Go to New Heights in Southern California

Plan a relaxing destination and memorable RV Trip at Mount San Jacinto State Park.

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Words by Jennifer Leigh Hill

Mount San Jacinto State Park and its RV campgrounds sit at an elevation of more than 1,524 m (5,000 ft) in Riverside County, CA, and the peak itself rises to 3,300 m (10,834 ft) above sea level, making it the second-highest mountain range in Southern California. The crisp air compared to other nearby regions offers cool relief in the summer, offering a quiet retreat for RVers who are touring this area of the Golden State. 

Spreading across 5,666 ha (14,000 ac), the park’s location offers average daily highs of 25 °C (77°F) from June to September with the hottest month being in July where you can expect average temps of 28°C (82°F) and lows of 12°C (54°F). This provides a comfortable environment to explore the 80 km (50 mi) of trails, stay at one of the designated campgrounds, and experience the variety of services, facilities and guided/self-guided tours.  

Getting Here is Fun and Exciting 

There are a few different ways to access the park. If you’re motoring from the west, the south entrance to the park is a two-hour drive from Los Angeles or San Diego. If you are coming from the east, it’s about one hour from Palm Springs. 

Exiting at Banning on SR 243, the last leg of the drive to the park can be quite windy in certain areas. It’s mostly an uphill run, so be sure to plan accordingly since getting here in an RV may take longer than expected. 

You can also get to the park via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway out of Palm Springs. This is the world’s largest spinning tramcar and is approximately 10 ‘breathtaking’ minutes. The tram runs up 4 km (2.5 mi) alongside the stunning cliffs of the Chino Canyon and once at the top, it’s a quick walk to Mount San Jacinto’s north entrance and the Long Valley Ranger Station. 

It’s Worth Staying a While

Camping is one of the park’s biggest draws and several options are available. Four campgrounds consist of 46 Wilderness Sites - accessed from the north entrance - and feature vault toilets and water. Dogs are not allowed on the trails or the tram.

To accommodate RVers, two campgrounds are located off SR 243 in the community of Idyllwild. The most common one is the Idyllwild Campground. It’s within easy walking distance to services in town and has 33 sites. Three have full hook-ups and three have power. Tenting is also available.

Further up the road, about 8 km (5 mi), is the Stone Creek Campground with 50 camping locations. While not all of them can accommodate RVs and have full hookups, five have power only. Both campgrounds are pet-friendly, can accommodate RV lengths of 7 m (24 ft) and rates range from $25 to $45 per night.

Palms to Pines Scenic Byway

This is a very popular day trip and another enjoyable way to access the park. A scenic 107 km (67 mi) fully paved, two-lane route, the Palms to Pines Scenic Byway circumnavigates part of the San Jacinto Mountain range from Palm Springs to Banning (or vice versa). 

There is some exposure but as you drive up to new heights, you’ll transverse among diverse ecosystems and spectacular views. Fortunately, there are outlooks so you can stop and fully admire the region. 

Starting from Palm Springs, you can reach the byway via SR 111 (east of Palm Desert). It leads to SR 74 and you’ll start ascending into the Santa Rosa Mountains where palm trees are replaced by forests of pinyon pines. 

Your first stop should be at the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center. Helpful staff provide information about lookout locations, campgrounds, outdoor activities, and maps of the area. Hours of operation are from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm Thursday to Monday but it’s closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. 

From the visitor’s centre, the route transforms into a series of switchbacks flanked by masses of ocotillos and semi-succulent desert shrubs with spiny cane-like branches, which are typically scarlet-coloured in the fall. You’ll also pass several rural communities, including Paradise Valley and there are great picnic areas and more camping options for RVs on Lake Hemet. 

Mountain Center is also popular. It’s located at the junction of SR 74 and SR 243 and where you can fuel up or take a break from the wheel. The byway then leads along SR 243 and you’ll descend to Idyllwild and Mount San Jacinto State Park. 

Charming and Characteristic Idyllwild

Commonly known as the ‘mile-high’ town, Idyllwild, which is at an elevation of 1,646 m (5,400 ft), is a haven for artists. It’s also known for the 29.8 km (19 mi) San Jacinto Peak Loop Trail, which can take you to the summit of Mount San Jacinto. If you’re serious about hiking, the trail is approximately 14 km (9 mi) outside of town. 

Many RVers prefer just to experience Idyllwild with its choice of restaurants, unique shopping and more than 15 art galleries. Other attractions include Idyllwild Park and Idyllwild Nature Center, which offer short hikes and picnic areas.

The mountains of Southwestern California become much more of a reality when visiting Mount San Jacinto State Park. They transform from being a distant scenic landscape to providing a unique and exciting RV experience. With its well-maintained campgrounds and several attractions, it provides a perfect side trip when visiting this region of the Golden State.  

For more information visit www.parks.ca.gov

Points to Consider when Visiting Mount San Jacinto State Park:

  • Always Check the Weather

Due to the high altitude, the weather can change from being very warm to very cool. If there has been rain or even snow in the forecast, the hiking trails can become wet and muddy. Ensure you wear appropriate outdoor gear and bring extra supplies. 

  • Check the Road Conditions

Remember, you’ll be driving at higher elevations and snow is possible depending on the time of year. Road closures are not uncommon and it’s best to contact the park for road conditions at (951) 659-2607.

  • Plan Your Time

The Palms to Pines Scenic Byway is not a trip to do in the dark. Aside from missing the beautiful scenery after night falls, the tight turns can be frightening, especially in sections without guard rails. 

Plan Your Trip 

  • Mount San Jacinto State Park

For more information about camping in the park visit www.parks.ca.gov/msjsp and reservations can be made at www.reservecalifornia.com. For up-to-date hiking and trail conditions browse to www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=30375

  • Palm Springs Aerial Tramway 

For hours and operation navigate to www.pstramway.com

  • Palms to Pines Scenic Byway

To learn about general information visit www.blm.gov/visit/palms-pines-scenic-byway and details about the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument can be found at  www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sbnf/about-forest/districts/?cid=fsbdev7_007801

  • Idyllwild

General Information: https://idyllwildvisitorscenter.com Idyllwild Park and Idyllwild Nature Center: www.rivcoparks.org/idyllwild-nature-center