Tent Peg Group Campground

For Californians looking to gather a large group of friends or family for a memorable outdoor adventure, Tent Peg Group Campground in the San Bernardino National Forest offers a unique and suitable setting. This isn't a typical single-family campsite; it's specifically designed to accommodate larger gatherings, providing a semi-primitive experience that balances the ruggedness of the wilderness with essential group-friendly amenities. Nestled within the beautiful mountains of Southern California, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the diverse recreational opportunities of the region.

The San Bernardino National Forest is a vast natural playground, celebrated for its towering pines, scenic views, and extensive network of trails. Tent Peg Group Campground provides direct access to this expansive environment, appealing to those who enjoy off-road vehicle (OHV) adventures, hiking, or simply sharing a tranquil space with a larger party. Its designation as a "semi-primitive" site means you'll find some comforts, but the emphasis remains on self-reliance and appreciating the natural surroundings.

This detailed overview will guide you through what makes Tent Peg Group Campground a compelling choice for your next California group outing. We'll explore its specific location within the forest, crucial accessibility information (including road conditions), the services and features it provides for groups, and the highlights that draw outdoor enthusiasts to this unique camping spot. Prepare to discover a piece of California's mountain wilderness that encourages shared experiences and offers a rustic backdrop for unforgettable memories.

Tent Peg Group Campground is located within the San Bernardino National Forest, specifically at 3N16, Green Valley Lake, CA 92341, USA. This address places it within the Mountain Top Ranger District, nestled between the popular mountain resort towns of Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake. Green Valley Lake, a smaller and quieter community, is approximately six miles away, offering a nearby tranquil spot for boating, fishing, and swimming.

Accessibility to Tent Peg Group Campground is a key consideration, as noted by past visitors. The campground is accessed via Forest Service Road 3N16, which is described as a "dirt road" with "ditches." This suggests that while generally accessible, a "truck or SUV" would be highly recommended to navigate the drive comfortably and "without damaging your car." Standard passenger vehicles might find the road challenging, especially after adverse weather.

To reach the campground, typical directions involve taking Freeway 330 North, proceeding through Running Springs and Arrowbear, CA, and then turning onto Green Valley Road. From there, continue for approximately one and a half miles past Crab Flats Campground. The parking area and restroom for Tent Peg Group Campground are located on the left.

The campground offers "gravel" parking surfaces and can accommodate up to "eight vehicles." Its location provides excellent access to a network of off-road vehicle trails, making it a prime destination for OHV enthusiasts. Additionally, various hiking trails are in close proximity, including the 4.5-mile Hawes Peak Trail. For Californians, reaching Tent Peg involves a scenic drive into the mountains, transitioning from major highways to forest roads, leading to a secluded group camping experience amidst the beauty of the San Bernardino National Forest. Reservations are required and can be made up to 12 months in advance via Recreation.gov.

Tent Peg Group Campground provides semi-primitive services tailored for large group camping within the San Bernardino National Forest. While it offers more than a completely dispersed site, campers should still arrive prepared for a rustic experience and be self-sufficient, particularly regarding water.

• One Large Group Campsite: The campground features a single, expansive group site designed for "tent and RV camping." This site can comfortably accommodate "up to 40 people and eight vehicles," making it ideal for extended family gatherings, youth groups, or large gatherings of friends. This dedicated group space ensures privacy and plenty of room for activities.

• Multiple Picnic Tables: The campsite is equipped with "multiple tables," providing ample space for group meals, games, and socializing. This is a significant convenience for large parties, offering designated areas for various camp activities.

• Campfire Circle and Grills: A large "campfire circle" is provided, perfect for communal gatherings, storytelling, and enjoying the warmth of a fire. The inclusion of "grills" allows for cooking over an open flame, enhancing the traditional camping experience. Campers must always check for and adhere to any fire restrictions or bans in effect, as these are common in California. A valid California Campfire Permit is required for fire use.

• Vault Toilets: Accessible "vault toilets are provided." These are sturdy, non-flush, outdoor toilet facilities designed for human waste disposal. While rustic, they are a crucial amenity for group sites, helping maintain sanitation in the wilderness. Users are expected to pack out all other trash and personal hygiene items.

• Trash Cans: Unlike more primitive sites, "trash cans are provided" at Tent Peg Group Campground. While this offers convenience, campers are still encouraged to minimize waste and, where possible, practice pack-it-in, pack-it-out principles to reduce impact.

• Parking: The site offers "gravel" parking surfaces with a capacity for "five to eight vehicles" (sources vary, but typically 5 is the max for reservations, with a total capacity of 8 vehicles). This is ample space for a group's vehicles, but users should be mindful of vehicle limits when planning.

A critical service to note is that "drinking water is not available" at the campground. Campers must "bring your own drinking water" for their entire stay, which is paramount for safety and health. The comment about a "water spicket at our campsite had been cemented over" highlights that even if water infrastructure once existed, it is no longer functional, reinforcing the need for self-sufficiency regarding water supply.

Tent Peg Group Campground offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a desirable choice for groups seeking an adventurous and cohesive outdoor experience in the San Bernardino National Forest.

• Ideal for Large Groups: The primary highlight is its dedicated design for large gatherings. Accommodating "up to 40 people and eight vehicles," it provides ample space for privacy and group activities, making it perfect for extended family reunions, scout groups, or large friend gatherings that often struggle to find suitable collective camping options.

• Direct Access to OHV Trails: The campground is an "off-road vehicle paradise," offering "easy access to many off-road vehicle trails" for both "beginning and experienced riders." Trails like Crab Creek, Redonda Ridge Trail, and Holcomb Valley Road are nearby, providing extensive opportunities for exhilarating rides. This is a significant draw for motorized recreation enthusiasts.

• Extensive Hiking Opportunities: Beyond OHV trails, "a variety of hiking trails are in close proximity to the campground," including the 4.5-mile Hawes Peak Trail. This allows group members to explore the forest on foot, enjoying scenic views and wildlife observation, catering to diverse outdoor interests.

• Semi-Primitive Wilderness Feel: Despite accommodating large groups, the campground retains a "semi-primitive" atmosphere. Situated in a "mature forest of pine, oak and cedar trees," it provides ample shade and a genuine connection to nature, offering a peaceful escape from crowded urban environments.

• Proximity to Green Valley Lake: Green Valley Lake is approximately six miles away and offers "boating, fishing and swimming opportunities." This 9-acre lake, regularly stocked with fish, provides a convenient and quieter alternative for water-based recreation compared to the larger, busier lakes in the region.

• Year-Round Recreational Appeal: The surrounding hiking areas are also popular for "snowshoeing and cross country skiing in the winter," extending the campground's appeal beyond the warmer months for those who enjoy cold-weather activities.

• Reservable Group Site: The ability to make "reservations as early as 12 months or as late as 24 hours in advance" via Recreation.gov is a major advantage for group planning. This ensures that large parties can secure their spot and coordinate their trip effectively, avoiding the uncertainty of first-come, first-served sites.

These features collectively make Tent Peg Group Campground a versatile and appealing choice for Californians seeking a collective outdoor adventure with a focus on both motorized and non-motorized recreation.

For Tent Peg Group Campground, all reservations and primary information are managed through the federal reservation system, Recreation.gov, and the U.S. Forest Service. The campground itself does not have a direct, on-site phone number, but general park information can be obtained through the relevant Ranger District.

For Reservations (Mandatory):

Website: www.recreation.gov

Phone: (877) 444-6777 (This is the general reservation line for federal recreation sites, not specific to the campground itself.)

Mobile Phone: +1 877-444-6777 (Same as above, often listed as an alternative for mobile users)

When using Recreation.gov, search for "Tent Peg Group Campground" under "San Bernardino National Forest." Reservations can typically be made up to 12 months in advance and as late as 24 hours prior to check-in, subject to availability.

For General Information and Park Conditions (Non-Reservation Specific):

Given the campground's location, the Mountain Top Ranger District is the primary contact for inquiries regarding road conditions (especially for the 3N16 dirt road), current fire restrictions, and general forest information. It is highly recommended to contact them before your trip to confirm conditions.

Mountain Top Ranger District / Big Bear Discovery Center:

Address: 40971 North Shore Drive, Highway 38, P.O. Box 69, Fawnskin, CA 92333, USA

Phone: (909) 382-2790

(Please check the official U.S. Forest Service website for current operating hours, as they may vary seasonally, e.g., Thursday through Monday.)

California Campfire Permit: Remember that a California Campfire Permit is legally required for any use of fire rings or portable gas/propane stoves. This can be obtained online for free.

Website: www.preventwildfireca.org/Permits/

Always check the official San Bernardino National Forest website (www.fs.usda.gov/sbnf) for the most up-to-date information on any alerts, closures, or restrictions that might affect your visit to Tent Peg Group Campground.

For Californians, Tent Peg Group Campground presents an exceptionally suitable and appealing option for their outdoor adventures, particularly for those seeking to organize a group getaway in a semi-primitive mountain setting. It addresses several key desires for local outdoor enthusiasts.

Firstly, its dedicated group site nature is a major draw. Finding a single campsite that comfortably accommodates "up to 40 people and eight vehicles" is a challenge in many popular areas. Tent Peg alleviates this, providing a designated, private space for large gatherings, whether it's a multi-family trip, a club outing, or a reunion. This makes coordinating group camping far simpler and more enjoyable for Californians who value shared experiences with their larger social circles.

Secondly, the campground's prime location within the San Bernardino National Forest offers direct access to a wealth of diverse recreational activities. For locals in Southern California, the ability to transition from urban environments to a rugged mountain playground within a relatively short drive is invaluable. Whether group members are passionate about "off-road vehicle trails," "hiking trails," or simply enjoying the peaceful forest ambiance, Tent Peg serves as an excellent basecamp. This versatility ensures that all members of a diverse group can find an activity to enjoy.

Furthermore, the semi-primitive nature of Tent Peg Group Campground, while requiring self-sufficiency (especially with water), offers a more authentic wilderness experience than highly developed parks. This appeals to Californians who appreciate a rustic escape, valuing the quiet solitude, the opportunity for stargazing, and the chance to truly disconnect. The provision of vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings offers essential conveniences without detracting from the natural environment, striking a balance that many locals appreciate.

Finally, the ability to reserve the site up to a year in advance via Recreation.gov provides crucial planning certainty for large groups. This eliminates the stress of first-come, first-served uncertainty, allowing Californians to confidently plan their group adventures. By choosing Tent Peg Group Campground, locals can embrace the adventurous spirit of California, foster strong bonds through shared outdoor experiences, and create lasting memories in the beautiful mountains of their own state. It's an ideal choice for a collective escape into the wild.

Tent Peg Group Campground

3N16, Green Valley Lake, CA 92341, USA