Serrano
4.64975 reviews40650 North Shore Lane
Serrano
$44.00 - $87.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$44.00
Hookup Site Fee$56.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Nonelectric sites range from $44-87 per night, depending on the season. RV electric hookup sites cost $56 per night. Holiday surcharges include $2 for standard nonelectric sites and $4 for premium sites. Additional vehicle fees apply ($8 per night for second vehicles).
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the San Bernardino Mountains, Serrano Campground welcomes outdoor enthusiasts to over 100 thoughtfully designed sites where modern amenities meet wilderness adventure. Whether you're pulling in with an RV ready for full hookups or pitching a tent under towering pines, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned to explore Big Bear Lake's legendary hiking and biking trails. The nearby Big Bear Ranger Station serves as your gateway to endless mountain adventures, making Serrano a beloved basecamp for those seeking both comfort and connection with nature.
Serrano Campground provides a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites with full hookups, and double sites for larger groups.
Historical SignificanceYour camping experience at Serrano connects you to the rich tapestry of Big Bear Lake's storied past, where generations of adventurers have sought refuge in these mountains. This cherished recreational haven has evolved from a remote wilderness outpost to Southern California's premier mountain playground, yet still maintains the authentic character that has drawn visitors to these peaks for over a century.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the crisp magic of mountain weather at Serrano, where summer days invite you to explore under brilliant blue skies while evenings cool down for perfect campfire temperatures. The dry mountain climate creates ideal conditions for stargazing on clear nights, though early March and late November occasionally dust the landscape with snow, transforming the campground into a winter wonderland that adds an extra layer of adventure to your stay.
ElevationPerched at 6,749 feet above sea level, Serrano Campground offers a refreshing escape from valley heat, where mountain breezes whisper through pine branches and the air carries that distinctive high-altitude clarity. This elevated paradise provides natural air conditioning during summer months, while winter visitors might wake to find their tent dusted with snow, creating postcard-perfect moments in California's alpine wonderland.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where fragrant pine forests create a natural cathedral above your campsite, their branches filtering golden sunlight onto the forest floor. The campground's paved roads wind through stands of majestic conifers interspersed with hardy sagebrush, filling the air with the quintessential scent of the high desert mountains. Just a pleasant walk away, Big Bear Lake sparkles through the trees, while panoramic mountain vistas remind you why this slice of wilderness has captured hearts for generations.
Geological RegionSet within the ancient San Bernardino Mountains, Serrano Campground occupies a unique ecological transition zone where pine forest ecosystems blend seamlessly with high desert flora. The resilient sagebrush that dots the landscape alongside the campground's paved roads tells the story of this remarkable geological region, where tectonic forces have created a mountain sanctuary that rises dramatically from the surrounding desert valleys. Here, the proximity to Big Bear Lake adds another dimension to the diverse mountain environment that defines this spectacular corner of Southern California.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible campsites, showers, grills, and parking areas. Paved walkways and roads enhance accessibility for visitors with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious, with some large and double sites accommodating up to 16 people.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some sites offering good spacing and tree shade, while others are more open. Double sites provide ample space.
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site 111 due to lack of shade. Lake View loop offers partial views but limited privacy.
Best CampsitesSite 105 praised for proximity to lake and cleanliness. Snowberry Loop is popular for RV users due to spacious sites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights during rolling 30-day periods.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Maximum 8 people per single site
- 16 people for double sites.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate up to 16 people and are equipped with multiple picnic tables and fire pits. They offer ample space for tents and vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutDivided into loops including Snowberry RV Loop, Evening Star Loop, and Lake View Loop.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 7 through November 29. Closed during winter months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov and phone at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability; reviews suggest it is difficult to secure a site without reservations.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. First night's fee forfeited for late cancellations. Late cancellations are defined as cancellations occurring after midnight, local time, 1 day before check-in.
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
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Serrano Campground offers an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Its proximity to Big Bear Lake and nearby trails makes it a hotspot for recreation.
Hiking
Multiple hiking trails are accessible from the campground, including the Alpine Pedal Path, Cougar Crest Trail, and access to the Pacific Crest Trail. These trails accommodate various skill levels and offer scenic views.Fishing
Fishing is available at Big Bear Lake, a short walk or drive from the campground. Anglers can catch trout, bass, catfish, and more. A boat ramp is located about a mile away.Biking
The Alpine Pedal Path, which runs through the campground, is a popular biking and walking trail. It connects to other trails along the lake.Boating
Boating activities are supported with nearby rental stores and a boat launch about a mile from the campground. Kayaks and paddleboards are commonly used.Wildlife viewing
Coyotes, squirrels, and various bird species, including blue jays, are often spotted. Wildlife viewing is a highlight but requires careful food storage to avoid attracting animals.Cultural and Educational Programs
The nearby Big Bear Discovery Center offers interpretive trails and educational programs, making it a cultural highlight for visitors.Winter Activities
Serrano Campground is accessible during colder months and offers winter recreation such as snow play and winter hiking. However, visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures.Water Sports
Water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding are popular, with rentals available nearby.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed in designated rings, subject to current fire restrictions.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCoyotes and rattlesnakes reported in the area. Fire restrictions may apply during dry weather.
Active alertsPeriodic fire restrictions may affect campfires and charcoal grills.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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 (1 mile away). For medical emergencies, nearest hospital is Bear Valley Community Hospital (approx. 8 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 7 to November 29.
Trash and recyclingTrash is managed with centralized dumpsters, and recycling facilities may not be explicitly mentioned but are implied in the general cleanliness and maintenance of the campground.
Proximity to water featuresWalking distance to Big Bear Lake. No direct lake access from the campground; closest boat ramp is 1 mile away.
Common complaintsSome reviews note proximity to roads causes noise issues. Complaints about hosts enforcing rules inconsistently.
HostSeveral campground hosts available onsite; praised for cleanliness but occasional reports of rudeness or over-enforcement of rules.
Campground Map
40650 North Shore Lane
Driving directionsFrom I-10 in Redlands, take Highway 330 to Highway 18 in Running Springs. Continue east on Highway 18 at Big Bear Lake Dam, but do not cross the dam. Turn left onto Highway 38 Continue on Highway 38 to North Shore Lane. Campground is 1/2 mile on left side of road across from Meadows Edge Day Use.
The campground is accessed via Highway 38 and North Shore Lane and is situated in the San Bernardino Mountains. Roads are paved but can involve steep climbs and sharp turns. Some reviews emphasize caution for larger RVs, particularly on narrow or steep segments of the mountain highway.Nearby places
Big Bear Lake (approx. 5 miles), Running Springs (approx. 25 miles), Redlands (approx. 45 miles).
Nearby supplies
Campground hosts sell firewood for $8 per bundle. Bait and tackle store within walking distance. Closest full-service grocery store is Stater Bros. located about 5 miles away in Big Bear Lake.
Camper Reviews
4.6
975 reviews
Serrano is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Serrano Campground consistently garners positive reviews for its cleanliness, amenities, and proximity to recreation. While most reviewers praise the friendly staff and well-maintained facilities, some mention the lack of privacy and occasional noise issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 975 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciated the clean restrooms, free showers, spacious campsites, and proximity to Big Bear Lake and trails. The campground's maintenance and staff were highly praised.
Based on 975 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues include noise from nearby roads, crowded campsites, and occasional enforcement inconsistencies by camp hosts. A few users noted cold showers, and some were disappointed by the lack of lake...
Based on 975 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring extra layers for cold nights, as temperatures can drop significantly. Reserve early for peak seasons, and consider group sites for larger parties. Firewood can be purchased on-site for...
Based on 975 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are busiest, with families and groups taking advantage of warm weather and lake access. Winter conditions bring fewer visitors but require preparedness for cold temperatures.
Based on 975 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The cleanest campground I've ever stayed at! The bathrooms were spotless, and the staff was incredibly friendly." - User Review
"Coyotes howled at night, which added to the wilderness experience,...
Based on 975 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 59 in the Snowberry Loop is noted for its spaciousness and privacy; Site 94 in Evening Star Loop has proximity to restrooms but is affected by bathroom light at night.
Based on 975 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible sites include paved pathways, showers, and parking. Guests noted the campground's overall accessibility as a strong feature.
Based on 975 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, but visitors are reminded to keep pets leashed and supervise them due to active wildlife, including coyotes.
Based on 975 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025