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Water

Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Vivian Creek Camp

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.

Description

USDA Forest Service

Limited, but free wilderness permits for day hiking and overnight camping are required for the San Gorgonio Wilderness and the Cucamonga Wilderness Permits – they are issued by the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association, a Forest Service partner. Parts of the San Gorgonio Wilderness, including the San Bernardino Peak Trail, are still closed due to the El Dorado fire.

Upon completion of your reservation request. you will receive a download. Please retain this download as your permit reservation. You may keep a copy on your phone and show it to a ranger as verification of your permit or you can print it out. If you do not receive a permit use the contact link here: https://www.sgwa.org/contact-us

The Vivian Creek Trail is the shortest and the steepest route to the summit of Mt. San Gorgonio, located in the San Gorgonio Wilderness on the Sand to Snow National Monument. One and two-tenths miles from the trailhead is Vivian Creek Camp (7,100'). Campsites are located upslope to the right of the trail after reaching the stream: one is halfway up the slope, and the other is at the top of the slope (no camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek). One and three-tenths miles from Vivian Creek Camp is Halfway Camp (8,100'). Water is obtained from the creek 200 yards before camp. Two and three-tenths miles further is High Creek Camp (water available - 9,200'). The summit of San Gorgonio (11,499') is 3 miles beyond High Creek. The upper end of this trail offers outstanding views of Yucaipa Ridge and Galena Peak, as well as sweeping panoramic views from the top of Mt. San Gorgonio. General info: No water available. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit. No camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek Wilderness Permit Required - this is a very popular trail, especially on summer weekends. It is suggested you request your permit in advance. Wilderness Permit applications are accepted up to 90 days in advance of your trip. Permits can be obtained from sgwa.org. Fee: Adventure Pass Required $5/day or $30/year. Interagency Passes also accepted.

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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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Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Available
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

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 is the elevation of Vivian Creek Camp?

    Vivian Creek Camp is located at 7200 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Vivian Creek Camp?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Vivian Creek Camp, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Vivian Creek Camp have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Vivian Creek Camp does not have wifi.