Deer Group Camp

About

Deer Group Camp offers a secluded group camping experience in the San Bernardino National Forest, situated in a mature conifer stand south of Big Bear Lake. The campground sits at 7,625 feet elevation, where tall pines provide extensive shade throughout the day. The single group site can accommodate up to 40 people with a maximum of 8 vehicles, making it ideal for extended families, scout troops, or organized groups seeking a mountain retreat. The site is equipped with 5 picnic tables, a double pedestal grill, a group fire ring for evening gatherings, and vault toilets. There is no potable water on-site, so all drinking water must be packed in. This is also a pack-in/pack-out facility with no trash collection services. Access requires travel on a rough Forest Service road; high-clearance or 4WD vehicles are strongly recommended. Recreation opportunities abound nearby. Big Bear Lake is just north of the campground, offering fishing for trout, bluegill, crappie, catfish, and largemouth bass, along with boating and designated swimming areas. The Seven Oaks Trail provides hiking and mountain biking access to spectacular views of San Gorgonio Peak, Southern California's highest point. The Big Bear Discovery Center is approximately 10 miles away with visitor information and interpretive programs.

Directions

From I-10, take State Highway 330 to Running Springs. Turn onto State Highway 18 and continue to Big Bear Lake Dam. Continue 3 miles on 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 0.2 miles, then turn left onto 2N45Y to the campground. High-clearance or 4WD vehicle recommended.