Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground

For Californians seeking an unforgettable group outdoor adventure, Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground in the San Bernardino National Forest offers a truly distinctive experience. This isn't your typical crowded individual campsite; it's a dedicated group site featuring historic cabins, stunning panoramic views, and direct access to renowned trails. It’s a place where history, natural beauty, and outdoor recreation converge, making it an ideal destination for families, friends, or organizations looking to create lasting memories in the heart of our beautiful mountains.

What sets Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground apart is its unique blend of rustic charm and spectacular scenery. Perched atop the Coon Creek Jumpoff, it provides breathtaking vistas of the Coachella Valley that stretch for miles, creating a dramatic backdrop for your outdoor activities. The presence of three historic cabins adds a touch of pioneer spirit to the site, inviting exploration and imagination. While camping is prohibited within the log cabins themselves, their historical significance contributes to the overall character of the campground.

Whether your group is into trail riding, mountain biking, or simply enjoying a peaceful picnic by the stream, Coon Creek offers ample opportunities for all. Its location adjacent to a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail means serious hikers can easily access this epic route, while others can enjoy shorter, scenic walks. Despite its popularity, the campground typically avoids being overly busy, especially during weekdays, allowing for a more serene and private group experience in the fresh mountain air of the San Bernardino National Forest.

Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground is situated at 44611 CA-38, Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, USA, deep within the pine-covered mountains of the San Bernardino National Forest. Its location offers a sense of remote tranquility while still being within a reasonable drive from Southern California’s major population centers. The campground is accessed via a dirt road, which, according to visitors, is generally manageable for most cars, not being "too rough," although a high-clearance vehicle is recommended for easier navigation, particularly after adverse weather conditions.

The campground is located a few miles up this dirt road from Heart Bar Family Campground, making it a distinctive turn-off from the main Highway 38. This short journey off the paved road quickly transports you into a more secluded forest environment. The elevation of the campground is approximately 8,000 feet, providing cooler temperatures, especially during the warmer months, and offering stunning views as you ascend.

A significant highlight of its location is its position atop the Coon Creek Jumpoff, which provides a spectacular, expansive view overlooking the Coachella Valley on clear days. Furthermore, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) passes right by the campground, making it an excellent base for hikers looking to explore portions of this famous long-distance trail. While the accessibility is generally good for a forest road, it's always wise to check current road conditions, especially during or after snowmelt or heavy rains, to ensure a smooth journey to this elevated and scenic spot.

Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground is a rustic group site designed for a more primitive camping experience, focusing on essential amenities to support large groups in a natural setting. It prioritizes space and views over extensive modern facilities. Here's what you can expect:

• Large Group Campsite: The campground offers one large group campsite, specifically designed to accommodate up to 25 people and 10 vehicles. This makes it ideal for large family gatherings, youth groups, or multiple families camping together.
• Tent and RV Camping: The site is suitable for both tent and RV camping, though it's important to note that utility hookups (water, sewer, electricity) are not available for RVs. Parking spurs are gravel.
• Multiple Picnic Tables: The group site is equipped with several picnic tables, providing ample surfaces for dining, food preparation, and group activities.
• Campfire Circle and Grills: A designated campfire circle is provided for communal campfires, along with grills for cooking. However, it's crucial to remember that charcoal fire BBQs are generally not allowed, and campers must adhere to all current fire restrictions.
• Vault Toilets: Vault toilets are provided for restroom facilities. While rustic, these are typically maintained, though visitors have noted the presence of flies, which is common in outdoor outhouses.
• Historic Cabins: The campground is home to three historic cabins. While camping or campfires are prohibited inside these log cabins, they add unique historical appeal to the site and can be explored from the outside.
• No Drinking Water Available: A key point for all visitors is that potable drinking water is NOT available at the campground. Campers must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and washing.
• No Trash Collection: There are typically no trash bins or collection services provided. Campers are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all their trash.
• Limited Shade: While mature pine trees dot the area, Recreation.gov notes they provide "little shade over the rocky terrain." This suggests visitors should be prepared for sun exposure, especially during warmer months.
• Reservations Required: The site is reservable through Recreation.gov and requires a minimum two-day stay on weekends and three days on holiday weekends. Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance.

• Spectacular Coachella Valley Views: Situated atop the Coon Creek Jumpoff, the campground offers unparalleled, breathtaking views of the sprawling Coachella Valley, especially on clear days. This panoramic vista is a major highlight.
• Direct Pacific Crest Trail Access: The PCT passes right by the campground (sites 17-19 run along it), providing incredible access for hikers, whether for a short nature walk or a longer trek on this iconic trail.
• Historic Cabins: The presence of three historic log cabins adds a unique cultural and historical dimension to the campground, offering a glimpse into the past of the San Bernardino Mountains.
• Ideal for Group Camping: As a dedicated group campground, it provides ample space and facilities for large gatherings of up to 25 people and 10 vehicles, fostering a communal outdoor experience.
• Opportunities for Trail Riding & Biking: The surrounding dirt roads and trails are suitable for both vehicles (not too rough for cars) and offer "cool biking trails," making it a great spot for off-road cycling and equestrian activities.
• Stream Fishing Nearby: Visitors have observed people fishing off the side of the road by the stream, suggesting opportunities for mountain stream fishing (check for California fishing license requirements and local regulations). The stream has ample water, especially from snowmelt.
• Secluded & Less Busy: Compared to some more popular campgrounds, Coon Creek tends not to get "too busy," especially during weekdays, allowing for a more peaceful and private group experience.
• Diverse Terrain: While rocky in parts, the area offers varied terrain for exploration, including little spots to pull off for picnics by the stream.
• Pine Forest Setting: The campground is set within a pine forest, offering the classic scents and sounds of the San Bernardino Mountains.
• High Elevation: At an 8,000-foot elevation, it provides a cooler climate, which can be a welcome escape from the heat of lower elevations in California.

Phone: (877) 444-6777

Mobile Phone: +1 877-444-6777

Address: 44611 CA-38, Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, USA

The provided phone number, (877) 444-6777, is the national reservation line for Recreation.gov, which handles bookings for Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground and many other federal campgrounds. This is the primary contact for making reservations and general inquiries about policies. However, for the most current information regarding road conditions (especially on the dirt road leading to the campground), specific on-site amenities post-snowmelt or other events, fire restrictions, or any unexpected closures, it is highly recommended to also contact the local Mountain Top Ranger District office of the San Bernardino National Forest directly. Their local staff can provide real-time updates that might not be immediately reflected on the national reservation system. Please note: As of recent updates (mid-2025), Coon Creek Group Campground is currently closed throughout 2025 due to road damage caused by the Line Fire. Visitors should verify re-opening dates and conditions before planning any trip.

For us Californians, Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground presents a uniquely compelling option for group outdoor adventures, especially for those who appreciate a balance of rustic charm, breathtaking scenery, and a slightly more off-the-beaten-path experience. Its designation as a "group campground" makes it perfectly suited for our numerous community groups, extended family reunions, or a gathering of friends seeking a shared mountain escape without the typical individual campsite limitations.

The unparalleled views of the Coachella Valley from the Coon Creek Jumpoff offer a visual reward that few other campgrounds can match, providing a truly Instagram-worthy backdrop for our memories. The immediate access to the Pacific Crest Trail appeals directly to our active California lifestyle, whether for a casual stroll or a more ambitious day hike. The historic cabins add a layer of cultural richness, connecting us to the past of the San Bernardino Mountains, even if we can't sleep inside them.

While it's important to be prepared for a rustic experience (no drinking water, vault toilets), this aligns with the desire of many Californians for a more authentic wilderness immersion. The fact that it doesn't get "too busy" fosters a sense of peaceful seclusion, allowing groups to truly bond and enjoy nature without constant crowds. For those willing to navigate a dirt road and embrace a more self-sufficient camping style, Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground offers an exceptional and memorable opportunity to explore the high country of the San Bernardino National Forest and create cherished moments with your favorite people.

Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground

44611 CA-38, Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, USA