Fishermans Group
3.8510 reviewsPO BOX 290, FAWNSKIN, CA, 92333, USA
Fishermans Group
$10.00 - $10.00 / 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$10.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly fee for group walk-in sites is $10 during peak season. Reservation fees are an additional $8 if booked online or through the app, $9 through the contact center, or $3 for in-person bookings.
About this campground
Hidden along the rushing waters of Deep Creek, Fisherman's Group Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic mountain escape. This semi-primitive hike-in retreat sits gracefully within the San Bernardino National Forest's rugged terrain, where wilderness trails wind through recovering forests and birdsong fills the mountain air. Here, patient anglers cast their lines while eagles soar overhead, and every sunset paints the peaks in shades of gold.
Fisherman's Group Campground provides semi-primitive tent camping at four walk-in sites. It is hike-in only and lacks modern amenities like hookups or flush toilets.
Historical SignificanceTwo decades ago, wildfire swept through these mountains, leaving its transformative mark on the landscape. From the ashes arose a renewed forest where resilient oak trees now stand as nature's testament to regeneration. This ecological renaissance has created a unique habitat where old-growth survivors mingle with vigorous new growth, telling a powerful story of nature's ability to heal and adapt.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days bring gentle warmth with temperatures reaching the comfortable mid-70s, perfect for afternoon creek wading and evening campfires. As darkness falls, temperatures dip into the refreshing 50s, inviting cozy sleeping bags and stargazing beneath occasionally cloud-kissed skies. The creek maintains its mountain-born chill year-round, offering an invigorating splash for brave swimmers and a natural refrigerator for caught fish.
ElevationPerched at 7,000 feet above sea level, this mountain sanctuary offers a refreshing escape from valley heat. The thin, crisp air carries the scent of pine and cedar while delivering spectacular vistas that stretch across the San Bernardino peaks. At this elevation, summer feels like spring, and every breath reminds you that you've truly climbed above the ordinary world.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering pines, majestic oaks, and aromatic cedars create a living cathedral around your campsite, their branches forming a natural canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns. Deep Creek tumbles through the heart of camp, carving out pristine swimming holes and creating a soothing soundtrack for your stay. The fire-touched landscape has evolved into a diverse ecosystem where sun-loving wildflowers bloom between shade-giving giants, creating a photographer's paradise.
Geological RegionNestled within the ancient granite peaks of Southern California's San Bernardino National Forest, this 7,000-foot mountain refuge showcases the dramatic geology of the Transverse Ranges. Deep Creek has carved its course through millions of years of uplift and erosion, creating a riparian oasis where towering pines, oaks, and cedars sink their roots into mineral-rich soils. This is where the high desert meets the sky, creating a unique ecosystem found nowhere else in the southland.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground requires a 2.5-mile hike, which includes steep inclines, overgrown vegetation, and fallen trees. It is not wheelchair accessible. Reviews consistently highlight challenging trail conditions and erosion.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and accommodating. User reviews specifically mention sites being 'big and secluded.'
Sites PrivacySites are noted as secluded, providing a sense of solitude and peace. User reviews describe the experience as peaceful and isolated.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 3 and 4 offer proximity to Deep Creek, ideal for swimming and views. Site 2 is noted for cleanliness and seclusion.
Best CampsitesSites 3 and 4 are creek-adjacent and described as scenic and secluded.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per site.
Groups
Four walk-in sites, each accommodating up to eight people, but not designated as group sites for larger parties.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of four walk-in tent sites equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 22 to November 20 (reservable dates start June 24).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly mentioned; prioritization of reservations via Recreation.gov is recommended.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (within 14 days of arrival for group sites) incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Fisherman's Group Campground include hiking, wildlife viewing, birdwatching, fishing, horseback riding, and hunting. The adjacent Deep Creek offers scenic views and opportunities for swimming. Visitors can access various trailheads from the campground. Nearby attractions include Big Bear Lake and the Big Bear Discovery Center, located 21 miles away.
Hiking
The campground is accessible via a 2.5-mile hike. User reviews note fallen trees, overgrown vegetation, and erosion along the trail, making navigation challenging for some. Hiking poles are recommended. Additional trailheads are accessible near the campground.Fishing
Fishing is available in the mountain stream. However, one review mentioned low water levels impacting fishing quality.Swimming
Deep Creek offers areas suitable for swimming. User reviews describe the water as 'cold' but scenic, with opportunities for solitude.Wildlife viewing
The area offers excellent birding and wildlife viewing opportunities, including sightings of lizards, quail, deer, and other species. User reviews emphasize the richness of the surrounding nature.Winter Activities
The campground is at an elevation of approximately 7,000 feet, which may offer opportunities for winter activities like snowshoeing, though no specific information is provided in the source material.Water Sports
Swimming in Deep Creek is the primary water-related activity mentioned; no other water sports are described.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No campfires allowed; portable camp stoves are permitted.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is frequented by bears and rattlesnakes, requiring campers to use bear-proof containers and exercise caution. Fallen trees, erosion, and overgrown trails also present challenges.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 15.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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 include the Big Bear Lake Fire Department and hospital facilities located approximately 21 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 22, 2025 - November 20, 2025 (Group Walk-In sites are $10 per night during this period).
Trash and recyclingA bear-proof trash container is provided, but users report it can become overfilled, requiring campers to pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresDeep Creek runs adjacent to the campground with areas suitable for swimming. Water filtration is necessary for drinking.
Common complaintsTrails leading to the campground are poorly maintained, featuring fallen trees, thorny vegetation, and eroded sandy pathways. Vault toilets are reported as filthy, and bear-proof trash containers are often overfilled and unusable.
HostA ranger occasionally visits to check permits and provide trail and safety updates.
Campground Map
PO BOX 290, FAWNSKIN, CA, 92333, USA
Driving directionsFrom Highway 18, turn north on Green Valley Lake Road and travel 3 miles. Turn left on Forest Route 3N16 (a dirt road) and continue for about 5 miles. Park in the designated parking area just beyond the turn to Tent Peg Group Campground and walk 2.5 miles to Fisherman's Group Campground.
The road requires careful navigation. Forest Route 3N16 is a dirt road, and the final access to Fisherman's Group Campground necessitates hiking 2.5 miles along trails that are described by user reviews as overgrown with thorny vegetation, fallen trees, and erosion. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for the 3N16 road.Nearby places
Big Bear Lake (approximately 21 miles away)
Nearby supplies
The Big Bear Discovery Center, located about 21 miles away from the campground, provides educational programs, a gift shop, and restroom facilities. Supplies can also be obtained from nearby Big Bear Lake stores.
Camper Reviews
3.9
10 reviews
Fishermans Group has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment is mixed, with an average rating of 3.77. Positive reviews highlight the campground's beauty, seclusion, and natural features, while negative reviews focus on challenging trail conditions and lack of maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the beauty of the creek, spacious and secluded campsites, opportunities for stargazing, and the peaceful atmosphere. One reviewer called it a 'less traveled experience to be out in...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include poor trail maintenance (fallen trees, erosion), overgrown vegetation, and overfilled trash containers. Vault toilets were described as 'filthy' by some users. Challenges...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring lightweight hiking gear, bug spray, hiking poles, and a water filtration system. Avoid relying on GPS directions that suggest using private roads. Start hikes early to avoid heat.
Based on 10 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall appear to be ideal seasons based on reviews and weather data, while summer features challenges like heat and flies. Winter conditions (e.g., snow) may make accessing the campground...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'This is a wonderfully less traveled experience to be out in nature.' - Ian Taylor
2. 'The trail is great for birdwatching.' - Phoebe B
3. 'The creek's scenery was majestic to the three of us.' -...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #004: Mixed reviews; praised for beauty but criticized for trail conditions. Site #003: Adjacent to creek; praised for cleanliness and accessibility. Site #002: Described as 'big and secluded'...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The campground is not accessible for individuals with mobility impairments due to the challenging 2.5-mile hike-in trail, which features steep inclines, erosion, and overgrown vegetation.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific mentions of pet policies or pet-related experiences.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025