Camper submitted image from High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness - 1

View Photos

Camper submitted image from High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness - 2
Camping
Camper submitted image from High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness - 3
Nature
Camper submitted image from High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness - 4
Signs & Maps
Unlock Planning Tools in App
pro

Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

High Creek Camp in the San Gorgonio Wilderness is surrounded by rugged terrain with elevations that offer a variety of hiking opportunities. Temperatures can range from 30°F in the winter to 80°F in the summer, providing diverse camping conditions throughout the year. Nearby, visitors can explore the San Bernardino National Forest and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding wilderness.

Suggest an Edit

Location

High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

The trailhead is reached by turning east off Highway 38 to Forest Falls.

Coordinates

34.08672740242248 N
116.84664112261532 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • RV Sites
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness needs a permit.


2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

50%
50%
0%
0%
0%

4.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 18, 2017

The sound of water

The sound of the water is the best part of this campground in my eyes. As well as it is a great place to stay as a overnight to break up a summit trip. The spots at this site are far and wide it seems. There is one really good site mostly dirt, no rocks, defined well, but it is right off the trail. So I'm sure you can guess there is no privacy nor silence. This campground is one of the most popular out of the 4 on this trail! You have to get your permit early in the summer season because of that!

There are more sites as you hike back, but it seems to be more rocky the further back you go.

This has a creek right next to it so that part is wonderful!

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness by Brittany N., July 18, 2017
  • Review photo of High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness by Brittany N., July 18, 2017
  • Review photo of High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness by Brittany N., July 18, 2017
  • (11) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is High Creek Camp located in San Gorgonio?

High Creek Camp is located within the San Gorgonio Wilderness area of the San Bernardino National Forest in Southern California. This backcountry campground sits along High Creek, as the name suggests, and serves as a popular overnight stop for hikers making their way to San Gorgonio Mountain. The camp is situated along the trail system that leads to the summit, making it an ideal basecamp for those looking to break up their summit attempt into multiple days.

What amenities are available at High Creek Campground?

High Creek Camp is a primitive backcountry site with minimal amenities. There is no potable water (though High Creek provides a natural water source that should be filtered), no toilets, electricity, or trash services. The campground consists of several dispersed sites, with at least one well-defined dirt spot that has minimal rocks and is easily identifiable. Pack-in, pack-out principles apply, and visitors should be prepared to be self-sufficient with all necessary camping gear and supplies.

What are the best seasons to visit High Creek Campground?

The best seasons to visit High Creek Camp are late spring through early fall. Summer offers reliable access but can be busy. Early fall provides pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Due to its elevation in the San Gorgonio Wilderness, winter and early spring typically bring snow, making access difficult and requiring specialized equipment and experience. Always check current trail and weather conditions before planning your trip, as seasonal factors can significantly impact accessibility and safety.

Are there any good hiking trails near High Creek Camp?

High Creek Camp is ideally situated along the trail system leading to San Gorgonio Mountain summit, making it a perfect basecamp for this challenging hike. The camp itself is accessed via a trail through the San Gorgonio Wilderness, and continuing past the camp takes you toward the highest peak in Southern California. The sound of flowing water from High Creek adds to the hiking experience. This location serves primarily as a staging point for summit attempts rather than offering a network of different trails.