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Horse Springs Campground (San Bernardino National Forest)
National Forest

Horse Springs Campground (San Bernardino National Forest)

Apple Valley, California
4.6 (17 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Horse Springs Campground (San Bernardino National Forest)

Federal campground in California.

Nestled in the San Bernardino National Forest, Horse Springs Campground offers a serene mountain escape for RV enthusiasts seeking authentic forest camping experiences. Located in Southern California's high country, this campground provides a refreshing retreat from the desert heat and urban sprawl below, making it an ideal destination for those looking to reconnect with nature without sacrificing the comfort of their RV.

The campground sits at elevation, where towering pines and cedars create a cool, peaceful atmosphere throughout the day. The natural forest setting provides ample shade and a genuine backcountry feel while accommodating RV camping. The surrounding San Bernardino National Forest encompasses over 800,000 acres of pristine wilderness, offering endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. Whether you're interested in hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, or simply enjoying quiet mornings surrounded by nature, this location delivers an authentic forest camping experience.

The area around Horse Springs is perfect for families, retired travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate the slower pace of forest life. Nearby trails offer varying difficulty levels, from leisurely walks to more challenging day hikes that reward visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The cooler mountain climate makes summer visits particularly appealing for those escaping the intense heat of lower elevations. Early mornings often feature wildlife activity, with deer and various bird species commonly spotted throughout the campground.

The national forest setting means you're immersed in protected natural landscape, free from commercial development and crowds. This peaceful environment is ideal for extended stays, with many visitors returning year after year to enjoy the same beloved campsites. The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the broader San Bernardino National Forest region, with numerous scenic drives and access points to wilderness areas within reasonable driving distance.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer mountain retreat, Horse Springs Campground provides the perfect blend of accessibility and authentic forest camping that makes Southern California's national forest destinations so special.
4.6

Rating

17

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Apple Valley is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

California weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Apple Valley.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Apple Valley. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Horse Springs Campground (San Bernardino National Forest) Reviews

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Larry Reno

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Larry Reno

Great campsite, I was the only one there. It was under maintenance/ construction so no fees. Cell service was in and out of one bar. (Verizon) There was two pit toilets faculties both with his & hers crappers. The campground in general was clean, but a little over grow. The road is a good if you have a high clearance vehicle.

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P-LAC

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by P-LAC

It looks like it's currently under restoration. We were disappointed that people would trash the place. Beer bottles, cans, and trash were in the fire pits. You can see broken bottles and spent ammo cartridges on the outside perimeter of the campsite. Used tissue would litter the campground . I can only speculate this is a spot locals use frequently since it's a long way from Big Bear Lake and... It looks like it's currently under restoration. We were disappointed that people would trash the place. Beer bottles, cans, and trash were in the fire pits. You can see broken bottles and spent ammo cartridges on the outside perimeter of the campsite. Used tissue would litter the campground . I can only speculate this is a spot locals use frequently since it's a long way from Big Bear Lake and closer to the Lucerne Valley side. Phone reception is spotty and non existent most of the time. There are a lot of red ant colonies around the sites and they are HUGE!!! The potential of this place is great. One of the few areas where we saw wildlife -2 deers to be exact. The views are amazing of the surrounding valleys. Just be warned this place can get WINDY. We were fortunate that it was windy during the day but completely calm at night. We cleaned up the fire pits that contained glass, cans, and a Starbucks cup. We also picked up unsightly litter on the ground and hopefully will give others a much better experience if they do come here. This place has potential. Let's all leave places like these better than how we found it.

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Mark English

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by Mark English

This is a lightly used campground out of the way. $10/night per site, plus $5 per car (truck!) 2 max. Self service pay, but I couldn't find drop box. I don't think the forest service really cares about this site because out of way. I visited on 6/16/19. Maybe more active in earlier spring? 2 restroom structures, I didn't go in. Not sure if there is water in campground. Basically just did a drive b... This is a lightly used campground out of the way. $10/night per site, plus $5 per car (truck!) 2 max. Self service pay, but I couldn't find drop box. I don't think the forest service really cares about this site because out of way. I visited on 6/16/19. Maybe more active in earlier spring? 2 restroom structures, I didn't go in. Not sure if there is water in campground. Basically just did a drive by on way to White Mt.

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A13xIcoN (Alexicon)

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by A13xIcoN (Alexicon)

A great place to camp if you want to be as isolated as possible. Definitely going to need a vehicle that can handle some light to moderate off-road conditions to get there. Very simple and primitive layout with two sets of vault toilest, fire pits and park benches.

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Jess Baker

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by Jess Baker

Primitive campsites with wooden post boundaries and 2 composting toilets. Pay drop-box is self-serve, $10 /night or $5/day use. Some tables and a fire/bbq pit to use, if legally permitted.

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