
Frequently asked questions
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Is it possible to update my reservation after booking?
Yes, you can log on and make changes to your reservation up until the day you arrive. If you have any issues let us know and we can help you out.
What is your cancellation policy for non-group campsites?
Reservations canceled more than 7 days in advance of arrival will incur a $25 fee. Reservations canceled between 3 and 7 days in advance of arrival will incur a fee of 50% of the reservation stay. Cancellations made 72 hours before arrival will be refunded.
What is your cancellation policy for group campsites?
Reservations canceled more than 7 days in advance of arrival will incur a $25 fee. Reservations canceled Between 3 and 7 days in advance of arrival will incur a fee of 50% of the reservation stay.
Cancellations made less than 7 days before arrival will forfeit any refund.
Are kids allowed at the ranch, and is there a special rate for kids?
Yes, kids are welcome. Under 10 years old stay for free.
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How do I get to the ranch?
A good starting point is our Contact & Directions page which provides helpful links and directions to the ranch.
Which dirt road should I take to the ranch?
From Big Bear Lake, Google Maps and Apple Maps may provide different route options to the ranch; however, you should only take Polique Canyon Road as it's the most direct route. Download this map to ensure you take the correct route.
Do I need a 4x4 vehicle?
Although Polique Canyon Road is an unmaintained dirt and gravel road with swales, potholes and rocks, it's passable by any vehicle. However, it's essential that you drive slowly and carefully, especially in a sedan.
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How close are the campsites?
You'll be surprised by how much space you'll have. This isn't your standard campground. You won't feel cramped.
Are there water spigots at the campsite?
Water is not provided directly to each campsite, but there are numerous water spigots and hydrants throughout the property with clean, potable water.
Should I bring a shade structure?
Most of our campsites offer a mix of sun and shade. However, keep in the mind the sun can feel intense at higher elevations. So, bring a tarp or pop-up tent if you have one.
Are there bears, and does the ranch provide bear boxes?
Yes, there are bears. Though the chances that you encounter one are slim. We do not provide bear boxes, and so we encourage our guests to be “bear safe” by storing all food and cooking supplies in their own bear-safe containers, away from sleeping areas and out of reach. Please do not burn excess food or trash.
Are their RV hookups?
No.
Is there a dump station?
No, we are a dry campground and do not have a dump station on-site. The closest dump station is at Serrano Campground, located about 10 minutes from our property at 40650 N Shore Dr, Fawnskin, CA 92333.
Do you have RVs available to rent?
We recommend you contact either AdventureRVCA or Big Bear RV Rentals who would be happy to rent you an RV and will provide delivery and pick-up service as well.
What is the weather like at the ranch?
Keep in mind the ranch is at an elevation of 7,500 feet which means cooler temperatures. Summer daytime temps can still be warm (75 to 85 degrees) but the overnight temps will typically cool down significantly (45 to 55 degrees). In the spring and fall, be prepared for overnight freezing temps (30-40 degrees or colder). Check the weather before your trip and plan accordingly.
Can we bring our bikes?
Bikes are an awesome way to get around and explore the ranch. Mountain bikes and hybrids are recommended since there are no paved bike trails on the property. There are also a number of great cross-country and downhill mountain-bike trails in the area and at Big Bear Mountain Resort.
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Are there bathrooms & showers?
We have several bathroom and shower buildings in addition to numerous portable toilets throughout the ranch. Hot showers and flushing toilets are available when the weather is warm enough, generally May through October.
Is there potable water on site?
Yes, when the weather is warm enough, generally May through October, our water system is on and provides clean, potable water. There are numerous spigots and hydrants throughout the ranch which you may use.
Is there cell reception at the ranch?
Verizon is the only carrier with reception. For all other carriers, you will not have reception.
Is there WiFi at the ranch?
No.
What do I do with my trash?
There is a dumpster on site for you to dispose your trash. We ask that you please leave your campsite cleaner than you found it.
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Are campfires allowed?
Yes, campfires within the provided fire rings are allowed. However, when high winds are present, campfires will not be allowed. During red flag warnings we must prohibit campfires, charcoal grills, propane stoves or anything with an open flame. Check current fire restrictions and weather conditions.
What's the proper way to extinguish a campfire?
Fire safety is extremely important. We provide every campsite with buckets which are typically filled with water upon your arrival. Make sure your water bucket is full of water before you start a fire and be sure your fire is completely extinguished before you leave your campsite or go to bed. To extinguish a fire, douse the fire and coals with water and stir with a shovel or stick until cool to the touch. Watch this video by the Forest Service for a demonstration.
Who's legally and financially liable for a fire that becomes uncontrolled and causes damages or a wildfire?
State law says whoever started the fire is responsible and will be held liable.
Is firewood available for purchase?
Yes, firewood is available for purchase onsite. We recommend preordering firewood when making a reservation, and we'll have it delivered to your campsite before your arrival. One less thing to think about when setting up camp.
Do the fire rings have grilling grates?
Most of our fire rings do have grilling grates. However, grates are sometimes damaged, lost or stolen, so be prepared in case a grate is missing from your campsite and we do not have an extra one available.
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There are so many fun things to do in and around Big Bear. Please visit our Experiences page for more info.
in case of emergency
Urgent Care: Bear Mountain Family Medicine Urgent Care, 41949 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
24-hour Urgent Care: Rapid Care Urgent Care, 10841 White Oak Ave, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
Animal Hospital: VCA Lakeside Animal Hospital, 42160 N Shore Dr, Big Bear, CA 92314.
24-hour Animal Hospital: Emergency Pet Hospital of Redlands, 2072 W Redlands Blvd, Redlands, CA 92373.
Fires and Immediate Threats to Life & Safety: Dial 9-1-1 or have the Camp Host / Ranch Manager assist you.
Non-emergency Matters: Call the U.S. Forest Service Ranger Station during regular hours at (909) 382-2600 or after hours at (909) 383-5654.