Bighorn Mountain Wilderness
The Bighorn Mountain Wilderness, located in Southern California, spans 38,342 acres within the rugged Bighorn Mountains and the eastern foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains.
This trailless and rarely visited area features diverse ecosystems, including desert and mountainous terrain, unique riparian springs, and a variety of rare and endangered plant species.
The most visited destination in the wilderness is Granite Peaks, a relatively short but challenging summit that requires climbing 1800 feet to a ridge topped with three boulder mounds.
Destination Details
| Season | Fall, Winter, Spring |
| Location | Bighorn Mountain Wilderness |
| General GPS Coordinates | 34.281622, -116.605090 |
| Management | U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management |
| Size | 38,342 acres |
| State | California |
| Nearest Major City | Palm Springs |
Getting Oriented
The Bighorn Mountain Wilderness lies at the northern edge of the San Bernardino National Forest, characterized by its striking transition from the yucca- and Joshua tree-covered desert floor to the coniferous stands of Jeffrey pine at higher elevations.
The rugged terrain features elevations reaching up to 7,500 feet at Granite Peaks, creating panoramic vistas and offering habitat to diverse wildlife, including mule deer, mountain lions, and golden eagles. Because of its wilderness status, the area has no develop roads or trails, and doesn’t receive many visitors.
Getting to Bighorn Mountain Wilderness
You can approach the mountains in a variety of ways. To best access the Bighorn Mountain Wilderness, visitors will require a high-clearance vehicle capable of handling sandy and occasionally rocky unmaintained dirt roads.
If you are hoping to summit Granite Peaks, the book Afoot & Afield- Inland Empire, has a guide to the trail.
Where to Camp
The Bighorn Mountain Wilderness does not feature developed campgrounds, aligning with its primitive nature. As a result, visitors must plan for a self-sufficient camping experience. Dispersed camping is permitted throughout the wilderness area, allowing for flexibility in choosing camping spots.
While campfires are prohibited, gas stoves are allowed with a California Campfire Permit. Visitors are encouraged to camp away from riparian zones and to follow guidelines regarding camping distance from water sources.
Rules and Regulations
Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are generally prohibited on all federal lands designated as wilderness.
In a few areas, special regulations in effect for a specific area describe some exceptions allowing the use of motorized equipment or mechanical transport. Contact the agency for more information about regulations.
