Boulder Basin
4.3833 reviewsPO Box 518, Idyllwild, CA, 92549, USA
Quick Facts
7,300 ftPrice
$10/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
32 campsites
Season
Open from May 22, 20...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
7,300 ftPrice
$10/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
32 campsites
Season
Open from May 22, 20...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsBoulder Basin
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping fees are $10 per night for standard and tent-only nonelectric sites. Extra vehicles incur a $5 per night fee, payable within 30 minutes of...
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Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$10.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider909-382-2922
What Campers Say
4.38
Recommended
Based on 33 reviews
42 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsprivacyspaciouslocation
Some mention
noise
"User reviews praise Boulder Basin for its scenic beauty and quiet, remote setting. However, the road access and vault toilet conditions are common points of complaint."
Fees & Passes at Boulder Basin
$10/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of 14 nights per visit.
Cancellation: Cancellations are allowed up until the day before the scheduled arrival. A $10 cancellation fee appl...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official San Bernardino National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Boulder Basin
Experience the crisp mountain air that defines Boulder Basin's unique climate throughout the year. Summer transforms this high-altitude haven into a perfect escape from valley heat, with comfortable temperatures that make afternoon hikes and evening campfires equally enjoyable. Winter brings a dramatic change, as cold, dry conditions create crystal-clear skies ideal for stargazing, though campers should come prepared with warm gear. The low humidity year-round means you'll wake to dew-free mornings and enjoy comfortable conditions for climbing and hiking, though savvy visitors note that occasional insects remind you this is their home too.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 22, 2025, to October 27, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from May 22, 2025, to October 27, 2025. Reservations become available starting six months in advance.
- Current Alerts: Road conditions are poor; maintenance expected by June 2023. Fire restrictions may be in place during the season.
About Boulder Basin
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.
Boulder Basin Campground supports tent camping and small RVs or vans. Sites are primitive and best suited for campers seeking a remote and natural experience.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the crisp mountain air that defines Boulder Basin's unique climate throughout the year. Summer transforms this high-altitude haven into a perfect escape from valley heat, with comfortable temperatures that make afternoon hikes and evening campfires equally enjoyable. Winter brings a dramatic change, as cold, dry conditions create crystal-clear skies ideal for stargazing, though campers should come prepared with warm gear. The low humidity year-round means you'll wake to dew-free mornings and enjoy comfortable conditions for climbing and hiking, though savvy visitors note that occasional insects remind you this is their home too.
ElevationPerched at 7,300 feet above sea level, Boulder Basin Campground offers a refreshing high-altitude escape where the air is crisp and pine-scented. This elevation brings naturally cooler temperatures that provide welcome relief during Southern California's warm months, while creating an invigorating environment that energizes outdoor pursuits. The thin mountain air adds an extra dimension to your camping experience, from more brilliant sunrises to nights so clear you can trace the Milky Way with your finger.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape where nature has crafted the perfect outdoor playground. Massive granite boulders, weathered smooth by millennia of mountain storms, rise like ancient sentinels around each campsite, creating natural privacy screens and endless climbing routes that have earned rave reviews from visiting climbers. The mixed conifer forest—a tapestry of pine, fir, and cedar—provides a living canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns throughout the day. This 'amazing setting,' as seasoned campers describe it, combines the raw beauty of exposed granite with the gentle shelter of mountain forest, creating intimate camping spaces that feel carved from the wilderness itself.
Geological RegionBoulder Basin sits within the remarkable geological tapestry of the San Bernardino National Forest, where ancient tectonic forces have sculpted a dramatic mountain landscape. At 7,300 feet, the campground occupies a unique ecological niche where mixed conifer forests thrive in the thin mountain air, creating a diverse ecosystem that changes with every hundred feet of elevation. This region showcases millions of years of geological history, from the granite boulders that give the basin its name to the surrounding peaks that form Southern California's sky island ecosystems.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not provide specific information on accessibility features. Roads to the campground are unpaved and may be challenging for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeSites at Boulder Basin vary in size but are noted as being generally spacious. 'Nice big camp site,' one user commented. Another noted that some sites are 'relatively spread out for privacy.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at the sites is described as decent, with sites being 'relatively spread out.' However, noise from upper sites can echo to lower sites, according to one user review.
Total Campsites32 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites away from upper-level noise sources if seeking tranquility. Avoid sites near day-use bouldering areas unless participating in climbing.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights per visit.
Groups
Group sites are not specifically mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are relatively spaced out, with some on slopes and others on flat terrain. Upper sites may be noisier due to echoes.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 22, 2025, to October 27, 2025. Reservations become available starting six months in advance.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or the mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Fees are due within 30 minutes of arrival.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed up until the day before the scheduled arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. Modifications to reservation dates incur no additional fees, except for date changes entirely outside the original reservation period.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Boulder Basin offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, bouldering, mountain biking, and picnicking. 'The bouldering is epic,' one user stated. Hiking opportunities include access to the Black Mountain Trail, which connects to the Pacific Crest Trail and offers breathtaking views. Wildlife viewing is also popular.
Hiking
The campground provides access to the Black Mountain Trail, a 3.6-mile, moderately strenuous trail suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The trail features forested slopes and views of Banning Pass and Mt. San Gorgonio. 'Even better views are available up the trail to the fire lookout tower,' noted one camper.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
Mountain biking is supported on the Black Mountain Trail and other nearby trails. 'The campground provides access to a number of trailheads,' including those for biking.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, as the campground is located in a mixed conifer forest that provides habitat for various species.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are noted, but the campground's high elevation (7,300 feet) could make it inaccessible due to snow during the off-season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not available at Boulder Basin.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- "Wood and charcoal fires are permitted only in agency-provided metal rings." Gas and liquid fuel stoves are allowed.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include the rough, unpaved access road and vault toilet odors. Wildlife, including bears, may require vigilance in food storage.
Active alertsRoad conditions are poor; maintenance expected by June 2023. Fire restrictions may be in place during the season.
Weather at Boulder Basin
54
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
San Jacinto Ranger District (phone: 909-382-2921); nearest hospital is likely in San Bernardino (~50 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22, 2025, to October 27, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but recycling facilities are not mentioned. Campers are reminded to pack out all waste.
Proximity to water featuresPotable water may be accessible from a natural spring along Black Mountain Road. Bring containers as water is not provided at the campground.
Common complaints"Bathrooms need work" and smell issues persist with vault toilets. Noise complaints from upper sites echoing down to lower sites noted by users.
Campground Map
PO Box 518, Idyllwild, CA, 92549, USA
Driving directionsFrom Idyllwild, travel north for about 8 miles on State Route 243. Turn right onto Black Mountain Road/Forest Route 4S01 and continue about 5 miles to the campground. Black Mountain Road is an unpaved forest road, not recommended for low clearance vehicles or trailers.
Black Mountain Road is a narrow, rough dirt road. It is not recommended for low clearance vehicles or trailers. "Road conditions aren't terrible," but several reviews note that a high-clearance vehicle is strongly advised. "Drive at your own risk," as the road is bumpy, winding, and steep in sections.Nearby places
San Bernardino (50 miles, ~1 hour drive)
Idyllwild (14 miles, ~30 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Idyllwild (~14 miles from campground), offering fuel, stores, and restaurants.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
33 reviews
Boulder Basin is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise Boulder Basin for its scenic beauty and quiet, remote setting. However, the road access and vault toilet conditions are common points of complaint.
Review Summaries
Based on 33 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include 'beautiful views,' 'excellent bouldering opportunities,' and 'spacious campsites with privacy.' Many users appreciate the remote location and access to trails.
Based on 33 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints focus on the poor condition of vault toilets, rough access roads, and occasional noise from other campers. 'The bathrooms need work though, the smell is horrible,' is a recurring...
Based on 33 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing plenty of water, as no potable water is provided, and ensuring your vehicle can handle the rough dirt road. Many reviewers recommend 4WD or high-clearance vehicles. 'Remember,...
Based on 33 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is busiest during summer and early fall, with quieter experiences midweek. Bugs can be an issue in June after wet winters.
Based on 33 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'The bouldering is epic too.' - 'Beautiful campground up in the mountains with pretty spacious spots.' - 'Vault toilets are under used, so they stink horribly like chemicals.' - 'This campground...
Based on 33 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 30 is praised for its 'amazing view and drop behind it.' Site 25 is described as 'excellent,' while site 31 is noted for being level. Conversely, sites 20 & 21 experience heavy day use due to...
Based on 33 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically address the campground's accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 33 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and many campers bring their dogs. 'Lots of dogs throughout the campground,' one review noted.
Based on 33 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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