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Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness

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.

Description

USDA Forest Service

San Bernardino National Forest

Group size limited to 12 people and 8 pack/riding animals per group. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit.

Limited, but free wilderness permits for day hiking and overnight camping are required for the San Gorgonio Wilderness and the Cucamonga Wilderness Permits – they are issued by the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association, a Forest Service partner. Parts of the San Gorgonio Wilderness, including the San Bernardino Peak Trail, are still closed due to the El Dorado fire.

Upon completion of your reservation request. you will receive a download. Please retain this download as your permit reservation. You may keep a copy on your phone and show it to a ranger as verification of your permit or you can print it out. If you do not receive a permit use the contact link here: https://www.sgwa.org/contact-us

The Vivian Creek Trail is the shortest and the steepest route to the summit of Mt. San Gorgonio, located in the San Gorgonio Wilderness on the Sand to Snow National Monument. One and two-tenths miles from the trailhead is Vivian Creek Camp (7,100'). Campsites are located upslope to the right of the trail after reaching the stream: one is halfway up the slope, and the other is at the top of the slope (no camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek). One and three-tenths miles from Vivian Creek Camp is Halfway Camp (8,100'). Water is obtained from the creek 200 yards before camp. Two and three-tenths miles further is High Creek Camp (water available - 9,200'). The summit of San Gorgonio (11,499') is 3 miles beyond High Creek. The upper end of this trail offers outstanding views of Yucaipa Ridge and Galena Peak, as well as sweeping panoramic views from the top of Mt. San Gorgonio. General info: No water available. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit. No camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek Wilderness Permit Required - this is a very popular trail, especially on summer weekends. It is suggested you request your permit in advance. Wilderness Permit applications are accepted up to 90 days in advance of your trip. Permits can be obtained from sgwa.org. Fee: Adventure Pass Required $5/day or $30/year. Interagency Passes also accepted.

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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

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Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Fair
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Good
  • T-Mobile
    Good

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.


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4.5

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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
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness?

    High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness is located at 9260 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness does not have wifi.