
National Children's Forest
Escape to the National Children's Forest for crisp mountain air, stunning boulder summit views, and easy trails. Free camping available!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

National Children's Forest
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Escape to the National Children's Forest for crisp mountain air, stunning boulder summit views, and easy trails. Free camping available!
"The air feels so refreshing up here. The views of the rocks and water reservoir are very appealing and great for pictures."

🗺️ Download Offline Maps
GPS can be spotty. Download offline maps before you go to avoid getting lost on the winding mountain roads.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
While some paths have shade, many areas are exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sunny days.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Mountain Views
Summit of the boulders
Climb to the top of the boulders for breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding rocks and the water reservoir. Perfect for photos and quiet reflection.

Refreshing Mountain Air
Throughout the forest
Experience the crisp, clean mountain air that revitalizes the senses. A welcome escape from city pollution.

Exploring Intersecting Trails
Various paths
Wander through a network of easy-to-walk paths, some paved, offering opportunities for mild hikes and exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating to the Forest
Best Time for Refreshing Air
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
GPS can be spotty. Download offline maps before you go to avoid getting lost on the winding mountain roads.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
While some paths have shade, many areas are exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sunny days.
Running Springs: Keller Peak Hike / National Children's Forest [Date Hike]
Anyone know a good snow play area for kids?
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Easy paths are great for walking, but sturdy shoes are recommended for exploring the boulder areas.
📸 Camera Ready
The views of the rocks and reservoir are stunning and make for great photo opportunities.
The mountains are covered in snow! Where do you go for a short day trip of sledding with the kids?
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
GPS can be spotty. Download offline maps before you go to avoid getting lost on the winding mountain roads.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
While some paths have shade, many areas are exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sunny days.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Easy paths are great for walking, but sturdy shoes are recommended for exploring the boulder areas.
📸 Camera Ready
The views of the rocks and reservoir are stunning and make for great photo opportunities.
🏕️ Free Camping Available
Enjoy free, no-hookup camping if you plan to stay overnight. Check local regulations for details.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the National Children's Forest for its refreshing mountain air and appealing natural scenery, especially the panoramic views from the boulder summit. The easy, paved paths are a plus for accessibility, and the free camping is a great bonus. However, some find navigation challenging due to unreliable GPS and the visitor center's location, and a few note areas showing signs of disrepair or overgrowth.
"Easy to find and plenty of parking on asphalt lot. They do have restrooms as well but they are not always open. The air feels so refreshing up here. The views of the rocks and water reservoir are very appealing and great for pictures. There are other nearby trails too. Also free camping with no hookups."
The Ponderosa Running Springs
"I did this Trail on a weekday. The weather was amazing! 70F with sun! Perfect for a mild hike on the mountain!
I went off the main paved road after passing Camp #2 and reached the boulders and decided to climb to the top. For me it was a fun and easy climb to the top and you come to the amazing views all around.
I even took a little nap up top, relaxed and meditated for 10 minutes before heading back down. I was a little lost after coming down from the boulders but at the end I found my way back! There are good signals in the area of the park and that help a lot too.
It’s such a fun place to hike and explore up the mountain. Would go again definitely!"
Catherine
"Very difficult to find with navigation!! The visitor center was at the bottom of the mountain without clear indications of the actual site. We kept climbing and climbing to reach the site 2.8 mi up. The path had next to no shade but was paved asphalt so easy walking and would be possible for strollers or wheelchairs. Very few human encounters. Dogs are permissible with doo-doo clean up bags available."
Gail Kantz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Navigation can be challenging as GPS signals are unreliable in the mountains. Some visitors report the main visitor center is at the bottom of the mountain, not at the actual site. It's recommended to research directions beforehand, use offline maps, and look for landmarks.
The main paths within the forest are paved asphalt, making them easy to walk and potentially suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. However, the roads leading up to the forest can be winding mountain roads.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available on an asphalt lot, making it convenient for visitors.
Dogs are permissible in the National Children's Forest, but make sure to bring bags for cleanup.
The forest is located at a higher elevation in the mountains, offering cooler temperatures and refreshing air compared to lower elevations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The National Children's Forest is generally free to enter. However, some visitors mention the need for a California Wilderness Pass for certain areas or activities, so it's wise to check current requirements.
Specific operating hours are not always clearly defined, but it's generally accessible during daylight hours. Restrooms are available but may not always be open.
Reservations are typically not required for general day visits to the National Children's Forest. However, for camping, it's advisable to check for any specific regulations or permits.
Some visitors have noted the need for a CA Wilderness Pass. It's best to verify this requirement before your visit, especially if you plan on hiking specific trails or engaging in certain activities.
While parking is good, some facilities like restrooms may not always be open. Some areas might show signs of disrepair or overgrowth, as noted by past visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The forest offers easy paths, some paved, and intersecting trails. A popular activity is climbing the boulders to reach the summit for amazing views. Be mindful of getting sidetracked due to high bushes and intersecting trails.
Expect appealing views of the surrounding rocks and the water reservoir. The summit offers panoramic vistas, making it a great spot for photography and relaxation.
The easy paths can be good for families, and the refreshing air is a plus. However, some areas might be overgrown, and navigation can be a challenge.
Yes, free camping is available with no hookups. It's a great option for those looking for a rustic outdoor experience.
Some visitors have reported good cell signals in certain areas of the park, which can be helpful for navigation or staying connected.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of the boulders offers incredible panoramic views of the rocks and reservoir, making it a prime photography location. The natural scenery throughout the forest also provides ample opportunities.
Landscape photography is ideal, capturing the expansive mountain views and the unique rock formations. The refreshing air and natural beauty also lend themselves to serene nature shots.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light for photography. Weekday visits will also mean fewer people in your shots.
A wide-angle lens would be great for capturing the panoramic views. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll likely be taking many photos.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with the local forest service or park authorities for any restrictions on drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
Key takeaway: While some trails are straightforward, others require more attention to navigation. Always have a map or a downloaded offline map. The mix of paved paths and natural boulder formations provides diverse exploration opportunities. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, especially if you plan to venture off the main paths or climb the boulders.
Experiencing the Natural Beauty
The natural beauty here is a significant draw, offering a peaceful retreat. Whether you're taking a mild hike on the easy paths or enjoying a quiet moment at the summit, the natural environment is designed to be restorative. Even the possibility of taking a nap at the top, as one reviewer mentioned, highlights the serene and tranquil atmosphere.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit