El Cariso Campground

Biking

Your leg muscles are straining as you pedal hard, fighting against gravity. You’re winding through oak trees and chaparral at impressive elevations. It’s just you, the trail, and the drive to keep going. If this sounds good to you, you’ll be interested in the many mountain biking opportunities in the Cleveland National Forest. With multiple mountain ranges to explore (Santa Ana, Cuyamaca, and Palomar) and dozens of trails, you and your bike will have plenty of roamin’ room. Check out your trail options here. For the best views, we would recommend the Santiago Trail! For some more trail info, check this out. Once you find a route you like, grab your bike and get out there! We’ll be right behind you.

Fishing

The Loveland Reservoir is THE fisher(wo)man’s spot in Cleveland National Forest. You can chill with catfish, bluegill, and red-eared sunfish. Hang out by the water, in the shade of towering oak trees, and meet some fellow fishing aficionados. Check out the Reservoir brochure for more fishing info. Then head out there and cast your line!

Hiking

With 460,000 acres, of course there are plenty of hiking trails here. Seriously, we’re talkin’ 356 miles of trails in total. With so many options, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or a well-seasoned pro. To plan your hikes, check out trail info here. For a more challenging, but spectacularly scenic hike past some waterfalls, we would recommend the Three Sisters Waterfall Trail. Cooler months are best; summer hikes through chaparral can be scorching. So plan accordingly, then get out there and start exploring!

Horseback riding

Horse-lovers rejoice! We have trails upon trails for you and your four-legged homeboy/girl. Check out all your horseback riding options here. Riding is also permitted on any forest road so feel free to roam!

Off-roading (OHV)

Do you find yourself getting agitated by those pesky white and yellow lines? By red and green lights, stop signs, and the like? Do you yearn for wide open space where you can roam with your vehicle? Look no further. Cleveland National Forest has plenty of off-roading options to set you free from your traffic-rage. You’ve got options for OHV camping with the Wildomar OHV Area, options for open area riding with the Corral Canyon OHV Trails. And even more options for trail riding, which you can check out here. So get out there and roam freely. The forest is your playground.

Climbing

Consider yourself a climber or just lookin’ to try it out? Either way, some pretty awesome rock climbing is to be had here, especially in Ortega Falls. Check out bouldering routes like this one and of course play around and make your own climbin’ routes.

Snow sports

Longing for a winter getaway in SoCal? We’ve got you covered. Grab your sleds, your tubes, your snowman-building materials, and that wicked snowball-throwing rocket of an arm and head out to the Laguna Mountain Play Area. If you think you don’t like the cold, this just might change your mind.

Swimming

With flowing waterfalls throughout the forest, there are a bunch o’ different swimming holes for you to splash around in. Cedar Creek Falls is a popular swimmin’ spot, along with Three Sisters Waterfalls. Be sure to check water levels before you head out. Some waterfalls can dry out in the hot summer months.

Wildlife watching

With 460,000 acres, many different critters call this place home. From mountain lions, to mule deer, bats, and grey foxes, this place is bustin’ with mammals. And birdwatching fans, boy will you have your eyes full. Of wonder. Feast those eyeballs on stellar’s jays, bald eagles, purple finches, the list goes on. If you head on in spring or early summer, keep your wonderful eyes peeled for wildflowers.