Marion Mountain

In the San Bernardino Forest, way up at 6,400 feet on Mount San Jacinto, you'll find Marion Mountain Campground. This small facility is nestled in the woods of this state park and offers a great home base for people and their pooches looking to explore the mountain and its surrounding areas. 

The grounds are not large, only offering 24 campsites, 17 of which are reservable as far as 6 months in advance. Staying at Marion Mountain won't break your bank, as sites only cost $10 each. The lots come with a campfire ring and a picnic table, but no bear box as sightings here are extremely rare. Permits are not required for staying at the grounds, but some of the nearby trails do either require or recommend permits to enter, so definitely verify this before heading out for a day of hiking! There is no dump station here, and trailers over 17 feet may not fit in the sites, meaning it is more suited for tents and small campers. 

An obvious draw to this campground over the other four that surround the mountain is its proximity to Marion Mountain Trail, which takes hikers up to the summit of the mountain. Keep in mind that if you are wanting to make this trek, you'll have to arrange for someone back at the camp to watch your pooch as canines are not permitted on this trail. There are many other trails that do accommodate our furry friends, however, so be sure to check those out! At San Jacinto, there is also excellent rock climbing, OHV trails, and mountain biking, so you will have lots to keep busy with if you opt out of the Marion Mountain hike.

As we already mentioned, doggos are allowed in the campground, provided they are always kept on-leash. While bears do not frequent the area, coyotes and bobcats do, so it's best to keep your pupper out of harm's way. Also, be a good pet parent and always clean up after your fur-baby's bathroom breaks to ensure dogs stay welcome here for a long time to come. 

If wild mountain adventures are your (and your pup's) forte, definitely add Marion Mountain Campground to your list of must-see areas.