Halfway Camp

For adventurous Californians seeking a true wilderness experience and the thrill of high-altitude camping, Halfway Camp on the Vivian Creek Trail offers an unparalleled opportunity. Nestled within the breathtaking San Gorgonio Wilderness, this primitive campsite serves as a crucial stop for those embarking on the challenging but incredibly rewarding ascent to the San Gorgonio summit. It’s not your typical drive-up campground; Halfway Camp is a backcountry gem, designed for those who embrace self-sufficiency and a deeper connection with nature.

Halfway Camp is more than just a place to rest; it’s an integral part of the iconic Vivian Creek Trail, known as the shortest and steepest route to the top of Mt. San Gorgonio, the highest peak in Southern California. Located at a bracing 8,100 feet elevation, this camp provides a strategic overnight stop for backpackers acclimatizing to the altitude and breaking up the strenuous journey. The experience here is about rugged beauty and self-reliance, offering a stark contrast to more developed campgrounds found closer to civilization.

What makes Halfway Camp particularly appealing to seasoned California hikers and backpackers is its primitive nature and less-utilized status compared to other camps on the trail, such as Vivian Creek Camp or High Creek Camp. This often means more solitude and a greater sense of immersion in the wilderness. The stunning views from this elevation, even from the camp area itself, are a constant reminder of the incredible natural grandeur that California has to offer. For those committed to a challenging ascent and an authentic backcountry adventure, Halfway Camp is an essential and rewarding part of the San Gorgonio experience.

Halfway Camp is situated on the Vivian Creek Trail, located in Forest Falls, CA 92339, USA. This places it deep within the San Gorgonio Wilderness Area of the San Bernardino National Forest. Access to Halfway Camp is strictly by foot, as it is a backcountry campsite. The trailhead for the Vivian Creek Trail is reached by turning east off Highway 38 to Forest Falls. It's crucial to note that an Adventure Pass ($5/day or $30/year) or an Interagency Pass is required to park at the trailhead.

The hike to Halfway Camp is strenuous and intended for experienced hikers. The camp is approximately 1.3 miles beyond Vivian Creek Camp, which itself is about 1.2 miles from the trailhead. This means you're looking at a hike of roughly 2.5 miles from the trailhead to Halfway Camp, with significant elevation gain as you ascend into the wilderness. The Vivian Creek Trail is known for its steepness, so preparation for high-elevation hiking is essential.

It is paramount for all visitors to understand that Halfway Camp, being in a wilderness area, requires a wilderness permit for both day hiking and overnight camping. These free permits are issued by the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association (SGWA) and must be obtained online in advance, up to 90 days before your trip. There are no in-person permits available at the Ranger Station. This quota system is in place to protect the delicate wilderness ecosystem and ensure a quality experience for all. Hikers should be prepared for varying conditions, as temperatures can range significantly, and portions of the trail may be affected by past wildfires or natural debris. Always check current trail and weather conditions before heading out.

• Primitive camping spots: Designated areas for tents in a natural, undeveloped setting.
• Water access: Water is available from the creek approximately 200 yards before reaching Halfway Camp. It is recommended to treat all water before consumption.
• Designated wilderness campsite: Part of the permitted camping system within the San Gorgonio Wilderness.
• Access to pit toilets: Basic restroom facilities are available at some wilderness camps, though specific details for Halfway Camp might imply more primitive arrangements. Visitors should be prepared for minimal facilities.

• High elevation camping: Located at 8,100 feet, offering cooler temperatures and high-altitude training for mountaineers.
• Part of the Vivian Creek Trail to San Gorgonio: An essential stop for those attempting to summit Southern California's highest peak.
• Less utilized than other camps: Often provides more solitude and a quieter wilderness experience compared to Vivian Creek or High Creek Camps.
• Natural water source available: A creek provides a crucial water supply, although purification is necessary.
• Stunning views: Offers picturesque vistas of the surrounding San Gorgonio Wilderness and beyond, visible from various spots around the camp and trail.
• Visible camp spots from trail: While primitive, the camp spots are generally identifiable from the main trail.
• Authentic backcountry experience: Ideal for backpackers seeking a rugged, self-sufficient adventure.

Address: Vivian Creek Trail, Forest Falls, CA 92339, USA

Please note: As a primitive wilderness campground, Halfway Camp does not have a direct phone number. All inquiries and permit applications for the San Gorgonio Wilderness are handled by the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association (SGWA).

SGWA Contact Information (for wilderness permits and general inquiries):

Phone: (909) 382-2882 (Mill Creek Visitor Center, generally open Friday-Sunday)

Website: sgwa.org (for online permit applications)

For Californians, Halfway Camp on the Vivian Creek Trail isn't just a dot on a map; it represents the very essence of our state's incredible wilderness and the challenge many of us seek in the outdoors. It is exceptionally suitable for locals because it offers an authentic, high-country backpacking experience that truly taps into the adventurous spirit that defines so many Californians.

Firstly, its location within the beloved San Gorgonio Wilderness means easy access from Southern California's major population centers. While it requires a commitment to a strenuous hike, the relatively short drive to the trailhead from places like Los Angeles or San Diego makes it a feasible weekend or multi-day adventure for those seeking a quick escape into the true wilderness. This accessibility to such a high-alpine environment is a cherished asset for local outdoor enthusiasts.

Secondly, Halfway Camp caters to the experienced hiker and backpacker, a significant segment of California's outdoor community. We appreciate the challenge of a steep ascent, the necessity of carrying all our gear, and the reward of earning those breathtaking views. The primitive nature of the camp, with its focus on self-reliance and obtaining water directly from the creek, resonates with those who truly want to disconnect and test their skills in a raw environment. It's a place where "Leave No Trace" isn't just a suggestion, but a fundamental principle that experienced Californians already practice.

Moreover, for many locals, summiting Mount San Gorgonio is a significant accomplishment, and Halfway Camp provides a crucial, strategic overnight stop on that journey. Breaking up the arduous climb allows for better acclimatization to the 8,100-foot elevation, increasing the chances of a successful and enjoyable summit attempt. The relative solitude compared to other camps on the trail also appeals to those seeking a more tranquil and personal wilderness experience, away from larger crowds.

Finally, the requirement of obtaining a wilderness permit, handled efficiently online by the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association, aligns with California's strong emphasis on preserving its natural treasures. Locals understand that these regulations are in place to protect the very environments we love, ensuring that Halfway Camp and the surrounding wilderness remain pristine for generations of Californians to enjoy. It's a testament to responsible outdoor recreation, a value deeply ingrained in our state's outdoor culture.

Halfway Camp

Vivian Creek Trail, Forest Falls, CA 92339, USA