National Children's Forest - Image 1
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National Children's Forest

4.7
·71 reviews·Running Springs, United States

Escape to the National Children's Forest for crisp mountain air, stunning boulder summit views, and easy trails. Free camping available!

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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National Children's Forest - Image 1

National Children's Forest

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Escape to the National Children's Forest for crisp mountain air, stunning boulder summit views, and easy trails. Free camping available!

4.7
(71 reviews)

"The air feels so refreshing up here. The views of the rocks and water reservoir are very appealing and great for pictures."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

GPS can be spotty. Download offline maps before you go to avoid getting lost on the winding mountain roads.

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

While some paths have shade, many areas are exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sunny days.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Mountain Views

Panoramic Mountain Views

Summit of the boulders

Climb to the top of the boulders for breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding rocks and the water reservoir. Perfect for photos and quiet reflection.

Reddit
Refreshing Mountain Air

Refreshing Mountain Air

Throughout the forest

Experience the crisp, clean mountain air that revitalizes the senses. A welcome escape from city pollution.

Reddit
Exploring Intersecting Trails

Exploring Intersecting Trails

Various paths

Wander through a network of easy-to-walk paths, some paved, offering opportunities for mild hikes and exploration.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating to the Forest

Finding the National Children's Forest can be tricky; GPS can be unreliable, and the visitor center might not be at the main site. Plan your route in advance and be prepared for winding mountain roads. Some visitors recommend using offline maps or following specific landmarks mentioned in reviews. Reddit

Best Time for Refreshing Air

Visit on a weekday for a more peaceful experience and pleasant weather, especially in the morning. While the air is generally refreshing, avoid peak summer heat if you're sensitive. Weekends can see more visitors, though encounters are still few. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Cooler months
Why
Crisp air, comfortable hiking
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I got these off pinterest😌 the closest I got to this was running springs in big bear(don't reccomend) #forest #yearn #fypシ #washington #twillight
@peanutbutterjellaaayyyy
310 likes • 1.9K views

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

GPS can be spotty. Download offline maps before you go to avoid getting lost on the winding mountain roads. Reddit

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

While some paths have shade, many areas are exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sunny days. Reddit

reddit.com

Running Springs: Keller Peak Hike / National Children's Forest [Date Hike]

reddit.com

Anyone know a good snow play area for kids?

🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Easy paths are great for walking, but sturdy shoes are recommended for exploring the boulder areas. Reddit

📸 Camera Ready

The views of the rocks and reservoir are stunning and make for great photo opportunities. Reddit

reddit.com

The mountains are covered in snow! Where do you go for a short day trip of sledding with the kids?

Tips

from all over the internet

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

GPS can be spotty. Download offline maps before you go to avoid getting lost on the winding mountain roads. Reddit

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

While some paths have shade, many areas are exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sunny days. Reddit

🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Easy paths are great for walking, but sturdy shoes are recommended for exploring the boulder areas. Reddit

📸 Camera Ready

The views of the rocks and reservoir are stunning and make for great photo opportunities. Reddit

🏕️ Free Camping Available

Enjoy free, no-hookup camping if you plan to stay overnight. Check local regulations for details. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(71 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the National Children's Forest for its refreshing mountain air and appealing natural scenery, especially the panoramic views from the boulder summit. The easy, paved paths are a plus for accessibility, and the free camping is a great bonus. However, some find navigation challenging due to unreliable GPS and the visitor center's location, and a few note areas showing signs of disrepair or overgrowth.

"Easy to find and plenty of parking on asphalt lot. They do have restrooms as well but they are not always open. The air feels so refreshing up here. The views of the rocks and water reservoir are very appealing and great for pictures. There are other nearby trails too. Also free camping with no hookups."

The Ponderosa Running Springs

"I did this Trail on a weekday. The weather was amazing! 70F with sun! Perfect for a mild hike on the mountain!

I went off the main paved road after passing Camp #2 and reached the boulders and decided to climb to the top. For me it was a fun and easy climb to the top and you come to the amazing views all around.

I even took a little nap up top, relaxed and meditated for 10 minutes before heading back down. I was a little lost after coming down from the boulders but at the end I found my way back! There are good signals in the area of the park and that help a lot too.

It’s such a fun place to hike and explore up the mountain. Would go again definitely!"

Catherine

"Very difficult to find with navigation!! The visitor center was at the bottom of the mountain without clear indications of the actual site. We kept climbing and climbing to reach the site 2.8 mi up. The path had next to no shade but was paved asphalt so easy walking and would be possible for strollers or wheelchairs. Very few human encounters. Dogs are permissible with doo-doo clean up bags available."

Gail Kantz

What People Like

Refreshing mountain air
Panoramic summit views
Easy paved paths

What People Dislike

Navigation difficulties
Overgrown areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Navigation can be challenging as GPS signals are unreliable in the mountains. Some visitors report the main visitor center is at the bottom of the mountain, not at the actual site. It's recommended to research directions beforehand, use offline maps, and look for landmarks. Reddit

The main paths within the forest are paved asphalt, making them easy to walk and potentially suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. However, the roads leading up to the forest can be winding mountain roads. Reddit

Yes, there is plenty of parking available on an asphalt lot, making it convenient for visitors. Reddit

Dogs are permissible in the National Children's Forest, but make sure to bring bags for cleanup. Reddit

The forest is located at a higher elevation in the mountains, offering cooler temperatures and refreshing air compared to lower elevations. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The National Children's Forest is generally free to enter. However, some visitors mention the need for a California Wilderness Pass for certain areas or activities, so it's wise to check current requirements. Reddit

Specific operating hours are not always clearly defined, but it's generally accessible during daylight hours. Restrooms are available but may not always be open. Reddit

Reservations are typically not required for general day visits to the National Children's Forest. However, for camping, it's advisable to check for any specific regulations or permits. Reddit

Some visitors have noted the need for a CA Wilderness Pass. It's best to verify this requirement before your visit, especially if you plan on hiking specific trails or engaging in certain activities. Reddit

While parking is good, some facilities like restrooms may not always be open. Some areas might show signs of disrepair or overgrowth, as noted by past visitors. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The forest offers easy paths, some paved, and intersecting trails. A popular activity is climbing the boulders to reach the summit for amazing views. Be mindful of getting sidetracked due to high bushes and intersecting trails. Reddit

Expect appealing views of the surrounding rocks and the water reservoir. The summit offers panoramic vistas, making it a great spot for photography and relaxation. Reddit

The easy paths can be good for families, and the refreshing air is a plus. However, some areas might be overgrown, and navigation can be a challenge. Reddit

Yes, free camping is available with no hookups. It's a great option for those looking for a rustic outdoor experience. Reddit

Some visitors have reported good cell signals in certain areas of the park, which can be helpful for navigation or staying connected. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit of the boulders offers incredible panoramic views of the rocks and reservoir, making it a prime photography location. The natural scenery throughout the forest also provides ample opportunities. Reddit

Landscape photography is ideal, capturing the expansive mountain views and the unique rock formations. The refreshing air and natural beauty also lend themselves to serene nature shots. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light for photography. Weekday visits will also mean fewer people in your shots. Reddit

A wide-angle lens would be great for capturing the panoramic views. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll likely be taking many photos. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with the local forest service or park authorities for any restrictions on drone operation before flying. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The National Children's Forest offers a refreshing escape with its clean mountain air and easy-to-navigate paved paths, making it suitable for a family outing. Reddit The accessible trails can accommodate strollers, and the natural environment provides a great opportunity for kids to explore. Reddit However, parents should be aware that some areas can be overgrown, and navigation can be tricky, so keeping a close eye on children is essential. Reddit The opportunity to climb the boulders to the summit offers a fun challenge for older kids, rewarding them with impressive views. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers

Solo travelers will appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity for quiet reflection, especially during weekday visits. Reddit The easy paths are great for a relaxed hike, and the summit offers a perfect spot for meditation or simply enjoying the solitude and views. Reddit While cell service can be good in some areas, it's always wise for solo hikers to inform someone of their plans and carry a map or offline navigation tools. Reddit The free camping option also makes it an attractive destination for budget-conscious solo adventurers. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The National Children's Forest is a gem for photographers, particularly those who love landscape and nature shots. The panoramic views from the boulder summit, encompassing the rocks and reservoir, are spectacular and offer unique compositions. Reddit The refreshing mountain air and natural beauty provide a serene setting for capturing stunning images. Reddit Visiting on a weekday can help avoid crowds, ensuring unobstructed shots. Reddit Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to fully capture the expansive vistas. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trails and Terrain

The National Children's Forest offers a network of trails that cater to various levels of hikers. Many of the main paths are paved asphalt, providing an accessible and easy walking experience, potentially suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. Reddit However, the area is also characterized by intersecting and twisting trails, with high bushes that can make it easy to get sidetracked. Reddit For those seeking a bit more adventure, climbing the boulders to reach the summit is a popular and rewarding activity, offering unparalleled views. Reddit It's crucial to be prepared for the terrain and to have a reliable way to navigate, as GPS can be inconsistent in this mountainous region. Reddit

Key takeaway: While some trails are straightforward, others require more attention to navigation. Always have a map or a downloaded offline map. Reddit The mix of paved paths and natural boulder formations provides diverse exploration opportunities. Reddit Remember to wear appropriate footwear, especially if you plan to venture off the main paths or climb the boulders. Reddit

Experiencing the Natural Beauty

One of the most frequently praised aspects of the National Children's Forest is the refreshing mountain air. Visitors consistently remark on how crisp and revitalizing the atmosphere is, offering a welcome escape from urban environments. Reddit The scenery is also a major draw, with appealing views of the surrounding rocks and the prominent water reservoir. Reddit Climbing to the top of the boulders is highly recommended for those seeking the most spectacular vistas, providing a sense of accomplishment and a perfect backdrop for photos. Reddit

The natural beauty here is a significant draw, offering a peaceful retreat. Reddit Whether you're taking a mild hike on the easy paths or enjoying a quiet moment at the summit, the natural environment is designed to be restorative. Reddit Even the possibility of taking a nap at the top, as one reviewer mentioned, highlights the serene and tranquil atmosphere. Reddit

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