How much does camping cost at Bluff Mesa Group Camp?

Camping fees at Bluff Mesa Group Camp range from $149-$159/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Bluff Mesa Group Camp first-come first-served or reservation?

Bluff Mesa Group Camp accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Bluff Mesa Group Camp before I book?

Yes! Bluff Mesa Group Camp has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Bluff Mesa Group Camp?

Bluff Mesa Group Camp is open April 17 to October 02. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Bluff Mesa Group Camp?

Bluff Mesa Group Camp does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Bluff Mesa Group Camp?

Fire policies at Bluff Mesa Group Camp: Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Bluff Mesa Group Camp have?

Bluff Mesa Group Camp has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Bluff Mesa Group Camp?

Pets are not allowed at Bluff Mesa Group Camp. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Bluff Mesa Group Camp?

Bluff Mesa Group Camp offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Bluff Mesa Group Camp?

Popular activities at Bluff Mesa Group Camp include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Climbing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Bluff Mesa Group Camp

4.02

22 reviews

SAN BERNARDINO, CA, USA

Top 16% in CASummer

Peace & QuietSummer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,800 ft

Price

$149 - $159/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from April 18 t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on California Land Management Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,800 ft

Price

$149 - $159/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from April 18 t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on California Land Management Official Website

Get Directions

Bluff Mesa Group Camp

$149.00 - $159.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $149.00 (+$10.00 holiday). Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Group Site Fee$149.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

909-866-8550clm@clm-services.com

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

SAN BERNARDINO, CA, USA

Bluff Mesa Group Camp

SAN BERNARDINO, CA, USA

Nearby places

Big Bear Lake (10 miles, approximately 20 minutes)

Weather at Bluff Mesa Group Camp

Current alerts(5)

A standard SUV, a 4x4 or a vehicle with higher clearance is required to access the site.
Click here for more information on the San Bernardino National Forest
Drinking water is not available
Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed.

Best Time to Camp at Bluff Mesa Group Camp

Best season: summer. Summer is the best time to visit Bluff Mesa because you get full access to Big Bear Lake and reliably mild mountain weather—daytime highs typically range from the mid-60s to mid-70s°F with nights cooling to the mid-30s to mid-40s°F. Water-based activities (boating, swimming, fishing) and longer daylight hours make group gatherings, hikes, and biking most enjoyable then. Expect higher weekend and holiday crowds, so plan group dates in advance and watch for seasonal fire restrictions. Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 16% in CA

Summer is best window; comfortable highs and full lake access for activities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 17 to October 02. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from April 18 to October 4 annually, with no reservations available during the off-season.

About Bluff Mesa Group Camp

Bluff Mesa Group Camp sits in the San Bernardino National Forest near Big Bear Lake, offering a spacious, secluded site for large gatherings. Operated by California Land Management, this primitive group campground provides vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables with access to hiking, fishing, swimming, biking, boating, wildlife viewing, and climbing during the peak summer season.

Bluff Mesa Group Camp is designed for group camping with a single large site accommodating up to 40 people and 8 vehicles. The site is tent-only and accessed via a dirt road.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer is the best time to visit Bluff Mesa because you get full access to Big Bear Lake and reliably mild mountain weather—daytime highs typically range from the mid-60s to mid-70s°F with nights cooling to the mid-30s to mid-40s°F. Water-based activities (boating, swimming, fishing) and longer daylight hours make group gatherings, hikes, and biking most enjoyable then. Expect higher weekend and holiday crowds, so plan group dates in advance and watch for seasonal fire restrictions. Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation6800 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryMixed conifer forest wraps around the site. Ponderosa pines, Douglas firs, and spruces. With soft meadow grasses filling the spaces between trees. The layout alternates between dense canopy and open clearings, creating shelter and breathing room. Bluff Lake is close enough for day hikes, and Big Bear Lake's shoreline is a short drive away. The 6,800-foot elevation means cooler air and thinner atmosphere than the valleys below.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodges or cabins are available at Bluff Mesa Group Camp.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are noted at the campground itself. However, the nearby Big Bear Discovery Center offers educational programs and interpretive trails.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 nights within any rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Amaximum of 40 guests may stay at the group campsite.

Groups

The group site accommodates up to 40 people and 8 vehicles, making it ideal for large gatherings. It is equipped with picnic tables, grills, and a campfire circle.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned. The campground is accessed via a dirt road, which may present challenges for individuals with mobility issues.

Site SizeThe group site accommodates up to 40 people and 8 vehicles.

PrivacyThe site is secluded, surrounded by mature trees and a grassy understory that provides privacy. Open meadows are also available.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesIdeal for those seeking privacy and a large camping space. Bring sufficient water and trash bags due to lack of utilities.

Best CampsitesThere's only one site, but reviewers describe it as spacious with plenty of room for tents, a large fire pit, and ample parking. The surrounding trees and grassy areas provide natural separation from the dirt road access.

Need help booking Bluff Mesa Group Camp?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Drinking water, utility hookups and trash collection are not available.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers access to hiking and mountain biking trails, opportunities for rock climbing, and proximity to Big Bear Lake, which supports fishing, boating, and swimming. "So much to explore and very remote," one reviewer noted, highlighting the natural setting.

Hiking

Climbing

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground. Vault toilets are provided.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.0

22 reviews

Satisfactory

Bluff Mesa Group Camp is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the remote and spacious nature of the site. Common themes include its seclusion, proximity to natural attractions, and the basic but functional amenities.

Review Summaries

Based on 22 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the spaciousness and seclusion of the site, as well as its proximity to Bluff Lake and Big Bear Lake. One reviewer said, "Wonderful place to stay! Huge fire pit, lots of parking and...

Based on 22 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users reported issues with unauthorized visitors accessing the site. One user mentioned, "Multiple groups of people came to use the pit toilet who also did not acknowledge my group or seem to...

Based on 22 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The single group site (001) received positive feedback for its spaciousness and seclusion. However, some users noted the presence of unauthorized visitors.

Based on 22 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Ensure you bring your own drinking water as none is provided on-site. A vehicle with higher clearance is recommended due to the dirt road access. Carry out all trash as there is no trash collection.

Based on 22 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground operates primarily during warmer months (April to October). During this time, users report enjoying the outdoor activities and natural beauty. No specific seasonal drawbacks are...

Based on 22 reviews

Camper Quotes

"So much to explore and very remote," "The campsite was a large secluded area that provided enough space for everyone to space out comfortably."

Based on 22 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews on accessibility were provided. The dirt road access may pose challenges for visitors with mobility concerns.

Based on 22 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You need a large, private site for group gatherings with easy access to Big Bear Lake recreation.

Skip if

You want individual sites or need assurance against trespassing on reserved facilities.

Nearby Campgrounds

SAN BERNARDINO, CA, USA

Boulder Group Camp sits in the San Bernardino National Forest near Big Bear Lake, operated by California Land Management for groups seeking alpine seclusion. This primitive group site offers vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables under tall pines, with access to lake recreation and forest trails. Campers appreciate the privacy and flat tent spaces, though the rough dirt access road and lack of water or trash service require self-sufficiency.

Bluff Mesa Group Camp

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Real-Time Availability

Quick Facts

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Plan a trip to Bluff Mesa Group Camp

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Weather at Bluff Mesa Group Camp

Current alerts(5)

Best Time to Camp at Bluff Mesa Group Camp

Planning Tips

About Bluff Mesa Group Camp

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Bluff Mesa Group Camp?

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

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Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Go if

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Overview

Plan a trip to Bluff Mesa Group Camp

Current alerts(5)

Best Time to Camp at Bluff Mesa Group Camp

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Bluff Mesa Group Camp?

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews