Map showing campground location near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, California

Camper submitted image from Little Round Valley — Mount San Jacinto State Park

Little Round Valley — Mount San Jacinto State Park

Situated within Mount San Jacinto State Park above the Marion Mountain Trail, Little Round Valley is a permit-required, hike-in campground reached via the Marion Mountain trailhead near Fern Basin. Permits are required. Campsites spread out along the trail, with additional spots located one to two hundred feet off the main path. A stream near camp has been known to carry running water into late summer. The campground has drinking water, toilets, and cell service, and is well-suited to backpackers planning a multi-day route through the San Jacinto high country. Those exploring campgrounds near Idyllwild-Pine Cove will find this one among the more remote options in the range.

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Map & DirectionsLittle Round Valley is located in California near Idyllwild-Pine Cove

Public Campground

Address

25905 Highway 243
Idyllwild, CA 92549

Coordinates

33.81145964 N
116.68781555 W

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Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
AT&T5G
Good Coverage

Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
AT&T5G
Good Coverage

Access

Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

Site Types

Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

Phone Service
Drinking Water
Toilets

Contact

General Info

+19516592607

Drive Time

3 hrs from Los Angeles, CA
3 hrs 15 min from San Diego, CA
3 hrs 30 min from El Centro, CA
5 hrs 6 min from Lake Havasu City, AZ

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Reviews1 Camper Review - Little Round Valley

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5 Stars

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1 Star

5.0

out of 5

1 Review

Jonathan G.

Ranger

Reviewed Oct. 25, 2020

Great for backpacking

If you're backpacking San Jacinto, this is the way to go! Take the Marion Mtn Trail that goes from Marion Mtn & Fern Basin Campgrounds and spend the night here at Little Round Valley. We did it in late August, and there was still water running in the stream across from the camp. There are several spots that you need to get a permit for, and they're spread out right off the trail. Be sure to follow the path one or two hundred feet off the main trail. We set up camp right off the trail which was fine, but there are spots further in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Little Round Valley Campground located in San Jacinto?

Little Round Valley Campground is located within Mount San Jacinto State Park in Southern California. The campground sits along the backcountry trail system of the park and is accessible via the Marion Mountain Trail that starts from Marion Mountain and Fern Basin Campgrounds. It's positioned at a higher elevation on the mountain, making it an ideal stopping point for backpackers exploring San Jacinto Peak. The location offers beautiful alpine scenery and serves as a strategic overnight spot for those hiking the mountain's trail system.

What amenities are available at Little Round Valley Campground?

Little Round Valley Campground offers primitive backcountry camping with minimal amenities. The site has several designated camping spots and a natural water source from a nearby stream (seasonal availability, typically running through late summer). No potable water is provided, so filtering or treating water is necessary. There are no restroom facilities, electricity, or trash services. This is a true backcountry experience requiring self-sufficiency. Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles when visiting.

Do I need a permit to camp at Little Round Valley Campground?

Yes, a wilderness permit is required to camp at Little Round Valley Campground. As a backcountry site within Mount San Jacinto State Park, all overnight stays require proper permits. These permits help manage visitor impact and ensure the preservation of the natural environment. Contact Mount San Jacinto State Park or check their official website to obtain the necessary wilderness permits before your trip. Permits may be limited, especially during peak hiking seasons, so securing them well in advance is recommended.

Are there photos available of Little Round Valley Campground?

Photos of Little Round Valley Campground can be found on the Mount San Jacinto State Park official website and various hiking forums. The campground features beautiful alpine terrain with several cleared camping spots nestled among trees. Visual documentation shows the natural stream that runs near the campground and the surrounding mountainous landscape. For the most current and comprehensive collection of photos, check the California State Parks website or specialized backpacking resources focused on the San Jacinto wilderness area.

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