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Black Mountain Yellow Post Sites

These six remote camping sites offer isolated scenic locations ideal for tent and car camping or a relaxing picnic far from the crowds. Some have great views of San Jacinto Mountain and the San Gorgonio Pass area.

These sites are first-come, first-served and are generally open in the late spring, summer, and fall months. During winter, Black Mountain Road closes due to snow accumulation, but it is still possible to hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski to these sites.

Camping Regulation due to FOREST ORDER NO. 05-12-00-23-05

  1. Camping for more than 14 days in any 30-day period. 36 C.F.R. § 261.58(a).
  2. Camping within 1/4 mile of State Highways, developed campgrounds, picnic grounds, developed recreation sites, trailheads, and private property. 36 C.F.R. § 261.58(e).
  3. Entering or remaining in a campground between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. except for persons who are camping in such campgrounds. 36 C.F.R. § 261.58(c).
  4. Parking or leaving a vehicle in violation of posted instructions. 36 C.F.R. § 261.58(g).

Other than a pit for campfires and a picnic table, these sites do NOT contain the amenities found at developed campgrounds. There is no water, no restrooms, and no trash containers. Please pack it in - pack it out!

Campfire permits are required for any type of fire use - campfires, charcoal BBQ`s, or gas stoves. Campfires and charcoal BBQ's may not be allowed certain times of the year. See "Current Conditions" box below.

Where are the Sites? These Yellow Post Sites are reached via forest road 4S01 off of Hwy 243 north of Idyllwild and south of Banning. This is a dirt road and is not suitable for trailers or RV's. High-clearance vehicles are recommended.

Current Conditions
Black Mountain Road is closed two miles up from highway 243. High clearance vehicles recommended. As of 7/2/2024, no wood/charcoal fires or barbecues are allowed due to fire restrictions. Gas/Propane appliances are permitted with a valid CA Campfire permit. No ground fires or building of rock-fire-rings permitted anywhere on Southern CA Forests.

General Information

A California Campfire Permit is required to use a gas-powered stove, lantern and/or campfire ring. All devices must have a fuel shutoff valve.

  • 8 persons maximum. 2 vehicles maximum.
  • Avoid parking on grasses and vegetation at all times.
  • Yellow post campsites have a 14 day camping limit.

Pack out what you pack in and Leave No Trace!

No fees are associated with this site.

Dogs MUST be on a leash not longer than six feet, or otherwise under physical restrictive control [36 CFR 261.16(j)]. Read more info about pet ethics.

Front View of San Jacinto Ranger Station

Address: P.O. Box 518 Idyllwild, CA 92549
Phone: (909) 382-2921
Hours: Thursday through Monday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm; Closed for lunch 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 33.83306

Longitude: -116.74002

Elevation

6594

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Restrooms are not available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Last updated July 30th, 2025