Council Overview

The Council Campground is a large group campground in the San Bernardino National Forest. The site can accommodate up to 50 people and 13 vehicles. The site allows for tent and RV camping. Pine trees surround the site providing plenty of shade. You may bring your pets as well. Also, a campground host is available at nearby Barton Flats Campground. They can help you with check-in assistance and can answer questions regarding the area. Bears frequent the area so it is important to follow trash disposal and food storage regulations.

Amenities at the campground include tables, campfire rings, and grills. Larger campfire rings are also available. In addition, vault toilets and potable water are available. Also, the closest RV dump station is at Barton Flats Campground (0.5mi east). If Barton Flats is unavailable, the next closest dump station is Serrano Campground near Big Bear Lake (27mi north). The campground is open from late March until late October.

Council – Area Recreation & Activities

The campground provides access to the famed Santa Ana River Trail. This trail has spectacular views. It leads all the way from the mountains to the pacific ocean. It is popular with hikers, bikers and horseback riders. The Rio Monte Trail is also accessible from the campground. This trail leads to the Rio Monte Panorama. It overlooks the deep gorge of the Santa Ana River Valley. You can also take a trip to the nearby Jenks Lake. The lake offers a great opportunity for fishing and non-motorized boating. Rainbow trout, largemouth bass, as well as catfish are just a few kinds of fish you can catch. Council is a short 40 minute drive to Big Bear Lake. The town of Big Bear offers plenty to do and see and is beautiful year-round.

The Greyback Amphitheater on State Route 38 also provides evening educational programs. They host these on most Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer months. Programs are hosted by the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association. The programs pertain to the area’s background and rich history.

Other campground you might like are Serrano, Black Rock Equestrian, and Ryan.

The San Gorgonio Wilderness Association provides great information about the area and programs.

Make a Reservation for Council

Amenities

• Amphitheater
• BBQ Grills
• Campground Host
• Campsite Tables
• Cell Service - Good
• Drinking Water
• Equestrian trail
• Fire Pit
• Fire Rings
• Grills
• Hiking & Biking Trails
• Pets OK
• Picnic Tables
• RV Dump Station

Activities

• Backpacking
• Biking
• Bird Watching
• Canoeing
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Horseback riding
• Mountain Biking
• Nature Programs
• Nature Trails
• Photography
• Picnicking
• Stargazing
• Swimming
• Wildlife Viewing