Dark Canyon Campground

Closed — Closed for 2025 due to decreased staffing and maintenance budget constraints. The campground requires a full-time host due to the Mountain Yellow-Legged Frog Recovery agreement, and suitable hosts have not been found.

About

Dark Canyon Campground is located in the San Jacinto Mountains of San Bernardino National Forest, approximately fifty miles southeast of San Bernardino and 8 miles north of Idyllwild at an elevation ideal for escaping summer heat. The campground is situated in a forested setting with the North Fork of the San Jacinto River nearby, though stream access is closed to protect the endangered mountain yellow-legged frog as part of a recovery agreement between the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The campground features paved roads and parking spurs, though campers should note that parking areas may not be level. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, with campfires permitted within provided facilities when fire restrictions allow. Vault toilets are available on-site. The surrounding area offers extensive recreational opportunities within 10 miles, including hiking trails, rock climbing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and ATV/OHV trails. The nearby town of Idyllwild provides access to grocery stores, dining, and other amenities.

Directions

From I-10 East, exit 8th Street in Banning, turn right onto 8th Street, left on Lincoln Street, then right on San Gorgonio Avenue/Highway 243. From I-10 West, exit Hargrave Street, turn left onto Hargrave Street, right on Lincoln Street, then left on San Gorgonio Avenue/Highway 243. Travel south on Highway 243 for approximately 20 miles, just past the Alandale Fire Station. Turn left onto Azalea Trails Road (Stone Creek Campground Road) and continue for 2.5 miles.

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