Deer Group Camp

Star4.32
21 reviews
SAN BERNARDINO
Peace & Quiet

Quick Facts

6,332 ft

Price

$149/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from May 2, 202...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens California Land Management site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Deer Group Camp
$149.00 - $149.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Group Standard Nonelectric site fees are $149.00 per night during peak season, with an additional $10 charge for holidays.
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$149.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
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What Campers Say

4.32

Recommended

Based on 21 reviews

9 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspacious

"Reviews consistently highlight the secluded nature of the campground, its suitability for large groups, and the challenges posed by the dirt road leading to the site. Visitors appreciate the ample space, shade, and proximity to hiking trails, but note the absence of drinking water and trash services."

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Campground Map

SAN BERNARDINO

Deer Group Camp

SAN BERNARDINO

Driving directionsTravel I-10 east (State Highway 330) to Running Springs. Turn onto State Highway 18 and continue to Big Bear Lake Dam. Continue 3 miles on State Highway 18 and turn right on Tulip Lane. Turn right onto Mill Creek Road (Forest Route 2N10) for 1.6 miles, turn left on 2N17 for 2 miles then go straight onto 2N08 for .2 miles, then turn left onto 2N45Y to campground.
The access road to the campground is a rough dirt road requiring high-clearance vehicles or 4x4 vehicles. According to user reviews, "The road into the campsite is a bit treacherous and def needs a high clearance car as it is quite bumpy." Another reviewer noted, "The ascent to the camp takes 13 minutes and it is a difficult dirt road."
Nearby places
Big Bear Lake Village (approximately 10 miles).
Nearby supplies
Big Bear Discovery Center (10 miles) provides area information, a gift shop, accessible programs, and restroom facilities. Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are likely available in the Big Bear Lake Village area, approximately 10 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Deer Group Camp

Enjoy California's mountain climate at its finest, where crystal-clear skies dominate the forecast 75% of the time, creating perfect conditions for stargazing and outdoor adventures. Daytime temperatures hover around a comfortable 47°F, ideal for active pursuits, while evenings bring a refreshing mountain chill as temperatures dip to 32°F. Seasoned campers know to pack layers and cozy sleeping bags – there's nothing quite like warming up around the campfire after a crisp mountain evening under a blanket of stars.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open May–Oct; cooler summer temps and good hiking/stargazing make summer strong.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall reviews emphasize beauty of changing foliage and pleasant conditions.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Opens in May; late spring offers mild temps but early spring is closed.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed Oct 4–May 1; winter season not available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 2, 2025, to October 4, 2025 (2025 Peak Season); May 1, 2026, to October 3, 2026 (2026 Peak Season).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from May 2, 2025, to October 3, 2026. Closed from October 4, 2025, to May 1, 2026.
  • Current Alerts: null

About Deer Group Camp

Nestled in the heart of the San Bernardino National Forest, Deer Group Campground beckons to families and friends seeking a perfect mountain retreat. This spacious group camping destination creates lasting memories for extended families, scout troops, and outdoor enthusiasts who gather here to reconnect with nature and each other. Adventure awaits just beyond your tent flap, with pristine hiking trails winding through ancient forests, challenging mountain biking routes that test your skills, and tranquil fishing spots where time seems to slow down.
The campground is exclusively a group site designed for tent camping. It accommodates up to 40 people and 8 vehicles. No RV or glamping options are available.
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Reserving a campsite

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Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground and a maximum of 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Deer Group Camp offers a variety of recreational activities. Hiking and biking are popular due to the proximity to trails like Seven Oaks Trail, which provides views of San Gorgonio Peak. Fishing and boating are accessible at nearby Big Bear Lake, and while swimming is possible, it is discouraged outside designated areas due to cold temperatures and underwater obstacles.
HikingThe campground is adjacent to several trails, including the Seven Oaks Trail. This trail is overgrown in places but leads to stunning views of San Gorgonio Peak. Reviewers noted a high level of foot traffic due to the proximity of trails.
FishingFishing is available at Big Bear Lake, featuring species such as trout, bluegill, crappie, catfish, and largemouth bass.
SwimmingSwimming is possible at Big Bear Lake, but it is discouraged outside of designated areas due to cold water temperatures and underwater hazards.
BikingMountain biking is accessible from the campground, with trails suitable for various skill levels.
BoatingBoating activities are available at Big Bear Lake, with opportunities for both recreational and fishing boats.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe Big Bear Discovery Center, located approximately 10 miles away, offers educational programs, an interpretive trail, and additional amenities for visitors.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & Alerts"Bears frequent the area; use appropriate containers for food and garbage." Additionally, rough dirt roads and cold water near Big Bear Lake are potential hazards.
Active Alertsnull
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
Food Storage Required"Only 3 bear boxes for food storage." This may be insufficient for the maximum group size of 40 people.

Weather at Deer Group Camp

Reviews

4.3
21 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Deer Group Camp is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews consistently highlight the secluded nature of the campground, its suitability for large groups, and the challenges posed by the dirt road leading to the site. Visitors appreciate the ample space, shade, and proximity to hiking trails, but note the absence of drinking water and trash services.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews

What Campers Love

Many reviewers praised the 'secluded' and 'private' setting of the campsite. The spacious layout was also complimented: 'Our group was 20 people, but the space could easily accommodate the maximum...
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Based on 21 reviews

Common Concerns

The road leading to the campground is a commonly mentioned issue, described as 'treacherous' and 'quite bumpy,' requiring high-clearance vehicles. Another recurring complaint is the lack of drinking...
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Based on 21 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring sufficient water and food, as well as warm clothing for cooler nights. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, although some users managed with smaller cars. Obtain a campfire permit if...
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Based on 21 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight the cooler mountain temperatures as a relief from the Southern California heat. Fall reviews emphasize the beauty of the changing foliage. Winter and early spring reviews are...
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Based on 21 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'An awesome group campsite. Very secluded and can fit up to 40, we had about 15 people and there was plenty of space.' 2. 'The ascent to the camp takes 13 minutes and it is a difficult dirt road,...
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Based on 21 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

All reviews pertain to the single group site available. The site's privacy, spaciousness, and proximity to trails are frequently noted.
Based on 21 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were provided.
Based on 21 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews addressing pet policies or experiences with pets were provided.
Based on 21 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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