The National Children’s Forest
This spectacular 3,400-acre area of forest is named for the trees planted there in the wake of the 1970 Bear Fire. Each one bears the name of a child and is part of some of the most beautiful backcountry in the San Bernardino Mountains.
The purpose of the Children’s Forest is to provide opportunities for youth to take a leadership role in forest management by giving them a legitimate voice in caring for our local mountains. Through formal education and volunteer programs, we aim to evoke a fascination with nature that engenders a commitment to lifelong learning and environmental stewardship.
This area includes individual and group campsites, two hiking trails, and Keller Peak Fire Lookout.
The Center will reopen for Summer 2024
Visitor Information Center
Address: 32573 Highway 18, Running Springs, CA 92333
Each year our programs have a positive impact on Public Lands
What We Have Done:
500
Acres of forest area beautifully restored and preserved.
2,060
Individuals explored the visitor center and the National Children’s Forest.
1,767
Volunteer hours generously given from people of all ages.
What’s Happening at the Children’s Forest
Forest Information
Stop by our Visitor Information Center, adjacent to Deerlick Fire Station on Highway 18 in Running Springs, one mile east of Highway 330 to get the latest information.
Great Seeds Restoration
Launched in 2005, the Children’s Forest Great Seeds Restoration Program restores sites disturbed or cleared by fire, bark beetle infestation, erosion, and human impacts.
History of the Children’s Forest
This spectacular area boasts some of the most beautiful backcountry in the San Bernardino Mountains, which includes chaparral, yellow pine forest, and lush riparian zones.
