Buttercup Group Camp is an outdoor oasis nestled in Southern California's pine-covered mountains. Big Bear Lake is nearby, a popular destination for a variety of recreational activities. The campground offers a great escape from city life and it is one of the best locales for group camping.
Recreation
Fishing and boating at Big Bear Lake are popular activities. Anglers can look forward to trout, bluegill, crappie, catfish and largemouth bass, among other species. Because of the very cold water and the presence of underwater obstacles near the shoreline, swimming at the lake is sometimes discouraged.
Visitors also enjoy the area's plentiful hiking, mountain biking and climbing opportunities. The campground provides access to a number of trails and points of exploration.
Facilities
The group campground offers one large, accessible site that can accommodate up to 40 people and eight vehicles for tent or RV camping. The site is equipped with tables, grills and a campfire circle. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.
Natural Features
The group campground is situated at an elevation of about 7,000 feet and is heavily forested with pine trees. The site is relatively shady and secluded. It is about two miles from Big Bear Lake and is accessed by a dirt road.
Nearby Attractions
A general store and restaurants can be found in the city of Big Bear Lake.
From San Bernardino, take I-10 east to Running Springs. Turn onto State Highway 18 and continue to Big Bear Lake Dam. Continue about 6 miles on State Highway 18 and turn right on Summit Boulevard. Turn left at the end of road and go about a half-mile to the second gate on the right.
1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 2.1 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.
Map
Fees and stay limits
For information about payments or making changes to your reservation, please visit the Recreation.gov Rules and Reservation Polices page: here
From Recreation.gov, which is not always current. The operator's own page is the authority on what you will be charged.
More photos
Photo: Vista Rec · Recreation.govPhoto: Vista Rec · Recreation.gov
Member photos
Common questions about Buttercup Group Camp
Can you reserve a site at Buttercup Group Camp?
Yes, Buttercup Group Camp is reservable through Recreation.gov.
How many campsites does Buttercup Group Camp have?
1 site.
What is the maximum RV length at Buttercup Group Camp?
25 ft. That is the longest vehicle the sites here are recorded as taking; individual sites may be shorter.
Are pets allowed at Buttercup Group Camp?
Yes, pets are allowed at Buttercup Group Camp.
Does Buttercup Group Camp have hookups?
Water.
Are campfires allowed at Buttercup Group Camp?
Campfires are allowed at Buttercup Group Camp. Check for a current fire restriction before you go.
Also listed by
Buttercup Group Camp also appears in other federal recreation data. Facts below are matched by name and location, not confirmed by Buttercup Group Camp's operator.
USDA Forest Service — data as of Aug 24, 2026
Group Site $149 - Holiday $159
Restrictions:
Please bring garbage bags!
All pets must be leashed!
For current fire restrictions contact the Big Bear Discovery Center
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