Campgrounds near Idyllwild-Pine Cove in California's San Jacinto Mountains provide a range of accommodations from developed sites to more primitive options. Lake Hemet Campground and Idyllwild Campground within Mount San Jacinto State Park offer year-round camping with varied amenities. The region includes several mixed-use campgrounds supporting tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabin rentals. Stone Creek Campground and Marion Mountain Campground provide seasonal access to the higher elevations, while Thousand Trails Idyllwild offers private camping options with additional amenities. Most campgrounds in the area feature picnic tables, fire rings, and access to drinking water.
Elevation plays a significant role in camping conditions, with temperatures varying considerably between lower and higher elevation sites. "Stone Creek Campground in San Jacinto Mountain State Park is the perfect getaway for coastal Southern California residents. It is a few hours out of the major metro areas, but close enough to get to for just a night or two," noted one camper. Many campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when the area becomes popular with visitors seeking relief from coastal heat. Winter brings snow to higher elevations, limiting access to some campgrounds. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer and fall months, and campers should check current conditions before arrival. Cell service varies throughout the region, with better coverage near towns and limited or no service in more remote camping areas.
Campers report high satisfaction with the natural surroundings and relative seclusion of sites despite their proximity to urban areas. The mountain setting provides opportunities for hiking, with many trails accessible directly from campgrounds. Several visitors mentioned the contrast between daytime and nighttime temperatures, recommending layers even during summer months. Wildlife sightings, including deer, are common at campgrounds like Stone Creek. Proximity to the town of Idyllwild allows campers to access supplies and restaurants while maintaining a wilderness experience. Campgrounds closer to town tend to fill more quickly, while those at higher elevations or further from amenities often provide more solitude. Water availability varies by location and season, with some campgrounds offering full hookups while others provide only basic facilities.
$45 / night
"You can fit two 10' x10' canopies to cover the bench table, and fit 2 individual tents (4-6 person) OR a bigger 12p tent however you decide to position it. It has its own Fire pit."
"I've been camping at Lake Hemet since I was a kid, and absolutely love it there."
$25 - $45 / night
"Kinda close to main road. But, store close by. Around the corner next to the village."
"Kings Canyon is one of the coolest places I've been in a long time and Southern California"
$30 - $35 / night
"This is one of our family's favorite campgrounds because it's a quick drive from San Diego (and OC) and it gives us our "mountain fix" when we don't have time to drive to the Sierra Mountains."
"It's a lovely campground, and our spot wasn't too far away from the restrooms or the creek. Once Friday afternoon hit though, it did fill up to what felt like near full capacity. "
$20 - $35 / night
"Located near Idyllwild, this is the smaller, less rowdy campground associated with the tourist town."
"I was really excited to head out to this campground/ site because it was a close drive from my home, but far enough away to get up in the mountains."
$20 / night
"Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, within the San Jacinto District, Marion Mt. Campground is one of the best camping sites in Southern California."
"It was close to Idyllwild, which was convenient when we ran out of ice. There are no bear boxes, not sure if it was needed though. For the best spots, make sure to reserve."
"Plus, there are a lot of open spaces in the campground and some small trails with cool views and lots of amenities."
"We really enjoyed the drive up Idylwild, beautiful scenery. I think the sites are a bit too close to each other, I would prefer more space between sites."
$20 / night
"The bumpy six mile drive up a dirt road to reach this campground is well worth it. The campground has garbage cans and pit toilets."
"The Campground is set off the main highway about 5 miles and only accessible if have a suv or truck as it is a switchback dirt road. Trailers would not be able to make this trek."
"Very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California elevation is high enough that temperatures were very enjoyable (mid 80's)"
"Yellow Post #2 – San Bernardino National Forest Secluded, free, first-come-first-served tent site tucked deep in the forest near Hemet, CA."
"If you come here make sure that you have a suv or truck and water so you can put out ur fire in ur fire pit and when your by yourself trust me your by yourself no one else is really close by so be safe"
"I had service up there, not to crowded and the spots are a good ways away from each other!"
"Bathrooms were clean considering there is only one location for bathrooms. Not much space for tents but lots of sites if you have a trailer or motor home."
TravelerStayed one night on our way to Utah. Super quiet on Sunday night, we were able to drive right up and pick a spot pretty secluded. Bathrooms were spotless. Camp host was friendly!
ScoutPlace is ok. Quiet so far. Nice people.
TravelerSuper easy to book, pretty affordable for the area. Super comfortable and feels safe!
GuideWe stopped in visiting Joshua Tree National Park. This is located very close to the Northwest side of park. The RV park is very easy to get to. There are not a lot of options for places to camp. The Dispersed lots have a lot of trash. This is a clean location, very very expensive though. You will pay premium price for no shade and to park in a sand lot. There is a nice little park adjacent to this but that’s the only plus.
ScoutOn the outskirts of Joshua Tree National Park in an old growth Joshua Tree grove. The trees are tall and fat, very close to each other. Heftier than the trees inside the Park.
It has water and dump station, otherwise the campgrounds inside the Park are more majestic with huge rocks.
If you're a fulltime RVer or vanlifer with an efficient solar system, having water in/out and a place to stay safely for cheap is grand. It's four klicks from malls, thus ideal if you need stuff. As a fulltime RVer I book several consecutive days with the app. The grounds are empty on weekdays, thus can spend quality time organizing my rig, thoughts, and plans.
From June to autumn half the campsites are shuttered. The area has limited visitation in summer.
ScoutEasy access but away from street noise. Nothing elegant or fancy but it's a nice spot to spend the weekend. RV sites are next to the baseball fields, which is fun! Some sites have shade trees (beware of dripping pine trees). Grass and trees off the RV sites. Sites are on gravel and concrete pads. Great view of the nearby mountains. Park security patrols throughout the day. We've stayed here twice and would definitely visit again!
GuideI have some reservations about writing this review because my experience at this campground was wonderful. I enjoyed four peaceful days there, and, surprisingly, there were never more than three campers present. The other visitors were all gray-haired, which contributed to the serenity—there were no barking dogs, loud generators, music, or screaming kids. I spoke with some long-time campers who advised against visiting during holiday weekends and summer; they warned that it can turn chaotic. Marion Mountain, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, exudes character and has a relaxed atmosphere that is not geared for partying, although some attempt to make it so. This campground strictly allows only tent camping and very small teardrop trailers or camper vans; RVs and fifth-wheelers are not permitted. The upper loop(sites 1-5) is great for van or tent camping, but parking is limited to one car/van per site, with no extra parking available. This restriction minimizes the flow of day hikers and keeps the campground tranquil. The inside loop features flatter ground for pitching tents, but it does come with close campsites, reducing privacy since the road rings around sites six through ten, which require a short walk to access. On the lower loop, the outside sites are sloped, and you also need to walk to them. The interior sites here are flat but closely packed, creating a cramped environment. I rated this campground one star for weekends and holidays, but it earns five stars on weekdays and in the shoulder seasons. I would absolutely return, but definitely not on weekends! If I want to hear screaming kids and barking dogs, I can just visit my grandkids. If you value a peaceful camping experience, choose your timing wisely!
ScoutI slept well, Palm Trees are nice for privacy and shade
TravelerA Hidden Gem! Phenomenal Staff & Peaceful Stay My husband and I just finished a week-long stay at Indian Waters RV Resort over Memorial Day weekend, and we are absolutely blown away! We are in our late 30s/early 40s and really thrive on peace and quiet, and this place delivered exactly what we were looking for. Right from the start, the customer service was unmatched. We had booked our site back in March and ran into a small glitch with the online system recognizing our deposit and site request. After communicating with Cameron and Rachel in the weeks leading up to our trip, they assured us everything would be handled—and they delivered perfectly. Upon arrival, they proved to be the most amazing, warm, and accommodating property managers you could ever ask for. From our first greeting to random run-ins around the park to our final day, their consistency and hospitality were top-tier. They even stock those must-have amenities in the main office for when you inevitably forget or run out of something, which was incredibly convenient. As for the resort itself? Phenomenal. The grounds are meticulously kept up—the grass sites are lush and green, and the gravel sites are perfectly level. The bathrooms are amazing, and the gym is clean with great, usable equipment. We spent plenty of time enjoying the amenities: The Pool & Jacuzzis: The pool was always sparkling clean (minus a few stray flowers blowing in the desert wind) and kept at a wonderful temperature. The two jacuzzis are absolutely to die for! Outdoor Fun: They have cornhole, pickleball courts, and great lounge chairs situated around multiple firepits. We were honestly shocked that the park wasn’t more crowded for a holiday weekend. It truly feels like a hidden gem right now. There were no loud or rowdy neighbors, no annoying barking dogs, and no screaming children—just pure relaxation. We came here to celebrate our birthdays, and thanks to Cam and Rachel, it was an unforgettable trip. We will absolutely be back time and time again! Wishing you both tons of success!
The San Jacinto Mountains provide varying camping experiences at elevations from 4,000 to 9,000 feet near Idyllwild-Pine Cove. Temperature differences between lower and higher elevations can exceed 20°F, with overnight lows in higher camps frequently dropping below freezing even in summer months. While summer weekends fill quickly, weekday camping often allows more solitude and site selection.
Hiking to Mt. San Jacinto peak: Round Valley Campsite serves as an excellent base for summit attempts. "We stayed at the round valley campground in March of this year. There was still some snow and it was beautiful. We took the tram up from palm springs and backpacked to the campground before summiting up San Jacinto peak. The views were breathtaking and the elevation was a killer," notes one camper at Round Valley Campsite.
Rock climbing and bouldering: Boulder Basin Campground provides immediate access to climbing opportunities. "Love this small campground, lots of bouldering in the campground. Beautiful scenery. Some hiking too. Went up the look out tower where the woman staying there at the time was very knowledgeable and share a lot of information with us!" reports a visitor to Boulder Basin.
Trail running from camp: Stone Creek offers direct trail access from campsites. "Multiple hiking trails led out of camp including one right from next to our site that led to multiple other trails heading up San Jacinto Mountain. The trails were a mix of gravel fire road, dirt trail and a few sandy areas through the flats," explained a camper.
Fishing at Lake Hemet: The lake offers trout fishing opportunities with boat rentals available. "We had the best time here! The lake with all the blow up toys was a blast! We rented a boat and went out on the lake to do some fishing. We didn't catch anything but we did see some bald eagles which was super cool!"
Fire pits and evening temperatures: Many campers appreciate having fire rings during cool mountain evenings. "Every campsite had a fire pit which was nice. Hemet Lake itself is beautiful and the view while fishing was amazing. I was able to catch one trout during our four night stay," notes a visitor to Lake Hemet Campground.
Cell service variability: Service depends greatly on location. "We had full phone/wifi service here. We didn't want or need it, but if we were working from the road this would be an easy stop to set up," mentioned a Stone Creek camper, while visitors to higher elevation sites often report no service.
Vault toilet cleanliness: Stone Creek maintains clean facilities despite being a more primitive site. "The vault toilets were clean, and well stocked with TP and antibacterial soap. There were three on-site," reports a camper at Stone Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Deer sightings are common in the area. "We saw some serious accident sites when people were traveling too fast, and caught up to a slow moving camper around a curve. Drive carefully," warns a visitor regarding the winding mountain roads.
Road conditions to remote sites: Some of the best places to camp near Idyllwild-Pine Cove require high-clearance vehicles. "Getting up Thomas Mountain is good fun. This Campground is about 8mi up the ridge along a sometimes washed out road. The site itself was peaceful and quiet, but entirely left to run away," explains a visitor to Tool Box Springs Yellow Post Campground.
Insect activity varies by season: Spring and fall typically offer fewer insects. "Spring time and fall are the best here, less flies and insects. In the summer flies swarm, tons of beetles at night, think our dog brought home fleas from our site," notes a camper about Tool Box Springs.
Water availability concerns: Always verify water status before arrival. "Although water is sometimes available, it is not potable and spigots are off during droughts. So make sure to pack enough water ahead of time," advises a Boulder Basin visitor.
Fire restrictions change seasonally: Verify current fire rules before arrival. "There was a no open flame aloud because of how dry it was—which we did not know until we arrived. Might want to check that out," warns a recent visitor.
Playgrounds and splash pads: Some campgrounds offer kid-specific amenities. "There's a nice playground, trails to walk and bike," notes a Hurkey Creek visitor, while another camper at Hurkey Creek Park adds, "There's a lot of space. It's quite and a large area for kids to play and have fun."
Site privacy considerations: Choose sites away from common areas. "We stayed in Campsite #43 which was close to the bathroom. But it also meant everyone was cutting through our site to get to it; even in the middle of the night. Next time we will choose a spot further from the restrooms," advises a Stone Creek visitor.
Wildlife education opportunities: Kids can learn about local ecology. "We took the kids on the nature walk and they loved it! Big brother read the signs about the pine cones to his little sisters!" shared a Stone Creek camper.
Temperature preparation: Nights get cold even in summer months. "Weather was cold and windy but not too bad. Bring insulation for your water hose or have some type of method that will keep your water lines from freezing. Our water hose froze the first night," warns a Lake Hemet visitor.
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling equipment. "Our Site was not level at all. We carry a lot of leveling blocks and are not even close to level still nose down with 4 2x8s and Jack at max extension. Side to side level took one board under left side," reports a visitor to Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Road narrowness and switchbacks: Access roads can be challenging for larger rigs. "Windy (paved) road to get in so could be tricky for rigs >25 feet," notes a Marion Mountain camper, while another adds "We tent camped but noticed it's a bit tricky to find a nice flat spot to plop down a tent, especially if it's a big one."
Seasonal facility closures: Winter brings limited amenities. "Pool and activities were closed in the winter," mentions a Thousand Trails visitor, something to consider when planning an off-season trip.
Weather preparation: Mountain locations mean significant temperature swings. "We had a great breeze every evening starting around 4pm that lasted a couple hours," notes a camper, suggesting window positioning to maximize airflow during warmer days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best camping sites in Idyllwild-Pine Cove?
The Idyllwild area offers several exceptional camping options. Idyllwild Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park is a top choice for its quiet, relaxing atmosphere and convenient location near the village and local store. For those seeking a more secluded experience, Boulder Basin provides a peaceful retreat surrounded by pine forests with beautiful mountain views. Other excellent options include Marion Mountain Campground with its shaded sites and access to hiking trails, and Tool Box Springs for more primitive camping. Most campgrounds in the area feature picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, with varying levels of amenities. Reservations are highly recommended during peak seasons (late spring through early fall) as these popular sites fill quickly.
Where is Pine Cove campground located and what amenities does it offer?
Pine Cove is a small community located about 2 miles north of Idyllwild along Highway 243 in the San Jacinto Mountains. While there isn't a specific campground called "Pine Cove Campground," the area is served by several excellent options. Lake Hemet Campground is located nearby, offering amenities including potable water, flush toilets, showers, picnic tables, and fire rings. The campground is situated beside the scenic Lake Hemet, providing opportunities for fishing and water activities. Hurkey Creek Park is another nearby option with similar amenities plus hiking trails. Both campgrounds are easily accessible from Pine Cove via Highway 243 and provide convenient bases for exploring the entire Idyllwild-Pine Cove region.
Are there any camping options near Idyllwild-Pine Cove for larger RVs?
Yes, there are several RV-friendly camping options near Idyllwild-Pine Cove that accommodate larger rigs. Thousand Trails Idyllwild is specifically designed for RVs and offers full hookups, spacious sites, and amenities like laundry facilities and WiFi. For those willing to venture slightly further, Pechanga RV Resort offers premium facilities including full hookups, a pool, and is conveniently located near restaurants and entertainment. Lake Skinner Recreation Area also accommodates large RVs with spacious sites and hookups. When making reservations, be sure to specify your RV length to ensure site compatibility, as mountain roads and some campgrounds in the immediate Idyllwild area have size restrictions due to the winding mountain roads.
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