Camp Tahquitz

For California locals seeking an enriching and memorable outdoor experience, Camp Tahquitz stands as a cherished institution nestled in the beautiful San Bernardino Mountains. With a legacy spanning nearly a century, this camp is renowned for providing exceptional camping adventures, whether for scout troops building lifelong skills or families creating lasting memories together. Visitors consistently laud its well-maintained facilities, the privacy of its campsites, and the dedication of its "wonderfully kind and capable staff." As one scout leader happily shared, their family camp at site #17 was a "nice spot with running water, picnic tables, a shelter, trash cans, bear boxes and bathrooms," with "friendly hosts" who even "took away our trash." This level of service and natural beauty makes Camp Tahquitz a highly recommended destination for anyone looking to truly connect with California's stunning wilderness.

Camp Tahquitz is more than just a campground; it's an immersive outdoor education and recreation center that has become a "favorite place in the world" for many. Its expansive grounds offer a diverse array of activities and programs that cater to a wide range of interests, from challenging hikes into the San Gorgonio Wilderness to hands-on learning experiences through merit badges. The combination of well-appointed campsites, a supportive and engaged staff, and a pristine natural environment sets Camp Tahquitz apart. Whether you're a seasoned camper, a scouting family, or simply looking for a peaceful mountain retreat with ample opportunities for adventure, Camp Tahquitz promises an experience that fosters growth, relaxation, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

This article will delve into the various aspects that make Camp Tahquitz an ideal choice for California residents. We'll explore its stunning location and accessibility, detail the comprehensive services it provides, highlight its unique features and diverse activities, and offer crucial contact information to help you plan your perfect mountain getaway. Discover why Camp Tahquitz is a beloved and highly recommended destination for locals, offering the best of California's natural beauty and outdoor programming.

Camp Tahquitz is ideally located at 41700 CA-38, Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, within the sprawling San Bernardino National Forest. This puts it at an elevation of approximately 6,500 feet, offering clean mountain air and an agreeable climate amidst a thick forest of cedars, oaks, and pines, including some of the world's tallest Ponderosa Pine trees. The camp spans 640 acres, or one square mile, of pristine forestland, providing a vast and natural setting for outdoor activities. Its position near the edge of the San Gorgonio Wilderness Area ensures access to truly wild and magnificent backcountry.

Accessibility to Camp Tahquitz is quite straightforward, making it a convenient destination for many Southern California locals. The camp is located directly on California Highway 38, approximately 26 miles beyond Redlands. The drive from most major Southern California cities, such as Long Beach, is typically around two hours, depending on traffic, allowing for relatively easy weekend trips or longer summer camps. The main entrance, marked by "big stone columns that say 'Camp Tahquitz'," is on the right (south) side of Highway 38, just past the Camp Tahquitz bridge.

While the address is straightforward, it's important for visitors to note that Camp Tahquitz is in a wilderness setting. Despite being on a state highway, the environment is wild, and visitors should be prepared for potential encounters with wildlife, including bears. As the camp is located in a high fire danger area, open flames, other than camp-provided fire rings (which typically do not allow wood campfires), are often restricted. Propane and butane stoves and lanterns are generally permitted, but internal combustion generators are typically not allowed. These considerations are part of managing a safe and sustainable camp in this beautiful, wild location.

Camp Tahquitz provides a comprehensive array of services and facilities designed to support a safe, comfortable, and enriching outdoor experience for its campers, particularly for scout troops and family groups.

• Developed Campsites: Campsites are well-equipped for group camping. As noted by a reviewer, sites often feature "running water, picnic tables, a shelter, trash cans, and bear boxes." Bear boxes are crucial for safe food storage in this bear-prone area, and the staff often collects trash daily.

• Restrooms & Showers: Basic "bathrooms" are available in the campsites, often described as "primitive restroom with flush toilets" (sometimes referred to as "Kybos"). Showers are also available, often located near the pool for youth and in lower camp for adults, ensuring campers can clean up after a day of activities.

• Dedicated Staff: Camp Tahquitz is highly praised for its "wonderfully kind and capable staff" and "friendly hosts" who actively check on campers and provide assistance, contributing significantly to the positive camp atmosphere.

• Commissary/Food Storage: To deter bears, campers are advised to store all food and "smellables" in bear boxes or, for larger items like ice chests, in the camp commissary overnight. Procedures for this are typically provided by the Ranger upon arrival.

• Dining/Kitchen Facilities (for groups): For larger groups or family camps, there might be shared kitchen facilities (e.g., a small kitchen at Akela Lodge mentioned in a family handbook from a similar scout camp), though campers generally bring their own cookware and food.

• First Aid: While campers are encouraged to bring their own first aid kits for minor injuries, the camp would have emergency procedures in place, including contact with 911 for medical emergencies, and staff to direct personnel to the proper location.

• Water Hydration: Due to the elevation and potential for dehydration, campers are strongly encouraged to bring their own water containers and stay hydrated throughout the day.

• No Wood Campfires: Due to high fire danger, open flames other than camp-provided fire rings are often restricted, and wood campfires are typically not allowed. Propane and butane stoves are usually permitted, and battery-operated lanterns are recommended over liquid fuel ones.

• Cabins and Lodge Rentals: In addition to tent camping, Camp Tahquitz offers rental cabins and a lodge for units or groups, particularly for year-round and winter use.

Camp Tahquitz is rich with features and highlights that make it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those interested in scouting activities and immersive wilderness experiences.

• Extensive Program Variety: The camp offers a "great variety of activities and merit badges," making it a dynamic learning and recreational environment. These include archery, rifle shooting, shotgun, climbing & rappelling, horsemanship, nature studies, orienteering, swimming (heated pool), canoeing, kayaking, rowing, and various craft and outdoor skills. This wide range ensures something for every camper.

• Direct Trail Access: Campers can enjoy "a nice 5 mile hike straight from our camp site," indicating immediate access to a network of trails within the camp's 640 acres and extending into the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest and the San Gorgonio Wilderness Area. Opportunities for challenging hikes through magnificent backcountry are abundant, including routes towards Mt. San Gorgonio, the highest point in Southern California.

• Swimming Pool and Zip Line: The camp features a heated swimming pool and a zip line, providing fun and exciting recreational options, especially during warmer months.

• High Adventure Programs: For older scouts or adventurous groups, the climbing merit badge sets the foundation for high adventure programs, offering opportunities to learn knots and gear for climbs and rappels.

• Wildlife Viewing: The camp's natural setting means abundant wildlife. Reviewers don't mention specific sightings, but general information about the area suggests a variety of birds and mammals. The emphasis on bear awareness highlights the presence of these magnificent animals.

• Year-Round Use: While a popular summer camp destination, Camp Tahquitz is also available for year-round use, including winter activities, offering different seasonal outdoor experiences.

• Historical Significance: Since opening in 1925, Camp Tahquitz has served hundreds of thousands of youth, making it a place rich in history and tradition, focused on "Making Memories" for its visitors.

• Educational Opportunities: Beyond recreation, the camp is a hub for learning, offering various merit badges that cover topics from environmental science and forestry to first aid and pioneering, fostering skills and appreciation for the outdoors.

For those interested in the unique outdoor experiences offered at Camp Tahquitz, whether for a scout troop, a family camp, or another group outing, here is the essential contact information. As Camp Tahquitz is operated by the Long Beach Area Council of Scouting America, direct inquiries are often channeled through their council office.

Address: 41700 CA-38, Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, USA

For general inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about programs and availability:Phone: (562) 427-0911Mobile Phone: +1 562-427-0911

It is highly recommended to contact the Long Beach Area Council directly, especially for reservations, as some programs and campsites may have specific booking procedures or require affiliation with Scouting America. For summer camp programs, advance reservations are almost always necessary due to high demand.

You can also often find information on their official websites, which provide details on specific camp sessions, available merit badges, and family camp opportunities.

Official Website (Long Beach Area Council - Scouting America, Camp Tahquitz Section): Look for scoutingevent.com or longbeachbsa.org related pages for current year's programs and contact.

Always check for the most up-to-date information on operating dates, fire restrictions, and any specific gear requirements, especially given the mountain environment and the camp's focus on safety and wilderness preservation.

Camp Tahquitz is exceptionally well-suited for California locals, particularly those involved with scouting or families seeking a structured yet deeply immersive outdoor experience. Its location in the San Bernardino Mountains provides a convenient escape from the urban sprawl, easily accessible for a weekend or week-long stay, minimizing travel time and maximizing outdoor enjoyment. The camp's emphasis on well-maintained facilities, including running water, clean restrooms, and crucial bear boxes, addresses practical concerns and ensures a comfortable stay in a wilderness setting.

For scout families and troops, Camp Tahquitz is a treasure. The vast array of activities, from the zip line and archery to horsemanship and diverse merit badge programs, offers unparalleled opportunities for youth development and skill-building in an inspiring environment. The direct access to miles of hiking trails, including those leading into the San Gorgonio Wilderness, means adventurers of all levels can find their challenge and connect with nature on a profound level. The consistently praised "friendly hosts" and "kind and capable staff" create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere, fostering a sense of community and safety. Whether it's a family camp to reconnect with loved ones in nature or a scout troop's annual summer adventure, Camp Tahquitz provides a comprehensive and highly recommended outdoor experience that has been making memories for generations of Californians.

Camp Tahquitz

41700 CA-38, Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, USA