A group of us (20 friends, including 9 kids ages 4-6 years) went camping here recently. I didn't find too much information on this particular campground when I was doing research on where we should go, so I thought I'd add a bit now in case others are considering this spot in the future.
It's a pretty awesome spot, at the very end of a road that winds through some other campgrounds in Big Bear. The campsite can easily accommodate 7 family-size tents, and there is plenty of shade under towering pine trees, a vault toilet just far enough away that any smells don't come anywhere near the camp, and it's impeccably maintained by the campground hosts. Add in several picnic tables, a taller prep table near a ginormous double-sided grill, a large fire ring for your nightly marshmallow toasts, a water spigot and miles upon miles of open space and starry skies -- it all adds up to an excellent site for a large group.
It's especially great for folks with kids, as the loop at the end of the road is paved and all our kids had fun riding their scooters and we felt safe with them doing so. There are hiking trails nearby that are tame enough for little ones, and although the sound of Highway 38 can be heard at night, for the most part, this site really makes you feel like you've escaped the zaniness and overwhelming claustrophobic pressure of the city.
There are several group campsites in this area of Big Bear (about 20 miles west of Big Bear Lake), and I think this is one of the best if you are looking for solitude and privacy. The other campsites as we drove in were also very spread out, adding to the feeling of overall privacy in the area. Firewood can be purchased at a nearby market (be forewarned, it's not always open), but you are also allowed to collect small amounts you find on the forest floor (if a ban hasn't been imposed on campfires, which can depend on the time of season you go -- be sure to call and also stop by the Mill Creek Work Center or Barton Flats Visitor Center to chat with the rangers before going up to get updated on any changes in regulations).
The ONLY downside would be that it is dusty -- our kids were constantly caked in a fine powder of dust (they didn't care, they were having the time of their lives) as were all our clothes, etc. So don't go expecting a grassy meadow, but just take more than the usual amount of clothing for everyone, wash basins to fill with the water provided at the site, and some washcloths, and you'll be good to go! Enjoy the beautiful outdoors!! read more