Thomas Mountain - Yellow Post Site #5

Welcome to the wild and wonderful world of California’s dispersed camping opportunities. For those local users in the Golden State seeking a truly secluded, back-to-basics wilderness experience away from the crowds of traditional campgrounds, the Thomas Mountain Yellow Post Site #5 offers an exceptional escape. This is not a typical developed campground; it is one of a series of designated, primitive camping locations within the San Bernardino National Forest's San Jacinto Ranger District, offering a taste of authentic backcountry boondocking without the need for a wilderness permit.

The "Yellow Post" system designates specific primitive, single-party campsites, which are marked by a yellow post and are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Site #5, in particular, has earned a reputation among local adventurers for being one of the best spots along the trail, offering a blend of seclusion, natural shade, and rewarding views through the surrounding trees. It is the perfect location for California residents looking to unplug, reconnect with nature, and embrace the self-sufficiency of dispersed camping.

This site caters to those who are well-prepared and value privacy over developed amenities. It provides a foundational experience for car or tent camping in a rugged, mountainous setting, making it a favorite for experienced campers, overlanders, and those who cherish the quiet solitude of the forest.

***

Thomas Mountain Yellow Post Site #5 is situated in a remote area of the San Bernardino National Forest, near the unincorporated community of Anza, California. The physical address for the general vicinity provides a useful marker for navigation but emphasizes the site's remote nature:

• Address: J8C8+GV, Anza, CA 92561, USA (This is a plus code for the specific remote location)

Accessibility is a significant factor and a key element of the Thomas Mountain Yellow Post experience. The site is accessed via Forest Road 1N12 (also known as Thomas Mountain Road or FR 6S13), which is unpaved. A high-clearance vehicle is absolutely necessary to safely and comfortably reach Yellow Post Sites #3, #4, and #5. Customer reviews explicitly warn that the middle section of the trail contains some rough road conditions, making standard passenger vehicles unsuitable. While a 4-wheel drive is not always required, high clearance is non-negotiable, and the rough, slow-going nature of the road is part of the secluded journey. Trailers and large RVs are generally not suitable for this road due to its unpaved condition, ruts, bumps, and tight turns.

***

As a primitive Yellow Post Site, Thomas Mountain #5 offers a minimalist camping experience. This means campers must be entirely self-sufficient, practicing Leave No Trace principles by packing in all supplies and packing out all trash. The primary services and amenities provided are limited but essential for a primitive experience:

• Primitive Designation: No running water, restrooms, trash collection, or picnic tables are provided directly at the site.
• Designated Fire Ring: A metal fire ring is typically provided for campfires, charcoal grills, or stoves, only when fire restrictions are lifted.
• Free Camping: There is no charge or fee for camping at this site.
• Camping Duration: The maximum stay is typically limited to 14 days in any 30-day period across the National Forest.
• Permits: A free California Campfire Permit is required for any type of fire use (campfires, charcoal BBQs, or stoves) and must be obtained online or at a ranger station prior to arrival.
• Cellular Service: While remote, some Yellow Post sites in the general Thomas Mountain area have been noted to receive fair to average cellular signal, which can be helpful for safety and planning.

***

Site #5 is distinguished from its neighboring Yellow Post sites by several unique features that make the arduous drive worthwhile for Southern California nature enthusiasts:

• Optimal Shade: Customer feedback highlights that Site #5 is the best among sites #3, #4, and #5 because it offers valuable natural shade, a premium amenity in the often-sunny California mountains.
• Scenic Views: The site provides appealing views through the trees, offering a picturesque backdrop for a relaxing getaway.
• Seclusion and Privacy: Yellow Post sites are inherently dispersed, spaced well apart to ensure a high level of privacy and solitude that developed campgrounds cannot match.
• Car/Tent Camping Focus: The area is perfectly suited for tent camping or car camping/overlanding setups, giving you direct access to your site with your vehicle.
• Access to Hiking and Trails: Located on Thomas Mountain, the site serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest, including nearby trails and the opportunity to hike to the summit.
• First-Come, First-Served: The lack of a reservation system means that spontaneous adventurers have the chance to secure a coveted secluded site, provided they arrive prepared.

***

For the most current information regarding road conditions, fire restrictions, and required permits, campers should contact the managing ranger district.

• Managing District: San Jacinto Ranger District, San Bernardino National Forest
• Phone: (909) 382-2921 (General Information and Inquiries)
• Address: J8C8+GV, Anza, CA 92561, USA (Physical location marker)

It is critically important for all campers to check the current fire danger status before heading out, as fire restrictions can change rapidly in Southern California, particularly during the dry summer and fall months.

***

Choosing Thomas Mountain - Yellow Post Site #5 is a commitment to an authentic California mountain camping experience—it is a destination for the prepared, self-reliant outdoor lover. The key draw is its unique balance of accessible free camping and true seclusion. Unlike crowded fee-based campgrounds, Site #5 offers the tranquility of the backcountry without the extensive backpacking required to reach deep wilderness areas.

For California residents who own a high-clearance vehicle, this site provides a challenging but ultimately rewarding journey to a private, shaded spot with desirable views. It is a fantastic option for overlanding enthusiasts, small groups seeking total privacy, and anyone who wants to test their preparedness for primitive camping. The proximity to the San Jacinto Mountains area allows for excellent day-hiking opportunities and unparalleled stargazing away from the light pollution of Southern California’s cities.

In short, Yellow Post Site #5 is worth choosing for its prime location, natural shade, and guaranteed privacy, provided you arrive with the right vehicle, a valid California Campfire Permit, and a full commitment to the "pack it in, pack it out" ethos. It represents a precious, free resource for local campers to experience the rugged beauty of the San Bernardino National Forest.

Thomas Mountain - Yellow Post Site #5

J8C8+GV, Anza, CA 92561, USA