About BLUFF MESA GROUP CAMP
Overview Bluff Mesa Group Campground is conveniently located for campers to enjoy all the beautiful Big Bear Lake area has to offer. A variety of trailheads are nearby, leading visitors through the scenic forest that surrounds the campground.Recreation A variety of hiking and mountain biking trails can be accessed from the campground, and rock climbing routes can be found nearby. Fishing, boating and swimming at Big Bear Lake are popular activities. Anglers can look forward to trout, bluegill, crappie, catfish and largemouth bass, among other fish. The lake is less than 10 miles from the campground.Facilities The campground offers one large group site for tents. It can accommodate up to 40 people and eight vehicles and is accessed by a dirt road. The site is equipped with picnic tables, grills and campfire circle. Vault toilets are provided. Drinking water, utility hookups and trash collection are not available. Parking surfaces are gravel.Natural Features The campground is located 45 miles from San Bernardino at an elevation of 6,800 feet. It is accessed via a dirt road, and is nestled in a secluded, mixed conifer forest with a grassy understory. Mature trees provide much shade throughout the area, but open meadows are also available. Nearby Attractions The Big Bear Discovery Center is located about 10 miles from the campground, on the other side of Big Bear Lake. A visitor center, interpretive trails and educational programs are available, as well as accessible flush restroom facilities.Charges & Cancellations Rules & Reservation Policies As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations. Any location or activity requiring a permit or lottery will
How to Get There
Take I-10 east to Running Springs. Turn onto State Highway 18 and continue to Big Bear Lake Dam. Turn right and continue for 3 miles. Turn onto Tulip Lane and turn right on Mill Creek Road (Forest Road 2N10). Continue 4 miles and turn right on Forest Road 2N86 and continue to the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to BLUFF MESA GROUP CAMP
Heading to BLUFF MESA GROUP CAMP? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for BLUFF MESA GROUP CAMP?
No central reservation system listed for BLUFF MESA GROUP CAMP. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/231965) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BLUFF MESA GROUP CAMP?
Take I-10 east to Running Springs. Turn onto State Highway 18 and continue to Big Bear Lake Dam. Turn right and continue for 3 miles. Turn onto Tulip Lane and turn right on Mill Creek Road (Forest Road 2N10). Continue 4 miles and turn right on Forest Road 2N86 and continue to the campground.
How do I contact BLUFF MESA GROUP CAMP?
You can reach the park at phone: 909-866-8550 or email: clm@clm-services.com.
References & Official Resources