Black Rock Campground

25905 Highway 243, Idyllwild, CA 92549

Nestled in the heart of the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild Campground seamlessly blends the charm of wilderness camping with the convenience of modern comforts. Whether you're setting up a tent under towering pines, pulling in with your RV to enjoy full hookups, or seeking electric-only sites for a simpler stay, this mountain retreat accommodates every camping style. The thoughtfully designed ADA-accessible facilities ensure everyone can experience the magic of mountain camping. Best of all, you're just a pleasant stroll away from downtown Idyllwild's galleries, cafes, and shops—making it perfect for adventurers who appreciate having civilization within reach while still waking up to birdsong and pine-scented breezes.

25905 Highway 243, Idyllwild, CA 92549

Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park, Strawberry Junction Campground beckons adventurous souls seeking a true backcountry experience. This remote sanctuary, reached only by hiking through mountain trails, rewards determined travelers with three intimate campsites where solitude reigns supreme. Basic vault toilets provide the only amenity in this primitive paradise, where the absence of modern conveniences amplifies your connection with the natural world.

25905 Highway 243, Idyllwild, CA 92549

Escape to Stone Creek Campground, a hidden mountain sanctuary nestled 5 miles north of the charming alpine village of Idyllwild. This semi-primitive retreat in the San Jacinto Mountains offers 44 thoughtfully spaced sites where you can choose between traditional tent camping or sites equipped with electric hookups. Each site comes complete with a picnic table and fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Modern conveniences include vault toilets and potable water stations, while an extensive network of nearby hiking trails beckons adventurers to explore the surrounding wilderness.

P.O. Box 518, IDYLLWILD, CA 92549, USA

Tucked away in the San Bernardino National Forest, Fern Basin Campground beckons those seeking an intimate escape into nature's embrace. This hidden gem features approximately two dozen thoughtfully spaced campsites perfect for tent camping and small RVs, where the only sounds breaking the mountain silence are wind through the pines and distant bird calls. Adventure awaits just beyond your tent flap, with trail access to the magnificent San Jacinto Peak challenging hikers to explore the roof of Southern California.

Po Box 518, Idyllwild, CA 92549, USA

Nestled among towering cedars and pines, Marion Mountain Campground invites adventurers to experience the serene beauty of high-elevation camping. With approximately two dozen thoughtfully spaced sites accommodating both tent campers and small RVs or vans, this mountain retreat offers the perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness immersion. The mature forest canopy creates natural privacy between sites while providing welcome shade throughout the day. Adventure seekers will find themselves at the doorstep of renowned hiking trails, making this an ideal basecamp for those eager to explore the surrounding peaks and valleys on foot or tackle challenging climbing routes.

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Escape the crowds at Dark Canyon Campground, where adventure begins the moment you arrive. This first-come, first-served gem rewards early birds and spontaneous travelers with wonderfully spaced campsites that offer the privacy many seek in the great outdoors. As a tent-only sanctuary, Dark Canyon strips camping down to its purest form—just you, your gear, and the whisper of wind through the canyon. Visitors consistently praise the tranquil atmosphere and generous spacing between sites, creating an intimate connection with nature that's increasingly rare to find.

PO Box 308, 25905 Highway 243, Idyllwild, CA 92549

Escape to Round Valley Campground, where 19 primitive sites await those willing to venture beyond the reach of roads and into the heart of true wilderness. This backcountry sanctuary, accessible only by foot, rewards hikers with an authentic connection to nature and the kind of profound solitude that's increasingly rare in our modern world. Here, beneath towering pines and star-filled skies, you'll discover what camping was meant to be.

Mount San Jacinto State Park, Little Round Valley Campground, Idyllwild, CA 92549

Deep in the heart of the San Jacinto wilderness, Little Round Valley Campground awaits those seeking true mountain solitude. This primitive backcountry haven sits just a stone's throw from the majestic San Jacinto Peak, where experienced adventurers can disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's raw beauty. Here, the only sounds breaking the silence are the whisper of wind through ancient pines and the occasional call of mountain wildlife.

PO Box 518, Idyllwild, CA, 92549, USA

Escape to Boulder Basin Campground, where towering conifers and ancient granite formations create a natural sanctuary at 7,300 feet. This hidden gem in the San Bernardino National Forest beckons adventurers seeking authentic wilderness experiences far from crowded campgrounds. Whether you're drawn by world-class bouldering, challenging mountain bike trails, or simply the promise of starlit nights in pristine solitude, Boulder Basin delivers an unforgettable high-country retreat. The journey here via the rugged Black Mountain Road is an adventure in itself—a winding, unpaved forest route that filters out casual visitors and rewards the determined with one of Southern California's most spectacular primitive camping experiences.

PO Box 518, Idyllwild, CA, 92549, USA

Perched high in the San Bernardino National Forest, Black Mountain Group Campground beckons adventure-seekers with its dramatic mountain vistas and pristine wilderness setting. This remote sanctuary offers groups an authentic back-to-nature experience, where towering pines frame sweeping views of the San Jacinto and San Gabriel Mountains. Here, far from the hustle of civilization, campers discover the true essence of primitive camping amid some of Southern California's most spectacular high-country scenery.

Ryan Campground, Park Boulevard, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277

Tucked into the heart of Joshua Tree National Park, Ryan Campground serves as your gateway to an authentic desert adventure. This intimate campground places you within touching distance of the park's legendary rock formations, where generations of climbers have tested their skills and hikers have discovered hidden vistas. While you'll need to bring your own water and won't find hookups here, the trade-off is an unspoiled camping experience that connects you directly with the raw beauty of the Mojave. Families particularly love the accessible trails and the chance to explore massive boulder gardens right from their campsite.

White Tank Campground, Pinto Basin Road, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277

Discover your desert sanctuary at White Tank Campground, where 15 intimate campsites are tucked among towering granite boulders that have stood sentinel for millennia. This hidden gem in Joshua Tree National Park offers adventurers a chance to disconnect from the digital world—with no running water and only vault toilets, you'll find yourself immersed in the raw beauty of the high desert. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and fire pit, perfect for evening gatherings under some of the darkest, most star-studded skies in Southern California. While RVs and trailers up to 25 feet can navigate into this rocky wonderland, the campground's compact nature and dramatic boulder formations create a sense of seclusion that larger parks simply can't match.

74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, CA, 92277, USA

Rising from the high desert like ancient sentinels, Jumbo Rocks Campground stands as the crown jewel of Joshua Tree National Park's camping experiences. Here, massive boulder formations create a natural playground where families gather around evening campfires and rock climbing enthusiasts test their skills on sun-warmed granite. As darkness falls, the Milky Way emerges in stunning clarity above this centrally-located basecamp, transforming the desert into an open-air planetarium that leaves visitors speechless.

74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA

Nestled in the heart of Joshua Tree National Park, Sheep Pass Group Campground offers an intimate desert camping experience designed for groups seeking adventure together. Six tent-only sites are strategically positioned among towering rock formations and the park's namesake Joshua trees, creating natural gathering spaces for friends and families. As darkness falls, these dramatic boulder gardens transform into natural amphitheaters under star-filled skies. The campground serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring nearby hiking trails and world-renowned climbing routes, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate the camaraderie of group camping in one of America's most distinctive desert landscapes.

74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA

Tucked away in the heart of Joshua Tree National Park, Belle Campground offers an intimate desert escape where just 18 sites nestle among ancient rock formations at 3,800 feet elevation. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis throughout the year (closing only during peak summer months), inviting adventurers to claim their spot beneath some of the darkest skies in Southern California. While you'll find the essentials—pit toilets, sturdy picnic tables, and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings—the campground maintains its wild character without running water, ensuring a true backcountry experience where self-sufficiency meets spectacular scenery.

Joshua Tree National Park

Tucked away in a natural fortress of towering boulders and ancient Joshua Trees, Hidden Valley Campground beckons adventurers into the heart of Joshua Tree National Park. This primitive camping haven has become a mecca for rock climbers from around the world, drawn by the legendary climbing routes that wind through the surrounding granite monoliths. As dawn breaks over the desert, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape that feels both otherworldly and intimately connected to the raw beauty of the Mojave.

9800 Black Rock Canyon Road

Saddle up for an unforgettable camping experience at Black Rock Equestrian Campground, where the high desert meets horse country in the heart of Joshua Tree National Park. This specialized equestrian haven welcomes riders and their four-legged companions exclusively—horses are mandatory for all reservations, and arriving without them means forfeiting your stay without refund. Set within an enchanting Joshua tree forest, this primitive campground offers essential amenities for horse camping including sturdy hitching posts and convenient shared water sources. Best of all, you'll have direct access to trails reserved solely for equestrian adventurers, allowing you and your horse to explore the desert's raw beauty without competing with hikers or mountain bikers.

7295 Indian Cove Road

Tucked away in the northern reaches of Joshua Tree National Park, Indian Cove Group Campground beckons adventurers seeking communion with the desert's raw beauty. This exclusive retreat features 13 tent-only sites thoughtfully positioned among ancient granite monoliths, creating natural amphitheaters perfect for group gatherings. Rock climbers flock here to test their skills on world-class routes, while after dark, the campground transforms into an astronomer's paradise where the Milky Way stretches brilliantly across unpolluted skies.

7295 Indian Cove Road

Tucked away in a labyrinth of towering rock formations, Indian Cove Campground beckons adventurers to experience one of Joshua Tree National Park's most dramatic landscapes. Here, massive boulders rise like ancient sentinels from the desert floor, creating natural corridors and hidden alcoves that have made this spot a mecca for rock climbers from around the world. As one of only four campgrounds in the park requiring year-round reservations, Indian Cove offers an exclusive gateway to this otherworldly terrain where the desert meets vertical stone.

Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground, Sand to Snow National Monument, San Bernardino National Forest

Step back in time at Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground, where three weathered historic cabins stand as silent witnesses to the area's rich past. Nestled deep within a whispering pine forest in the Sand to Snow National Monument, this unique group camping destination offers an authentic frontier experience. While the cabins retain their original roofed and walled structures, their open doorways and windows invite the forest breeze and starlight inside, creating a perfect blend of shelter and wilderness immersion. Modern conveniences haven't been forgotten—you'll find picnic tables for communal meals, a central group fire ring for evening gatherings, proper trash disposal, and a vault toilet facility.

HWY 38 FOREST RD. 1N02, ANGELUS OAKS, CA 92305, USA

Perched high in Southern California's pine-studded mountains at 8,000 feet, Coon Creek Group Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape where history meets adventure. This rustic mountain retreat features weathered historic cabins that stand as silent witnesses to the area's past, while sweeping vistas of the Coachella Valley stretch endlessly below. Adventure seekers will find themselves at the doorstep of the legendary Pacific Crest Trail, where epic journeys begin with a single step into the wilderness.

HWY 38 HEART BAR F.S. 1N02

Gather your favorite people and escape to Skyline Group Campground, where towering pines create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories. This mountain retreat welcomes extended families and groups seeking adventure, with pristine wilderness trails beckoning hikers and crystal-clear mountain creeks offering peaceful fishing spots just a short walk from camp.

San Bernardino National Forest

Saddle up for an unforgettable mountain adventure at Wild Horse Equestrian Family Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern comfort. This specialized haven for horse lovers offers 8 intimate single-family sites and 3 spacious double sites, each thoughtfully equipped with sturdy tables, campfire rings with grills, and the luxury of flush toilets and hot showers after a long day on the trail. Over two dozen well-maintained single-horse corrals ensure your equine companions rest as comfortably as you do. Beyond the essentials, you'll find a convenient horse watering station, ample staging area, and sturdy hitching racks. The real magic begins when you hit the trails—direct access to the legendary Santa Ana River Trail and portions of the iconic Pacific Crest Trail awaits, along with peaceful streams perfect for casting a line. Previous guests rave about the spotless facilities and the warmth of the campground hosts, though they advise arriving with a vehicle suited for mountain roads and bringing earplugs for occasional nighttime sounds.

HWY 38 ON F.S. 1N02

Saddle up for an unforgettable mountain escape at Heart Bar Equestrian Campground, where riders and their four-legged companions discover a hidden sanctuary in Southern California's high country. This exclusive horse-friendly haven opens doors to endless backcountry trails that wind through pristine wilderness, offering everything from gentle meadow rides to challenging mountain passages. Purpose-built with equestrian amenities at every turn, this secluded retreat ensures both horses and riders feel right at home beneath towering pines.

HWY 38 FOREST SERVICE RD 1N02

Escape to Heart Bar Campground, where towering pines whisper secrets of the San Bernardino National Forest at nearly 7,000 feet above sea level. This mountain sanctuary serves as your gateway to Southern California's most cherished outdoor adventures—from sun-dappled hiking trails that wind through ancient forests to exhilarating mountain biking routes and peaceful horseback riding paths. Each generously-sized campsite offers modern comforts while maintaining that authentic wilderness feel, creating the perfect balance between accessibility and seclusion that modern adventurers crave.

SAN BERNARDINO

Escape to the tranquil heights of Juniper Springs Group Campground, where primitive camping meets mountain serenity just 10 miles from the bustling shores of Big Bear Lake. This secluded retreat welcomes groups of up to 40 adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. Gather around the large communal grill as stories unfold under starlit skies, with picnic tables providing the perfect setting for memorable meals. While you'll find vault toilets for convenience, the campground's primitive nature means you'll need to bring your own water and pack out what you pack in—a small price for such pristine solitude.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA, USA

Nestled in the heart of the San Bernardino Mountains, Green Spot Equestrian Group Campground beckons horse enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers to experience the freedom of wide-open spaces and endless trail networks. This spacious group campground serves as your gateway to miles of scenic horseback riding trails that wind through pristine mountain landscapes, offering both novice riders and seasoned equestrians the perfect basecamp for unforgettable adventures.

Ryan Campground, Park Boulevard, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277

74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, CA, 92277, USA

7295 Indian Cove Road

74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA

Joshua Tree National Park

White Tank Campground, Pinto Basin Road, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277

9800 Black Rock Canyon Road

7295 Indian Cove Road

74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA

HWY 38 FOREST SERVICE RD 1N02

PO Box 308, 25905 Highway 243, Idyllwild, CA 92549

SAN BERNARDINO

HWY 38 FOREST RD. 1N02, ANGELUS OAKS, CA 92305, USA

HWY 38 HEART BAR F.S. 1N02

Mount San Jacinto State Park, Little Round Valley Campground, Idyllwild, CA 92549

San Bernardino National Forest

Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground, Sand to Snow National Monument, San Bernardino National Forest

HWY 38 ON F.S. 1N02

INYO, CA, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Sierra, Big Pine Canyon offers adventurers a gateway to some of California's most dramatic alpine wilderness. This stunning canyon serves as your basecamp for exploring ancient glaciers, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and towering granite peaks that pierce the sky at over 14,000 feet. Whether you're seeking challenging mountaineering routes or peaceful streamside camping, Big Pine Canyon delivers an authentic High Sierra experience that will leave you breathless—both from the altitude and the sheer beauty surrounding you.

1 Visitor Center Dr Lee Vining, CA 93541

Tucked into a scenic bend along the melodious Lee Vining Creek, Big Bend Campground invites adventurers to claim one of its 17 intimate campsites within the majestic Inyo National Forest. This hidden gem serves as the perfect basecamp for those drawn to both Yosemite's stunning Tuolumne Meadows entrance and the otherworldly landscapes of Mono Basin Scenic Area. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including vault toilets, fresh potable water, and bear-proof food storage lockers to ensure both comfort and wildlife safety during your stay.

Modoc National Forest

Nestled at the gateway to the South Warner Wilderness, Pepperdine Campground offers three distinct camping experiences in one remarkable location. Equestrian enthusiasts will discover a dedicated horse camp complete with convenient stock water and pole stalls at select sites. The trailhead staging area beckons adventurers with ample parking and corrals, serving as your launching point into the wilderness. For those seeking a more intimate experience, a cozy family camping loop awaits beneath a canopy of ancient fir trees. As a pack-it-in, pack-it-out facility, Pepperdine encourages visitors to embrace Leave No Trace principles while immersing themselves in this pristine mountain environment.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Gather your favorite people at Camp 4 Group Campsite, where up to 35 adventurers can create lasting memories together in the heart of nature. This thoughtfully developed campground welcomes groups with everything needed for the perfect outdoor gathering – spacious picnic tables for shared meals under towering trees, crackling fire pits for evening storytelling, convenient vault toilets, and regular garbage collection that lets you focus on what matters most: quality time with friends and family.

Upper Soda Springs Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Nestled in the heart of Reds Meadow Valley, Upper Soda Springs Campground offers an intimate escape where the melodic San Joaquin River becomes your constant companion. This tranquil retreat features 28 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with bear-proof lockers, picnic tables, and access to pristine pit toilets and fresh potable water. Adventure beckons from every direction—cast a line into the crystal-clear river waters, set out on scenic trails that wind through ancient forests, or venture to the nearby geological wonder of Devil's Postpile National Monument and the breathtaking cascade of Rainbow Falls.

13652 Highway 79 Julian, CA 92036

Saddle up for an unforgettable equestrian adventure at Los Vaqueros Group Horse Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern camping comfort. This specialized horse-friendly retreat beckons riders and their four-legged companions with direct access to the legendary California Riding and Hiking Trail. Well-appointed horse corrals ensure your equine partners rest as comfortably as you do, making this the perfect basecamp for exploring miles of scenic trails that wind through California's stunning backcountry.

Doran Regional Park

Nestled along a stunning 2-mile stretch of sandy beach on Bodega Bay, Doran Regional Park Campground offers 112 year-round campsites where the Pacific Ocean meets coastal adventure. With five distinct camping zones ranging from harbor-side spots to tent-only areas, this family-friendly destination combines beach camping with exceptional access to fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Whether you're launching your kayak into the bay, exploring tide pools along the rock jetty, or simply enjoying soft sand and mellow surf, Doran delivers a quintessential California coastal camping experience.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked into a peaceful inlet at Lake Pillsbury's northwestern corner, this campground offers the perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and easy water access. Just a short stroll from your campsite, the shimmering waters of Mendocino National Forest's largest lake beckon with endless possibilities for adventure. Whether you're launching your boat from the nearby ramp at dawn, casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, or taking an afternoon swim, this scenic basecamp puts you at the heart of one of Northern California's most beloved recreational lakes.

17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott CA 95571

Escape into the cathedral-like sanctuary of Hamilton Barn Environmental Campground, where primitive hike-in campsites nestle beneath towering old-growth redwoods. This hidden gem rewards adventurous souls with unparalleled privacy and profound solitude, offering a rare chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's ancient rhythms.

CA-108, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, California

Nestled along the scenic Sonora Pass on CA-108, Sonora Bridge Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 22 tranquil sites carved into a landscape of towering Jeffrey pines and aromatic sagebrush. Here, where the melodious West Walker River flows just steps away, anglers cast their lines into pristine waters while hikers set off to explore the dramatic high country. This rustic mountain retreat offers the perfect basecamp for your Sierra Nevada adventures, complete with firewood available on-site to fuel evening campfires under star-studded skies.