SAN GORGONIO
San Bernardino National Forest, CASan Gorgonio Campground sits at 6,600 feet in mixed oak and pine forest, 36 miles northeast of San Bernardino. The equestrian-friendly camp serves as basecamp for the Santa Ana River Trail and Rio Monte Trail, with 54 sites split between two loops of varying privacy.
Campground Details
- 🏕️Total Sites
- 54
- 💵Fee per Night
- $34
- 📋Reservations
- Reservation Required
- 🏔️Elevation
- 6,500 ft
- 📍GPS
- 34.17316, -116.86836
- 🌤️Best Seasons
- spring, fall
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- Yes
- 📞Phone
- 909-866-8550
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
The campground divides into two distinct loops under a canopy of black oak, Jeffrey pine, and ponderosa pine. One loop clusters sites closer together while the other offers more breathing room between neighbors. All 54 sites accommodate tents and RVs on paved, level parking spurs, though hookups aren't available. A dump station and potable water sit at a nearby campground.
Each site comes with the standard table and fire ring setup, plus flush toilets, showers, and drinking water throughout the campground. A host stays on-site and sells firewood. The mix of single, double, and accessible sites gives groups options, and the equestrian designation means horse trailers are welcome.
The Trails
Two significant trails launch from camp. The Santa Ana River Trail, when complete, will stretch from these mountains to the Pacific Ocean — currently it's popular for hiking, biking, and horseback riding with those promised spectacular views. The Rio Monte Trail heads to Rio Monte Panorama, which overlooks the deep gorge of the Santa Ana River Valley.
Mountain streams in the area hold fish, and the forest hosts enough wildlife to make bird watching worthwhile. During summer months, weekend evening educational programs run at a nearby amphitheater.
What to Know
Reservations are required, and the cancellation policy carries teeth: cancel the day before or day of arrival and you'll pay a $10 service fee plus forfeit the first night's fee. No-shows get hit with a $20 service fee.
Big Bear Lake sits 25 miles away, adding water recreation, golf, shopping, and restaurants to your options if the mountain camp scene gets old.