Council

About

Council Group Campground occupies a pine forest setting in the Barton Flats area of San Bernardino National Forest, northeast of San Bernardino along the Rim of the World Scenic Byway (Highway 38). At roughly 6,360 feet elevation, the single group site can host up to 50 people and 10-13 vehicles for tent or RV camping. The site includes picnic tables, campfire rings with grills, larger group campfire circles, and bear-proof food storage boxes. Recreation opportunities abound nearby. The Santa Ana River Trail offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding with views spanning from mountains toward the Pacific. The Rio Monte Trail leads to a panoramic overlook of the Santa Ana River Valley gorge. Jenks Lake, a short drive away, provides fishing for rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish, plus kayaking and canoeing on its calm waters. Bears frequent the area, so strict food storage compliance is mandatory. Fire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry conditions. The Grayback Amphitheater nearby hosts educational programs on summer weekends through the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association.

Directions

Take I-10 East to Redlands. Take the University Street exit (EXIT 80). Turn left (northbound) on University Street. Turn right onto E. Lugonia Avenue/SR-38. Continue on State Highway 38 for approximately 17 miles to the campground entrance on the north side of the highway, between Barton Flats Visitor Center and Barton Flats Family Campground.