Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites

For Californians seeking an authentic, remote, and truly immersive outdoor experience without the fees often associated with developed campgrounds, Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites offer an exceptional opportunity. Tucked away in the San Bernardino National Forest near Angelus Oaks, these unique campsites provide a sense of solitude and connection with nature that can be hard to find. If you're an adventurer prepared for a more primitive setting, value privacy, and are eager to witness spectacular night skies, Coon Creek could be your next favorite Southern California camping destination. This article will guide you through what makes these Yellow Post Sites so special, from their unique location and the amenities they offer to the unforgettable features that draw campers to this hidden gem.

Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites are located off CA-38 near Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, USA, deep within the expansive San Bernardino National Forest. This address points to the general area of access, as Yellow Post Sites are typically dispersed camping locations rather than a centralized campground. For Californians, accessing these sites usually involves navigating forest service roads, which can vary significantly in condition. Reviews explicitly state that a "high clearance vehicle to get to the last few yellow post sites" is often necessary, indicating that some sections of the road may be rough, uneven, or have obstacles. While a Civic might make it to some sites, a vehicle with better ground clearance is highly recommended for full access, particularly after adverse weather.

Despite the rustic access, the location offers a profound sense of retreat. Being off CA-38 means it's generally accessible from major Southern California population centers, making it a viable option for those looking to escape the urban sprawl for a weekend or longer. The remote nature of these sites contributes to their quietude and pristine environment. For those with Verizon, a welcome bonus is "cell reception at the 1st few sites," which can be a comfort in a remote area. The surrounding forest provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities, and while it feels secluded, the town of Angelus Oaks for basic supplies is not excessively far, emphasizing a balance between wilderness immersion and a touch of convenience. Always consult current forest service road conditions before embarking on your journey.

Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites offer a quintessential dispersed camping experience, meaning amenities are minimal, emphasizing self-sufficiency. However, they do provide some key basic features that enhance comfort in this remote setting.

• Fire Rings: Every designated yellow post site is equipped with a fire ring, allowing campers to have campfires for cooking and warmth, provided there are no fire restrictions in place. Campers should always check current fire conditions before planning to build a fire.
• Picnic Tables: Each site also includes a picnic table, offering a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, and organizing camping gear.
• Designated Sites (Yellow Post): These are specific, numbered campsites clearly marked with a yellow post. While dispersed, they are not completely random; rather, they are established spots designed to minimize environmental impact and manage usage.
• Vault Toilets: While not explicitly mentioned for every site, remote national forest yellow post sites often have communal vault toilets available, though campers should always be prepared with their own sanitation methods. (General knowledge of Yellow Post Sites suggests basic toilet facilities might be available, though possibly not at every single site, emphasizing the "remote" nature).
• No Potable Water: Similar to many primitive or dispersed campsites, there is no potable water source directly at these sites. Campers must bring all the water they will need for their entire stay, including for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
• Leave No Trace Principle: While not a service, the expectation for campers to leave no trace, including packing out all trash and waste, is paramount for maintaining the cleanliness and natural beauty of these free sites. Reviewers noted cleaning up some trash, underscoring the importance of this principle.

Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites are celebrated for their unique features and highlights, particularly appealing to campers seeking solitude, stunning views, and an authentic wilderness connection.

• Free Camping: A significant highlight is that these sites offer camping "at no charge," which is a considerable benefit for budget-conscious travelers and a rare find in such scenic areas of California.
• Remote and Spaced-Out Sites: Unlike crowded developed campgrounds, the Yellow Post Sites are "spaced out fairly from each other" and are "very remote," providing a high degree of privacy and a sense of solitude.
• Beautiful Views: Campers consistently praise the "beautiful views," including a "great view at the end of the trail" and "tons of stars visible." The surrounding natural beauty is a major draw.
• Exceptional Stargazing and Astrophotography: With "great opening in the tree line to view the stars at night," these sites are a dream for stargazers and "astrophotographers." The minimal light pollution allows for truly spectacular night sky observations.
• High Clearance Vehicle Access: While a challenge for some, the requirement for a "high clearance vehicle to get to the last few yellow post sites" means fewer visitors, contributing to the remote and quiet atmosphere. This is a feature for those prepared.
• Surrounded by Trees and Nature: Despite a review mentioning a lack of trees compared to Sequoia (likely a comparison to specific areas, not a general lack), the sites are described as being "surrounded by trees and nature," offering a quintessential forest camping experience.
• Secluded Retreat: The "fairly long drive to the closest road" reinforces the feeling of a "great retreat," allowing campers to truly disconnect from urban life.
• Verizon Cell Reception (Limited): The presence of "cell reception for Verizon at the 1st few sites" is a practical highlight for those who need occasional connectivity, while still enjoying a remote setting.
• Opportunities for Improvisation: The reference to campers improvising food despite fire restrictions showcases the resourcefulness encouraged by a more primitive camping style, appealing to those who enjoy a self-reliant adventure.

As Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites are part of the dispersed camping program within the San Bernardino National Forest, there isn't a direct phone number for the specific campground itself. Information and inquiries are typically handled by the National Forest Service or the local Ranger District.

Address: 46550 CA-38, Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, USA (This is the general access area)

For current conditions, fire restrictions, road access, and general information about Yellow Post Sites in the San Bernardino National Forest, it is best to contact the forest's main information line or the specific Ranger District that oversees the Angelus Oaks area.

San Bernardino National Forest General Information: (909) 382-2790

Mobile Phone: +1 909-382-2790

It is highly recommended to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the San Bernardino National Forest before your trip for the most up-to-date information on fire restrictions (which can be very strict in California, especially in dry conditions), road closures, and any changes to Yellow Post Site guidelines.

Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites are exceptionally suitable for Californians who are seasoned campers, outdoor enthusiasts, and particularly those residing in Southern California, seeking a genuine wilderness experience. Its primary appeal for locals lies in the unique combination of being "free camping" and offering a truly "remote" and private escape. In a state where popular campgrounds can often be crowded and expensive, Coon Creek provides a refreshing alternative for those who value solitude and cost-effectiveness.

The "spaced out" sites and the requirement for a "high clearance vehicle" to reach some areas inherently filter out casual campers, ensuring a quieter and more intimate environment. This makes it perfect for locals who truly want to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The "beautiful views" and unparalleled "stargazing" opportunities, especially for "astrophotographers," are significant draws, offering celestial displays rarely seen in urbanized California.

Furthermore, the presence of basic amenities like a fire ring and picnic table at each site provides necessary comforts for primitive camping, while the expectation of self-sufficiency (like bringing your own water) appeals to the resourceful spirit of many outdoor-loving Californians. While challenges like "no fires" during high fire danger periods exist, the ability to "improvise and still made food" speaks to the adaptability required and enjoyed by visitors to these sites. For locals who are prepared for a rustic adventure, value seclusion, and crave the beauty of the unblemished night sky, Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites offer an unforgettable and truly rewarding camping experience in the heart of the San Bernardino National Forest.

Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites

46550 CA-38, Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, USA