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Mount San Jacinto State Park Idyllwild Campground
State Park

Mount San Jacinto State Park Idyllwild Campground

Idyllwild, California
4.4 (277 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Mount San Jacinto State Park Idyllwild Campground

Campground in California.

Nestled high in the San Jacinto Mountains at an elevation of over 5,000 feet, Mount San Jacinto State Park's Idyllwild Campground offers a refreshing escape from the heat of Southern California's deserts and valleys. This mountain retreat provides visitors with crisp, clean air and cool temperatures that make summer camping genuinely comfortable, even when lower elevations are sweltering.

The campground sits in the heart of Idyllwild, a charming mountain village known for its artistic community, excellent hiking trails, and welcoming atmosphere. The area is particularly beloved by those seeking relief from extreme heat, families looking to introduce children to mountain camping, and outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate elevation-based hiking adventures. The surrounding forest creates a lush, green environment that feels worlds away from the typical Southern California landscape most visitors are accustomed to.

What makes this location special is its accessibility to extensive hiking opportunities. The Mount San Jacinto Wilderness offers trails ranging from easy forest walks to challenging alpine excursions, with many featuring stunning views across the desert floor far below. Visitors can experience dramatic elevation changes and diverse ecosystems within relatively short distances, making it ideal for day hikes or multi-day backpacking adventures. The area's natural beauty, with towering pines and mountain vistas, provides excellent photography opportunities throughout the year.

Beyond outdoor recreation, Idyllwild village itself is worth exploring. The community hosts galleries, shops, cafes, and restaurants that reflect its creative spirit. Year-round events and a relaxed mountain culture make the area appealing to those seeking a slower pace alongside their camping experience. The cooler climate also makes this destination perfect for visitors looking to escape summer crowds at lower-elevation campgrounds.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway to cool off, a hiking-focused vacation, or a peaceful retreat in nature, this mountain campground provides an excellent base for experiencing Southern California's high country without traveling far from urban areas.
4.4

Rating

277

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Idyllwild is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

California weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Idyllwild.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Idyllwild. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Mount San Jacinto State Park Idyllwild Campground Reviews

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G
Jose cuevas

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Jose cuevas

Very affordable clean secluded area camp next to your parked car has picnic tables clean restroom/showers need tokens for hot water 25c 5 minutes NO wood/charcoal burning take gas powered fire pit oct 40° at night take warm clothes quilts. Def a must do for the family.. NO danger relaxing walking distance from downtown bars restaurants stores DO it thank me after.

G
Jose cuevas

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Jose cuevas

Very affordable clean secluded area camp next to your parked car has picnic tables clean restroom/showers need tokens for hot water 25c 5 minutes NO wood/charcoal burning take gas powered fire pit oct 40° at night take warm clothes quilts. Def a must do for the family.. NO danger relaxing walking distance from downtown bars restaurants stores DO it thank me after.

G
Nate H.

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Nate H.

Nice area to camp at. I took my Tesla Model Y to camp in overnight and was glad to have spot 6 with electricity. I saw two other Model Y cars when I went too, so I guess I’m not as alone as I thought I was in doing this. A few spots like spot 6 have electricity hookups and are decently spaced. Attached are pictures to show the connections and the size with my vehicle parked in it. The available c... Nice area to camp at. I took my Tesla Model Y to camp in overnight and was glad to have spot 6 with electricity. I saw two other Model Y cars when I went too, so I guess I’m not as alone as I thought I was in doing this. A few spots like spot 6 have electricity hookups and are decently spaced. Attached are pictures to show the connections and the size with my vehicle parked in it. The available connections are great for EV campers! You can bring your Level 1/2 chargers and charge your EV here without worry either while you stay the night or if you plan to go hiking nearby or walking through the town. The campground is seated in town, so this is perfect spot for this sort of planning. I was glad to see that showers were available as were running water for drinking and washing. I wasn’t really thrilled with the spacing of the sites. Site 5 was more isolated than 6 was with my spot at 6 being directly next to 7 where a truck and trailer camper were seated. It’s like sharing your driveway with someone else, almost. Just too close for my comfort where I planned to be alone. I also was not expecting to not be able to set a fire. There didn’t seem to be any mention of this on the website or when making my reservation but I was told this when checking in. I’m also not sure why they banned fires at this time of year in winter where it was literally snowing. The chances of a wildfire occurring are very low, if at all. The price for the spot was $45 which wasn’t terrible either. There was a nice trail to walk around the campground with some nice scenery, even things left behind by Native Americans, which was cool to see. All in all, it’s a decent place and I’d recommend, but would recommend checking in to see what’s available before making your reservation to ensure you’re getting what you want and also knowing where your spot will be depending on what you’d like for your getaway.

G
Nate H.

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Nate H.

Nice area to camp at. I took my Tesla Model Y to camp in overnight and was glad to have spot 6 with electricity. I saw two other Model Y cars when I went too, so I guess I’m not as alone as I thought I was in doing this. A few spots like spot 6 have electricity hookups and are decently spaced. Attached are pictures to show the connections and the size with my vehicle parked in it. The available c... Nice area to camp at. I took my Tesla Model Y to camp in overnight and was glad to have spot 6 with electricity. I saw two other Model Y cars when I went too, so I guess I’m not as alone as I thought I was in doing this. A few spots like spot 6 have electricity hookups and are decently spaced. Attached are pictures to show the connections and the size with my vehicle parked in it. The available connections are great for EV campers! You can bring your Level 1/2 chargers and charge your EV here without worry either while you stay the night or if you plan to go hiking nearby or walking through the town. The campground is seated in town, so this is perfect spot for this sort of planning. I was glad to see that showers were available as were running water for drinking and washing. I wasn’t really thrilled with the spacing of the sites. Site 5 was more isolated than 6 was with my spot at 6 being directly next to 7 where a truck and trailer camper were seated. It’s like sharing your driveway with someone else, almost. Just too close for my comfort where I planned to be alone. I also was not expecting to not be able to set a fire. There didn’t seem to be any mention of this on the website or when making my reservation but I was told this when checking in. I’m also not sure why they banned fires at this time of year in winter where it was literally snowing. The chances of a wildfire occurring are very low, if at all. The price for the spot was $45 which wasn’t terrible either. There was a nice trail to walk around the campground with some nice scenery, even things left behind by Native Americans, which was cool to see. All in all, it’s a decent place and I’d recommend, but would recommend checking in to see what’s available before making your reservation to ensure you’re getting what you want and also knowing where your spot will be depending on what you’d like for your getaway.

G
Nate H.

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Nate H.

Nice area to camp at. I took my Tesla Model Y to camp in overnight and was glad to have spot 6 with electricity. I saw two other Model Y cars when I went too, so I guess I’m not as alone as I thought I was in doing this. A few spots like spot 6 have electricity hookups and are decently spaced. Attached are pictures to show the connections and the size with my vehicle parked in it. The available c... Nice area to camp at. I took my Tesla Model Y to camp in overnight and was glad to have spot 6 with electricity. I saw two other Model Y cars when I went too, so I guess I’m not as alone as I thought I was in doing this. A few spots like spot 6 have electricity hookups and are decently spaced. Attached are pictures to show the connections and the size with my vehicle parked in it. The available connections are great for EV campers! You can bring your Level 1/2 chargers and charge your EV here without worry either while you stay the night or if you plan to go hiking nearby or walking through the town. The campground is seated in town, so this is perfect spot for this sort of planning. I was glad to see that showers were available as were running water for drinking and washing. I wasn’t really thrilled with the spacing of the sites. Site 5 was more isolated than 6 was with my spot at 6 being directly next to 7 where a truck and trailer camper were seated. It’s like sharing your driveway with someone else, almost. Just too close for my comfort where I planned to be alone. I also was not expecting to not be able to set a fire. There didn’t seem to be any mention of this on the website or when making my reservation but I was told this when checking in. I’m also not sure why they banned fires at this time of year in winter where it was literally snowing. The chances of a wildfire occurring are very low, if at all. The price for the spot was $45 which wasn’t terrible either. There was a nice trail to walk around the campground with some nice scenery, even things left behind by Native Americans, which was cool to see. All in all, it’s a decent place and I’d recommend, but would recommend checking in to see what’s available before making your reservation to ensure you’re getting what you want and also knowing where your spot will be depending on what you’d like for your getaway.

G
Yarisma V

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by Yarisma V

Stayed here over the 3-day weekend.We reserved two spots and it needed more shaded areas. Spots vary in sizes.The campground is gated all the way around so there was no easy trails access which was a bummer we love hiking. For the showers do make sure to take dollar bills because you need to exchange them for tokens. It is a $1 for 1 token, a shower.The restrooms were clean and the showers had hot... Stayed here over the 3-day weekend.We reserved two spots and it needed more shaded areas. Spots vary in sizes.The campground is gated all the way around so there was no easy trails access which was a bummer we love hiking. For the showers do make sure to take dollar bills because you need to exchange them for tokens. It is a $1 for 1 token, a shower.The restrooms were clean and the showers had hot water. This campground is good for beginners. It is nice to have the small markets for ice or last-minute shopping. Overall and okay experience.

G
Yarisma V

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by Yarisma V

Stayed here over the 3-day weekend.We reserved two spots and it needed more shaded areas. Spots vary in sizes.The campground is gated all the way around so there was no easy trails access which was a bummer we love hiking. For the showers do make sure to take dollar bills because you need to exchange them for tokens. It is a $1 for 1 token, a shower.The restrooms were clean and the showers had hot... Stayed here over the 3-day weekend.We reserved two spots and it needed more shaded areas. Spots vary in sizes.The campground is gated all the way around so there was no easy trails access which was a bummer we love hiking. For the showers do make sure to take dollar bills because you need to exchange them for tokens. It is a $1 for 1 token, a shower.The restrooms were clean and the showers had hot water. This campground is good for beginners. It is nice to have the small markets for ice or last-minute shopping. Overall and okay experience.

G
Taufiq Habib

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Taufiq Habib

Really enjoyed my stay at this unique campsite minutes from the cute village center. I got to camp amongst pine trees with lots of shade everywhere. The campsite is noticeably cooler than the city, prob due to the trees. The restrooms are sparking clean super well functioning with all hanging hooks intact and even a paper towel dispenser - the first time I’ve seen this in a state park restroom!... Really enjoyed my stay at this unique campsite minutes from the cute village center. I got to camp amongst pine trees with lots of shade everywhere. The campsite is noticeably cooler than the city, prob due to the trees. The restrooms are sparking clean super well functioning with all hanging hooks intact and even a paper towel dispenser - the first time I’ve seen this in a state park restroom! The shower requires their own tokens, which are different from other parks however, one token $1 gives you five minutes, which is well sufficient for a good shower. The Silver tokens from other state parks will not work here! Now some caveats: it is noisy in the scamp side as there is a road that circles it so you can hear an occasional car at night. Some sites for example 18, 19, 24,25.. are close to each other so you might get to be next to a large family. I had the fortune of getting site 20, where you park your car and then you hike up the hill to the campsite that overlooks a creek and a small second bridge. Unfortunately, I had to haul all my stuff up and down this hill taking about five trips each due to my midsize, lots of equipment and a dog. However, I had a great experience. Also expect to encounter bugs, such as flies and gnats and a few mosquitoes so come prepared in the summer. It’s a seven minute walk to the village center and some coffee shops as well as some really good restaurants. They have all sorts of events going on here in the summer. I haven’t got to meet the city mayor Max the dog who visited the campsites! It was a short drive to the brewpub, which I highly recommend visiting when you are in town.

G
Taufiq Habib

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Taufiq Habib

Really enjoyed my stay at this unique campsite minutes from the cute village center. I got to camp amongst pine trees with lots of shade everywhere. The campsite is noticeably cooler than the city, prob due to the trees. The restrooms are sparking clean super well functioning with all hanging hooks intact and even a paper towel dispenser - the first time I’ve seen this in a state park restroom!... Really enjoyed my stay at this unique campsite minutes from the cute village center. I got to camp amongst pine trees with lots of shade everywhere. The campsite is noticeably cooler than the city, prob due to the trees. The restrooms are sparking clean super well functioning with all hanging hooks intact and even a paper towel dispenser - the first time I’ve seen this in a state park restroom! The shower requires their own tokens, which are different from other parks however, one token $1 gives you five minutes, which is well sufficient for a good shower. The Silver tokens from other state parks will not work here! Now some caveats: it is noisy in the scamp side as there is a road that circles it so you can hear an occasional car at night. Some sites for example 18, 19, 24,25.. are close to each other so you might get to be next to a large family. I had the fortune of getting site 20, where you park your car and then you hike up the hill to the campsite that overlooks a creek and a small second bridge. Unfortunately, I had to haul all my stuff up and down this hill taking about five trips each due to my midsize, lots of equipment and a dog. However, I had a great experience. Also expect to encounter bugs, such as flies and gnats and a few mosquitoes so come prepared in the summer. It’s a seven minute walk to the village center and some coffee shops as well as some really good restaurants. They have all sorts of events going on here in the summer. I haven’t got to meet the city mayor Max the dog who visited the campsites! It was a short drive to the brewpub, which I highly recommend visiting when you are in town.

G
Taufiq Habib

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Taufiq Habib

Really enjoyed my stay at this unique campsite minutes from the cute village center. I got to camp amongst pine trees with lots of shade everywhere. The campsite is noticeably cooler than the city, prob due to the trees. The restrooms are sparking clean super well functioning with all hanging hooks intact and even a paper towel dispenser - the first time I’ve seen this in a state park restroom!... Really enjoyed my stay at this unique campsite minutes from the cute village center. I got to camp amongst pine trees with lots of shade everywhere. The campsite is noticeably cooler than the city, prob due to the trees. The restrooms are sparking clean super well functioning with all hanging hooks intact and even a paper towel dispenser - the first time I’ve seen this in a state park restroom! The shower requires their own tokens, which are different from other parks however, one token $1 gives you five minutes, which is well sufficient for a good shower. The Silver tokens from other state parks will not work here! Now some caveats: it is noisy in the scamp side as there is a road that circles it so you can hear an occasional car at night. Some sites for example 18, 19, 24,25.. are close to each other so you might get to be next to a large family. I had the fortune of getting site 20, where you park your car and then you hike up the hill to the campsite that overlooks a creek and a small second bridge. Unfortunately, I had to haul all my stuff up and down this hill taking about five trips each due to my midsize, lots of equipment and a dog. However, I had a great experience. Also expect to encounter bugs, such as flies and gnats and a few mosquitoes so come prepared in the summer. It’s a seven minute walk to the village center and some coffee shops as well as some really good restaurants. They have all sorts of events going on here in the summer. I haven’t got to meet the city mayor Max the dog who visited the campsites! It was a short drive to the brewpub, which I highly recommend visiting when you are in town.

G
John Dryer III

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by John Dryer III

Little bit of snow when I got there but melted pretty fast in the 70° plus weather.

G
John Dryer III

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by John Dryer III

Little bit of snow when I got there but melted pretty fast in the 70° plus weather.

G
John Dryer III

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by John Dryer III

Little bit of snow when I got there but melted pretty fast in the 70° plus weather.

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