First established in 1964, the 96,572-acre swath of land that marks the San Gorgonio Wilderness is a recreationalist’s escape and a welcome respite from the heat and the crowds that characterize a Los Angeles summer. The bald summit of Mount Gorgonio, also knows as Old Grayback is not only the most notable landmark, its 11,502-foot summit makes it the highest peak in California south of the Sierra.
Along with wildlife like black bears, California mule deer, big horn sheep, and mountain lions, the San Gorgonio Wilderness is home to 20 miles of the famed Pacific Crest Trail and a tangle of hiking trails.
The San Gorgonio Campground has privileged access to the San Gorgonio Wilderness as well as several small mountain lakes and streams. Be sure to bring your fishing rod—nearby Jenks Lake is stocked with rainbow trout as well as largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish and catfish. For those that prefer river fishing, the famed Santa Ana River is also accessible from the campground and is an excellent place to cast flies for trout.
The campground itself, just a short walk from South Fork Family and Lobo – Oso Campgrounds, is well equipped to comfortably support a fleet of campers. Fire rings with grills, well-maintained vault toilets, hot showers, and potable water are available, and the camp host is around to sell firewood during the da.
Compared to the surrounding campsites like Lobo – Oso, South Fork, and Heart Bar, some sites within the San Gorgonio Campground aren’t as well shaded, though they tend to be more spacious. Though RVs are welcome, there are no utility hookups available.
Note: San Gorgonio Campground is typically open from mid-May through the end of September. Call 877.444.6777 or the San Bernardino National Forest Headquarters at 909.382.2600 for specific seasonal dates.
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