Green Valley
Green Valley Campground makes for a furrifically Fido-friendly family vacation! Sandwiched between Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake in San Bernadino National Forest, the campground is well-shaded by tall firs and sweet-smelling cedar trees, so you and your buddy can keep cool even in the California summer sun. The area also overlooks a gently burbling mountain creek. You won’t find any showers, RV hookups, or electricity here, but you might well find that the proximity to recreation options makes up for it! Green Valley can get crowded in peak season (though the campsites are far enough apart to provide some privacy), so it’s best to make your reservation early. The nightly rates at the campground start at $25 for a non-electric site during the off-season.
Anglers might be tempted to try their luck at Arrowhead or Big Bear (each about fifteen miles from camp), but the best place to cast your line is no doubt Green Valley Lake, just a mile or so away from the campground. The lake may not be the biggest, but it’s well-stocked with all kinds of trout, and you can cook your catch on the grills provided at each site. Green Valley might be the perfect spot for campers with kids to pitch their tents -- there’s a playground right on the shore of Green Valley Lake, and there’s plenty of space between sites for them to run around and tire themselves out (singletons and childless campers should expect some noise pollution). There are several hiking trails around the lake, but they’re all rated as difficult -- four-pawed fitness freaks should have no trouble, but laid-back lapdogs might want to chill on Green Valley Lake beach or at the campsite picnic table instead.
There’s no wifi or cellular service at Green Valley, so this isn’t the best choice for campers that need to stay in constant contact. Otherwise, enjoy your digital detox! Fires are permitted, but only in designated rings, and regulations can change with the weather. Keep in mind that Green Valley doesn't have bear-proof storage lockers -- you'll need to BYOB (Bring Your Own Bear canisters). You’ll also find drinking water on-site. Remember to bring waste bags to clean up after your buddy, and have a pawesome time!
