Heart Bar Equestrian Group Campground

For us Californians, particularly those with a passion for horseback riding, finding a campground that perfectly blends stunning natural beauty with dedicated equestrian facilities can be a true gem. Look no further than Heart Bar Equestrian Group Campground, nestled within the picturesque San Bernardino National Forest. This isn't just any campground; it's a specialized haven designed specifically for campers who bring their equine companions, offering an unparalleled experience in the high-elevation pine forests of Southern California. It’s a place where the love of the outdoors and the joy of riding come together seamlessly.

Heart Bar Equestrian Group Campground stands out as a unique and invaluable resource for the local equestrian community. Imagine the convenience of having "horse corrals in the center of the loop" with "corrals assigned by site," ensuring your beloved horses are well-accommodated and secure. Beyond the equestrian-specific amenities, the campground provides comforts that are highly appreciated by all campers, including "running water" and "flushing toilets and among the best camp showers we've encountered at a USFS campground." This combination of specialized facilities and high-quality general amenities makes it a truly exceptional destination. It’s a testament to why it’s "well worth the cost to camp here."

While the primary requirement is that you "MUST have a horse to stay here," for those who do, Heart Bar Equestrian Group Campground offers an immersive and deeply rewarding outdoor experience. It’s a place to forge stronger bonds with your horse, explore miles of breathtaking trails, and create lasting memories amidst the stunning backdrop of the San Bernardino Mountains.

Heart Bar Equestrian Group Campground is situated in the San Bernardino National Forest, specifically located off Highway 38, approximately 25 miles southeast of the Big Bear area. Its address, California 92315, USA, broadly places it in the Angelus Oaks region, nestled in the pine-covered mountains of Southern California. This strategic elevation, approximately 6,880 feet, provides a welcome escape from the intense summer heat of lower elevations, offering a cooler and more comfortable environment for both humans and horses.

Access to the campground is typically straightforward via Highway 38, a well-maintained state highway. While specific road conditions should always be checked prior to a trip (especially during winter months), the main routes are generally suitable for trucks and trailers, which are essential for equestrian campers. The "convenient sites and loop road make access easy with truck and trailer," ensuring a smooth arrival and departure.

Despite its remote and secluded feel, Heart Bar Equestrian Group Campground is not entirely isolated. It's "not far from the Big Bear Lake," offering a variety of water-related recreation opportunities, as well as golf, shopping, and restaurant options just about 20 miles away. This balance allows campers to enjoy the tranquility of the forest while still having access to town amenities when needed. The campground's location also provides direct access to numerous equestrian trails, making it an ideal starting point for day rides or longer backcountry excursions.

Heart Bar Equestrian Group Campground is distinguished by its specialized services for horse campers, complemented by high-quality general amenities that enhance the overall camping experience:

• Assigned Horse Corrals: A standout feature, "horse corrals are in the center of the loop and camp sites are on the outside," with "corrals assigned by site." The campground is equipped with corrals for up to 40 horses, providing secure and convenient housing for your equines.
• Running Water: Potable, running water is available for both campers and horses, a crucial amenity in a forest environment.
• Flush Toilets: The campground boasts "flushing toilets," a significant upgrade from many rustic forest campgrounds.
• Excellent Camp Showers: Reviewers consistently highlight these as "among the best camp showers we've encountered at a USFS campground," indicating hot water and well-maintained facilities.
• Group Site Capacity: The site can accommodate up to 65 people and 21 vehicles, making it ideal for large equestrian groups or clubs.
• Multiple Tables and Campfire Circle: The group site is equipped with multiple picnic tables and a communal campfire circle, perfect for shared meals and gatherings.
• Grills: Grills are provided at the campsites for cooking, offering a convenient way to prepare meals outdoors.
• Individual Campsites: While primarily a group campground, it also offers single campsites (e.g., sites 8, 9, 10 recommended by a reviewer for shade and convenience) that may accommodate horses.
• Accessibility: Accessible flush toilets and showers are provided, ensuring facilities are usable for a wider range of visitors.
• Designated Parking: Ample parking is available for trucks and trailers, accommodating the specific needs of equestrian campers.

It's important to note the strict rule: "You MUST have a horse to stay here. It is not available if you are not bringing a horse with you." This ensures the campground remains dedicated to its equestrian purpose. Firewood is often available at the nearby Heart Bar Family Campground for purchase.

Heart Bar Equestrian Group Campground offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a premier destination for horse camping in Southern California:

• Dedicated Equestrian Facilities: The most significant highlight is its design exclusively for horse campers, featuring "horse corrals" directly accessible from campsites. This specialized setup ensures the comfort and safety of both riders and their horses.
• Exceptional Restrooms and Showers: Far exceeding typical USFS campground standards, the "running water, flushing toilets and among the best camp showers we've encountered" are a huge plus, providing a comfortable and refreshing experience after a day on the trails.
• Direct Trail Access: The campground provides direct access to numerous horseback riding trails, including parts of the famed Santa Ana River Trail (also popular for hikers and bikers), and the Wildhorse Creek Trail. These trails offer miles of "scenic mountain views" and opportunities to explore the beautiful forest.
• High Elevation and Cooler Climate: Located at 6,880 feet, the campground offers a "cooler environment during the hot summer months," making it a desirable escape from the heat of lower elevations for both people and animals.
• Spacious Sites: Campsites and the loop road are designed to be "convenient" and "easy with truck and trailer," ensuring ample space for vehicles, horse trailers, and camping setups. Specific sites like No. 9 are noted for having "shade nearly all day."
• Secluded and Remote Atmosphere: Despite being relatively close to Big Bear Lake, the campground retains a "remote and secluded atmosphere," perfect for those seeking peace and quiet amidst nature.
• Creek Fishing Nearby: For those who enjoy angling, "creek fishing is also available nearby," adding another recreational option.
• Wildlife Viewing: The San Bernardino National Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, offering opportunities for observation.
• Group Camping Focus: With its capacity for large groups and multiple corrals, it's an ideal venue for equestrian clubs, clinics, or large family gatherings that involve horses.

While the campground was unfortunately closed in 2025 due to road damage from the Line Fire, its enduring features mean it will undoubtedly remain a top choice for horse enthusiasts upon its reopening.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Heart Bar Equestrian Group Campground, including its current operational status (especially after the mentioned closure), reservation details, and any specific requirements or alerts, it is highly recommended to contact the San Bernardino National Forest or use the national reservation system.

Address: California 92315, USA (Specific address is generally tied to the San Bernardino National Forest's Mountaintop Ranger District which manages this campground).

Phone: (760) 367-5500 (This number is for Joshua Tree National Park, which is nearby but not directly managing Heart Bar. For Heart Bar, it's better to contact the San Bernardino National Forest directly).

For more reliable contact regarding Heart Bar Equestrian Group Campground, it is best to use the general contact number for the Mountaintop Ranger District of the San Bernardino National Forest, which is (909) 382-2790, or the general reservation line for national forest campgrounds through Recreation.gov: 1-877-444-6777.

Always check Recreation.gov or the official U.S. Forest Service website for the San Bernardino National Forest for the latest alerts on closures, re-openings, and reservation policies, especially given the previous closure notification for 2025.

For Californians with a deep love for horseback riding and the great outdoors, Heart Bar Equestrian Group Campground in the San Bernardino National Forest is not just suitable – it's an essential destination. Its highly specialized design and excellent amenities cater directly to the unique needs of the local equestrian community, making it an unparalleled choice for a mountain escape.

The foremost reason for its suitability is its explicit dedication to horse camping. The fact that you "MUST have a horse to stay here" immediately signals that this campground is built by equestrians, for equestrians. The convenience of "horse corrals are in the center of the loop and camp sites are on the outside," with "corrals assigned by site," removes much of the logistical stress associated with traveling with horses. This level of thoughtful accommodation for our equine partners is a rarity and greatly appreciated by local riders seeking hassle-free adventures.

Beyond the equestrian specifics, the general campground amenities significantly enhance the experience. The presence of "running water, flushing toilets and among the best camp showers we've encountered at a USFS campground" provides a level of comfort that many local campers, particularly after a long day on the trails, truly value. These well-maintained facilities mean that you can focus more on enjoying the stunning "pine-covered mountains" and less on roughing it. The "convenient sites and loop road" further simplify access with trucks and trailers, a practical consideration for horse owners.

Furthermore, the high-elevation location ensures a "cooler environment during the hot summer months," making it a welcome retreat when other areas of California are sweltering. The direct access to an extensive network of horseback riding trails means endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment of the magnificent San Bernardino National Forest, forging deeper connections with both nature and your horse. For Californians who live and breathe horses and outdoor adventure, Heart Bar Equestrian Group Campground is not just a place to stay; it's a cherished annual pilgrimage, "well worth the cost to camp here," and a place they "will return again" to time and time again.

Heart Bar Equestrian Group Campground

California 92315, USA