Pineknot Campground – Big Bear Lake
Pineknot Campground is a developed campground in the San Bernardino Mountains near Big Bear Lake, offering 47 reservable sites nestled among fir, pine, and oak trees at an elevation of approximately 6,900 feet.
A popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and sightseeing, Pineknot Campground is conveniently located about five miles from a marina and water recreation areas on Big Bear Lake.
Campground Details
| Site types | Tent, Trailer |
| Amenities | Flush Toilets, Drinking Water, Picnic Tables, Fire Rings, Parking (extra vehicle fee) |
| Reservations | Yes |
| Reservations website | Recreation.gov |
| Reservation phone | 1-877-444-6777 |
| Information number | (909) 382-2790 (Mountain Top Ranger District – Big Bear Discovery Center) |
| Campground GPS | 34.235063, -116.884067 |
| Location | Big Bear Lake, San Bernardino Mountains |
| Elevation | 6,900 feet |
| Open Season | 04/25/2024 – 10/19/2024 |
| Busiest Season | Summer |
| Fees | $34/night (8-person maximum per site), $8/night extra vehicle fee |
Getting to Pineknot Campground
From Los Angeles or Orange County, take I-10 East to San Bernardino. Merge onto CA-210 West (Exit 77) toward CA-330/Highland, then continue onto CA-330 North (Exit 81) to the San Bernardino Mountains (note that CA-330 becomes CA-18). Stay on CA-18 until you reach Big Bear Lake.
When you arrive at the Big Bear Lake Dam/Bridge, go straight at the signal light and continue on CA-18 (Big Bear Boulevard) into the City of Big Bear Lake. Look for the Village Sign and take a left to remain on Big Bear Boulevard (eastbound). Continue until Summit Boulevard and turn right at the signal. Travel south on Summit Boulevard toward Snow Summit Ski Resort, then turn left into the VIP parking lot. Follow the signs behind the condos; Pineknot Campground will be on your right.
Campground Overview
Surrounded by tall pine and oak trees, Pineknot Campground’s 47 sites strike a balance between natural beauty and modern conveniences. The developed campground provides flush toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, and fire rings, making for a comfortable stay in the high-altitude setting.
The campground is located near the base of Snow Summit Mountain Resort. Its proximity to Big Bear Lake offers quick access to fishing, boating, and other water-based recreation. Trails near the campground, including Snow Summit’s summer mountain biking terrain, support hiking and mountain biking, while local shops and restaurants in Big Bear Lake cater to visitors seeking additional activities and amenities. Because of its popularity, advance reservations are strongly recommended during the busy summer season.
