Heart Bar Equestrian Campground offers dedicated facilities for equestrians visiting the San Bernardino Mountains. Located near Forest Falls at an elevation of 7,000 feet, the campground experiences significant temperature drops after sunset even during summer months. Trail access extends beyond the immediate campground area with connections to multiple wilderness zones providing varied terrain for riders of all experience levels.
What to do
Mountain biking on Alpine trails: The area surrounding Heart Bar Campground offers extensive mountain biking opportunities with mixed terrain. "Access to a lot of hiking and dirt roads, hike to San Gorgonio, drive up to Coon Creek Cabin, or just relax," notes Mike M. The area features both technical single-track and wider fire roads.
Wildlife viewing at meadow edges: Campers consistently report excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly at dusk. "The campground sits higher above the highway and displaces sound nicely. This spot is excellent for wildlife viewing and entry to the wilderness for hiking and exploring," shares Nick L., who mentions deer grazing in the evenings at the meadow edges.
Day trips to nearby attractions: Lake Perris State Recreational Area provides additional recreational options within driving distance. "We did some fishing, bike riding, the water was clear, and my kids loved it. There is a cool museum where the amazing staff provided us with interesting history about the lake and Indian tribes," reports Lauren R.
What campers like
Well-spaced sites with natural features: Visitors appreciate the layout and natural setting of the campsites. "When I go camping, I like getting away from people, and Heart Bar is one of the campgrounds with bigger sites so we can do that easier. The sites are beautiful and clean, and there is a beautiful meadow to hike through," shares Amy B.
Double sites for group camping: Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites offers alternatives for larger groups. "There are 19 Yellowpost sites and I stayed in site #16; it was the best one in my opinion. There was some perfect trees for hanging a hammock and escaping the sun. The sites are decent sized too, and they all have a picnic table and a fire pit," reports Momma B.
High-altitude climate experiences: The mountain location creates distinct seasonal experiences. "You can't help but feel like you are elsewhere like the Eastern Sierra with the dry desert winds that blow in and chill on the mountains and the smell of the sage brush," notes Nick L., highlighting the unique climate transitions that occur in the area.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect accessibility: Mountain weather patterns limit access during winter months. "These campsites are all closed during the winter due to snow and early into spring," warns Kayla H. regarding Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites.
Reservation requirements fluctuate by season: Peak periods require advance planning. "Recommend making reservations ahead. They do have first come first serve sites. Full on holiday weekends," advises Aaron S. This applies particularly during summer when equestrian sites fill quickly.
Trail conditions vary with weather: Seasonal rain and snow melt affect trail accessibility. "Dirt roads were well kept. I came with a 170 wheel base Sprinter Van w/ 2 wheel drive and had no problems making it to site post #11," shares Derek M., noting that conditions can change rapidly after weather events.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for privacy: Families benefit from choosing sites away from main pathways. "Highly recommend sites 32, 37, 47, 58, or 24 & 49 which are both double sites. This was due to their more isolated positioning to other spots, shade, flat ground, and proximity to bathrooms and the beautiful little meadow," recommends Nick L. at Heart Bar Campground.
Temperature preparation for children: Mountain nights get significantly colder than daytime temperatures. "We stayed there this last weekend... We were there in August and the weather was perfect. Warm during the day and just chilly at night," explains Gina C., highlighting the need for appropriate clothing layers.
Water access planning: Limited water sources require careful planning when camping with children. "Water is only available near the main road so bring containers if you go further up the road," advises Tom P., noting the importance of carrying sufficient water when exploring more remote trail sections with families.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations at mountain sites: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain. "The campground is great has water and bathroom available. Has a hiking trail not far away. Close to big bear city about 15mi South," notes Alfonso C. at Black Rock Campground, emphasizing the need for leveling equipment.
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the area. "I had spotty internet on my T-Mobile sim. Verizon sim had 2 bars with my cell booster," reports Derek M., providing practical information for those needing to maintain connection while camping.
RV size limitations on forest roads: Larger rigs face access challenges on mountain roads. "Campsites are pretty well spaced out which is nice for a little more privacy and there is a decent amount of trees throughout the campground," Christopher D. notes, but cautions that access roads can restrict larger vehicles in many areas surrounding Forest Falls.
