Discover Free Camping Options in San Jacinto Ranger District: Your Guide to Outdoor Adventure
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the San Jacinto Ranger District in the San Bernardino National Forest, where outdoor enthusiasts can immerse themselves in diverse landscapes, from towering pines to stunning mountain vistas. With over 27 miles of hiking trails and an elevation range of 1,000 to 10,000 feet, this district is perfect for both novice and experienced campers seeking adventure and tranquility. Popular campgrounds such as the well-shaded Idyllwild Campground and the scenic Lake Hemet Campground offer convenient amenities, while free camping options like the Black Mountain and Diamond Valley Lakes provide budget-friendly alternatives. The region boasts a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and a variety of bird species, making it a nature lover's paradise. Offering over 250,000 acres of breathtaking beauty and recreational opportunities, the San Jacinto Ranger District is a must-visit destination for your next camping getaway. Embrace the great outdoors and make unforgettable memories in one of California’s most captivating natural settings!
Boulder Basin Campground is located in the San Jacinto Ranger District, San Bernardino National Forest (1 hr 23 min west of Palm Springs, CA) with an elevation of 7,537 feet. There are a total of 16 campsites including 8 tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from mid May to the end of October. 7 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 20 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $10.00 per night. Activities include biking, fishing, horseback riding, hiking trails.
Fern Basin Campground is located in the San Jacinto Ranger District, San Bernardino National Forest (1 hr 4 min west of Palm Springs, CA) with an elevation of 6,252 feet. There are a total of 15 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to the beginning of September. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 20 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $10.00 per night. Activities include biking, fishing, horseback riding, hiking trails.
Idyllwild Campgorund is part of Mt. San Jacinto State Park in California (1 hr 9 min west of Palm Springs, CA) with an elevation of 5,411 feet. There are a total of 31 campsites including 2 tent-only sites. The campground is open all year. 29 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 24 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. 4 sites have electric and water hookups. 4 sites have electric hookups. Fees range from $25.00 to $45.00. Some amenities include shower, drinking water, accessible, restroom, flush toilets. Activities include hiking trails.
Marion Mountain Campground is located in the San Jacinto Ranger District, San Bernardino National Forest (1 hr 6 min west of Palm Springs, CA) with an elevation of 6,522 feet. There are a total of 16 campsites including 1 tent-only site. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid November. 15 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 20 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $10.00 per night. Activities include biking, fishing, horseback riding, hiking trails.
Ribbonwood Equestrian Campground is located in the San Jacinto Ranger District, San Bernardino National Forest (49 min southwest of La Quinta, CA) with an elevation of 4,084 feet. There are a total of 8 campsites. The campground is open all year. Max equipment length is 130 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $15.00 per night. Some amenities include shower, flush toilets. Activities include biking, fishing, horseback riding.
Stone Creek Campground is part of Mt. San Jacinto State Park in California (1 hr west of Palm Springs, CA) with an elevation of 5,411 feet. There are a total of 46 campsites. The campground is normally open from the beginning of April to the end of October. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 24 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. 6 sites have electric hookups. Fees range from $20.00 to $35.00. Some amenities include drinking water, accessible, restroom. Activities include hiking trails.
map icon in the lower right corner.
*Earn our 
Show your commitment in keeping our forests healthy and protecting our public lands by earning the Leave No Trace badge.