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Dispersed Camping

Vivian Creek Camp

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Vivian Creek Camp is located in the San Gorgonio Wilderness near CA, featuring rugged terrain with dense forest and mountain views. Temperatures can range from 30°F in winter to 80°F in summer, offering varied conditions for campers. Nearby, visitors can explore the San Bernardino National Forest and enjoy hiking trails such as the Vivian Creek Trail.

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Location

Vivian Creek Camp is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

The trailhead is reached by turning east off Highway 38 to Forest Falls.

Coordinates

34.087494915970794 N
116.88450599489033 W

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Connectivity

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Reservable
  • 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 Vivian Creek Camp needs a permit.


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1 Review

Reviewed Jul. 18, 2017

The most beautiful campground!

This campground is located just around the corner from the permit required sign. There is a lovely creek that lead to a waterfall that some repel down. The campground is up the right of the trail. Nice dirt flat spots within the trees, looking down at the trail. This is a good base camp for the summit. You are a good distance from the trail so it doesn't seem to be a bother as far as noise. If you hike down to the creek and head South, that is where you will find the end of the waterfall. Becaful here though for I have seen a rattle snake not to far from the camp!

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Vivian Creek Camp by Brittany N., July 18, 2017
  • Review photo of Vivian Creek Camp by Brittany N., July 18, 2017
  • Review photo of Vivian Creek Camp by Brittany N., July 18, 2017
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Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Vivian Creek Campground?

Vivian Creek Camp offers primitive camping with minimal amenities. The campground features flat, dirt camping spots nestled among trees. A creek runs nearby, providing a natural water source (though water should be filtered or treated before consumption). There are no developed facilities like picnic tables, fire rings, or restrooms at this backcountry site. Campers should be prepared to pack in all necessary supplies and practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all waste.

Do I need reservations for Vivian Creek Campground?

Yes, permits are required to camp at Vivian Creek Camp. The campground is located just beyond a permit required sign along the trail, indicating its status as a regulated camping area. As this is a backcountry site in the San Bernardino National Forest, wilderness permits are necessary for overnight stays. Contact the San Bernardino National Forest office or visit their website to obtain the required permits before your trip. Permit availability may be limited, so securing them well in advance is recommended.

Where is Vivian Creek Campground located and how do I get there?

Vivian Creek Camp is located in the San Bernardino National Forest near Forest Falls, California. To reach the campground, follow the Vivian Creek Trail from the trailhead parking area. The camp is situated just past the permit required sign, up to the right of the main trail. It's positioned on elevated terrain among trees, offering views overlooking the trail below. The site is within walking distance of a lovely creek that leads to a waterfall, making it a scenic but accessible backcountry location.

What hiking trails are accessible from Vivian Creek Campground?

The primary trail accessible from Vivian Creek Camp is the Vivian Creek Trail itself, which continues beyond the campground and serves as a popular route to summit San Gorgonio Mountain, the highest peak in Southern California. From the camp, you can hike to a nearby waterfall that some visitors use for rappelling. The trail system connects to the broader San Bernardino National Forest trail network, offering options for day hikes in multiple directions. The camp makes an excellent base for both shorter explorations and more ambitious summit attempts.