Marion Mountain

4.09

75 reviews

Po Box 518, Idyllwild, CA 92549, USA

Great Hiking

Quick Facts

6,400 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

24 campsites

Season

May 22, 2025 - Novem...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens San Jacinto Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

6,400 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

24 campsites

Season

May 22, 2025 - Novem...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens San Jacinto Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Marion Mountain

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Basic camping fee of $10.00 per night includes the first vehicle. Extra vehicle fee of $5.00 per night per vehicle, payable at the fee tube located...

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

909-382-2922

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What Campers Say

4.09

Satisfactory

Based on 75 reviews

54 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewshiking

Some mention

reservation

"The campground receives mixed reviews, with sentiments ranging from enthusiasm for its natural beauty and hiking opportunities to criticism of site maintenance and reservation issues. Common highlights include the tranquility and scenic views, while the main complaints revolve around bathroom cleanliness and water availability."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Po Box 518, Idyllwild, CA 92549, USA

Marion Mountain

Po Box 518, Idyllwild, CA 92549, USA

Driving directionsFrom Interstate 10 in Banning, take Highway 243 south for about 20 miles to Alandale. Travel east on Stone Creek Campground Road for about 2 miles to Marion Mountain Campground.

Access to the campground requires navigating Stone Creek Campground Road, which may involve some unpaved sections. No explicit mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain was provided.

Nearby places

Idyllwild (7 miles, approximately 15 minutes)

San Bernardino (50 miles)

Nearby supplies

Idyllwild, located approximately 7 miles away, offers shops, restaurants, and basic supplies. Pine Cove, about 5 minutes away, has a small store.

Best Time to Camp at Marion Mountain

Marion Mountain's climate tells a tale of dramatic contrasts throughout the year. Summer days bring warmth that filters through the pine boughs, encouraging campers to seek refuge in the forest's natural air conditioning or explore nearby trails during peak heat. As the sun dips below the ridgeline, the mountain air transforms, bringing refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire gatherings and stargazing. When winter arrives, the landscape morphs into a snow-dusted wonderland, with trails above 8,000 feet donning pristine white blankets that beckon snowshoers and winter enthusiasts to explore this transformed alpine environment.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Open in summer but reviewers note hot days and mosquito prevalence despite forest shade.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall highly recommended for cooler temps and fewer mosquitoes; peak season favorable.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring recommended for cooler temps and fewer bugs, though official season opens late spring.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed in winter (open May 22–Nov 10), limiting winter camping access.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 22, 2025 - November 10, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: May 22, 2025 - November 10, 2025 (reservable dates: June 24, 2025 - November 10, 2025).

About Marion Mountain

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.

Marion Mountain Campground offers a rustic camping experience primarily for tent campers and small RVs. Facilities are basic, emphasizing a natural environment.

Weather and SeasonsMarion Mountain's climate tells a tale of dramatic contrasts throughout the year. Summer days bring warmth that filters through the pine boughs, encouraging campers to seek refuge in the forest's natural air conditioning or explore nearby trails during peak heat. As the sun dips below the ridgeline, the mountain air transforms, bringing refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire gatherings and stargazing. When winter arrives, the landscape morphs into a snow-dusted wonderland, with trails above 8,000 feet donning pristine white blankets that beckon snowshoers and winter enthusiasts to explore this transformed alpine environment.

ElevationPerched at 6,400 feet above sea level, Marion Mountain Campground offers a true mountain experience where the air feels crisp and clean. This elevation brings noticeably cooler evening temperatures that provide natural relief from daytime warmth, creating perfect sleeping conditions under star-filled skies. The thin mountain air and elevated position offer visitors a chance to truly disconnect from the lowlands and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the high country.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral of ancient cedars and stately pines at Marion Mountain Campground, where nature has crafted a perfect mountain sanctuary at 6,400 feet. The mature forest creates a multi-layered canopy overhead, with shafts of sunlight filtering through branches to dance across the forest floor. These magnificent trees, some standing for centuries, provide both natural shelter and a sense of timeless wilderness that envelops each campsite in peaceful seclusion.

Geological RegionMarion Mountain Campground sits within a remarkable forest ecosystem at 6,400 feet elevation, where ancient geological forces have created the perfect conditions for a thriving montane forest. The interplay between elevation, climate, and terrain has nurtured a spectacular grove of mature cedars and pines, their roots anchored in mountain soil that tells the story of millennia. This unique geological setting creates a natural amphitheater of forest that shelters campers while showcasing the raw beauty of mountain ecology.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights during a visit.

Groups

Group camping details are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground features two loops with campsites spread out. Many sites require hiking up or down slopes from parking areas.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors should check site posts for availability.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before scheduled arrival. Refunds subtract a $10 cancellation fee and reservation fees. Late cancellations forfeiting the first night's use fee apply for individual sites starting midnight 1 day before check-in.

AccessibilityNot explicitly mentioned in the source materials. Some reviews highlight the campground's rugged location and steep slopes, which may limit accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.

Site SizeThe sites vary in size and can accommodate standard tents and small RVs. Some sites have been described as spacious, but many are sloped, making it difficult to pitch multiple tents.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site location. The western loop is described as 'fairly out in the open' with less privacy, while the eastern loop provides 'a bit more privacy' due to forested areas.

Total Campsites24 campsites

Recommended SitesSite recommendations include avoiding steep or uneven sites such as site 018. Campers suggest choosing sites on the northern edge for better views and privacy.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a range of recreational activities, catering to nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Highlights include hiking, climbing, and opportunities for quiet relaxation in a scenic, forested environment. Proximity to the Marion Mountain Trail adds significant recreational value.

HikingHiking is a major draw, particularly the Marion Mountain Trail, which leads to San Jacinto Peak. This 11.8-mile trail is noted as the shortest but also one of the most strenuous routes to the peak. Hikers are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views that extend to the ocean and across the Palm Desert on clear days.

ClimbingClimbing 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.

Wildlife viewingThe forested area is home to diverse wildlife, as campers reported spotting deer and numerous bird species.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquito presence is noted during certain times of the year. Drinking water availability is inconsistent.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyWood and charcoal fires are permitted only in metal rings provided by the agency. Propane stoves and grills are allowed with a fire permit.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include the ranger station for the San Jacinto Ranger District. No detailed information about hospitals or police stations was provided.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection is advertised, but reviews do not mention recycling facilities. Campers should plan to pack out their recycling to reduce environmental impact.

Water FeaturesCreeks near the Marion Mountain Trail provide opportunities for water refills while hiking. Water availability within the campground is inconsistent.

Camp HostNo on-site campground host. Rangers make periodic rounds for maintenance and rule enforcement.

Weather at Marion Mountain

Reviews

4.1

75 reviews

Satisfactory

Marion Mountain is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground receives mixed reviews, with sentiments ranging from enthusiasm for its natural beauty and hiking opportunities to criticism of site maintenance and reservation issues. Common highlights include the tranquility and scenic views, while the main complaints revolve around bathroom cleanliness and water availability.

Review Summaries

Based on 75 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate the serene environment, excellent hiking trails, and scenic views. Many describe it as 'one of my favorite campgrounds' and 'a gem of a campground.'

Based on 75 reviews

Common Concerns

Key complaints include inconsistent bathroom cleanliness, steep and uneven campsites, and confusion over reservations, with one user stating, 'The toilets were completely neglected.' Another remarked...

Based on 75 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring drinking water due to inconsistent water availability. Reserve campsites early, especially those on the northern edge for privacy and views. Check fire restrictions before arrival, as they vary...

Based on 75 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are highly recommended for cooler temperatures and fewer mosquitoes. Summer reviews note high temperatures and mosquito prevalence, while winter and early spring may have snow at...

Based on 75 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great hike to the top," said Brandon D. Another noted, "Bathrooms don't have running water. Glorified port-a-potties." One camper raved, 'Gorgeous campsite! Great view of the forest and mountains at...

Based on 75 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 6 is praised for its sunset view. Site 21 is noted for shade and a level surface, while Site 18 is described as private but uneven. Site 1 offers excellent sunset views. The western loop is...

Based on 75 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility issues, but the campground's steep slopes and uneven terrain may present challenges for those with mobility impairments.

Based on 75 reviews