Green Valley Campground

For Californians seeking a refreshing escape to the mountains, where the air is crisp and the pace of life slows down, Green Valley Campground presents an idyllic destination. Tucked away in the San Bernardino National Forest, near the charming and secluded village of Green Valley Lake, this campground offers a truly serene and family-friendly experience at a remarkable elevation of 7,200 feet. It's a perfect spot for those yearning to trade city noise for the gentle rustle of pine trees and the calming presence of a pristine mountain lake.

Green Valley Campground isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a gateway to an authentic mountain retreat. With its well-maintained sites, clean facilities, and proximity to a non-motorized lake, it provides a balanced blend of comfort and rustic charm. Whether you're an avid angler, a family looking for a safe and fun environment for kids, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the high desert mountains, Green Valley Campground promises a rejuvenating escape. In this article, we'll explore what makes this Southern California gem a cherished destination for locals, covering its unique location, comprehensive services, and the many features that set it apart.

Green Valley Campground is located at 33800 Green Valley Lake Rd, Green Valley Lake, CA 92341, USA, within the beautiful San Bernardino National Forest. Its elevation of 7,200 feet makes it one of the highest camping spots in Southern California, offering cooler temperatures and breathtaking mountain scenery. The campground is nestled between the popular mountain destinations of Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake, yet maintains its own distinct, uncrowded charm.

Accessibility to Green Valley Campground is part of its unique allure. As noted by a reviewer, "From Hwy. 18, the campground is at the end of the only paved road leading into Green Valley Lake." This "five mile scenic route of wooded, winding road" slowly "takes you back in time," setting a tranquil tone for your mountain escape. While the main access road is paved, it's important to note that "roads inside the campground need maintenance, but are passable." Some turns might be "challenging for larger RVs," so campers with big rigs should exercise caution and be comfortable with mountain driving. Despite being off the main highway, the drive is incredibly scenic, offering glimpses of "unspoiled nature and simple pleasures of camping in the San Bernardino Mountains." The nearby tiny resort village of Green Valley Lake is a short drive away, providing convenient access to a general store and other amenities should you need them.

Green Valley Campground, managed by Vista Recreation in partnership with the San Bernardino National Forest, provides a good range of services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for its visitors.

• Spacious Campsites: The campground offers single-family sites designed for both tent and RV camping. Reviewers note that sites are "level, maintained, and uncrowded," with "lots of room between sites." Sites 4 and 5 are specifically highlighted for offering "great shade and seclusion."

• Basic Site Amenities: Each campsite is well-equipped with essential outdoor living features, including a sturdy picnic table and a campfire ring, often with a grill, perfect for cooking and enjoying evening fires (fire restrictions permitting).

• Flush Toilets: A significant highlight frequently praised by campers is the presence of "full working toilets" and "real toilets and urinal," indicating clean and well-maintained restroom facilities. This adds a level of comfort not always found in national forest campgrounds.

• Potable Water: Fresh, potable drinking water is available throughout the campground, with "running water faucet for clean outs," making hydration and dishwashing convenient.

• Camp Host On-Site: The presence of a dedicated "Camp Host," like the "incredibly kind and accommodating" Donna, is a valuable service. Camp hosts provide assistance, ensure rules are followed, and contribute to the overall safety and positive atmosphere of the campground.

• No Hookups (Important Note for RVers): It is crucial for RV campers to know that Green Valley Campground does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups at individual sites. This means RVs must be self-contained or rely on their own battery power and fresh water tanks. A dump station may be available nearby, but it's best to confirm with the forest service.

• Trash Collection: While not explicitly stated in all reviews, national forest campgrounds typically provide designated trash receptacles for waste disposal, encouraging campers to keep the area clean.

Green Valley Campground truly shines with several distinctive features that make it a highly recommended spot for Southern Californians seeking an authentic mountain getaway.

• High Elevation & Cooler Temperatures: Located at 7,200 feet, it boasts the highest elevation for camping in Southern California. This provides a refreshing escape from the summer heat of the lower elevations, with "summer highs in the mid 70s," and offers stunning views and a distinctly alpine feel.

• Serene and Rustic Atmosphere: Reviewers consistently describe the campground atmosphere as "clean, serene, and rustic." This focus on tranquility and natural beauty is a major draw for those looking to genuinely relax and disconnect.

• Proximity to Green Valley Lake: Just a "short drive to the tiny resort village" and the "private, non-motorized lake (pay for access)," campers have easy access to the lake for "fishing and paddle boating." The lake is "regularly stocked with trout and bass," making it a popular spot for anglers. Swimming is also available at the beach area during summer (with a swim pass).

• Family-Friendly Environment: The campground is "perfect for kids to play safely," with its spacious sites and general tranquil ambiance. The nearby lake also offers a playground and swim beach, ensuring entertainment for younger campers.

• Excellent Stargazing: Given its mountain elevation and relatively secluded location away from major city lights, Green Valley Campground offers superb opportunities for stargazing on clear nights.

• Birding Opportunities: With some sites being "more secluded," the campground is noted as "good for birding," appealing to nature enthusiasts interested in observing local avian life.

• Accessibility to Local Village Amenities: Beyond the lake, the "tiny resort village" provides a "General Store" for supplies, "The Malt Shop" for treats, "The Black Dog Social Club," and even a small museum, offering charming local diversions.

• Four-Season Weather: While primarily a summer and fall destination, the high elevation means "snow is plentiful in winter," offering potential for winter activities depending on access, though the campground is typically open from mid-April to mid-October. The climate is generally dry, with approximately ten annual rain days.

For reservations, current conditions, and further inquiries about Green Valley Campground, here's the essential contact information:

Address: 33800 Green Valley Lake Rd, Green Valley Lake, CA 92341, USA

Phone: (909) 382-2790

Mobile Phone: +1 909-382-2790 (This is the same number, often provided for direct dialing from mobile devices.)

This phone number is for the Mountaintop Ranger District and Discovery Center, which oversees the Green Valley Lake Recreation Area and the campground.

For Reservations: While some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis (typically 11 out of 37 sites), the majority of sites (26) are reservable. Reservations can be made online. It is highly recommended to book your site in advance, especially for weekends and during the popular summer season.

• Recreation.gov: This is the primary platform for making reservations for Green Valley Campground. Visit Recreation.gov and search for "Green Valley Campground San Bernardino National Forest."

• Official Forest Service Website: For the most current information on fire restrictions, road closures, and general park alerts, always check the official San Bernardino National Forest website: fs.usda.gov/sbnf. Navigate to the "Recreation" section, then "Camping & Cabins," and find "Green Valley Family Campground."

Always call the Ranger District or check the official websites immediately before your trip for any last-minute updates on conditions or closures.

For Californians, Green Valley Campground isn't just another place to camp; it's a cherished local secret that offers the quintessential mountain escape we often crave. We know the value of a quick drive into the mountains to shed the stresses of city life, and Green Valley provides exactly that – a peaceful, high-elevation sanctuary easily accessible from many Southern California communities.

Its suitability for locals is multifaceted. The "spacious, clean, and well-equipped" nature of the campground, as highlighted by satisfied campers, means we can enjoy genuine outdoor living with the comfort of flush toilets and fresh water. This makes it particularly appealing for families looking for a safe and enjoyable environment for their kids, knowing they have essential facilities. The elevation, a "gem" for escaping the heat, offers a refreshing climate that allows for comfortable daytime activities and cool, starry nights.

Furthermore, the proximity to Green Valley Lake, a non-motorized body of water perfect for fishing and paddle boating, aligns perfectly with California's love for diverse outdoor recreation. The charm of the "tiny resort village" nearby, with its general store and local eateries, adds a touch of convenient nostalgia, reminding us of simpler times. This blend of rustic beauty, modern convenience, and genuine tranquility makes Green Valley Campground an ideal and truly suitable destination for any Californian seeking a rejuvenating, family-friendly mountain adventure that feels a world away, yet is comfortably within reach. It’s a perfect spot to create lasting memories in our own backyard, nestled in the stunning San Bernardino Mountains.

Green Valley Campground

33800 Green Valley Lake Rd, Green Valley Lake, CA 92341, USA