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Best Campgrounds near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA

1,963 Reviews

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.

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Best Camping Sites Near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, California (410)

    1. Lake Hemet Campground

    39 Reviews
    Mountain Center, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 659-2680

    $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."

    2. Idyllwild Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    29 Reviews
    Idyllwild, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (951) 659-2607

    $25 - $45 / night

    "Kinda close to main road. But, store close by. Around the corner next to the village."

    "We like coming here because it’s close to us and a nice little getaway to relax and make sure all our gear is good to go for our longer camping trips."

    3. Hurkey Creek Park

    21 Reviews
    Mountain Center, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 659-2050

    $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. "

    4. Stone Creek Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    15 Reviews
    Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 659-2607

    $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."

    5. Marion Mountain

    10 Reviews
    Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2922

    $10 - $34 / 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."

    6. Thousand Trails Idyllwild

    10 Reviews
    Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "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."

    7. Boulder Basin

    8 Reviews
    Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2922

    $10 - $34 / 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."

    8. Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground

    9 Reviews
    Anza, CA
    10 miles
    Website

    "I had service up there, not to crowded and the spots are a good ways away from each other!"

    "This campsite is about 45 minutes down a 4 wheel drive only dirt path. Pot toilets and trash cans available at the site. Nothing else much around to do other than hang out at the campground or hike."

    9. Round Valley Campsite — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    4 Reviews
    Idyllwild, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 659-2607

    "A very moderate hike from the aerial tram that put us in the heart of the San Jacinto Mountain just hours away from the peak!"

    "it is a well traveled trail year round but weather is unpredictable."

    10. Lake Skinner Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    Temecula, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 926-1541

    $25 - $45 / night

    "This is a great family campground right around the corner from Temecula, Murrietta, and Menifee."

    "The charge $10 per person per day to fish in their Lake. And you can’t swim or let the kids play in the lake because it’s a reservoir."

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Recent Camping Photos near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA

861 Photos of 410 Idyllwild-Pine Cove Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA

1963 Reviews of 410 Idyllwild-Pine Cove Campgrounds

Guide to Idyllwild-Pine Cove

Camping near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, California, offers a mix of stunning nature and cozy campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the area. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes, with one reviewer from Idyllwild Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park saying, "Hiked saw mill flats and loved the views of the pines and large boulder formations."
  • Fishing: If you love fishing, check out Lake Hemet Campground. A visitor mentioned, "The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at San Gorgonio Campground noted, "Deer, blue jays, lizards, squirrels, reported bear sightings but we did not see any bears."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Hurkey Creek Park said, "The restrooms are clean enough; I've seen much worse state park restrooms."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. One visitor at Ryan Campground — Joshua Tree National Park mentioned, "The camp sites are private feeling, and spaced far enough apart."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. A guest at Catalina Spa and RV Resort shared, "Staff were very friendly and accommodating."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in many areas. A camper at Lake Skinner Recreation Area noted, "Verizon signal was non-existent."
  • Weather Variability: The weather can change quickly, especially at higher elevations. One visitor at San Gorgonio Campground mentioned, "Cold mornings but perfect temperature during the day."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park advised, "Get there as early as you can for checking in."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water activities. A family at Lake Hemet Campground enjoyed, "The swim zone isn't too far from this campsite."
  • Group Campsites: Consider reserving a group site for more space. A camper at Yucaipa Regional Park mentioned, "Tent camping is only allowed in group sites."
  • Plan for Noise: Be ready for some noise, especially on weekends. A visitor at Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground said, "It was awful... large group of people blasting their music until 2/3 AM."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Catalina Spa and RV Resort noted, "Sites really vary in size and quality."
  • Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. A visitor at Lake Skinner Recreation Area mentioned, "Full hookups with easy access."
  • Be Mindful of Dust: Some areas can be dusty, especially in the older sections of RV parks. A camper at Catalina Spa and RV Resort pointed out, "The dog park was ok, but on the small side and would be better with a gravel base instead of the dirt."

Camping near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure!

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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