Are you looking for an exciting camping adventure to enjoy with friends and family?
Look no further than Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area! Located in Southern California, Silverwood Lake offers a variety of camping sites and outdoor activities that are perfect for all ages.
Camping at Silverwood Lake is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature. Whether you’re looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, Silverwood Lake has plenty of camping sites to choose from. With stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.
What you can expect
- Silverwood Lake offers a variety of camping sites and outdoor activities that are perfect for all ages.
- Camping at Silverwood Lake is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature.
- Whether you’re looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, Silverwood Lake has plenty of camping sites to choose from.
Getting to Silverwood Lake
If you’re planning on camping at Silverwood Lake, you’ll need to know how to get there. Here are some options for getting to the lake.
Driving Directions
The easiest way to get to Silverwood Lake is by car. The lake is located in the San Bernardino Mountains, just off of Highway 138. From Los Angeles, take the 210 Freeway East to the 15 Freeway North. Exit at Highway 138 West and follow the signs to Silverwood Lake. From San Bernardino, take the 215 Freeway North to the 15 Freeway North. Exit at Highway 138 West and follow the signs to the lake.
If you’re coming from the High Desert, take the 15 Freeway South to the Highway 138 West exit. Follow the signs to the lake. Once you arrive at the lake, there is ample parking available.
Public Transportation Options
If you don’t have a car, there are still ways to get to Silverwood Lake. The closest train station is in San Bernardino, which is about 20 miles from the lake. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the lake. The bus stop is located at the park entrance.
Another option is to take a taxi or ride-sharing service from San Bernardino to the lake. This can be a bit pricey, but it’s a good option if you don’t have a car.
Overall, getting to Silverwood Lake is relatively easy, whether you’re driving or taking public transportation. Just make sure to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to get there.
Camping Sites at Silverwood Lake
If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing outdoor adventure, camping at Silverwood Lake is a great option. With a variety of camping sites available, you can choose the perfect spot for your needs. Whether you’re looking for an RV site, tent site, or group site, Silverwood Lake has you covered.
RV Sites
Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area has 136 campsites for tents, trailers, and RVs up to 31 feet long. The campsites are organized in two loops – Old Mesa (sites 1-95) and New Mesa (sites 96-136). Campsites 96 to 136 are full hookups (50-amp), with parking pads that are 20 feet wide and 30 feet long.
Tent Sites
If you prefer tent camping, Silverwood Lake has plenty of options for you as well. There are several campsites available for tents only, with parking nearby. These sites are located in beautiful areas with plenty of shade and privacy.
Group Sites
For larger groups, Silverwood Lake offers group campsites that can accommodate up to 60 people. These sites are perfect for family reunions, church groups, or other large gatherings. Each site has picnic tables, fire rings, and BBQ grills.
No matter what type of camping experience you’re looking for, Silverwood Lake has something for everyone. With beautiful scenery, plenty of recreational activities, and a variety of camping sites to choose from, it’s no wonder why camping at Silverwood Lake is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Amenities and Facilities
When camping at Silverwood Lake, we found that the park offers a variety of amenities and facilities to make our stay more comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some of the amenities and facilities that we found particularly useful during our stay:
Restrooms and Showers
The park has several clean and well-maintained restroom and shower facilities located throughout the campgrounds. These facilities are equipped with flush toilets, sinks, and hot showers. We appreciated having access to these facilities, especially after a long day of hiking or swimming.
Picnic Areas
Silverwood Lake has several picnic areas located throughout the park. These areas are equipped with picnic tables and grills, making it easy for us to enjoy a meal outdoors. We found these areas to be a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery while enjoying a meal.
Playground and Recreation Areas
For families with children, Silverwood Lake offers several playground and recreation areas. These areas are equipped with swings, slides, and other playground equipment that kept our kids entertained for hours. We also enjoyed playing a game of horseshoes or volleyball at the recreation areas.
Overall, we found that the amenities and facilities at Silverwood Lake made our camping experience more comfortable and enjoyable. The park offers everything we needed to make our stay enjoyable, from clean restrooms and showers to picnic areas and playgrounds.
Outdoor Activities
Camping at Silverwood Lake offers a wide range of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Here are some of the top activities to enjoy during your stay:
Hiking Trails
Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area is home to several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest. The Lakeshore Trail is a popular 2.5-mile trail that offers scenic views of the lake and is suitable for all skill levels. For a more challenging hike, the 6.5-mile Sawpit Canyon Trail takes you through the forest and offers breathtaking views of the valley below.
Fishing Spots
Silverwood Lake is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, with a variety of fish species including trout, bass, catfish, and more. The lake is stocked regularly with fish, making it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced anglers. Fishing is allowed from boats or from designated fishing areas along the shore.
Boating and Water Sports
Silverwood Lake is also a great destination for boating and water sports. The lake allows motorized and non-motorized boats, and there are several boat launch ramps available. Visitors can enjoy water skiing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, and more. The lake also has several beaches for swimming and sunbathing.
Whether you prefer hiking, fishing, or water sports, Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area has something for everyone. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the lake and surrounding forest.
Camping Tips and Tricks
Camping at Silverwood Lake can be an unforgettable experience. However, to make the most of your trip, it is essential to be well-prepared. Here are some tips and tricks which helped us to get the most out of our camping trip.
Packing Essentials
Before we embarked on our camping trip, we made sure we had all the essentials packed. Here’s a list of things that you also should bring along:
- Tent and stakes
- Sleeping bags and blankets
- Pillows
- Inflatable mattress or sleeping pads
- Camping chairs and tables
- Portable stove and fuel
- Cooler with ice
- Cooking utensils and dishes
- Headlamps or flashlights with extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Maps and compass
- Water bottles
- Trash bags
It’s always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared. Double-check that you have everything you need before you hit the road.
Safety Measures
Camping is a fun and exciting activity, but it can also be dangerous if you’re not careful. Here are some safety measures to follow:
- Always let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return.
- Check the weather forecast before you leave and pack accordingly.
- Keep your campsite clean and free of food scraps to avoid attracting wildlife.
- Keep a safe distance from wild animals and never feed them.
- Always supervise children and keep them within sight.
- Be aware of your surroundings and any potential hazards, such as steep drops or loose rocks.
- Keep a first-aid kit on hand and know basic first-aid skills.
- Follow fire safety rules and regulations, and never leave a fire unattended.
- Respect other campers and keep noise levels down during quiet hours.
By following these tips and tricks, you can have a safe and enjoyable camping trip at Silverwood Lake.
Booking and Reservations
Planning a camping trip at Silverwood Lake is an exciting experience, but it’s important to make sure you have a spot reserved before you go. Here’s what you need to know about booking and reservations at Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area.
How to Reserve a Spot
There are two ways to reserve a spot at Silverwood Lake: online or by phone. To make a reservation online, visit the Recreation.gov website and search for Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area. You can also call the reservation line at 1-877-444-6777 to make a reservation by phone.
When making a reservation, you’ll need to provide some basic information such as the dates you plan to camp, the number of people in your group, and the type of camping equipment you’ll be using. You’ll also need to pay a reservation fee and a camping fee for each night you plan to stay.
It’s important to note that some campsites at Silverwood Lake are first-come, first-served and cannot be reserved. If you’re planning to camp during a busy time, it’s a good idea to make a reservation to ensure you have a spot.
Local Attractions
When we’re not busy hiking, fishing, or enjoying the water at Silverwood Lake, there are plenty of other local attractions to explore. Here are a few of our favorites:
Hesperia Zoo
Located just a short drive from Silverwood Lake, the Hesperia Zoo is a great place to spend an afternoon. With over 100 animals from all over the world, including lions, tigers, and bears, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. They also offer educational programs for kids and adults alike.
San Bernardino National Forest
If you’re looking for more outdoor activities, the San Bernardino National Forest is just a short drive away. With over 800,000 acres of land, there are plenty of hiking trails, campsites, and picnic areas to explore. Keep an eye out for wildlife like black bears and mountain lions!
Route 66 Museum
For a taste of Americana, check out the Route 66 Museum in nearby Victorville. Learn about the history of the famous highway and see vintage cars, signs, and memorabilia from the era. It’s a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Calico Ghost Town
Step back in time at the Calico Ghost Town, a former silver mining town that’s been preserved as a living museum. Take a tour of the mines, pan for gold, or ride the narrow gauge railway. There are also shops, restaurants, and live entertainment to enjoy.
Mojave Narrows Regional Park
Just a short drive from Silverwood Lake, Mojave Narrows Regional Park is a great place to spend a day. With a lake for fishing and boating, playgrounds, and picnic areas, it’s perfect for families. There are also hiking and equestrian trails for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Camping Etiquette and Rules
When camping at Silverwood Lake, it’s important to be mindful of the rules and etiquette to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable experience. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Respect Quiet Hours
Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 6 am. During this time, please keep noise to a minimum so that others can sleep peacefully. We recommend using headphones if you want to listen to music or watch a movie.
Keep Your Campsite Clean
Please clean up after yourself and dispose of all trash in the designated receptacles. Do not leave food or trash outside your tent or RV as this can attract animals. Keep your campsite tidy and organized.
Follow Fire Regulations
Fires are only allowed in designated fire rings or grills. Do not start a fire outside of these areas. Make sure to fully extinguish your fire before leaving your campsite or going to bed.
Be Considerate of Your Neighbors
Be respectful of your neighbors and keep noise levels down. Do not walk through other people’s campsites. If you have a dog, keep it on a leash and clean up after it.
Follow Park Rules
Make sure to familiarize yourself with the park rules and regulations. Some important rules to remember include no day-use vehicles in the campground, no tents on the grass area, and no wood gathering.
By following these guidelines, we can all have a safe and enjoyable camping experience at Silverwood Lake.
Conclusion
Camping at Silverwood Lake is an excellent choice for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. With its stunning views of the San Bernardino Mountains and a massive lake that’s ideal for kayaking and waterskiing, Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area is a popular spot for day use and overnight visitors alike.
During our stay at the campground, we found the facilities to be well-maintained and clean. The picnic tables, fire rings, flushing toilets, showers, and drinking water were all easily accessible and made our camping experience more comfortable. We appreciated the fact that dogs were allowed in the campgrounds, picnic areas, and parking lots, as well as on boats.
One of the highlights of our trip was hiking on the trails in the San Bernardino National Forest. We found the trails to be well-marked and easy to navigate, with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the lake. We also enjoyed biking and horseback riding in the area, as there are plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.
We highly recommend camping at Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area to anyone looking for a peaceful and enjoyable camping experience. With its beautiful scenery, well-maintained facilities, and a variety of outdoor activities, it’s the perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
FAQ
What are the camping prices at Silverwood Lake?
Camping prices at Silverwood Lake depend on the specific campground you choose to stay at. Generally, overnight fees are around $50 per campsite. Additionally, there is a $10 park fee for day use.
Whats the common opinion of camping at Silverwood Lake?
Reviews of camping at Silverwood Lake vary, but many visitors praise the beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Some visitors note that the campsites can be a bit close together, but overall, most people seem to enjoy their experience.
Is group camping available at Silverwood Lake?
Yes, group camping is available at Silverwood Lake. The Old Mesa Group Campground can accommodate up to 100 people and is available for reservation.
Can I find a map of the Old Mesa Campground at Silverwood Lake?
Yes, you can find a map of the Old Mesa Campground at Silverwood Lake on the California State Parks website. The map shows the location of each campsite, as well as the location of restrooms, showers, and other amenities.
What kind of fishing is available at Silverwood Lake?
Silverwood Lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Visitors can fish for a variety of species, including trout, bass, catfish, and more. Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased at the park.
We loved our stay at Silverwood lake and will definitely revisit! In this FAQ section we answer some of the questions we received about this beautiful location. Whats your opinion about Camping at Silverwood Lake? Let us know in the commens.
