Lake Camping in Southern California, California: Best Lake Campsites 2024

United States
—
California
—
Southern California

86% (434 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Southern California

Available this weekend

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(1)

The Honey Bear Cabin

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Green Valley Lake, CA

Welcome to our stunning Honey Bear Cabin within 5 min walking distance of Green Valley Lake. Step inside to discover a stylish interior adorned with sleek furnishings and chic decor. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, the Honey Bear Cabin is the perfect escape for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying all the comforts of home. Book your stay today and experience the magic of Green Valley Lake firsthand!

96%

(103)

Lakeshore Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lake Elsinore, CA

Enjoy a private lakefront camping area on Lake Elsinore. You will never get tired of the beautiful sunsets, night sky, or all the water-sports on the lake. Historic downtown is just minutes away where you will find restaurants, and stores all within walking distance. Perfect place for a basecamp for nearby hiking, biking, off-roading. Amenities include private dock, potable water, deluxe porta-potty, fire ring, 2 picnic tables(under a 10' x 10' canopy with water mister), and some shady trees🌴

94%

(160)

Get Lost Inn - Cabin Rentals

36 sites · Lodging1 acre · Running Springs, CA

Escape to the San Bernardino mountains and experience the ultimate mountain retreat! Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin for a romantic getaway, or a spacious lodge for a family vacation, we've got you covered. With a dozen stunning cabins to choose from, we offer the perfect accommodation for all seasons and activities. Embrace the winter wonderland with skiing and snowboarding, or explore the great outdoors with hiking, rock climbing, and fishing. Or simply unwind and relax in the serene mountain surroundings. Our cabins are conveniently located in Green Valley Lake, Big Bear, Running Springs, and Lake Arrowhead, each offering its own unique charm and adventure. Let us be your host and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Book your stay with us today and discover the magic of the San Bernardino mountains!

88%

(8)

The Little Red Box - Big Bear cabin

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Big Bear City, CA

Come stay at this adorable tiny cabin, close to many of the attractions Big Bear has to offer. 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom and a great open living room with dining area and woodburning stove. All the necessities are stocked in the small fully functional kitchen. Full size refrigerator and stove, pots, dishes and utensils for your use. Microwave, coffee maker and toaster oven as well. This place is tiny but mighty, you will find all the comforts of home. Bring your furry friends to play in the fenced backyard. New deck and hot tub for those chilly nights.

Nalas Lake Play

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lake Elsinore, CA

Welcome to Lake Elsinore!! Im excited to be your host and help you make some great memories! This land does have a slope. But it also has a flap spot ontop perfect for camping with some amazing lake views and some gorgeous night skys. The stars feel so close to you that you think you can just reach out and grab them! There is a paved road that leads to the top of the street which is the most recommended way to get to this property since the road that google maps gives you is not paved and its too narrow for some cars. You are close to homes and stores. But your also secluded away to give you some privacy. Making you feel at one with nature. This small town is sourrended by loving people making it a jewel not just for the views and lake. This land is perfect for camping tents, Glamping tents, 4x4 Car Campers, and even small RVs(There is a small slope to get up into the property so make sure your RV is capable). The Property is just 3 minutes away from Lake Elsinore, here you can fish, swim, BBq, and many more activity that the lake offers. Being so close to it makes you want to be out there all day and come back at night to enjoy your night shows on the property with the stars. The property seize is 0.11 acres which is 4,791sq Feet. Only about 800sq Feet has a slope the rest is just flat land ontop. That gives you 3,800+ sq feet of land to just enjoy and have fun on!

12 top lakeside campgrounds in Southern California

96%

(103)

Lakeshore Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lake Elsinore, CA

Enjoy a private lakefront camping area on Lake Elsinore. You will never get tired of the beautiful sunsets, night sky, or all the water-sports on the lake. Historic downtown is just minutes away where you will find restaurants, and stores all within walking distance. Perfect place for a basecamp for nearby hiking, biking, off-roading. Amenities include private dock, potable water, deluxe porta-potty, fire ring, 2 picnic tables(under a 10' x 10' canopy with water mister), and some shady trees🌴

Get Lost Inn - Cabin Rentals

36 sites · Lodging1 acre · Running Springs, CA

Escape to the San Bernardino mountains and experience the ultimate mountain retreat! Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin for a romantic getaway, or a spacious lodge for a family vacation, we've got you covered. With a dozen stunning cabins to choose from, we offer the perfect accommodation for all seasons and activities. Embrace the winter wonderland with skiing and snowboarding, or explore the great outdoors with hiking, rock climbing, and fishing. Or simply unwind and relax in the serene mountain surroundings. Our cabins are conveniently located in Green Valley Lake, Big Bear, Running Springs, and Lake Arrowhead, each offering its own unique charm and adventure. Let us be your host and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Book your stay with us today and discover the magic of the San Bernardino mountains!

The Honey Bear Cabin

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Green Valley Lake, CA

Welcome to our stunning Honey Bear Cabin within 5 min walking distance of Green Valley Lake. Step inside to discover a stylish interior adorned with sleek furnishings and chic decor. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, the Honey Bear Cabin is the perfect escape for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying all the comforts of home. Book your stay today and experience the magic of Green Valley Lake firsthand!

95%

(53)

The Engels Nest

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Green Valley Lake, CA

Been coming to this magical part of the San bernardino mountains since I was a little girl. I learned to ski here when there was an old ski hill and tow ropes! Lots of mountain trails to hit! My Father and Grandfather both spent time here and nothing has changed! We just recently remodeled our little slice of heaven! It is single story with all open beam ceilings, wood floors throughout and hiking right out the door to miles and miles of trails! Stunning sunsets, a cute town with lots of live music. You will fall in Love with Green Valley Lake!

Nalas Lake Play

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lake Elsinore, CA

Welcome to Lake Elsinore!! Im excited to be your host and help you make some great memories! This land does have a slope. But it also has a flap spot ontop perfect for camping with some amazing lake views and some gorgeous night skys. The stars feel so close to you that you think you can just reach out and grab them! There is a paved road that leads to the top of the street which is the most recommended way to get to this property since the road that google maps gives you is not paved and its too narrow for some cars. You are close to homes and stores. But your also secluded away to give you some privacy. Making you feel at one with nature. This small town is sourrended by loving people making it a jewel not just for the views and lake. This land is perfect for camping tents, Glamping tents, 4x4 Car Campers, and even small RVs(There is a small slope to get up into the property so make sure your RV is capable). The Property is just 3 minutes away from Lake Elsinore, here you can fish, swim, BBq, and many more activity that the lake offers. Being so close to it makes you want to be out there all day and come back at night to enjoy your night shows on the property with the stars. The property seize is 0.11 acres which is 4,791sq Feet. Only about 800sq Feet has a slope the rest is just flat land ontop. That gives you 3,800+ sq feet of land to just enjoy and have fun on!

The Little Red Box - Big Bear cabin

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Big Bear City, CA

Come stay at this adorable tiny cabin, close to many of the attractions Big Bear has to offer. 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom and a great open living room with dining area and woodburning stove. All the necessities are stocked in the small fully functional kitchen. Full size refrigerator and stove, pots, dishes and utensils for your use. Microwave, coffee maker and toaster oven as well. This place is tiny but mighty, you will find all the comforts of home. Bring your furry friends to play in the fenced backyard. New deck and hot tub for those chilly nights.

100%

(327)

Villa Macala

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Hemet, CA

Villa Macala is a 20-acre oasis of detailed landscape, orchards and Southern CA native planting while complimenting the natural rocks and gorgeous views. This master planned 20 acres is a great escape from city life. Come take in the views, enjoy the many hiking trails and rest in the peace, quiet and beauty of Villa Macala. *NOTE: Scroll down to RV/Tent sites to book for a larger tent camping party over 4 people or for a camper van under 14 feet. Overlooking the Hemet Valley with gorgeous panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains, Villa Macala is reminiscent of an Italian Villa. The property landscape includes Olive Orchards throughout, a growing vineyard, fig trees, pomegranate trees and more set in the natural rock landscape. (NOTE: We have tent camp sites only and can accommodate camper vans and truck campers depending on size and which site selected, however we CANNOT accommodate pull behind trailers, pull behind campers or RVs of any kind). Villa Macala is 15 minutes from Diamond Valley Lake where you can enjoy a wildflower trail, fishing or mountain bike trails, museum and water park. It is 20-30 minutes to Pachea Trail and Simpson Park where you can enjoy more great hiking and mountain bike trails. It is also a 30-minute drive to Temecula Wine Country. Enjoy walking the grounds of the 20 acres and taking in the views. We have 2 outdoor bathrooms, one was most recently added one at our Elderberry Camp Site (site 1), closer to site 4 our Oaks Campsite as well. (Please note our 2nd bathroom is a good walk uphill from the campsites). Currently the bathroom closer to the sites has a toilet and sink and shower still to come. Our larger bathroom (a little walk uphill) campers can use with a shower and small fridge to store your food. We also have a playground with swing set for kids to enjoy. Please bring your own tents. OTHER SUGGESTED ITEMS TO BRING: Your own fire wood, cooking wood, starter material, lighters, utensils, etc. We offer firewood bundles for $7 you can choose to purchase at time of booking or bring cash. Your own cooler to store food close to your site and grill that you need on hand since the small fridge is a good walk from those 2 places. We sell bags of ice for $4. Bring cash if you would like to purchase. Your own camp chairs. Easy up shade. Sunblock, cool clothes. We are closed for the bulk of summer but at times daytime temperatures can reach 90+ even in late spring and early fall. Please bring your own towels for shower use. The towels provided in there are for orchard workers during the week. Thank you! PLEASE NOTE: Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance. Please make sure to select the site you wish to stay at. SITE AVAILABILITY AND OPTIONS: We have 4 Tent Sites available and A Teardrop Trailer Site. All sites have fire-pits and picnic tables. SITE 1: Elderberry Park. This site is for a large group up to 12 people. Chose site 1 for groups larger then 4 people and groups with children. There is shade cover over the picnic table. *This is the only site that can accommodate a camper van. SITE 2: Olive Orchard. This site is located on the perimeter of our olive orchards overlooking the San Jacinto Mountains. This site can fit up to 2 tents and we recommend a maximum of 4 people. SITE 3: Private Corner. This site is in a private far corner of the property. We recommend a maximum of 4 people and have determined that for safety reasons this site is for adults only. If Site 3 is chosen it would require a Polaris Shuttle from the Camp Host down to the site, a car will not be able to go direct. SITE 4: This site is under the Oak Trees and is a very small site suitable only for 1-2 people max. TEARDROP TRAILER SITE: See listing for details. Sleeps 2 comfortably if guests are under 6 feet. *All tent sites can be shown to camp guests for decision and viewing upon arrival unless multiple groups are booked. All sites have either a covered firepit or a wood burning stove and all a picnic table. *We do our best to keep our maximum capacity of 12 campers at one time. FIRES: No fires are to be lit by the campers without verbal consent from property owner and instruction. SEE property owner/camp host upon arrival about what you may use on the property. He will provide instructions. If you have questions prior to check-in, please message us. Bring your own fire wood, starter material, lighters, utensils, etc. TASTINGS: Macala Orchards Olive Oil, Various Jellies and Jams & Pomegranate Juice all made from what we grow are available for tasting upon request. Please let us know prior to arrival if you are interested in a scheduled tasting during your stay! We can provide a tasting only if we have the proper staff during your visit to accommodate. Our products are available for purchase, with or without a tasting. We recommend you bring cash if you are interested. We also take Venmo! Thank you.

100%

(2)

Adventure Awaits

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Green Valley Lake, CA

This is a cabin that has a large loft area and one bath. It has a fully equipped kitchen and front porch for outdoor dining. Easy access to trails and ski resort. We have access to the Green Valley lake where you can paddle board, kayak or canoe. Fireplace for those cold nights. Loft upstairs sleeps four comfortably.

100%

(19)

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 over landers 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.

Holistic Health Day Spa & Lodge

8 sites · Lodging, RVs3 acres · Wrightwood, CA

Holistic Health Day Spa & Lodge is located 6,300 ft in the Los Angeles National Forest. This site is located in the breathtaking mountains of Wrightwood, C.A. The property is located on approximately three (3) acres of rural land. Approximately, five (5) miles west is many hiking adventures not to mention zip-line! Fishing is always a relaxing way to start or end your day at our local lake. So come on up to to a relaxing, and fun-filled day and camp out with us ! You just may stay longer than you want! This private space is a large 600 square foot open wall suite. It offers a king size bed, with two additional pull out twin sofa beds. This suite sleeps up to 4 comfortably. We do not exceed four guests. Please message us about our Signature Spa Treatments & Packages! We can also accommodate special themes, business gatherings and presentations. Please message us for details. We have a large back patio with cooking grills, Screen Projector and screen for outdoor theater. We also offer a wide range of Holistic Day Spa Services.

Serenity Pines

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Lake Arrowhead, CA

Welcome to Serenity Pines! Enjoy the serenity of the mountains, surrounded by pine trees & blue jays. Adjacent to Grass Valley Lake & the Lake Arrowhead Country Club & just 5 minutes from the Lake Arrowhead Village. Skypark & Santa's Village are approximately 15 minutes away & ski resorts are a short drive.

Hogan House

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Wildomar, CA

We live in a mobile home on my property with a travel trailer that is off to the side. I would love to have people stay so that they can enjoy what our location has to offer and give you a comfortable stay! Bring your toys the property is gated. The travel trailer fits about 4 comfortably and we have boat parking or two car parking that’s in a gated property!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

92%

(224)

Angeles National Forest

La Crescenta Montrose, California

95%

(76)

Cleveland National Forest

Descanso, California

93%

(15)

Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

Crestline, California

94%

(141)

San Bernardino National Forest

La Quinta, California

79%

(12)

Lake Perris State Recreation Area

Moreno Valley, California

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Exploring the beautiful vast landscapes with friends, family, or a solo adventure will be an experience you won’t soon forget.

Lakeside camping in Southern California guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking for a camping experience near the lake in Southern California, you're in luck. We have over 374 options available specifically in Southern California that cater to your preference. With an average price per night of $42 and options as low as $11, you can find the perfect campsite that fits your budget. Some of our top campsites in the area include DESERT DAISY - Joshua Tree rural (295 reviews), Owlbee Farm (175 reviews), and Arber-Moore's Ranch (158 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities such as potable water, showers, and are pet-friendly. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, you'll have plenty to do, including whitewater paddling, exploring historic sites, and biking. So get ready to immerse yourself in nature and create unforgettable memories at one of our Southern California lake campsites!