Data Source: Recreation.gov
About
Overview The picturesque Fern Basin Campground is a perfect escape from a busy lifestyle. It provides peace and quiet in the mountains of southern California as well as access to countless recreational opportunities. The San Bernardino National Forest is submitting a proposal to increase fees at various sites across the Forest and is seeking public input. Please visit the https://www.fs.usda.gov/sbnf for more information and to submit comments regarding this proposal. Recreation Visitors to the area enjoy hiking on the Marion Mountain Trail, which leads to San Jacinto Peak. Views from the peak extend to the ocean and across the Palm Desert, as well as the San Bernardino and San Gabriel mountains on a clear day. The 11.8-mile Marion Mountain Trail is the shortest route up the mountain, but is also quite strenuous in areas. Facilities Please be aware that potable (safe for drinking) water may or may not be available at this campground. Please bring ample water for drinking, cooking etc. Fern Basin campground offers about two dozen campsites for both tent and small RV / van camping. All campsites are equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills. Vault toilets are available within the campground. Natural Features The campground is located in a grove of mixed oaks and shrubs. A surrounding mixed conifer forest provides spotty shade for the campground. It is situated at an elevation of about 6,300 feet, in the mountains overlooking California's desert. Nearby Attractions The campground is located approximately 50 miles southeast of San Bernardino, California, and about seven miles north of the small town of Idyllwild, which is known for its shops and restaurants.
Around this stay
Nearest surrounding services and recreation within ~25 mi — not on-site amenities.
- 2.1 mi
fuel station
Fuel station
- 3.2 mi
grocery
Village Market
- 2.9 mi
potable water
Potable water
- 1.5 mi
trailhead
Seven Pines Trail
- 0.3 mi
attraction
Not Mediocre View
- 0.8 mi
recreation site
Fuller Mill Creek Picnic
No dump station found within ~25 mi. Plan dump access before you arrive.
Contact & access
- P.O. Box 518 · IDYLLWILD, CA 92549
- 909-382-2922
Reservations & demand
October weekends are typically reserved about 50 days ahead.
Based on 69 Recreation.gov reservations (Oct 2023–Sep 2024). Historical demand — not live availability.
Outbound provider links only. Roam Atlas does not book sites or show live availability.
Source and verification
Last verified: 10/5/2026
See the Sources tab for provenance detail.