Holcomb Valley Campground
USDA Forest Service
7400 ft elevation
Holcomb Valley Campground is a remote, high-elevation escape set in a pinyon-juniper and pine forest 5 miles north of Big Bear Lake. At 7,400 feet with no hookups, no showers, and no reservations, it draws self-sufficient campers, OHV riders, and history buffs exploring the nearby Gold Rush remnants in Holcomb Valley. The low nightly fee and first-come nature make it a great option when lakeside campgrounds are booked solid on peak weekends.
Location
Holcomb Valley Road (Forest Road 3N16), Big Bear City, CA 92314
Fees & Reservations
Nightly Fee
$21/night
$21/night standard; $23/night on holidays; collected by on-site camp host (mid-May to October)
Reservations
First-come, first-served — no advance reservations
Site Details
Total Sites19
RVs Allowed
Yes
Suitable for small to mid-size RVs; high-clearance recommended on dirt road
Season
Year-round (road conditions permitting)
Open year-round, but snow and mud can close Forest Road 3N16 in winter/spring; camp host present mid-May through October
Open year-round, but snow and mud can close Forest Road 3N16 in winter/spring; camp host present mid-May through October
Pets
Pets allowed on leash
Amenities
vault toilets
fire rings
picnic tables
bear boxes
camp host (mid-May through October)
Nearby Trails & Attractions
- Holcomb Valley Gold Rush Historic Sites (within 1 mile)
- Van Dusen Canyon OHV area
- Pacific Crest Trail access
- Tanglewood Group Camp (nearby)
- Big Bear Lake (5 miles south)