Big Bear Lake is one of Southern California’s most popular mountain camping destinations, sitting in the San Bernardino National Forest about two hours from Los Angeles. People come for the cool summer temperatures, fishing, and easy access to the lake, but the camping experience can vary depending where you stay.
Some places are better for large RVs with hookups, while others are geared toward tent campers looking for a quieter setting. Choosing the right campground usually has more to do with your camping style than picking the one closest to the water.
This guide compares the best Big Bear camping locations, explains who each campground is best suited for, and covers the practical details that matter before you book, including reservations, RV access, amenities, and what campers commonly mention in recent reviews.
TL;DR
- Serrano Campground is the best all-around choice for easy lake access, spacious campsites, and a mix of RV and tent camping.
- Pineknot Campground is a strong fit for families and hikers thanks to its location near Aspen Glen Picnic Area and popular trails.
- Holcomb Valley is one of the better places to look for dispersed camping near Big Bear if you’re comfortable with fewer amenities and rougher roads.
Big Bear Camping Locations at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview before we get into the details. Each campground offers a different experience, so think about how you like to camp before narrowing your options.
- Serrano Campground: Best all-around campground for RVs and tents, with lakeside access, modern amenities, and reservations through Recreation.gov.
- Pineknot Campground: Best for hiking and family camping, with easy access to trails, the lake, and Big Bear Village.
- Hanna Flat Campground: Best for a quieter forest setting among pines, with larger campsites and cooler temperatures than the lakeshore.
- Holcomb Valley Campground: Best for campers looking for a more rustic experience, with access to historic mining areas and nearby dispersed camping.
- Holloway’s Marina RV Park: Best for RV travelers who want full hookups and the convenience of staying right on the lake.
- Big Bear Shores RV Resort: Best for resort-style RV camping with full hookups, paved sites, and nearby restaurants and shopping.
- Holcomb Valley Ranch: Best for campers who prefer a ranch setting with horseback riding and a quieter atmosphere away from the busiest parts of Big Bear.
Best Big Bear Camping Locations
The best campground depends on the kind of trip you’re planning. Some places put you within walking distance of the lake, while others trade waterfront views for quieter forests, easier RV access, or a little more elbow room on busy weekends.
Serrano Campground
Serrano Campground is one of the most popular public campgrounds in Big Bear, offering tent and RV sites with drinking water, flush toilets, showers, and a dump station. Although there are no hookups, it’s well suited to many RVs and is close to boating, fishing, and the Alpine Pedal Path.
Reservations are required for most stays and fill quickly during summer. Campers consistently praise the clean facilities, spacious sites, and convenient lakeside location.
Pineknot Campground
Pineknot Campground offers tent sites and smaller RV sites without hookups on the south shore of Big Bear Lake. It’s close to Pine Knot Trail, Aspen Glen Picnic Area, and Big Bear Village, making it a favorite for active campers.
Reservations are recommended well in advance. Reviews frequently mention the great trail access and family-friendly setting, though campsites can feel close together.
Hanna Flat Campground
Located northwest of the lake, Hanna Flat offers tent and RV sites without hookups in a heavily wooded setting. Amenities include drinking water and vault toilets, with reservations available during the camping season.
Many campers choose it for the peaceful atmosphere, larger campsites, and cooler temperatures, even though it’s farther from the lake.
Holcomb Valley Campground
Holcomb Valley Campground is a small Forest Service campground with basic amenities and no hookups. It’s suitable for tents and smaller RVs, with nearby hiking trails, historic mining sites, and dispersed camping areas.
Campers appreciate the quiet surroundings and easy access to public land but recommend arriving prepared since services are limited.
Holloway’s Marina RV Park
Holloway’s Marina RV Park offers full-hookup RV sites with amenities such as showers, laundry facilities, and marina access. It accommodates a variety of RV sizes and is a convenient base for boating, fishing, and exploring Big Bear Village.
Reviews often highlight the lakeside location and helpful staff.
Big Bear Shores RV Resort
Big Bear Shores RV Resort features full-hookup RV sites with modern amenities in a convenient location near the lake. It works well for larger rigs and longer stays, with easy access to restaurants and shopping.
Campers also commonly mention the well-maintained grounds and spacious sites.
Holcomb Valley Ranch
Holcomb Valley Ranch offers tent camping, RV sites, and other accommodations in a peaceful setting away from the busiest parts of Big Bear. Hookup availability varies by site, and activities include horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Campers often mention the relaxed atmosphere and unique ranch experience.
RV Camping in Big Bear
Big Bear is a popular destination for RVs, but not every campground is equally suited to larger rigs. Public campgrounds like Serrano generally accommodate a range of RV sizes, while private parks such as Holloway’s Marina RV Park and Boulder Bay RV Resort offer full hookups and are often the easiest option for bigger motorhomes and fifth wheels. Always check the campground’s maximum RV length before reserving, as some sites are much easier to access than others.
The lake also sits at nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, so expect cooler nights even during summer. Mountain roads leading into Big Bear include steep grades and tight curves, making it a good idea to descend slowly, use lower gears, and arrive during daylight if it’s your first visit.
Campendium RV PRO members can also use RV-Safe Navigation to find routes based on their RV’s height, weight, and propane restrictions. If Big Bear is one stop on a longer trip, the Trip Planner can help you map the route and compare campgrounds near each leg before you start driving.
If you’re staying at a campground without hookups, plan ahead for fresh water, battery power, and waste tanks. Serrano Campground has a dump station, while many private RV parks include full hookups with water, sewer, and electricity. Propane is available in the Big Bear Lake area, along with grocery stores, fuel stations, and other supplies.
But before you book, compare recent Campendium reviews for notes about road access and how well different campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. They can help you avoid surprises, especially if you’re traveling with a big rig or towing a trailer.
Reservations, Seasons, and What to Know Before You Go
Most Big Bear campgrounds accept reservations, and the most popular ones can fill months before peak season. If you’re planning a summer trip or visiting over a holiday weekend, reserve as early as possible.
If your preferred campground is sold out, Campendium RV PRO members can set a CAMPalert and receive a text when a campsite becomes available after a cancellation.
Keep these seasonal considerations in mind:
- Summer: The busiest time of year, especially on Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day weekends.
- Weekdays: Generally quieter, with better campsite availability and fewer crowds.
- Winter: Snow, icy roads, and chain requirements are common. Check weather and road conditions before you drive.
- Wildfire season: Fire restrictions, campground closures, and air quality can change quickly. Always check current Forest Service updates before your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Serrano Campground is the best all-around choice for most campers thanks to its lakeside location, modern amenities, and suitability for both tents and RVs. If you prefer a quieter forest setting, Hanna Flat is another excellent option.
Camping is only allowed in designated campgrounds or approved dispersed camping areas within the San Bernardino National Forest. Always follow posted regulations and seasonal fire restrictions.
Free camping is available in designated dispersed camping areas near Big Bear, including parts of Holcomb Valley and select Yellow Post sites in the San Bernardino National Forest. Services are limited, and some roads may require higher-clearance vehicles.
Serrano Campground is a great public option for many RVs, while Holloway’s Marina RV Park, Big Bear Shores RV Resort, and Boulder Bay RV Resort offer full hookups and amenities for a more comfortable stay.
Reservations are strongly recommended for most public campgrounds, especially from late spring through early fall and on holiday weekends. Popular campgrounds often book months in advance.
Late spring through early fall offers the best weather for most campers. Summer is ideal for lake activities, while weekdays in spring and fall are often quieter and easier to book.
Find More Big Bear Camping Locations With Campendium
Still deciding where to stay? Campendium makes it easy to compare Big Bear campgrounds side by side so you can find the one that fits your trip. Browse recent camper reviews, view campground photos, and filter results by RV length, hookups, pet-friendly sites, lake access, free camping, and cell signal.
Whether you’re planning a weekend by the water or looking for a quieter campsite in the forest, you can compare your options with confidence before you book with Campendium.
