Shady Cove Group Campground
4.738 reviewsP.O. BOX 290, FAWNSKIN, CA, 92333, USA
Shady Cove Group Campground
$114.00 - $114.00 / 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$114.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric rate during peak season is $114 per night. An additional $12 fee is charged during holidays.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Children's National Forest, Shady Cove Group Campground offers an inspiring basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts seeking mountain adventures. Three spacious group sites await, each thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, pedestal grills, and inviting campfire circles where stories and s'mores come to life under starlit skies. Modern amenities including accessible vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort at 6,000 feet elevation. Adventure beckons just beyond your tent, with direct access to scenic hiking and biking trails, including the renowned Trail of the Phoenix. Birdwatchers will delight in the diverse mountain species that call this regenerated forest home.
Shady Cove Group Campground provides group tent camping options. Sites are suitable for large groups but are limited to tent camping.
Historical SignificanceThe Children's National Forest stands as a powerful testament to community spirit and environmental renewal. Following a catastrophic wildfire that swept through these mountains, local children joined hands with forestry professionals to replant and restore this precious ecosystem. Their small hands planted thousands of seedlings that now tower as mature trees, creating the shaded groves that give this campground its name. This living monument to resilience reminds every visitor that from destruction can grow beauty, and that even the youngest among us can leave lasting positive impacts on our natural world.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Shady Cove into a cool mountain retreat, where daytime temperatures hover around a pleasant 72°F before dipping to crisp, sleeping bag-worthy nights at 48°F. These dry months bring crystal-clear skies and gentle mountain breezes perfect for outdoor activities. As autumn arrives, the forest showcases its resilience with changing colors, though winter's snow may temporarily close access to preserve this alpine sanctuary. Plan your visit between late spring and early fall to experience the campground at its most accessible and vibrant.
ElevationPerched at 6,000 feet where the air grows thin and pine-scented, Shady Cove offers a true mountain escape from Southern California's lower elevations. This altitude gifts campers with temperatures 15-20 degrees cooler than the valleys below, making it an ideal summer refuge. The elevation reveals sweeping mountain vistas that stretch across the San Bernardino wilderness, while the thinner air creates brilliantly clear night skies perfect for stargazing. Morning mists often drift through the pines, creating an ethereal atmosphere that photographers and early risers treasure.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering pines and sturdy oaks create a natural cathedral around each campsite, their branches forming a living canopy that filters golden sunlight by day and frames constellation views by night. The regenerated forest showcases nature's remarkable ability to heal, with diverse understory plants and wildflowers painting seasonal color across the mountainsides. Just a short journey from camp, Arrowbear Lake sparkles like a sapphire jewel, its waters annually stocked with rainbow trout that tempt anglers each spring. Mountain peaks rise in every direction, their rugged profiles changing color with the day's progression from dawn's pink alpenglow to sunset's amber farewell.
Geological RegionThe campground rests within Southern California's dramatic mountain backbone, where ancient geological forces thrust these peaks skyward from the surrounding desert floors. At approximately 6,000 feet elevation, campers experience the transition zone between lower chaparral and upper montane forests, a unique ecological niche where diverse plant communities overlap. These mountains, shaped by millions of years of tectonic activity and erosion, create a complex terrain of ridges, valleys, and hidden meadows that invite exploration. The granite outcroppings and decomposed soil tell the story of a landscape continuously sculpted by time, weather, and the persistent forces of nature.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne of the three group sites is accessible. The campground itself is easily accessible, located off a paved road.
Sites SizeEach group site can accommodate a maximum of 30 people and 8 vehicles.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews highlight the spaciousness and privacy between sites: 'Plenty of space both for large groups and between sites so you don't have to worry about bothering neighbors.'
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite C is recommended for privacy but beware of dusty conditions; Site B has confusing signage; Site A praised for cleanliness and access.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight Campsite C for its private vault toilets and spigot, though it is dusty and subjected to fire restrictions.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each group campsite can accommodate up to 30 guests.
Groups
Each site accommodates up to 30 people and 8 vehicles. Sites are equipped with picnic tables, pedestal grills, and campfire circles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree group sites equipped with picnic tables, pedestal grills, fire circles, and accessible vault toilets.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen: May 02 - Oct 10 (Peak season); Closed: Oct 11 - May 01 (no bookings).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation unavailable regarding walk-up sites.
Cancellation PolicyReservation cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if canceled within 14 days of arrival; no-shows are charged a $20 fee and 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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of activities including hiking, biking, birding, and wildlife viewing. Nearby attractions include Arrowbear Lake and the Trail of the Phoenix interpretive trail.
Hiking
Numerous trails begin near the campground, including the Trail of the Phoenix, a short, paved interpretive trail located three miles from the campground.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at Arrowbear Lake, located five miles from the campground. The lake is stocked annually with rainbow trout in the spring.Biking
Biking trails are located near the campground, and users have positively reviewed them: 'Many trails, trees, rocks, hiking, biking… in beautiful nature.'Wildlife viewing
The campground's forested setting and surrounding nature make it a good location for wildlife viewing. Specific species or recommended areas are not mentioned.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Trail of the Phoenix is a paved interpretive trail providing educational content about the Children's Forest.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are detailed.Water Sports
No details provided regarding non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed due to hot and dry weather; portable gas stoves permitted with California Campfire Permit.
- Quiet hours are Information not provided.
Hazards
General hazardsDusty conditions noted in reviews; fire restrictions and limited potable water availability during dry spells.
Active alertsFire restrictions and water scarcity may occur during summer months; contact the Big Bear Ranger Station for updates.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.8 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
Big Bear Ranger Station (contact for current fire or water conditions: 909-382-2790); nearby hospitals and emergency services are reachable through Running Springs.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 02 - Oct 10 (2025 and 2026)
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available at the campground. No recycling details are provided.
Proximity to water featuresArrowbear Lake is located approximately 5 miles away.
Common complaintsDusty conditions, confusing signage, and strict fire restrictions noted in user reviews.
HostFacility operated by Mountaintop Recreation; campground hosts provide comment forms and address queries.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 290, FAWNSKIN, CA, 92333, USA
Driving directionsFrom Running Springs, drive approximately one mile on Highway 18 to the Deerlick Ranger Station/Children's National Forest Visitor Center. Turn right on Keller Peak Road and continue about five miles. Follow signs to the campground.
The campground is easily accessible, just off a paved road.Nearby places
Running Springs (approx. 6 miles), Arrowbear Lake (approx. 5 miles)
Nearby supplies
Running Springs offers grocery stores, fuel stations, and dining options
Arrowbear Lake is approximately 5 miles from the campground with additional supplies and recreation options.
Camper Reviews
4.7
8 reviews
Shady Cove Group Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives positive reviews for its spacious group sites, cleanliness, and proximity to outdoor activities. Complaints include confusing signage and restrictions on fire and generator use.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
1. Spacious sites with good privacy: 'Plenty of space both for large groups and between sites.' 2. Clean facilities: 'Bathrooms were well kept.' 3. Proximity to activities: 'Many trails, trees,...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
1. Confusing signage: 'The signs are confusing to get to site B. The map you see doesn’t really match when you get there.' 2. Restrictions on fires and generators: 'Strict fire restrictions (we...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
1. Group size and parking tips: 'Realistically 4 cars fit unless you park further away.' 2. Be prepared for cold nights: 'Beautiful skies, cold nights in June.' 3. Check fire restrictions before...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Cold nights are noted during the summer (June) season. The campground is generally favored for its spaciousness and cleanliness, irrespective of season.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Site C is a great one. You have your own set of vaulted toilets and a spigot.' - Raymond Estrada Jr. 2. 'Plenty of space both for large groups and between sites.' - Jon H. 3. 'This is one of the...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site C: Positive reviews for its private vault toilets and spigot, but noted as dusty. Site B: Confusing signage and limited vehicle space but recommended overall. Site A: Praised for cleanliness and...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features include an accessible group site and vault toilets. No specific user reviews regarding accessibility experiences.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025