River, stream, or creek camping near Big Bear Lake

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

87% (361 reviews)
87% (361 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Big Bear Lake

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

88%
(65)

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.
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$44.99
 / night
98%
(61)

Hidden Falls Preserve

16 sites · Tents56 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 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 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 within the Conservation Area, 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.
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$35
 / night
91%
(50)

Hot Spring camp

31 sites · RVs, Tents161 acres · Apple Valley, CA
This off the grid property is the perfect place to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature. Nestled in the mountains of the high desert, we invite you to come stay in a peaceful serene setting where nature and wildlife encompasses you on this rural property surrounded by 1,000s of acres of undeveloped BLM and US Forestry land. Come escape from the city and relax at a place where you can enjoy yourself amongst others or be by yourself in your own private campsite. With 160 acres, there is lots of room for your large group to spread out or find a more private site to seclude yourself! Set up your campsite and park your vehicle at any of our developed sites that have a patch of turf, picnic tables and fire pits (grills available). Flushing toilets, pits toilets, potable water, and showers on site. 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. The creek water in the Deep Creek canyon flows all year around, as does the hot spring source water that feeds the 6 creek-side hot pools, ranging in temperatures between 90F-108F. Weather can be extreme at times, with Winter temps ranging from 20*F to 40* F, and Summer temps reaching 112F+. 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. Although children are permitted on the property, 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 Camp is part of the historic Bowen Ranch property that was homesteaded in 1924. This property 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 and we welcome everyone to come visit! Generally, we always have sites available and reservations are not necessary, but reserved sites are located in a more private area set aside for Hipcamp reservations with separate facilities from the general camping area. See our webpage deepcreekhotspringscampground.com for detailed driving directions to our property with the official trailhead located right on site.
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$44.99
 / night
99%
(130)

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
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$196
 / night
100%
(21)

High Desert DreamCloud

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Yucca Valley, CA
In this quaint B&B, you'll find a unique sleep cloud surrounded by gorgeous views, that's just 15 minutes away from stunning Joshua Tree National Park and 7 minutes to Pappy & Harriets Red Dog Saloon & Pioneertown. Indulge in the ultimate relaxation as you wake to the sunrise views and unwind in the private hot tub, sipping your morning coffee. Enjoy the moonrise by the fireplace. Stay connected with complimentary high-speed WiFi, Bluetooth speakers in your infrared sauna or order a sound bath prior to a private “Dinner in a dome” Truly a space to dream and soul search. Prepare or order lovely meals in the fully stocked kitchen, complete with mini fridge, air fryier mini toaster, bbq grill, a talavera pizza oven and cozy outdoor dining area. Dine alfresco on the balcony or gather around the fire pit or dip in the hot tub for the moonrise. Enjoy access to yoga mats, minimal weights, tarot card games for entertainment, backgammon etc.. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this property offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Discover the natural wonders of Joshua Tree National Park, just a short drive away. Experience the ultimate in relaxation and exploration during your stay. Indulge in your own Moroccan tiled Outdoor Private Shower feat. Glass bowl sink and brand new toilet with a heater and solar lighting plus hot water on demand walking several feet away from your Chill Zone area and DreamCloud. This Spot is A VIBE. We hope you enjoy it and bring your own piece of magic with you. We welcome all humans and pets happily. Raise your Frequency & Energy Levels What Happens HERE in the Desert? Feel the pull to Meditate & Yoga on our New White OakWood Floors Book a Soundbath or Dinner in a Dome (available upon request in the "extra's" section * Set Your Intentions in a DreamCloud in the Sky Relax, Unplug, Decompress, Soul Search, Social Distance Private Sound bath 7 Crystal Shakra singing bowls and SONIC HEALING handpan. Tarot Readings & Healers on site upon availability (inquire to book in advance) Nearby: Pioneertown's Red Dog Saloon, the Wild West shops, Pappy & Harriets, Kitchen in the Desert in 29 Palms, Joshua Tree Music Festival, Art Walk, Art shops etc. Noah Purifoy exhibit, Palm Springs Tram & Restaurants (approx 30-35 min. drive). JOSHUA TREE hiking, rock climbing and cycling (approx 15-20 min. drive). Whitewater Preserve is about 30 minute drive - pet friendly, quiet and you can get in the water most days, clean pristine hiking , picnic areas with park rangers on site. (approx 30-35 min. drive). Also Possible for your Stay: BREAKFAST in BED or DINNER IN A DOME. (inquire) Our Mostly Mediterranean Cuisine prepared Farm to Table. Meals vary from Salmon, Red Argentinian Shrimps over rice or pastas, to Greek Fasolakia, Fakkes (lentils), Araka, Yemista, Moussaka Pastichio etc. Appetizers include but not limited to, Greek Lemon Potatoes, Zucchini Fritters, Greek Yogurt, Olives, Whole Artichokes with Aioli, etc. Desserts also included. Vegan, Vegetarian & Seafood options - Bon Appetit! Enhanced Cleaning Protocol SkyView for Stargazing Panoramic Sunrise/Moonrise views Infrared Sauna in Dome Gazebo Hot Springs Hot Tub Canopy Controlled Gazebo over loungers on Deck Gas FirePit in Cozy Chill Zone area Adirondack wood Fire Pit on Shower side Lower Deck Beanbag loungers with Cast Iron Wood Burning Chiminea and Infrared lit rug Rustic Private Outdoor Shower ( hot water on demand) Nature Trails walking distance Horseback riding Wood Pellet BBQ/Smoker/ 3 FirePits (Gas, Chiminea, Adirondack Deck) Cozy Patio Area - private Bistro on Deck Talavera Pizza Oven, Mini Hibachi Grill Rad Vibes Local Restaurants, ( the Red Dog, Pappys, CopperRoom,Kitchen in the Desert,SnakeBite ) Our entire backyard area with its own private lit entrance for you. Private parking space down the driveway Area designed to accommodate 1-3 people comfortably. The Chill Zone Deck overlooks city views Downtown Joshua Tree and right outside your door, You can hike thru the mountains Pioneertown all thru the valley. Enhanced Cleaning Protocol No Dirt Roads to the property Set Your Intentions in our latest DreamCloud (2024) Inquire about DezDome Recording Studio and Guest room or Sunray109 camper on site for Accomodation
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$208.25
 / night
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.
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$45
 / night
100%
(21)

Camp Durrwood

9 sites · Tents29 acres · Big Bear City, CA
** Note: If you are booking for December or January, please contact me before hand to give you date on road conditions. 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.
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$300
 / night

Under $50

Star Hosts in Big Bear Lake

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
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!

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