Little Round Valley Campground

For Californians yearning for a true wilderness escape amidst majestic alpine scenery, Little Round Valley Campground, nestled high within the Mount San Jacinto State Park, offers an unforgettable backcountry experience. This isn't a drive-in campground with all the modern comforts; instead, it's a pristine hike-in destination that rewards adventurous spirits with serene meadows, breathtaking views, and the invigorating solitude of the high country. It's a place where the sounds of nature prevail, and the sense of accomplishment after a scenic trek truly enhances the camping experience.

Little Round Valley Campground is a primitive campsite designed for backpackers and those who embrace a more rugged approach to outdoor living. With a limited number of sites, it promises a quiet and uncrowded environment, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Mount San Jacinto. Reviewers consistently highlight the availability of "ice cold flowing water" for filtering, a crucial amenity in the backcountry, and the convenience of "outhouses that beat digging a hole." While a visit in October 2024 confirmed running water in the meadow, and a June visit noted ample flow, conditions can vary, so preparedness is key. This campground truly embodies the spirit of California's stunning mountain wilderness, offering a genuine opportunity to disconnect and reconnect with nature.

Little Round Valley Campground is located within the Mount San Jacinto State Park, in California, USA. More specifically, it is situated in the wilderness area of the park, high up on Mount San Jacinto, near the town of Idyllwild-Pine Cove. This means it is a hike-in only campground, accessible via various trails.

To reach the general vicinity of Mount San Jacinto State Park, Californians typically drive to Idyllwild. From Los Angeles or San Diego, the drive is approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, often involving scenic mountain roads like Highway 243. Once in Idyllwild, visitors can access trailheads such as Deer Springs Trailhead or the popular Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which provides an alternative, albeit paid, entry point to the higher elevations of the park.

Little Round Valley Campground itself is approximately 6.5 miles from the Long Valley Ranger Station (accessible via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway) at an elevation of about 9,700 feet. For hikers starting from Idyllwild, the trek will be longer and involve significant elevation gain. For example, starting at Deer Springs Trailhead, you'll embark on a journey that leads you to this beautiful meadow campground. Wilderness permits are required for both day hikes and overnight stays in the Mount San Jacinto State Wilderness, which can be obtained at the State Park Headquarters in Idyllwild or the Long Valley Ranger Station. While the remoteness is part of its charm, the park's administrative offices are located at 25905 Highway 243, Idyllwild, CA 92549. This combination of challenging yet rewarding access and the promise of pristine wilderness makes Little Round Valley a truly coveted destination for California's avid backpackers.

Services Offered (Note: Little Round Valley is a primitive, hike-in campground):

• Primitive Campsites: Offers 6 designated primitive campsites for tent camping.
• Water Source: Cold, flowing water is typically available from a natural source in the meadow, suitable for filtering/purification (conditions can vary, always check current reports and bring a filter).
• Pit Toilets (Outhouses): Basic vault toilets are available for sanitation.
• Fire Rings: Campfire rings are generally provided at each site (however, open fires are often prohibited in wilderness areas, and only portable camp stoves with an on/off switch are permitted for cooking – always check current fire restrictions and permit requirements).
• Picnic Tables: Not explicitly stated for every primitive site, but some backcountry sites may offer basic amenities.
• Overnight Wilderness Permits: Required for camping; must be obtained from the Mount San Jacinto State Park Headquarters in Idyllwild or the Long Valley Ranger Station.
• No Dogs Allowed: Dogs are generally prohibited in the Mount San Jacinto State Wilderness areas, with the exception of service animals.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: All trash and belongings must be packed out by campers; no burying of refuse is permitted.
• No Mechanical/Motorized Devices: Bicycles, strollers, coolers on wheels, and any wheeled devices (except wheelchairs) are prohibited in the wilderness.

Features / Highlights:

• Gorgeous Alpine Setting: Located in a beautiful meadow surrounded by the majestic peaks and subalpine forests of Mount San Jacinto.
• True Wilderness Experience: Offers a quiet, secluded, and primitive camping experience away from developed campgrounds and vehicle access.
• Abundant Water Source: The presence of cold, flowing water (as reported in recent years) is a significant advantage for backpackers, reducing the need to carry large quantities of water.
• Access to San Jacinto Peak: Serves as an excellent base camp for summiting San Jacinto Peak (10,834 feet), the second-highest mountain in Southern California.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: Surrounded by over 54 miles of wilderness trails, including connections to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), providing endless hiking opportunities.
• Stargazing: Remote location and high elevation provide exceptionally dark skies, ideal for stargazing and night sky photography.
• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to spot various high-altitude wildlife, including deer, bobcats, and numerous bird species like Golden Eagles and Clark's Nutcrackers.
• Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of mountainous terrain and varied elevations.
• Sense of Accomplishment: The hike-in access makes reaching the campground a rewarding experience.
• Challenging but Rewarding Trek: While the hike can be strenuous, especially with backpacking gear, the stunning scenery and peaceful environment make it worthwhile.
• Permit System: Ensures controlled access, helping to preserve the wilderness character and limit overcrowding.

Contact Information:

Address: Within Mount San Jacinto State Park, California, USA (Permits required; obtain at State Park Headquarters or Long Valley Ranger Station)

Mount San Jacinto State Park Headquarters Phone: (951) 659-2607

For California locals, Little Round Valley Campground in Mount San Jacinto State Park is an exceptionally suitable destination for those who crave an authentic wilderness backpacking experience within a reasonable drive from major Southern California population centers. Its primary allure lies in its pristine alpine environment, offering serene meadows, towering peaks, and the crisp, clear air of high elevations. This provides a genuine opportunity to disconnect from urban life and immerse oneself in the restorative power of nature, a pursuit highly valued by many Californians.

The "hike-in" nature of the campground, while requiring effort and proper preparation, is precisely what makes it ideal for locals seeking a true backcountry adventure. It filters out casual campers, ensuring a quieter, more secluded experience where you're likely to encounter fellow dedicated hikers rather than large crowds. The consistently reported availability of cold, flowing water for filtering is a significant advantage, reducing the burden of carrying all your water and allowing for longer stays. Furthermore, the presence of basic pit toilets, while primitive, offers a welcome convenience in the wilderness.

Little Round Valley serves as an excellent base for tackling challenging and rewarding hikes, including a summit attempt on San Jacinto Peak itself, a crowning achievement for many California peak baggers. The extensive network of trails, combined with breathtaking views and opportunities for wildlife viewing and stargazing, provides endless possibilities for exploration and photography. For those who prioritize a raw, unadulterated camping experience that pushes personal limits and offers profound connection with California's majestic mountains, Little Round Valley Campground is an indispensable local gem. It's not just a campsite; it's a gateway to an unforgettable wilderness journey right in your backyard.

Little Round Valley Campground

California, USA