Fern Basin

39755 Highway 79

Tucked away at the edge of the pristine Agua Tibia Wilderness, Dripping Springs Campground offers an intimate escape into nature's tranquility. This hidden gem provides the perfect basecamp for wilderness explorers, with well-maintained hiking trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, refreshing potable water stations, and clean vault toilets. Despite its modest size, the campground delivers an authentic outdoor experience where the only sounds you'll hear are rustling leaves and distant bird calls.

Santa Rosa Mountain, San Bernardino National Forest

High above the desert floor, where eagles soar and the air grows thin, fourteen pristine Yellow Post Sites await those seeking true wilderness solitude on Santa Rosa Mountain. These remote sanctuaries offer adventurers the essentials—a sturdy picnic table and fire ring at each location—while leaving the rest to nature's grand design. Without the usual campground conveniences of running water or trash collection, these sites invite you to embrace a more self-sufficient camping experience. Remember to bring all necessary supplies and honor the wilderness ethic: everything you carry in must journey back out with you, preserving these untouched ridgeline retreats for future explorers.

54270 PINECREST AVE PO BOX 518

Perched high in the San Bernardino National Forest, Ribbonwood Equestrian Campground beckons horse lovers with a rare combination of mountain serenity and desert vistas. This specialized haven for equestrian adventurers features private corrals at every campsite, allowing you and your four-legged companions to rest comfortably after a day exploring Southern California's diverse terrain. Modern conveniences including flush toilets, hot showers, and fresh drinking water ensure comfort without sacrificing the authentic outdoor experience. From your campsite, watch the sun paint the distant Salton Sea in shades of gold while Palm Desert sparkles below.

San Bernardino National Forest

Discover your perfect desert retreat at Pinyon Flat Campground, where 18 intimate first-come, first-served campsites await beneath the starlit sky. Nestled at the edge of the Santa Rosa Wilderness Area, this hidden gem becomes a hiker's paradise each spring when the desert explodes in a spectacular wildflower display that transforms the landscape into nature's own impressionist painting.

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Tucked away in the heart of the Santa Rosa Mountains, Pinyon Flat Campground beckons those seeking an authentic desert escape without breaking the bank. This hidden gem delivers the perfect blend of solitude and adventure, where days begin with panoramic mountain vistas and end with some of Southern California's most spectacular stargazing. The whisper of wind through ancient pinyon pines and the distant call of desert wildlife create a natural soundtrack that reminds visitors why they ventured beyond the crowded campgrounds below.

Pyramid Peak Road off of Highway 74, near the community of Lake Hemet

Escape to the pristine wilderness of Thomas Mountain & Toolbox Springs Yellow Post Sites, where adventure meets tranquility in the heart of nature. These secluded camping havens invite tent campers and car adventurers to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with the raw beauty of the outdoors. Each site features a simple metal fire pit for gathering around crackling campfires under starlit skies, embracing the authentic, back-to-basics camping experience without the crowds and amenities of developed campgrounds.

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.

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.

17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris, CA, 92571

Escape the crowds and embrace authentic wilderness camping at Bernasconi Undeveloped Group Campground, a hidden gem within Lake Perris State Recreation Area. This back-to-basics retreat welcomes larger groups seeking genuine outdoor adventures without the distractions of modern amenities. Here, under star-filled skies and surrounded by California's natural beauty, your group can create lasting memories around the campfire while experiencing camping the way it was meant to be—simple, peaceful, and deeply connected to nature.

17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris CA, 92571

Nestled in the heart of Southern California, Lake Perris State Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with an impressive array of camping experiences. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars, rolling in with your RV for full hook-up convenience, organizing a memorable group gathering, or embarking on a scenic hike-and-bike adventure, this versatile campground delivers. The crown jewel is the shimmering artificial lake that serves as your backyard playground, offering endless opportunities for water sports, fishing, and lakeside relaxation.

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.

9800 Black Rock Canyon Road

Perched at 4,000 feet where the high desert meets the sky, Black Rock Campground invites adventurers into a world where ancient Joshua trees stand sentinel under vast desert skies. This elevated oasis offers the perfect balance of shaded retreats and sun-drenched spaces, with well-maintained facilities including potable water and flush toilets just steps from your site. A network of hiking trails beckons from your tent flap, promising encounters with the Mojave's most iconic landscapes. While the access roads may test your vehicle's suspension, the reward is a front-row seat to one of the desert's most enchanting theaters.

San Bernardino National Forest

Escape to the wilderness at these five secluded camping sites, where the only sounds you'll hear are rustling leaves and crackling campfires. Perfect for adventurers seeking an authentic back-to-basics experience, these primitive sites welcome both tent campers and those arriving by car. Mature shade trees provide natural shelter, while simple metal fire rings mark each spot for evening gatherings under the stars. This is camping in its purest form – no running water, no picnic tables, no restrooms, and no trash services. Come prepared with everything you need, and leave only footprints behind.

PO Box 518, Idyllwild, CA, 92549, USA

Po Box 518, Idyllwild, CA 92549, USA

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25905 Highway 243, Idyllwild, CA 92549

PO Box 518, Idyllwild, CA, 92549, USA

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

San Bernardino National Forest

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

Pyramid Peak Road off of Highway 74, near the community of Lake Hemet

54270 PINECREST AVE PO BOX 518

25905 Highway 243, Idyllwild, CA 92549

Santa Rosa Mountain, San Bernardino National Forest

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25905 Highway 243, Idyllwild, CA 92549

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.