How much does camping cost at Dogwood?

Camping fees at Dogwood are $40 - $81/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Dogwood first-come first-served or reservation?

Dogwood 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 Dogwood before I book?

Yes! Dogwood has 11 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 Dogwood?

Dogwood is open April 17 to October 23. 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 Dogwood?

Yes, Dogwood has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Is there cell service at Dogwood?

Cell phone service at Dogwood is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Dogwood have?

Dogwood has 94 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Dogwood?

Yes, pets are allowed at Dogwood. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Dogwood?

Dogwood offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Dogwood

Q: Can I have a campfire at Dogwood?

Fire policies at Dogwood: 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.

4.66

1.1K reviews

P O BOX 365, FAWNSKIN, CA, 92333, UNITED STATES

Top 15% in CASummer

A-Report Card

Quick Facts

5,184 ft

Price

$40 - $81/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

94 campsites

Season

Open season runs fro...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on US Forest Service - Dogwood Campground Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,184 ft

Price

$40 - $81/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

94 campsites

Season

Open season runs fro...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on US Forest Service - Dogwood Campground Official Website

Get Directions

Dogwood

$40.00 - $81.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $40.00 (+$2.00 holiday); STANDARD ELECTRIC: $51.00 (+$2.00 holiday); STANDARD NONELECTRIC-DOUBLE: $79.00 (+$2.00 holiday); STANDARD...

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Provider

909-336-6717 OR 909-866-8550clm@clm-services.com

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Campground Map

P O BOX 365, FAWNSKIN, CA, 92333, UNITED STATES

Dogwood

P O BOX 365, FAWNSKIN, CA, 92333, UNITED STATES

Nearby places

San Bernardino (20 miles), Lake Arrowhead (5 miles), Lake Gregory (15 miles)

Weather at Dogwood

Current alerts(9)

A bear or multiple bears have been spotted in the area. Please be aware at all times, and visit our agency website for bear safety tips and more information.
Check out time is at noon, no exceptions.
Click here for more information on the San Bernardino National Forest
Dogwood Campground is located next to the Rim of the World High School.

Best Time to Camp at Dogwood

Best season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of warm, lake-friendly weather (daytime highs commonly in the mid-70s to low-80s°F, nights dipping into the 50s–60s) and full access to Lake Arrowhead activities like swimming, boating, and evening lakeside grilling. Trails are fully snow-free and best for longer hikes, mountain biking, and fishing; campground services (electric hookups, flush toilets, hot showers) are fully staffed. Expect the busiest conditions on holiday weekends and warm weekday evenings —⁠ Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 15% in CA

Best season; warm lake weather, full access to lakes and peak services; most popular time.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 17 to October 23. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season runs from mid-April to late October. The campground is closed during the winter months.

About Dogwood

Dogwood is a US Forest Service campground in San Bernardino National Forest near Lake Arrowhead, operating seasonally during peak months. This large mid-elevation forest campground offers electric hookups, hot showers, and a dump station among tall pines. Campers fish and boat on Lake Arrowhead, with spacious sites that accommodate both tents and RVs under a 14-day stay limit.

Dogwood Campground caters to a range of camping preferences, including sites for tents, RVs, and groups. Primitive camping is not available.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of warm, lake-friendly weather (daytime highs commonly in the mid-70s to low-80s°F, nights dipping into the 50s–60s) and full access to Lake Arrowhead activities like swimming, boating, and evening lakeside grilling. Trails are fully snow-free and best for longer hikes, mountain biking, and fishing; campground services (electric hookups, flush toilets, hot showers) are fully staffed. Expect the busiest conditions on holiday weekends and warm weekday evenings —⁠ Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation5184 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryCedar, oak, pine, and fir create distinct forest zones at this elevation. The mixed-conifer canopy provides shade across most sites, with squirrels and birds active throughout the day. Black bears occasionally pass through, requiring proper food storage in the provided bear lockers. The forest floor supports seasonal wildflowers, and the elevation gradient between here and nearby peaks creates habitat for raptors visible overhead.

Programs & ActivitiesWeekend campfire programs are occasionally hosted at the amphitheater, providing educational and entertaining experiences for visitors.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Guests may stay up to 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 guests per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

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

AccessibilityAccessible flush toilets, showers, parking, and campsites are available. Some sites, such as site #65, have been specifically highlighted as wheelchair accessible.

Site SizeVaries by campsite, with some sites such as #94 being particularly spacious and accommodating multiple tents.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some, like #94 and #10, are well-shaded and secluded, while others, such as #11, are close to restrooms and less private.

Total Campsites94 campsites

Recommended SitesFor privacy, choose sites like 94, 50, or 10. Families may prefer sites closer to restrooms, such as 65.

Best CampsitesSite #94 gets consistent praise for space and seclusion. It fits multiple tents and sits far from the main loops. Site #10 offers similar privacy with good shade. Site #50 also rates well for scenery and separation from neighbors. Avoid #11 if you want distance from the restrooms and foot traffic.

Need help booking Dogwood ?

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

We do not have 50 amp electrical for electric cars. Do not book an RV electric for this usage, It will not work.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Dogwood

Dogwood Campground offers various recreational activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and fishing opportunities nearby. The Dogwood Trail and Enchanted Loop Trail are less than a mile long and suitable for day hikes. Lake Gregory and Lake Arrowhead, located nearby, provide options for boating and fishing.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Frequent squirrels and birds, occasional bobcats and black bears; lush mixed-conifer habitat.

Fishing3.5/5

Fishing is available at nearby Lake Gregory (~15 min) with rentals; campground itself not lakeside.

Boating3.5/5

Boating available at Lake Gregory/Arrowhead (~12–15 min); rentals reported.

Water Sports3.0/5

Kayak rentals available at nearby lakes (Lake Gregory/Arrowhead ~12–15 min drive).

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Stargazing3.5/5Mid‑elevation (5,184 ft) forest setting favorable for stars, though nearby towns may add light.

Photography4.0/5Scenic mixed‑conifer canopy, tall pines, wildlife and lakes nearby make good photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are available at each campsite, ensuring food safety and compliance with wildlife regulations.

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.

Fire PolicyDon'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.

Trash & RecyclingTrash bins are placed throughout the campground and are emptied regularly. Recycling facilities were not explicitly mentioned.

Cell CoverageCell phone reception varies across the campground. Some users reported good coverage with T-Mobile, while AT&T users experienced mixed results. Verizon reception was mentioned as unreliable in certain areas.

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

Rate Dogwood

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From Booking Sources

4.7

1.1K reviews

Top-Rated

Dogwood is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Dogwood Campground is highly praised for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and well-maintained facilities. Many visitors highlight the scenic beauty and convenient location near Lake Arrowhead and Lake Gregory.

Review Summaries

Based on 1145 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 1145 reviews.

Site #94Loved
Site #94 is noted for its seclusion and spaciousness, while site #10 is described as beautiful but steep.
Site #11Issues noted
Site #11 lacks privacy but is close to restrooms.

What Campers Love

Commonly praised aspects include the clean and spacious campsites, flush toilets and free hot showers, friendly and helpful staff, and the peaceful environment surrounded by tall pines.

Based on 1145 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include steep and uneven campsites, the presence of yellow jackets during the summer, and noise from nearby Rim of the World High School during events.

Based on 1145 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing yellow jacket traps during summer months, reserving secluded sites like #94 for more privacy, and checking the Rim of the World High School event schedule to avoid noise...

Based on 1145 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season due to pleasant weather and open recreational activities. However, yellow jackets are more prevalent during this time, and the campground can get crowded. Spring and...

Based on 1145 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The whole place is super clean. From the bathrooms and showers to the campgrounds that are even raked when you arrive." - Doug Rosson. "The showers are operational again, which is an added bonus,...

Based on 1145 reviews

Accessibility Features

Disabled-accessible sites like #65 are praised for their proximity to restrooms and level ground. Campers with mobility challenges appreciate the flat, paved paths and facilities.

Based on 1145 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, and many campers enjoy bringing their dogs. However, pet owners are advised to keep dogs leashed due to wildlife sightings, including bobcats.

Based on 1145 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Dogwood

$40.00 - $81.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $40.00 (+$2.00 holiday); STANDARD ELECTRIC: $51.00 (+$2.00 holiday); STANDARD NONELECTRIC-DOUBLE: $79.00 (+$2.00 holiday); STANDARD...

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

909-336-6717 OR 909-866-8550clm@clm-services.com

Go if

You want reliable facilities, friendly staff, and easy access to both lakes, and you're willing to research site numbers before booking.

Skip if

You need guaranteed privacy or flat, level ground at every site, since spots like #10 and #11 trade off steepness or seclusion for other perks.

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Campgrounds

San Bernardino National Forest

Dogwood

A-

Camper Report Card

How campers graded it

Rated higher than 95% of graded campgrounds

Graded on what 780 campers actually wrote - graded on 14 things that make or break a trip. Each topic is graded against every other campground on it - A is among the best, C about average. No star ratings.

Strengths

Grade A.Cleanliness
Grade A.Facilities
Grade A-.Staff & hosts

Watch-outs

Grade C.Belonging
Grade C+.Bugs & weather
Grade C+.Rules & policies

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Each topic is graded against every other campground on it; a topic campers liked never grades below C−. ± shows the 95% confidence range from the sample size.

How we grade →See how California grades overall

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Dogwood sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>This family campground is located 20 miles northeast of San Bernardino, CA in the San Bernardino National Forest. There are 87 reservable sites. There are no first-come/first serve sites. Activities include Interpretive programs on Friday and Saturday nights, hiking trails, 15 minutes away from Lake Gregory, with boating, fishing and a water slide park.</p><p>Amenities and services include camp host, dump station, RV hookups, fire rings, firewood sales, interpretive trails, interpretive programs, picnic tables, showers and restrooms. Accessible. Lake Arrowhead Village, with its fine dining and quaint shops, is only 5 minutes away.</p><p><iframe allowfullscreen="" aria-label="Dogwood Family Campground Widget" frameborder="0" height="800" src="https://cdn.recreation.gov/widget/fs/camping/index.html?id=232037" width="100%"></iframe></p>

About the campground

The elevation is 6000 ft. The campground, composed of five loops - Sequoia, Cedar, Pine, Oak, and Fir, is in a dense forest of cedar, Ponderosa and Jeffrey pines, oak, and Douglas fir. Originally designed for tent camping, the campground has retained much of its old character and challenges for RV campers. Cedar, Fir and Sequoia Loops are recommended for tent campers only. Even pop- San Bernardino National Forest 219 up tent campers and slide-ins might have difficulty manuevering these loops. The Pine and Oak Loops are best suited for RVs. The lush forest attracts lots of bird and wildlife for viewing. Interpretive programs are provided on weekends throughout the summer months. Firewood is available for a fee. Considered an "all reservation" campground, reservations can be made at the campground's entrance if sites are available, as well as on-line.

Seasons & access

Open May 2 through November 2

Facilities

The hot showers are wheelchair friendly.

RV information

The parking aprons are paved. Tight, narrow interior road limits RV size and maneuverability. Some parking aprons are slightly longer but no wider. Most camp sites will not accommodate slide-outs.

Directions

From Running Springs, CA, take State Rt. 18 west 6.5 miles to Blue Jay sign (0.3 miles past Rim of the World High School). Turn right at Blue Jay sign and make another immediate right at campground sign. Go 0.3 miles to campground entrance.

National Forest: Bernardino National Forest
Ranger District: Big Bear
Elevation: 6000
Rate: $30 per day - single $38 per day with hook-up $60 per day - double NOTE: $2 per day additional on holidays. Credit cards are accepted. Only checks of $50 or more are accepted.
Maximum Stay: 14
Open Season: 04/19/2024 – 10/26/2024

Dogwood

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Dogwood

Campground Map

Weather at Dogwood

Current alerts(9)

Best Time to Camp at Dogwood

Planning Tips

About Dogwood

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Dogwood ?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Dogwood

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

Nearby alternatives

Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area Group Campground

Crab Flats

Fishermans Group

How campers graded it

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Overview

About the campground

Seasons & access

Facilities

RV information

Directions

Ask Camp Sage about Dogwood

Current alerts(9)

Best Time to Camp at Dogwood

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Dogwood ?

Amenities available

Things to do at Dogwood

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Nearby alternatives

Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area Group Campground

Crab Flats

Fishermans Group