Recreation area

Palms to Pines Scenic Byway

San Bernardino National Forest · California — managed by USDA Forest Service

Open recreation area — no reservation needed

About this campground

This 67-mile route will take you from Palm Desert past snow-peaked mountains to Banning Pass. Palms to Pines Scenic Byway offers a full variety of ecosystems in the Lower Sonoran region. From clusters of desert palms to high country conifer forests and snow-capped mountains, experience a contrast of ecosystems within a short distance. Admire fantastic views of the urbanized valley floor below, craggy mountains, and the San Gorgonio Wilderness area to the north on the Banning Pass section of the byway.  Start on Hwy 74 south of Palm Desert or at the other end on Hwy 243 south of Banning.

Activities

  • AUTO TOURING

Explore more California camping

Palms to Pines Scenic Byway doesn't take campsite reservations — but plenty of nearby California campgrounds do, and we'll alert you the moment a sold-out site opens up.

Browse California camping →

Details from Recreation.gov's official RIDB catalog. Conditions change — confirm with the managing office before you go. Not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.