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San Bernardino/Crab Flats
Overview
San Bernardino/Crab Flats Campground offers a quintessential mountain camping experience within the San Bernardino National Forest. Situated at an elevation of roughly 6,000 feet, this destination provides a cool, shaded escape from the Southern California heat. Unlike paved RV resorts, this site embraces its rugged forest setting, surrounded by a dense canopy of pine, cedar, and oak trees. It is a primitive location that prioritizes a deep connection with nature and serves as a primary gateway to the extensive backcountry trail systems found in the region.
Location & Surroundings
Located near the mountain community of Running Springs, CA, the campground is accessed via Forest Service Road 3N16. The drive in offers sweeping views of the mountainous landscape, though the unpaved access road can be narrow and bumpy, requiring careful navigation. The surroundings are characterized by rocky outcroppings and deep forest terrain, providing a genuine sense of seclusion. It is an ideal spot for those looking to distance themselves from urban noise while remaining within a reasonable driving distance of the Inland Empire.
Amenities & Park Features
As a traditional Forest Service site, Crab Flats focuses on essential facilities rather than luxury. Each campsite is equipped with a sturdy picnic table and fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground provides vault toilets and typically offers access to potable water during the peak summer season. There are no utility hookups available, so RV travelers should arrive with full fresh water tanks and sufficient battery power. The site layout is best suited for smaller rigs, camper vans, and truck campers due to the natural terrain.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw for many visitors is the immediate access to world-class OHV and motorcycle trails, including the challenging Dishpan Springs and Holcomb Valley routes. For those seeking water activities, Green Valley Lake and the bustling Big Bear Lake are just a short drive away, offering boating and fishing opportunities. Hikers can explore various sections of the Deep Creek area, while photographers will appreciate the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit this high-altitude ecosystem throughout the spring and summer months.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for travelers who prefer a rustic, off-grid experience over a traditional resort environment. It is a top choice for off-road enthusiasts who want to camp right at the trailhead for their motorized adventures. Because of the size constraints and unpaved roads, it is best suited for small-to-mid-sized RVs and van lifers who are entirely self-sufficient. If you value silence, starlit nights, and direct access to rugged mountain trails, Crab Flats provides the perfect basecamp for your wilderness exploration.
Amenities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Erik Orejel
Small campground, but surprisingly spacious. It's tucked a bit farther back into the mountains, which is honestly part of the fun. You don’t need a 4x4 vehicle, but high clearance is definitely recommended. I wouldn’t bring a Prius, Camry, Civic, or anything low to the ground, there are a few rough spots where you could easily get stuck or damage your car. It’s far removed from the hustle of everyday life, quiet, peaceful, and surrounded by nature. Lots of shade and plenty of space between sites. Vault toilets are available and decent, depending on who used them last. There’s no water nearby, so be sure to bring plenty. Also, there’s no trash service, so pack out what you pack in. As expected, no showers. (It’s camping 😁) The area is dog-friendly and generally quiet, except for one issue (more on that below). We did have some wasps show up every time we were cooking or had water out, but they didn’t sting or cause any problems. Just something to be aware of. Lots of birds and wildlife around, and when it's quiet, the sound of the wind moving through the trees is absolutely beautiful. There aren’t many hiking trails directly at the campground, which might be a downside for some. However, Green Valley Lake is not far away and makes for a great trip to and from the campsite. There’s swimming, fishing, they have boat rentals, or you can just relax by the water. If you do swim or fish, theirs is a small fee since the lake is privately owned. Cool owners.There are also a couple of mellow, local restaurants nearby if you want a break from cooking. Very chill-mellow vibe type of place. The Downside: Off-Road Vehicles Unfortunately, the campground sits right next to an off-highway vehicle trail (OHV)So, depending on the crowd, you will hear engines and loud music, especially during weekends or holidays. During our stay, there was a large group (20+ people) with several off-road carts and quads. They started early, around 7 a.m. blasting music and running engines throughout the day. At night, they were doing donuts near the entrance, kicking up dust that blew directly into campsites 1 and 2 (where we stayed). A couple of riders even kept on driving through out the campsite and in between the tent spots without any regards for others. My neighbor eventually asked them to slow down near the sites, and they did, for a bit. But it didn’t last. They also ignored the numerous "No Campfires" and "Fire Danger High" signs and still started a fire, showing little concern for safety or other campers. Despite the off-road noise and that one inconsiderate group, we still had a good time. Just be aware of the setting and know what to expect.Bring your own water, Pack out your trash, no fires unless explicitly allowed, be prepared for potential dust/noise from off-road vehicles, enjoy the nature, peace, and shade when it's quiet.
Jeannine Laupsa
It’s definitely outdoor living. Toilet only. And the road to get there is very rough. Like you shouldn’t go if you have a Prius. But we had a great time.
Roger Lobbezoo
Very secluded and off the map. Be warned that there are 4 miles of unpaved road to get to the campsite, 4WD and high clearance vehicles only! Saw someone in a Tesla totally get stuck!!! No RVs, sedans or non-4WD vehicles!!! No water, no waste, toilets only!!! Campsite have picnic tables & fire pits. Check fire regulations before heading out....
Melany Carmona
Beautiful and well maintained. The only bad part to complain was the rude camping neighbors, other than that a wonderful experience.
Preston Treadwell
My son and I stayed here the last week in June. The weather was mid yo low 80s. I stayed at campsite 1 and there was only one other group there on the entire campsite. The campsite does require a high clearance vehicle to get there but most stock SUVs should be fine. My son and I tent camped for two days. The site was big and had plenty of shade. The bathroom was a very short walk from our site and decently maintained. The site included water and a fire pit, but due to fires in the area/ weather they were both restricted. My son and I hiked to the top of a tall rock in the site and watched the sunset which only took maybe 15/20 minutes. There are several trails located close by to drive on and explore. We also used the private lake about 20 minutes from camp. For about $40 for me and my son, we rented a row boat and fished for an hour. The $40 allowed us to also fish from the shore. Unfortunately didn't catch anything but it was a good way to relax and enjoy lunch while our lines were in the water. Overall I think the site was nice. I prefer less people om the site when camping so this was perfect. I think the time of the season and the dirt road to the site helped limit the traffic.