petting the free-range goats was a plus. We stayed in the VW bus, which was really comfortable with the full-size mattress. Though I imaging tent camping would be great too.
See moreC
Charles
August 2025
2 nights at Splitrock Farm and Retreat
We had a great time staying at the VW bus! Amazing camp set up and not too far from town. Would highly recommend to anyone looking to get away for a weekend! I will be coming back.
See mores
squirrelygirl
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Storybook Nook- secluded cabin!
Lydia's little cabin really does feel like escaping into a cute, cozy fairytale in the woods. I loved all the little details in the furnishings and the natural wood everywhere inside was gorgeous. Perfect for a little retreat away.
The room upstairs is a little cramped for taller individuals, but we managed just fine! Also, the upstairs can get a little toasty in the afternoons, but even during a heat advisory we did ok - the downstairs space stayed plenty comfortable with the small AC unit - and the upstairs cooled down very pleasantly in the evening with the windows open.
Lots of birds (Seller's Jays, nuthatches, brown creepers, juncos and chickadees), squirrels and chipmunks to watch comfortably from the shaded bench outside. While there are a couple neighbors somewhat close by, it feels very private and quiet with how wooded the area is and being located off a private road. We had an exceptional time just lounging. I highly recommend Lydia's Storybook Nook if you're looking for a little magic and whimsy in your getaway. ;)
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E
Emma
August 2025
With kids
Thank you so much Daniel for such a wonderful trip! We had an amazing time at the cabin and felt right at home. We truly loved staying here and would love to come back. Thank you so much!
See moreS
Soula
August 2025
1 night at Splitrock Farm and Retreat
An amazing escape with so much to explore! A respite that allows you to fully disconnect.
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Regina
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Splitrock Farm and Retreat
We were expecting to see an abandoned bus that maaaaybe we would sleep in. However upon arriving we realized not only had they laid out full bedding in it but it was decorated with a cool bohemian/hippie vibe. There were even adorable twinkle lights in the interior. We stayed super warm at night and in the morning we were greeted by goats coming in from the oak grove. This is a nice quiet little area tucked uphill from the grove. We will definitely stay here again. Great time!
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Ranmalee
July 2025
3 nights at Splitrock Farm and Retreat
We loved Sunset Oaks VW Campsite. The hotwater shower was very easily accessible and the flushing toilet a short walk down was an added bonus.
Unfortunately, we only spent 1 night at this site, no fault of the hosts. There was a huge ant infestation on the VW van mattress. Luckily we took a tent and all of us slept in it. The next morning when I brought this us to the hosts he was kind and understanding and upgraded us to Palomar Vista (renamed Sunrise Vista) in the Splitrock Valley area. Seems like this is a newer part of this farm and retreat site.
Palomar Vista was perfect. Had a camping stove, a comfortable bed, essential cooking utensils, and an awesome heat reflecting rock fire pit. We spent two wonderful nights here.
The flushing toilet and shower were clean and an added bonus.
The animals; goats, llamas, pigs, chickens and the two friendly herding dogs add to this wonderful location.
Just a note, beat get to the site during daylight hours as the drive on Harris trail has cliffs, and blind bends and is a one lane road.
We truly enjoyed our time there and what made it even more special was the understanding and kindness of the host.
We will definitely be back soon.
Thank You!
See moreA
Andrea
June 2025
4 nights at Storybook Nook- secluded cabin!
I absolutely loved this place. There are so many thoughtful details that make it so lovely and cozy. It's a great place if you are looking to escape for a while and feel like you are in your own little world.
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Vannia
June 2025
With kids
I loved the whole experience! The host is very nice and asked how we were doing and if we needed anything when we met her at the store both days we stayed. I must say that the cute van is more for a couple only. I went with my two daughters, as Hipcamp allowed to reserve for 3 people and I thought there was space for three. The host offered to move somewhere else but we decided to stay there because we arrived late and we are tiny anyways lol. It’s very private! Toilet accesible 2 minutes walk, not so far away. The site has its own fire pit, so it was perfect for a s’mores night :) we added the e-bike experience and went around the property for 1.5 hours. It was beautiful to bike before the sunset! Also, we enjoyed some time with the goats and alpaca that were chilling by the camp store. They go everywhere and they are very friendly! Also the two dogs are super friendly. You can see Jackrabbits and many different birds. If you like animals and nature and going off grid, this is your place to go :)
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Elayna
June 2025
1 night at Storybook Nook- secluded cabin!
I can't recommend this place enough! I wish I could have stayed longer. You feel like you're tucked away in a magical forest. There is so much to do around Lake Arrowhead, but Lydia and David have thought of truly everything to make you feel right at home in this cabin! There is so much intentionality in every spec of detail. Will definitely be back!
See moreD
Dominic
May 2025
With pets
Nice location. There’s goats and pigs and two friendly dogs
See moreB
Ben
May 2025
With pets
Wow! This place delivers. Every detail is impeccable and compelling. No hidden surprises. Hosts are gracious and helpful. Highly recommended!!!
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Sofia
May 2025
With pets
We only stayed one night at Melissa’s hilltop bungalow but it truly felt like a full getaway. The location is peaceful and just tucked away enough to feel like an escape, with a glimpse of the lake from the porch and a park nearby where you can launch the kayaks she provides.
The bungalow was spotless, cozy, and had everything we needed. We travel with our yellow lab and loved how dog friendly it was. We cooked, watched movies, and ended the night soaking in the hot tub under the stars.
As a couple who usually camps, this was such a treat. The perfect mix of nature and comfort. We didn’t want to leave and are already planning to come back for a longer stay.
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K
Kayleigh
April 2025
2 nights at Splitrock Farm and Retreat
If you Love animals, nature, quiet, stars, beautiful walks, kind staff don't look an further. I had the best time. I'm coming back to stay longer . Maybe even for life. ;) animals were so friendly, people there helped me so much. Please do go.
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The best dog-friendly glamping sites near Highland guide
Where to go
San Bernardino National Forest
Spanning over 800,000 acres, San Bernardino National Forest is right in Highland’s backyard. One of the biggest highlights is San Gorgonio Mountain (aka “Old Greyback”) among the San Gorgonio Wilderness. It’s the highest mountain in all of Southern California—towering at an elevation of 11,500 ft. The strenuous hike to the top treats adventurers to stunning summit views of the surrounding ponderosa pine and white fir forest. The forest also contains several notable lakes, including Big Bear Lake and Lake Gregory, which offer fishing, boating, and water sports. Both public and private campgrounds near the forest offer RV hookups, picnic tables, and restrooms.
Angeles National Forest
Northwest of Highland, Angeles National Forest is home to Mount San Antonio. Affectionately known as Mount Baldy, the 10,064-foot peak sits among the San Gabriel Mountains. Discover unique landmarks like the Bridge to Nowhere and the ruins of the old Mount Lowe Railway while exploring the trails. This national forest also offers a unique Mediterranean ecosystem that lets campers view natural California wildlife like bobcats, Nelson bighorn sheep, and yellow-backed spiny lizards. More primitive tent campsites in the forest don’t have water; however, there are some that have more modern conveniences like restrooms.
Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
Camping at Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park is a year-round treat for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. Walk among the blooming wildflowers in spring and go horseback riding along the park’s many miles of trails. Near the creek, children can enjoy a playground. Ranger-guided nature walks and naturalist programs offer more insight into the local plants and wildlife, like the ring-necked snake and red swamp crayfish. Some RV and tent campsites in the park have water and electric hookups, plus barbecue grills and hot showers. Group campsites and equestrian campgrounds are also available.
When to go
Highland can get hot and arid in the summer with an average temperature in the 90s during July and August. This is a great time for water-based activities at nearby lakes or pools. Winter is colder at higher elevations and in the desert, with snowfall possible in some mountain areas. Some mountain ranges offer skiing and snowboarding during the winter months. While bass fishing is available year-round, anglers may find spring to be the best fishing season. For birdwatchers, the spring and fall migrations bring a great variety of migratory birds like orioles and warblers.