Forest camping near Potrero

Discover and reserve the best campgrounds, cabins, RV parks, and more.

97% (777 reviews)
97% (777 reviews)

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12 top forest campgrounds near Potrero

95%
(186)

San Diego Mountain Lodge

43 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Santa Ysabel, CA
San Diego Mountain Lodge is a beautiful escape to nature sprawled out over about 40 acres on a breathtaking spot that we call Hideout Mountain in Santa Ysabel, CA. Multiple experiences are offered: -- glamping in our vintage camper trailers, -- RV sites with full hookups and incredible views of Lake Henshaw -- campsites, -- luxury camping in our remodeled cabins (studio, 1br, and 2br cabins) each with different amenities ranging from full kitchens, wood burning fireplaces, large outdoor decks and private fire pits. Gather and share ideas with fellow guests at our community firepit and picnic tables. What makes Hideout Mountain a magical place? #1 on the list are the stunning views as far as the eye can see of Lake Henshaw and the valley and surrounding mountains. We also have a one-of-a-kind, world renowned restaurant and bar on the property: Josie's Hideout Saloon, open on weekends with live music. We are located just a few minutes drive away from downtown Santa Ysabel and Julian, with easy access off Hwy 76.
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$29
 / night
98%
(23)

Dutchman Canyon

7 sites · Lodging, Tents150 acres · Dulzura, CA
This 150 acre slice of heaven contains an isolated private ephemeral stream that has run the last two years from January to July. Located down a narrow bumpy dirt road off of Highway 94 Dutchman Canyon is at 1300 feet above sea level, The temperature in Dulzura remains nice year round. There are many Oaks, Sycamores, Eucylptus, Pepper and Pine Trees on the property. The fire road has been cleared to the top of the grade and a slight ocean view is available down the Otay Valley Road view line for hikers or mountain bike enthusiasts. A hiking trail has also been cleared to a stand of Eucylptus trees on the hillside with a pond area at their base on the west facing slope. The Dulzura winery is located across the valley and we are only 1/8 mile from the General Store of Dulzura. The Tecate Border crossing to Mexico is 10 miles south of the property. Located a few miles west of Deer Valley we have deer in the canyon year round looking for fresh water from the ephemeral stream. A 19th century concrete cistern holds water year round at one location in the stream bed.
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$35
 / night
92%
(175)

The Crest Co-Op

3 sites · RVs1 acre · Spring Valley, CA
Hi! We look forward to the opportunity of hosting you! Please make sure you read this entire section to ensure a mutual fit. Please also make sure that you message us the type and length of your vehicle/camper/RV when sending a booking request. People that stay with us love our views. The view from our large driveway where you'll be parked faces north where you will see the 3 largest peaks in the region, and at the top of our driveway you can see the ocean and downtown San Diego. The sunsets are unreal! Our guests also love the recommendations. As avid travelers that fell in love with San Diego, we can offer recommendations for the best restaurants for any dietary situation, beaches, breweries, bars, surf spots, distilleries, coffee shops, hikes, or whatever you are into. When you submit a request or message, please let us know what kind of vehicle you have, especially the length. Please note that if the total length of your vehicle (for those with trailers that includes the length of the truck nad hitch) should be under 33 ft. This is a general guideline since we've found some people with larger vehicles struggle to turn around in our driveway. Also please let us know if you plan to use electricity or water, and add on the electricity since this costs us a lot of money. San Diego Gas and Energy charges the most for energy than anywhere else in the country (our average electricity bill is over $700 per month) so we unfortunately have to pass on some of these costs if you decide to plug in. Wifi and water are free. Last, if you tell us a little about yourself and what you're looking to do in San Diego we can try to make your stay more enjoyable with conversation and recommendations. A little about us: After spending a few years traveling around the world (mostly in a 20ft converted sprinter campervan) and working remotely, we chose San Diego to settle down and start a family. Our house is a fixer-upper with about an acre of land. We recently added a garden, citrus trees, grill, patio, and plan to add more amenities for campers. We love our home and the land around it, and we hope you do too! We are open to both short-term and long-term stays. We thank you for sharing our space that we call the Crest Co-op, and we thank you for contributing to our never-ending-projects-fund.
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$40
 / night
94%
(246)

San Diego Canyon Creek

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · El Cajon, CA
Try out camping without having to rough-it! You can rent the Honeycomb Cabin! Or swing through for a safe place to spend the night in your van, or tent, while taking advantage of San Diego and all it has to offer! So much to be seen or done within 30 miles! You can plan a visit to the World Famous San Diego Zoo, Museums, Sea World, Birch Aquarium, Safari Park, Lego Land and more! San Diego county has wine tasting, breweries, theaters and eateries of all kinds. There are several beaches, mountain lakes, and even the deserts! You can skydive, or scuba dive, go deep sea fishing, or lake fishing, mountain biking, hiking, climbing, or walking the boardwalk! San Diego Canyon Creek is a small patch of woods, near a road, in a neighborhood. We are surrounded by rocky peaks, with a creek that most often runs year round! We have multiple species of song birds, owls, hawks, and other wildlife that live in this Riparian Habitat, with a chorus of frogs throughout the summer nights. It's a very short walk to the neighborhood park- equipped with several types of playground equipment and public creek access, or a five minute drive to a Crestridge Ecological Reserve containing multiple trails. We have three campsites and a cabin on about an acre of land. If you'd like to hang out on the property, we offer a table and chairs with each campsite to lounge in while enjoying the fresh air and nature. There are also a couple of hammocks available. In addition, our SHARED amenities include an outdoor kitchen that includes a sink with hot water, 2 mini fridges,(full at times, extra coolers available) coffee maker, a two burner stove, a griddle, a toaster oven, blender, tea kettle, and a few pans, plates, bowls, cups, and utensils. Also here to SHARE is a Propane fire pit and BBQ area. The bathroom now includes a flush toilet, sink and shower. We are continuously making improvements. Fun Fact: Harbison Canyon was named after John Stewart Harbison - aka the King of the Bee Keepers. He arrived with over one hundred colonies of bees in 1874 and within 7 years he became the world's largest honey producer! Today there are just a few bees in the area.
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$45
 / night
97%
(218)

Stallion Oaks Ranch (Retreat)

18 sites · Lodging, Tents243 acres · Descanso, CA
In 2003, the Grosvenor Family Foundation donated the 238-acre retreat property located in Descanso to The Unity Center. Much of the land, including more than 12 structures were destroyed during the Cedar Fires in October of 2003. In the years since the fire, members of our community have lovingly tended to the land and slowly nurtured the trees and flowers. The result is acres of pristine wilderness, with hiking trails, a small lake and even a hill of daffodils that bloom every Spring.Our vision is to create a world-class retreat center and campground that promotes spiritual renewal and personal growth in a natural setting, by providing a location for education, inner reflection, positive recreation and acceptance. The Ranch is owned by The Unity Center, a progressive spiritual community that emphasizes living consciously and making a positive difference in the world. This is a sacred and special place . So whether you're planning a retreat, a wedding or a special event, we hope you'll come away from the Ranch feeling renewed.
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$35
 / night
100%
(3)

Manzanita Hill

3 sites · Lodging, Tents8 acres · Julian, CA
The perfect blend of a relaxing mountain getaway with access to nearby local attractions and restaurants! Manzanita Hill offers private camping with proximity to tourist and recreational opportunities. Located on over 8 acres of mountain woodlands, Manzanita Hill boasts of spectacular views of the Spencer Valley and the hills of nearby Santa Ysabel Preserve East. Local events to come up for in Fall 2024: - The Perseids - great summer meteor shower viewing in August. Check out the Julian Dark Sky Network for info on the August 10th Dark Sky Party at Inspiration Point. - Julian Grape Stomp - Menghini Winery - September 7, 11 am - 5 pm https://visitjulian.com/to-see-do/special-events/grape-stomp/ - Julian Natural Wonderfest - Menghini Winery - October 26, 2 - 11 pm - Volcan Mountain Foundation events - https://www.volcanmt.org/ Manzanita Hill is just: - a five minute drive to antique shops, cideries, farm stand, bakeries and restaurants at Wynola Junction. - 10 minutes from historic Julian township, an old gold mining town. - A scenic 10 minute drive up Wynola Road to the Volcan Mountain Preserve trailhead, Menghini Winery, and apple orchards. - 15-20 minutes to Santa Ysabel for Julian Pie Company, Dudleya Bakery, Santa Ysabel art gallery, access to Sant Ysabel Preserve and Interpretive Center, and more! Manzanita Hill Homestead, an early 20th century structure is under going a revival to modern homestead and community space. The surrounding woodlands are receiving some TLC in the form of habitat restoration with an emphasis on forest health and wildfire prevention. There is one adventure trail onsite and a community fire pit (allowed during winter and spring, when high winds are not forecast).
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$51
 / night
99%
(84)

Manzanita Village Retreat

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Warner Springs, CA
We are co-founders of Ordinary Dharma and Five Changes, and stewards of this land at Manzanita Village Retreat. Thirty years ago we were searching for a place where the land itself would be an active support in our of work facilitating workshops and retreats. We were looking for land that was within easy reach of San Diego and Los Angeles, while still being remote and far from the noise of highways. The land is infused with the presence of the thousands of people who have come here for transformation and renewal. We are now open to visitors from HipCamp -- we look forward to your visit Caitriona Reed and Michele Benzamin-Miki
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$80
 / night

Rancho Hermes

4 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Jamul, CA
Private ranch nestled in the hills of Dulzura. Minutes from wineries, Mexico, Jamul casino and more. Trails on and off property. Livestock on property (goats, pig, pony and dog). Stargazing at night. Use of pool included in the summer. 40 acres available for tent, van, or RV camping. Off grid only. Must be fully contained. Perfect for weekend getaway or even just a night.
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$24
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99%
(129)

Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry

6 sites · Lodging1 acre · Mount Laguna, CA
Alter Experiences LLC is a glamping & nature travel company based out of San Diego, CA. We're dedicated to creating meaningful experiences in nature & getting people outdoors. Our glamping sites are located in the Cleveland National Forest - Mount Laguna, CA. Our plush tents are nestled in the high mountain forests of San Diego's backcountry - sky islands where pristine nature & wild-life thrives. These are some of the most remote & biologically diverse habitats in all of Southern California. Our sites are handpicked to offer you a truly nature immersive experience. We strive to create the most comfortable outdoor experiences, even at our most remote locations. We take all that's fun about traditional camping & combine it with modern comfort & state of the art equipment. We offer various accommodation styles depending on location. Our Tentsile tree tents are definitely the most popular - a lightweight tree house that uses 3 anchor points to create a "living space" suspended between trees. Our elevated tree tents bring a whole new dimension to camping. Our plush & cozy bell tent was designed with the ultimate comfort in mind! It feature all the amenities you can expect at a hotel - therapeutic mattress, buddy heater, quality linens and more. The provided kitchen comes fully outfitted with everything you need including; hot chocolate, tea, spices and multiple cooking tops. All you need to bring is your cooler and food! Open fires are allowed (weather permitting) and bundles of wood are sold at $8. There are a network of trails to explore nearby, as well as Lake Cuyamaca and the historic town of Julian. You can choose from various restaurants, breweries wineries and we also have two hard cider locations, as well as various other attractions and activities. We also offer mountain bike rentals right from the campsite. Glamp with us and discover all the beautiful and natural wonders of our San Diego Backcountry.
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$112.50
 / night
99%
(40)

Old well ranch

5 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Jamul, CA
I’m at 2300’ on north side of Lyons peak I have sweet tasting water very quiet and at the end of the road about an 1/8 mi off Lyons valley road there’s is a nice country store since 1940 many people visit store as a destination on any weekends bicycles,Harley’s classic cars I’m a cook I serve bbq Mex food American food or you can cook over open fire store has everything thing you desire there’s Julian for pie , lake cuyamaca , hiking best area for camping or extended stay to see all of San Diego and Mexico Baja theres a shower bath room and very clean area super quiet you will love your stay firewood for campfires is included so you will make great memories of your stay campsites are improving as time goes on to make you camping experience great
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$55
 / night
83%
(3)

Dark Sky Wilderness Retreat

4 sites · Lodging, Tents86 acres · Borrego Springs, CA
Nestled within an ancient ironwood forest with some of the best wildflower viewing around, you'll find the Borrego Institute for Living Design, a non-profit dedicated to "rehabilitating feral humans for reintroduction to the wild," with an emphasis on climate resilience and "biocultural renewal"––reconnecting people and place through hands-on naturalist practices like tracking, observation and listening, plein air arts, Biomimicry innovation and discovery, ethnobotanical cultivation, harvesting, renewal, and arts, "living archeology" fieldwork and trainings, and good old campfire stories. We call it The BILD. Once the home of Gale Gordon, producer of The Lucy Show and a dear friend of Lucille Ball, noted Hollywood figure and former Borrego Springs mayor, the house and grounds retain their rustic Hollywood charm. We offer two 3 bed suites for retreats, guests, and short creative residencies, shared Infrared sauna and communal kitchen, with extensive grounds and incredible cactus garden. A photographers' delight! Campers will discover their own classic Springbar-style canvas glamping tent with Memory Foam queen size mattress. Nature-lovers, artists, and creatives of all kinds will enjoy endless inspiration, glorious birdsong, beautiful wanderings, and incredible sunrises in this unique place. Enjoy birdwatching or artistic pursuits in deep solitude and silence under the Milky Way. It's like having your own State Park, minutes from the amenities of Borrego Springs, yet worlds away. We offer two spacious Kodiak canvas tent-cabins for you, 10x10 and 10x14, with complete 4 wall ventilation as desired. Each has one Queen and we are happy to add an additional mattress or cot for you for maximum occupancy 4 persons. We also offer two car camping sites among the ironwoods––protected from wind and sun, with unbeatable views. The campground offers Insta-worthy campfire chairs and bistro table dining, enchanted solar lighting, a gas BBQ, grill and campfire. Communal kitchen prep area. Easy access outdoor bathroom with privacy and eco-friendly toilet. Water and electricity accessible (no hookups). Are you an artist, naturalist, tracker, researcher, or Indigenous biocultural practitioner? We are happy to accommodate special requests for spaces to draw, paint, do research, conduct Indigenous biocultural practice etc. How can we help you grow and support your connection to place? Find out what we do by visiting BorregoInstituteforLivingDesign.org or TEEMLab.com. Please note: this is a remote wilderness area, home to much wildlife, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, bobcats, even mountain lions and rattlesnakes (though we haven't see either of those), and a great deal of fascinating (but prickly) cactus. It is not suitable for pets, and young children should be closely supervised. Bring good shoes, drink lots of water, and stay out of direct sun.
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$63.75
 / night
25%
(4)

DeerSprings Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · San Marcos, CA
This campsite has stunning mountain vistas and offers convenient accessibility from the 15 Freeway, a mere three-minute drive away. Its forested ambiance exudes an abundance of joy and happiness, and it is situated in close proximity to San Diego's beaches, wineries, horseback riding, yoga, trekking, cycling, zoos, and other attractions. Highly secure and safe, ensuring round-the-clock access. The serene experience of driving along Deer Springs Road, nestled between two mountains, is a truly relaxing experience, with easy access to a variety of culinary and other amenities.
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$49
 / night

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Forest camping near Potrero guide

Overview

If you're looking for a camping experience near Potrero, California, Hipcamp has over 777 options to choose from. With a starting price as low as $15 per night and an average price of $60 per night, there's something for every budget. Check out some of the top campsites like Down-to-Earth Ecoshire with 552 reviews, Splitrock Farm and Retreat with 320 reviews, and THE PRESERVE with 274 reviews. Popular amenities include potable water, trash facilities, and cooking equipment. If you're into biking, swimming, or surfing, you'll find plenty of opportunities for those activities as well. Start planning your camping adventure today!

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