Boulder Group Camp
4.6510 reviewsSAN BERNARDINO, CA, USA
Boulder Group Camp
$149.00 - $149.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$149.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group site fees are $149 per night during peak season. An additional holiday fee of $10 applies for specific dates. Out-of-season reservations are unavailable.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the San Bernardino National Forest, Boulder Group Camp offers an exclusive retreat where large groups can gather beneath towering conifers and create lasting memories. This secluded haven combines the best of wilderness camping with thoughtful amenities, including spacious picnic areas, grills for outdoor feasts, and a central fire pit perfect for evening storytelling. The campground's remote location ensures your group enjoys uninterrupted privacy, while vault toilets provide essential comfort. Adventure awaits just beyond your tent, with miles of hiking and biking trails threading through the forest, and the sparkling waters of Big Bear Lake beckoning for kayaking, fishing, and swimming excursions.
Boulder Group Campground caters exclusively to large groups with a single tent-only site designed for up to 40 people. RVs are not permitted due to site constraints and the rough access road.
Historical SignificanceThough Boulder Group Camp's specific history remains unrecorded, it sits within the broader tapestry of the San Bernardino National Forest, a landscape that has welcomed outdoor enthusiasts for generations and continues to serve as a cherished gathering place for groups seeking connection with nature and each other.
Weather and SeasonsWhile January brings a hushed winter wonderland with crisp, cold air and gentle breezes rustling through snow-dusted pines, Boulder Group Camp truly comes alive in late spring and summer. As wildflowers carpet the forest floor and warm sunshine filters through the canopy, these seasons transform the campground into an outdoor paradise. Summer days are perfect for trail adventures and lake activities, while cool mountain evenings invite groups to gather around the campfire under star-filled skies.
ElevationPerched at mountain elevation within the San Bernardino range, Boulder Group Camp offers the refreshing thin air and cooler temperatures that make Southern California's high country such a coveted escape from the valleys below.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle whisper of wind through ancient conifers, their massive trunks creating natural cathedral columns around your camp. These mature giants provide a living canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor while offering blessed shade during warm afternoons. The nearby Seven Oaks Trail winds through this pristine wilderness, revealing hidden meadows and panoramic vistas. Just a short journey away, Big Bear Lake mirrors the sky and surrounding peaks, its crystal-clear waters inviting endless recreation and reflection.
Geological RegionBoulder Group Camp rests within the remarkable geological wonderland of the San Bernardino Mountains, where ancient granite peaks rise from the high desert to create an alpine oasis. This pine-covered sanctuary showcases Southern California's dramatic elevation changes, with dense conifer forests thriving in the mountain's unique microclimate. The interplay between rugged mountain terrain and the nearby Big Bear Lake basin creates diverse ecosystems that support everything from towering ponderosa pines to delicate wildflowers, making every hike an opportunity to discover the region's natural treasures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for people with disabilities are not detailed. The site is accessed via a rough dirt road, which may be challenging for some vehicles and visitors.
Sites SizeThe group site can accommodate up to 40 people and 8 vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe site offers significant privacy due to its secluded location and distance from other campers, as noted in user reviews.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviews suggest bringing a vehicle with high clearance and utilizing bear boxes for safety. Some users appreciate the privacy and the proximity to hiking trails.
Best CampsitesOnly one group campsite is available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights during a visit at the campground and within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 40 guests per group camping site.
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 40 people and eight vehicles. The site includes picnic tables, grills, and a campfire circle. It is specifically designed for tent-only camping and does not allow RVs.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of one large group campsite equipped with multiple picnic tables and a central fire pit.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 18 to October 3 annually. Closed outside of this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov website or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability. Reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be changed or canceled up to the day before arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations—those occurring within 14 days for group sites—also forfeit the first night's use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Boulder Group Campground provides access to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and mountain biking on nearby trails. Visitors can explore the Seven Oaks Trail for views of San Gorgonio Peak. Big Bear Lake, located nearby, offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating. The area also features abundant natural beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Hiking
The campground provides access to trails such as the 30-year-old Seven Oaks Trail, which leads to spectacular views of San Gorgonio Peak. Some trails may be overgrown, but they offer a rewarding experience.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Big Bear Lake, featuring species such as trout, bluegill, crappie, catfish, and largemouth bass.Swimming
Swimming is possible at nearby Big Bear Lake, though specifics on designated areas and safety measures are not provided.Biking
Visitors can enjoy mountain biking on trails around the campground. Terrain and difficulty levels are not specifically detailed.Boating
Boating is available at Big Bear Lake, though details on docking facilities or boat rental options are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The campground offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, including sightings of bears as noted in user reviews. Campers are advised to use bear boxes for safety.Water Sports
Big Bear Lake supports various water activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing, though detailed options for non-motorized water sports are not specified.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings and grills.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews warn of bear sightings in the area, emphasizing the importance of using bear boxes. Other concerns include the rough access road.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely in Big Bear Lake Village, approximately 10 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 18 to October 3 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection services are not provided. Campers must pack out all their trash.
Proximity to water featuresApproximately 10 miles south of Big Bear Lake, which provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.
Common complaintsLack of drinking water and trash collection services are noted as challenges by visitors. The dirt road leading to the campground is rough and requires careful navigation.
HostNo information on campground hosts is provided.
Campground Map
SAN BERNARDINO, CA, USA
Driving directionsFrom San Bernardino, take I-10 east to Running Springs. Continue on Highway 18 to Big Bear Lake Dam, but do not cross the dam. Go 3 miles and turn right on Tulip Lane. Turn right on Mill Creek Road (Forest Road 2N10) and continue about 2 miles. Turn on Forest Road 2N10B and travel a short distance to the campground.
The campground is accessed via a dirt road that can be rough and rocky in places. Vehicles with higher clearance, such as SUVs and trucks, are recommended. Some user reviews noted that a Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) vehicle can reach the campsite if driven carefully.Nearby places
Approximately 10 miles from Big Bear Lake Village.
Nearby supplies
Big Bear Lake Village offers groceries, restaurants, and other supplies. Specific distances to individual supply centers are not provided.
Camper Reviews
4.7
10 reviews
Boulder Group Camp is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Boulder Group Campground highlight its secluded and spacious environment, making it ideal for large groups. Visitors appreciate the abundance of picnic tables, firepit, and grills. The lack of water and rough access road are common concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praise the privacy, large picnic tables, ample shade, flat tent spaces with few rocks, and overall tranquility. Many enjoy the proximity to hiking trails and Big Bear Lake's recreational...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent issues mentioned include the lack of potable water, the rough dirt road requiring higher-clearance vehicles, and the absence of trash collection.
Based on 10 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing sufficient water, using vehicles with higher clearance for access, and being prepared for potential bear sightings. Utilizing the provided bear boxes is strongly advised.
Based on 10 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews emphasize the campground's shade and cool temperatures, while some spring reviews note potential challenges with road conditions. No winter reviews are detailed.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Had a lot of fun with my group of friends here. The road to get here is a bit rough though." - Tam Doan
2. "Plenty of places for large tents and great trees for some shade." - Justin Henderson
3....
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews for campsite 001 in Loop BOUL are overwhelmingly positive. Visitors often mention the site's privacy, shade, and suitability for large groups.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are limited. The rough dirt road may make access challenging for some visitors.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pet-related experiences or policies.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025