Whiteside Mountain

100%

269 reviews

· Jamul, San Diego, California · 160 acres

Hosted by Steve W.

Tent site

· 6 guests max

Amazing views

Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.

Staff verified

Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.

Off-leash friendly

Pets can be off-leash at this Hipcamp.

All to yourself

100% of recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp felt private.

160 acres of wild and private land at the top of a mountain. Bouldering, exploring, outdoor cold water shower, well drinking water, and pergola! 45 minutes from downtown San Diego and beaches but a whole different world! A single camp spot on the top of a mountain surrounded by 160 acres of no one else! Requires 4WD/high clearance AWD road to camp spot. Plenty of shade at spot with picnic area that is covered. Drinking water, sink and outdoor cold water shower. Bouldering (climbing), fire pit (seasonal), covered deck, hiking and VIEWS! Plenty of room and separate camp spots- lock the gate and you will have no visitors or onlookers. Single outdoor flush toilet with sink. We provide a Propane stove - 2 burner, propane, toilet paper, dish soap and hand soap. No COTS. Guests love it here "This was finally checked off of my saved list—my partner and I rented a 4x4 to get up there since our 2WD car wouldn't have made it in one piece. It was only a short drive from downtown San Diego and was super easy to navigate. Once we arrived the experience was TRULY MAGICAL. We had such an awesome experience exploring the property, birdwatching, hiking and some light climbing. Don't forget to check out the cave! The facilities were beyond expectations and we had a seamless experience. Steve was super accommodating and was great at communicating—he even gave us a small tour of the property! The sunsets and sunrises here were something out of a dream, we wish we could wake up every morning here. We will definitely be coming back soon!"A single camp spot on the top of a mountain surrounded by 160 acres of no one else! Requires 4WD/high clearance AWD road to camp spot. Plenty of shade at spot with picnic area that is covered. Drinking water, sink and outdoor cold water shower. Bouldering (climbing), fire pit (seasonal), covered deck, hiking and VIEWS! Plenty of room and separate camp spots- lock the gate and you will have no visitors or on lookers. Single outdoor flush toilet with sink. We provide a Propane stove - 2 burner, propane, toilet paper, dish soap and hand soap. No COTS.

What to expect

Tent site

You'll have this Hipcamp all to yourself.

6 guests max

Campfires allowed

Firepit, private. Fire ring provided however seasonal fires allowed only. Fires at your own risk!

Toilet available

Flush toilet. Toilet with a view!

Pets allowed

Off leash. Plenty of room to roam!

Showers available

Cold water only. Cold water outdoor shower. The sun heats the water to a warm temperature in the daylight hours.

Picnic table present

Wifi available

Most of the time excellent wifi. If you care.

No potable water

Bring your own water, purify from spigot. The water comes out of the ground potable but sits in a large tank. Over time the water gets an algae growth. Fine for bathing and washing dishes but not great to drink. I would bring water jugs for drinking.

Pack it out

Cooking equipment absent

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: After 2:00 PM

Check out: Before 12:00 PM

On arrival: Head straight to site

Cancellation policy: Super Strict

Minimum nights: 3 nights

Accepts bookings: 12 months out

Park at listing

No wheelchair access

Max 3 vehicles

4WD required

During your trip

Follow the

Leave it better

Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.

Reviews

100% Recommend369 ratings · 269 reviews

Whiteside Mountain is a favorite escape for those who love combining nature with comfort. Visitors consistently praise the unique balance of seclusion and modern amenities, making it feel both remote and convenient. The drive up is challenging, requiring a high-clearance 4WD, but most agree it's worth the effort for the incredible views, sunsets, and thoughtful amenities like a flushing toilet and running water. Steve, the host, is often commended for his responsiveness and the meticulous care put into enhancing the camping experience.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Carl E.

16 reviews

Recommends

· February 2025

Whiteside Paradise

Tent

As the sun sinks into the Pacific, its rays shimmering against Otay Mesa Lake, a chorus of coyotes howls as daylight fades, revealing the lights of bustling San Diego and its surrounding communities. I couldn’t help but be awestruck that one of the nation’s largest cities is a mere forty minutes away. After four months recovering from an injury and surgery complications, I wasn’t ready for full-on camping, but I needed to get out. Steve’s place struck the perfect balance between glamping and camping. The site has a lean-to with an amazing view, plus a platform for a tent, a picnic table, counter, sink with running water, and a propane stove. Electricity is also available. The bathroom—with a toilet and a view—is just steps away. Speaking of toilets, Steve is responsive. When I asked, “Can I flush toilet paper?”, he quickly replied, “Yes.” There’s plenty to do at Whiteside Mountain. I forgot to check out the cave but enjoyed exploring the mountaintop and finding the bridge. Trails weave through the property for hiking and short but tough bike rides. The road up isn’t for the faint of heart or low-clearance vehicles. A high-clearance 4WD is a must. I’ve seen rough roads, and this last stretch isn’t easy. With three fire pits, a water hose, and a fire extinguisher, safety is covered. There’s even a fire bunker. Hopefully, no one ever needs it, but it’s a thoughtful touch. If you can’t tell, I had an 11/10 experience at Whiteside Mountain and highly recommend it. Thanks SW!

Makenna M.

2 reviews

Recommends

· January 2025

Tent · Group trip

Welp, the reviews are true- this place is heaven on earth. Woke up above the clouds to the most beautiful sunrises, explored the cave, stargazed & had an incredible time. Oh! Totally worth the 3 day minimum because you have time to really soak in the experience. So nice to feel out in nature with all the basic amenities- bathroom, kitchen and even a shed to sleep in! 10/10 recommend

James K.

10 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2024

The ultimate spot

Tent · Group trip

This is easily one of the most beautiful camping spots we've ever had the pleasure of staying in. The drive up to the spot is a bumpy one but well worth the trip. Friendly and helpful host. A great escape from the city.

Brad T.

8 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2024

Tent

This was an amazing experience! We are already looking forward to coming here again.

Rhianna R.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2024

Tent · With kids

This is an epic camping spot! Can't wait to come back soon!

Vlad N.

2 reviews

Recommends

· August 2024

Tent · Group trip

It my third time staying at the property. It is fantastic place. Close to San Diego, but it feels far away. Steve built structures that make staying there so much more comfortable. I will be back.

Location

Jamul, San Diego, California, United StatesTraditional, ancestral territory of Kumeyaay/Kumiais First Nations according to

Native Land Digital.

To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking