Clark'S Ranch Yellow Post Site
05 reviews34701 Mill Creek Road, Mentone, CA 92359
Clark'S Ranch Yellow Post Site
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
There are no fees associated with staying at Clark's Ranch Yellow Post Site.
About this campground
Escape to Clark's Ranch Yellow Post Site, where the whisper of wind through pines and the distant call of mountain birds are your only companions. This dispersed camping haven beckons those who crave authentic wilderness experiences far from crowded campgrounds. While its proximity to the road means you'll likely share this gem with fellow adventurers, the site offers an intimate connection with nature through tent and car camping. With minimal amenities, this is where modern distractions fade away, leaving only you and the ancient forest.
This site is classified as a Yellow Post Site within the San Bernardino National Forest. It is ideal for dispersed camping with limited infrastructure.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Clark's Ranch, where the echoes of pioneer ambition still resonate through the mountain passes. In the late 1800s, visionary brothers McHaney carved the first roads through these rugged peaks, followed by the enterprising Hiram Clark. Together with thirteen forward-thinking Redlands businessmen, Clark established the Bear Valley Redlands toll road company, transforming this remote wilderness into a vital link between mountain and valley communities. Today's campers follow in the footsteps of these early adventurers.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here dances between extremes, keeping visitors on their toes year-round. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with snow dusting the pines and temperatures that demand cozy sleeping bags and warm campfire gatherings. As seasons shift, summer emerges with brilliant blue skies that stretch endlessly above the forest canopy, creating perfect conditions for stargazing and early morning hikes through sun-dappled trails.
ElevationPerched within the majestic embrace of the San Bernardino National Forest, this mountain sanctuary offers the crisp, pine-scented air and cooler temperatures that only high-elevation camping can provide. Though exact elevation remains a mystery, the thin mountain air and towering conifers tell the story of a true highland retreat.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's bounty surrounds Clark's Ranch in spectacular fashion. The melodious Santa Ana River winds nearby, its crystal waters providing a soothing soundtrack to your camping experience. Deer Creek meanders through the landscape, creating pockets of lush vegetation where wild berry bushes burst with seasonal treasures. Lucky foragers can discover these sweet mountain gems while exploring the verdant understory, making every hike a potential feast.
Geological RegionNestled on the dramatic north slope of Santa Ana Canyon within the San Bernardino National Forest, this site showcases Southern California's remarkable geological diversity. The convergence of the Santa Ana River and Deer Creek has sculpted a landscape of stunning contrasts, where rushing waters have carved deep channels through ancient rock formations, creating a natural amphitheater of stone and forest that shelters modern adventurers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned for this site.
Sites SizeThe site size is not specified.
Sites PrivacyThe site is described in user reviews as being near the road, suggesting limited privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesHigh-clearance vehicles recommended. Consider nearby dispersed camping spots when the site is occupied. Mark English notes alternative sites with better views and less crowding.
Best CampsitesOnly one campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific check-in time due to first-come-first-served policy.
Check-out
No specific check-out time due to first-come-first-served policy.
Stay Limit
14 days within any 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
8persons maximum per site.
Groups
Group camping is not facilitated at this site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle campsite located near the dirt road. Mark English describes it as 'right next to the road.'
Open and Closed SeasonTemporarily closed due to Forest Order 05-12-00-24-12 Line Fire area closure.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platform exists as the site is first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe site is exclusively first-come, first-served, but is currently closed due to fire restrictions.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations are not accepted.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Activities you can enjoy
Activities include dispersed camping, hiking, and exploring nearby trails and creeks. Wildlife and berry-picking opportunities are mentioned by reviewers.
Hiking
Reviewers mention a hiking trail on the north side of the road that leads to Bear Creek. The trail is described as overgrown and possibly washed out due to heavy rains.Wildlife viewing
Reviewers noted berry-picking opportunities and potential wildlife sighting due to the creek's proximity.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified for this site.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are regulated seasonally; propane stoves recommended during fire bans.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned; typical dispersed camping etiquette applies.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include seasonal flies near creeks, overgrown trails, and technical road conditions requiring high-clearance vehicles.
Active alertsTemporarily closed due to Forest Order 05-12-00-24-12 Line Fire area closure.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Mill Creek Visitor Center at 34701 Mill Creek Road, Mentone, CA 92359; contact number (909) 382-2882.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash or recycling facilities on-site. Campers are instructed to 'pack it in, pack it out.'
Proximity to water featuresClose proximity to Santa Ana River and Deer Creek. User reviews mention berry bushes and potential fly infestations near the creek.
Common complaintsFly infestations during certain seasons, bugs near creek, and crowded conditions due to limited availability.
HostNo campground host information available.
Campground Map
34701 Mill Creek Road, Mentone, CA 92359
Driving directionsForest Road 1N64, approximately 1/2 mile past the junction of 1N54 and 1N64. High-clearance vehicles are recommended.
The campground is accessed via dirt roads requiring high-clearance vehicles during ideal conditions.Nearby places
Mentone (approx. 10 miles, 20 minutes), Redlands (approx. 15 miles, 30 minutes), San Bernardino (approx. 25 miles, 45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Mentone (approx. 10 miles away), supplies available at local convenience stores and fuel stations.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Clark'S Ranch Yellow Post Site has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the site's remote location and scenic beauty but note issues such as lack of privacy, bugs, and challenging road conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects mentioned by users include the site's isolation, scenic views, proximity to a creek, and opportunities for berry-picking.
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints from users include bug infestations, road challenges requiring 4WD vehicles, and lack of amenities.
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing bug spray, checking fire restrictions, and ensuring vehicle suitability for dirt roads. Reviewers also recommend propane stoves due to fire restrictions.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter rains have reportedly caused trail overgrowth and road washouts. Bugs appear to be a significant issue during warmer months.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Expect it to be occupied...nice spot less than a mile to the west with great views.' (Mark English)
- 'This historical area has to do with the early days of roads to the mountain.' (Christopher...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Users mentioned a yellow post spot near the road and an alternative site less than a mile to the west with better views.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly reviewed.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
One reviewer mentioned that their dog was affected by the bug infestation at the site, highlighting potential issues for pet owners.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025