Fern Basin
4.3278 reviewsP.O. Box 518, IDYLLWILD, CA 92549, USA
Quick Facts
6,300 ftPrice
$10/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
22 campsites
Season
The campground opera...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
6,300 ftPrice
$10/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
22 campsites
Season
The campground opera...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsFern Basin
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for campsites is $10. Additional fees include a $5 per night extra vehicle charge. Fees may increase if proposals for fee...
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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
4.32
Recommended
Based on 78 reviews
61 Google reviews
Most mentioned
quietspaciouslocationhiking
Some mention
bugs
"User reviews of Fern Basin Campground are generally positive, highlighting the peaceful atmosphere, scenic beauty, and proximity to hiking trails. However, some visitors raised concerns about vault toilet cleanliness, lack of potable water, and site unevenness."
Fees & Passes at Fern Basin
$10/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights per visit.
Cancellation: A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations will forfeit the first night’s recreation use...
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 Fern Basin
Summer transforms Fern Basin into a warm mountain retreat where wildflowers bloom and butterflies dance, though evening mosquitoes remind visitors to pack their repellent. As winter descends, the campground becomes a crystalline wonderland where temperatures plunge and occasional snowfall dusts the landscape in pristine white. Spring and fall offer the sweet spots for camping, with mild temperatures and fewer insects making for ideal outdoor conditions.
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 - September 2. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: The campground operates seasonally, with reservations from May 22 to September 2. Outside this period, specific availability requires confirmation.
- Current Alerts: The campground has been experiencing issues with its water distribution system. Potable water is currently unavailable.
About Fern Basin
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.
Fern Basin Campground offers a mix of tent camping and small RV or van camping sites. It caters primarily to those seeking a more primitive camping experience amidst natural surroundings.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this tranquil spot remains untold, the ancient oaks and weathered rocks whisper stories of generations who have sought solace in these mountains. The campground sits within the traditional territories of indigenous peoples who have called these peaks home for thousands of years.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Fern Basin into a warm mountain retreat where wildflowers bloom and butterflies dance, though evening mosquitoes remind visitors to pack their repellent. As winter descends, the campground becomes a crystalline wonderland where temperatures plunge and occasional snowfall dusts the landscape in pristine white. Spring and fall offer the sweet spots for camping, with mild temperatures and fewer insects making for ideal outdoor conditions.
ElevationPerched at 6,300 feet above sea level, Fern Basin offers a refreshing escape from the heat of the valleys below. This lofty elevation creates a natural air conditioning system where temperatures run 15-20 degrees cooler than the desert floor, while the thin mountain air adds a crispness that invigorates the senses and reveals a canopy of stars that seems close enough to touch.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry of mixed oaks and towering conifers creates a dappled cathedral of green above Fern Basin, where shafts of sunlight filter through branches to illuminate patches of native shrubs and wildflowers. From various vantage points, jaw-dropping vistas unfold across the vast California desert below, creating a stunning contrast between the verdant mountain oasis and the golden expanses stretching to the horizon. The interplay of forest and vista, shade and sun, creates an ever-changing landscape that photographers and nature lovers find irresistible.
Geological RegionRising from ancient geological forces that shaped the San Bernardino Mountains, Fern Basin Campground occupies a natural bowl at 6,300 feet where mixed conifer forests merge with groves of resilient oaks. This unique ecological transition zone showcases the meeting point between mountain and desert ecosystems, with dramatic views sweeping across the arid lowlands toward distant peaks. The proximity to San Jacinto Peak places campers at the doorstep of one of Southern California's most prominent geological landmarks, where granite formations tell the story of millions of years of Earth's sculptural artistry.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned for this campground.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious by some reviewers, but others noted that not all sites are flat and some are on a slope.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites are closely spaced while others offer more seclusion. For example, campsite #4 is noted as being more private and quiet.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 7 offers easy access from parking and provides a balance of privacy and convenience. Site 18 features a nearby creek and shade but was noted to be damp at the time of one user's visit.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in time is not explicitly stated in the authoritative sources.
Check-out
Official check-out time is not explicitly stated in the authoritative sources.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights per visit.
Groups
Group sites are not specifically mentioned for this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features approximately 22 sites designed primarily for tent camping. Sites are uneven and spacious, some located near restrooms or secluded from the road.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates seasonally, with reservations from May 22 to September 2. Outside this period, specific availability requires confirmation.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, including online, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis but availability is not guaranteed.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations will forfeit the first night’s recreation use fee. Reservations can be changed or canceled through Recreation.gov prior to the arrival date.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Fern Basin Campground is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering several recreational activities. Key highlights include hiking, bird-watching, and stargazing. The Marion Mountain Trail leading to San Jacinto Peak is a major attraction for hikers.
Hiking
The Marion Mountain Trail is a strenuous 11.8-mile hike leading to San Jacinto Peak, offering stunning views of the desert and surrounding mountain ranges. The trail is highly recommended but requires physical fitness due to its challenging nature.Biking
Mountain biking opportunities are available in the surrounding area, although detailed trails and difficulty levels are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Bird watching is a popular activity. Reviewers have noted hearing owls at night and observing various bird species.Winter Activities
Winter-related activities, such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, are not mentioned for this campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, are not applicable to this campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in agency-provided metal rings, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. No wood or charcoal fires are allowed during fire seasons.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsCommon hazards include mosquitoes, yellowjackets, and bugs during summer. Terrain is sloped in some areas, which could pose challenges for setting up tents.
Active alertsThe campground has been experiencing issues with its water distribution system. Potable water is currently unavailable.
Weather at Fern Basin
58
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.8 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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Emergency Services
Emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are located in nearby Idyllwild, approximately 7 miles from the campground. The San Jacinto Ranger District can be reached at 909-382-2921.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22 - September 2
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available on-site, including dumpsters. Visitors are encouraged to ensure their trash is properly disposed of to maintain cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresNo lakes or streams within the campground. Site 18 has a small creek nearby.
Common complaintsUsers frequently commented on the lack of potable water, sloped terrain for tents, and bugs. Some reviewers noted the lack of enforcement of quiet hours and off-leash dogs.
HostNo host or ranger presence was mentioned in reviews. Some reviewers noted a lack of enforcement for rules.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 518, IDYLLWILD, CA 92549, USA
Driving directionsFrom Idyllwild, travel north on State Route 243 about 4 miles. Turn right at the campground sign and continue to Forest Service Road 4S02. Turn left and proceed less than a mile to an intersection. Continue straight on the Forest Service Road and turn left into the campground.
The access to the campground is via paved roads leading to Forest Service Road 4S02. The final stretch is a short unpaved road but accessible to most vehicles. No seasonal closures were mentioned, but users have noted that it may be harder to locate after dark.Nearby places
Idyllwild (7 miles, approximately 15 minutes), San Bernardino (50 miles, approximately 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Idyllwild, located 7 miles from the campground, offers shops, restaurants, and markets for groceries, firewood, and other camping supplies.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
78 reviews
Fern Basin is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Fern Basin Campground are generally positive, highlighting the peaceful atmosphere, scenic beauty, and proximity to hiking trails. However, some visitors raised concerns about vault toilet cleanliness, lack of potable water, and site unevenness.
Review Summaries
Based on 78 reviews
What Campers Love
Commonly praised aspects include the campground's tranquility, scenic location, spacious campsites, and accessibility to hiking trails. Reviewers frequently mentioned the Marion Mountain Trail as a...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Key issues raised in reviews include the lack of potable water (due to a broken system), vault toilet cleanliness (e.g., presence of flies), and uneven tent sites. Other complaints noted noise...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing ample water, bug spray, a headlamp for using the vault toilets at night, and checking site maps before booking to select the most suitable campsite. "Use the website to...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlighted issues with mosquitoes and yellowjackets. Fire restrictions during fire season also impacted the camping experience. Winter reviews noted cooler and quieter conditions.
Based on 78 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Great little campground with little privacy since the sites are almost on top of each other." - Steven Mejia.
2. "Currently there is no water available in Fern Basin Campground due to issues with...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Site 6: Described as okay but requires walking down a small hill.
- Site 7: Notable for parking near the site.
- Site 13: Criticized as uneven with a steep incline.
- Site 17: Lacks shade due to...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not specifically addressed in reviews.
Based on 78 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Some reviewers noted off-leash dogs running through campsites, which led to complaints about regulation enforcement. "Counted 7 dogs off-leash, running through campsites unaccompanied and...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Camper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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