Boulder Basin Campground – San Bernardino National Forest
Boulder Basin Campground is a scenic, primitive campground located near Black Mountain in the San Bernardino National Forest.
With 34 sites nestled among towering boulders and magnificent Ponderosa and Sugar pines, it’s a haven for hikers, mountain bikers, and bouldering enthusiasts seeking tranquility and stunning vistas.
Access requires navigating a rugged, unpaved road, making it ideal for those with high-clearance vehicles and a sense of adventure.
Campground Details
| Site types | Tent, Primitive Camping |
| Amenities | Vault Toilets, Fire Rings, Picnic Tables |
| Information number | 1-909-382-2921 |
| Reservations | Yes |
| Reservations website | Recreation.gov |
| Campground address | Black Mountain Road, San Bernardino NF, CA |
| Campground GPS | 34.259810, -117.493268 |
| Location | San Bernardino National Forest |
| Season | Seasonal (closed in winter) |
| Fees | $10 per night + $5 per additional vehicle |
Getting to Boulder Basin Campground
To reach Boulder Basin Campground, head south from Banning, California, on Highway 243 for approximately 17.5 miles. Look for Black Mountain Road (Forest Road 4S01), an unpaved dirt road, and travel about 6 miles to the campground. Note that this road is in poor condition, and 4-wheel-drive or high-clearance vehicles are recommended. The route is not suitable for trailers or low-clearance vehicles.
From I-10 East:
- Exit at 8th St. in Banning, turn right onto 8th St., then left on Lincoln St., and finally right onto San Gorgonio Ave/Highway 243.
From I-10 West:
- Exit at Hargrave St., turn left onto Hargrave St., then right on Lincoln St., and finally left onto San Gorgonio Ave/Highway 243.
Campground Overview
Situated at 7,300 feet, Boulder Basin Campground offers a serene escape amid rugged natural beauty. The campground is arranged in a “Q” shape, with the upper sites providing sweeping vistas and others surrounded by impressive boulder formations. The campground is shaded by majestic pines, creating a quiet and cool environment during the warmer months.
This campground caters to adventurers, offering proximity to hiking and mountain biking trails and the Black Mountain Lookout Tower, which can be accessed via a hike from the campground and provides breathtaking panoramic views.
Facilities are minimal, including vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, but there is no potable water, so campers should bring their own supply. Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times.
The area draws those seeking solitude and a connection with nature. However, it’s important to plan, as fire restrictions may be imposed during dry conditions, and reservations are required for major holidays. For updates on fire conditions or weather-related closures, contact the Idyllwild Ranger Station at 1-909-382-2921.
Boulder Basin Campground offers a challenging but rewarding camping experience for those prepared for its rugged access and rustic amenities, making it a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts.
