The best camping in Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area, CA

Just west of Los Angeles, Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area is a popular spot for day use and overnight visitors alike, offering ample hiking trails, picnic areas, and biking and horseback riding opportunities, plus a massive lake that's ideal for kayaking and waterskiing. The park's Mesa Campground offers 136 campsites with fire rings (including RV sites with full hookups), plus showers, flush toilets, and a dump station. Seven tent sites are designated for hikers, many of whom are braving the Pacific Crest Trail, which runs through the park. There are also three group campgrounds with picnic tables, barbecue grills, restrooms, and showers.

1. Campsites can be reserved up to six months in advance on the California State Parks website or over the phone. Same-day reservations are also available.
2. It’s a good idea to book as early in advance as you can, particularly if you have your heart set on a summer weekend stay.
3. The maximum length for RVs is 30 feet (24 feet for campers). If your RV/trailer is too long, you'll need to look elsewhere or consider tent camping instead. 
4. If you can’t secure a spot at Silverwood Lake SRA, look into camping in the adjacent San Bernardino National Forest instead.

Summer is the busiest time at Silverwood, and the weather is at its hottest from July through September. October is a great time to visit, when the crowds are fewer and temperatures are still warm, with average highs in the mid-70s. Winters are mild, with average temperatures in the 40s and 50s. While it may be too cold to hang out on the lake, it’s worth visiting to attend one of the winter bald eagle tours, which take place from January through March.

• You can pick up groceries and supplies in Hesperia, a few minutes from the park by car.
• While park staff tests Silverwood Lake for blue-green algae weekly, there's still a risk of coming in contact with the harmful bacteria. To keep safe, avoid getting water in your mouth, don’t swim with open cuts, and make a point of showering after spending time on the lake.
• Dogs are allowed at the campground, but are not allowed on the swimming beaches.
• Fire bans are common during high-risk periods, but camp stoves are generally still allowed.