Coon Creek Group Campground

Star4.68
7 reviews
HWY 38 FOREST RD. 1N02, ANGELUS OAKS, CA 92305, USA
Coon Creek Group Campground
$127.00 - $127.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Group Standard Nonelectric sites have a nightly rate of $127 during peak season, with an additional $10 per night for holidays. Additional...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$127.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$127.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
909-866-8550clm@clm-services.com

About this campground

Perched high in Southern California's pine-studded mountains at 8,000 feet, Coon Creek Group Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape where history meets adventure. This rustic mountain retreat features weathered historic cabins that stand as silent witnesses to the area's past, while sweeping vistas of the Coachella Valley stretch endlessly below. Adventure seekers will find themselves at the doorstep of the legendary Pacific Crest Trail, where epic journeys begin with a single step into the wilderness.
The Coon Creek Group Campground is designed for group camping, accommodating both tent and RV campers. Primitive camping is emphasized due to the lack of utility hookups and potable water.
Historical SignificanceThree weathered cabins stand as guardians of Coon Creek's rich past, their aged timber walls holding decades of mountain stories. Though no longer available for overnight stays, these historic structures create an atmospheric backdrop that transforms your camping experience into a journey through time. As one enchanted visitor noted, the profound history woven into this beautiful group campsite adds layers of meaning to every moment spent among these ancient pines.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather at Coon Creek brings crisp, invigorating conditions that refresh the soul. With daytime temperatures averaging a comfortable 50°F and nights dipping to a cozy 35°F, the climate invites campfire gatherings and stargazing under crystal-clear skies that dominate 75% of the time. The dry mountain air carries the scent of pine on moderate breezes, while occasional dustings of snow and light rain add magic to the landscape without disrupting outdoor adventures.
ElevationRising 8,000 feet into the California sky, Coon Creek occupies a rarified realm where the air is thin and the views are infinite. This lofty perch delivers naturally cooler temperatures and an escape from valley heat, though the altitude may leave newcomers slightly breathless upon arrival. Give yourself time to adjust to the mountain air, and you'll be rewarded with enhanced clarity and the exhilarating feeling of camping among the clouds.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering pines create a natural cathedral at Coon Creek, their branches reaching skyward while rocky outcroppings add rugged character to the landscape. Though the mature forest provides pockets of dappled shade, much of the campground basks in mountain sunshine. The true spectacle unfolds at the edges, where the earth drops away to reveal breathtaking panoramas of the San Bernardino mountains rolling into the distant Coachella Valley—a view that transforms from golden sunrise to purple twilight in ways that photos can never fully capture.
Geological RegionCoon Creek sits majestically within Southern California's sky island ecosystem, where pine-cloaked peaks rise dramatically from the desert floor to create a unique mountain oasis. This 8,000-foot sanctuary in the San Bernardino range represents millions of years of geological forces that thrust these ancient rocks skyward, creating a dramatic landscape where mountain meets desert in spectacular fashion. The result is a rare high-elevation refuge that offers both alpine serenity and commanding views of the contrasting worlds below.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground is rustic, and no specific information about ADA or disability-friendly amenities is provided.
Sites SizeThe single group campsite accommodates up to 25 people and 10 vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe site offers limited privacy due to its group camping nature and adjacency to the Pacific Crest Trail, which brings occasional visitors.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews recommend avoiding trailers longer than 20 feet when traveling to the site. For optimal views, make use of the campfire circle and picnic tables provided.
Best CampsitesNull

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
  • Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights
  • total stay within a rolling 30-day period cannot exceed 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 25 people per group campsite.
Groups
The single group site accommodates up to 25 people and 10 vehicles. No utility hookups are available, and parking is on gravel spurs.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutOne large group campsite with gravel parking spurs and amenities for up to 25 people.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season starts July 1 and ends October 3. Reservations are closed outside this window.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNull
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Cancellations within 14 days of arrival forfeit the first night's use fee. Late cancellations or no-shows may incur additional penalties.

Accomodation available

GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The Coon Creek Group Campground offers access to a variety of outdoor activities. These include hiking on the Pacific Crest Trail, bird and wildlife viewing, and fishing in nearby mountain streams. The site's elevation and natural features also make it suitable for nature photography and picnicking.
Hiking
The Pacific Crest Trail, which runs adjacent to the campground, is suitable for both short nature walks and day hikes. It is restricted to hiking and horseback riding.
Fishing
Mountain stream fishing opportunities are available nearby. Specific fish species are not detailed.
Biking
Biking trails are accessible nearby and are described as suitable for casual riders.
Wildlife viewing
The area offers bird and wildlife viewing opportunities. The San Gorgonio Wilderness nearby enhances these experiences.
Winter Activities
The campground's elevation and terrain may allow for snow-related activities during winter, but no specific details are provided.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as an activity at this campground.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Wood or charcoal fires are prohibited. Portable campfire pits burning non-wood fuels are allowed with a valid permit.
  • Quiet hours are Null

Hazards

General hazardsNull
Active alertsPortable campfire rings and stoves are restricted to non-wood fuels due to fire safety precautions.

Weather forecast

57
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 27%

Very dry conditions, stay hydrated

Wind: 3.4 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

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Good to know

Peak season datesJuly 1 to October 3.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned, and campers are advised to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresMountain stream fishing is available nearby.
Common complaintsNegative sentiments from reviews include fly infestations in the vault toilets and minor annoyances from strangers passing through due to proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail.
HostNull

Campground Map

HWY 38 FOREST RD. 1N02, ANGELUS OAKS, CA 92305, USA
Driving directionsFrom San Bernardino, take I-10 to the Alabama exit in Redlands, California. Turn onto Lugonio Avenue (Highway 38). Head northeast on Highway 38 for approximately 31 miles to Forest Route IN02. Continue for approximately 6 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via a dirt road approximately 4 miles long. User reviews mention that while the road can accommodate vehicles like Land Cruisers, trailers longer than 20 feet are not recommended. It is advised to drive slowly due to uneven terrain.
Nearby places
Big Bear Lake is less than 20 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Big Bear Lake is nearby and offers groceries, restaurants, and shopping options.

Camper Reviews

4.7
7 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Coon Creek Group Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the Coon Creek Group Campground receives positive feedback for its stunning views, spacious setting, and access to the Pacific Crest Trail. However, some users mention challenges such as rough access roads and issues with the vault toilets.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praise the campground's breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley, spacious group site, and proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail. The historic cabins and opportunities for outdoor activities...
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Based on 7 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the rough dirt road leading to the campground, the absence of drinking water, and the flies in the vault toilets. Some users also find the presence of strangers passing...
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Based on 7 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing your own drinking water, chairs, and portable gas stoves due to restrictions on wood or charcoal fires. It's also advised to drive slowly on the rough access road and avoid...
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Based on 7 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer and early fall are popular seasons for camping due to pleasant weather and clear skies, which enhance the views. Winter access may be challenging due to snow and colder temperatures.
Based on 7 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This spot a few miles up the dirt road from Heart Bar is a beautiful place to spend the weekend.' (Jennifer C-K) 2. 'The view of Palm Springs from way up top is sensational, regardless of the...
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Based on 7 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site C1 is highly recommended, with a rating of 5, but users advise against attempting the rough access road with large motorhomes or trailers.
Based on 7 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address the campground's accessibility features.
Based on 7 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but no specific feedback from pet owners is available.
Based on 7 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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