Camping near Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

90% (53 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Cuyamaca Rancho State Park adventure.

Summit peaks, visit waterfalls, and beat the SoCal heat at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Granite Springs Trail Group Camp

In Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Merigan MAU Volunteer Camp

In Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Mickey James Volunteer Camp

In Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

The Azalea Glen loop trail will take you through the forest that was ravaged by the Cedar Fire of 2003.

96%

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Paso Picacho Campground

170 sites · RVs, Tents In Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

83%

(6)

Green Valley Campground

57 sites · RVs, Tents In Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

100%

(5)

Arroyo Seco Environmental Camp

In Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Los Vaqueros Group Horse Camp

In Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

94%

(8)

Green Valley Horse Camp

In Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

50%

(5)

Group Camp

In Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

83%

(3)

Granite Springs Environmental Camp

In Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

North MAU Volunteer Camp

In Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Cedar Grove Volunteer Camp

1 site In Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

from

$30

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

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San Diego Mountain Lodge

48 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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(1067)

Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents67 acres · Palomar Mountain, CA

This land has been a community gathering space for the Native's Ceremony and Healing Space for over a thousand years. Feast your eyes upon the Matates and traces of the people that once gathered here so long ago.Upon the mid 1800's we had a Settler named Nate Harrison find this to be the ideal space, and he set up homestead here, and lived an amazing full life. He was to become the first African American to aquire land here in San Diego County, and his homestead remains to this day; studied by archaeology students to this day.Sensitive habitat and magic lies within our gates, and we must approach the mountain as we would any sacred space; with RESPECT.We welcome you to enjoy Nate's land and inspire who you are deep inside your heart.

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(401)

Campo Nopalito

7 sites · Lodging15 acres · Valley Center, CA

Welcome to Nopalito Farm! We’re so happy you’ve decided to spend some time on this beautiful property! In case you’re interested, here are a few interesting things about our farm. Nopalito Farm has been in operation since late 2014, but the property itself has been a working farm for over 50 years. Lemons and avocados were the primary crops from the 70’s through the 00’s, and are still prominent throughout our 15 acres. Our predecessors then diversified the growing operation by planting a wide range of fruit trees ranging from guavas and passion fruit to peaches and figs. For a decade, hops were grown on 2 acres and were sold to breweries throughout southern California. We’ve since replaced the hop yard with perennial flowers, but continue to cultivate a wide variety of delicious fruits.

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Cottonwood Creek Camp

7 sites · Lodging, RVs2 acres · Temecula, CA

For more than a decade, John and Kim looked for a place within Temecula Wine Country that could be their forever home. When they saw this lush, hilltop property with they knew it was right. But what to do with the separate lower area, bordered by a seasonal stream lined by cottonwoods and big leaf maples? Cottonwood Creek Camp was the answer. Located in the heart of Temecula Valley Wine Country, you'll be minutes away from 50 wineries. Situated down a quiet rural lane, and secluded by lush California pepper trees, your glamping spot is an ideal getaway for wine lovers who prefer to get away from the city hustle. The camp area has seven spots that can be occupied by other glampers, and has a common use firepit with Adirondack chairs for those who want to compare notes about their wine tasting adventures. Plenty of onsite parking. In the morning, grab your coffee and step outside to watch the hot air balloons drift overhead. During the day, sample local vino from the 50 nearby wineries. In the evening, nosh at one of the great restaurants in Old Town Temecula, and then return to camp for sunset views and fireside relaxation. You should know that there are two free-roaming Blue Heelers who live on the 5-acre property and make regular visits to the camp area. Visiting dogs that socialize well with other dogs are welcome by us and by Molly and Taz as well, but please be honest with yourself and us about your dog's temperament, and book elsewhere if there is ANY chance of canine conflict with our very energetic pups. Also, Molly does not trust very small children (we think there was an incident), so if you have small children, we ask that you keep them from interacting with our Heelers.

94%

(258)

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. In the midst of the trees we have a great view of the stars at night. Harbison Canyon is surrounded by rocky peaks, with a creek! We have multiple species of song birds, owls, hawks, and other wildlife that live in this Riparian Habitat. There is a chorus of frogs throughout the spring nights, and crickets year round! 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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Granite Mountain

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Aguanga, CA

A serene off grid escape where rugged beauty meets modern comfort. Here, snuggled deep into towering mountain peaks and expansive vistas, you’ll find tranquility like never before. Disconnect from the chaos of everyday life and reconnect with your inner peace as you bask in the raw calm beauty surrounding you. With breathtaking captivating views that seem to stretch endlessly, every moment promises serenity and rejuvenation. Welcome to your peaceful mountain sanctuary

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(409)

Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Jacumba Hot Spring, CA

Sagewinds Farm is the first certified organic white sage farm in the world. Located in the high desert of San Diego county, between 3500 feet and 3800 ft. this beautiful 40 acres features caves, massive boulders to climb, views, flat land and privacy. At night the stars are magnificent and the milky way is visible...there are meteor showers several times a year. Permanent residents in the barn are the 2 mini horses to visit and four wonderful dogs. The nights are always cool and usually below 60% so be prepared to sleep well . There are visiting animals that past thru and could include, coyotes, bobcats, Coatis, foxes, rabbits, quail, hawks and mountain lions. There are also some snake and lizards. We do have rattlesnakes. To make up for the rattlers we offer two flush toilets! Camp on the healthy, beautiful and first Certified Organic White Sage Farm in the World. The place to heal from pandemics. Beautiful high desert,(3500') with boulders, boulder mountains, caves and views. Rolling southern California terrain, home to all kinds of birds and wild life. Camp on top of the mountain, or camp in a cave or anywhere in between. See the Milky way on most nights, all have incredible stars. 40 acres. Visit our the little town of Jacumba Hot springs down the road. Exciting things are happening there. The Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel, really good food, organic produce, and of course the Water! Weekend music events at the Hotel or the The Old Bathhouse where you listen under the most incredible stars. Bazaar at the Bathouse the first Saturday of the month. This is the prettiest property in east county! And the healthiest! It is a White Sage farm. This is the old west! Come in the spring for the wild flowers on the land. Come for the dark skies. Come for the very occasional snow. Most definitely come for all the Meteor showers.. You can see the Milky way on most nights

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Dutchman Canyon

7 sites · 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. Please do not burn the dead oak firewood from the property.

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The Desert View Tower

3 sites · Tents93 acres · Jacumba, CA

Loaded with history, and set on the "La Posta Pluton," we are 3000 feet above the California's Imperial Valley. Sitting on this land is the historic Desert View Tower, which will turn 100 years old in 2020. The view of the tower couldn't be in a more epic setting. The sunsets, stars and views are world class. Tent camping in the area doesn't get much better than this.Learn more about this land:PLEASE CHECK IN BEFORE DARK.***If you are showing up after dark, we unfortunately cannot accommodate you. Must arrive before 4 in the winter months, 7pm in the summery months.***Winds here can be ferocious. A day ahead of time check the weather for Boulder Park CA (That's us). We will happily change for another date.No road access to the camp sites. Tent camping only. No RV spaces available.The Desert Tower is a 93 acre property in the midst of a great field of boulders on a hillside cliff overlooking California's Imperial Valley. One can camp anywhere in the rocks you like...there are tons of hidden gems out there with some great views. There is a sandy area in front of the tower that is very nice and close to the bathrooms -- Enjoy the views and the nighttime stars!

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(17)

Cashews Garden

4 sites · Lodging, RVs2 acres · El Cajon, CA

Fully gated and secure. This is our home. I personally lived in my RV and struggled, so now I offer our place for a cheap place to park .We have 2 parking spaces for your off grid fully independent max 24 foot van or small RV . We also have a cabover camper set up if you need a roof over your head with a bathroom and shower. Full equipped kitchen area. Not fancy but does the job! Coming soon is our 5th wheel. Available starting Mid November Has heat and air conditioning. Has a shower and bathroom. Full kitchen and bedroom. Pull out couch bed. Table and chairs. We just scored a free outdoor fireplace!!!! Woooohoooo!!! I will add pictures soon so you are welcome to sit by the fire! We have starter logs and firewood. We do not have hookups for your van or RV. We can offer an extension cord and shop vac for cleaning but cannot hook you up to full time power. We have a hose to fill your tanks. No dumping station here. No bathroom or shower —-however, if no one has rented the campers you can use those! Usually both are not booked at the same time but we prefer you have a toilet on your rig. We have donkeys and a horse that you can feed watermelon or carrots to provided by us. We have a hang out area without air conditioning, with a refrigerator, sink, tables and a camping stove. Some dishes and we got a large TV and DVD player donated to us! So, we added some old DVDs you can enjoy! BBQ grill We are right by the highway so it’s not quiet like in the country. However, at night I feel it’s quiet! And maybe I’m just used to it but I don’t notice the highway noise unless it’s a motorcycle. We have a fenced in place for your dog but you need to walk through where the donkeys and horse are to get there. Tiny dogs can escape under the gate . Animal manure around the field and pin. And to clarify due to someone asking! We don’t want people inside the animals pins just hanging out. We just don’t want anyone to get hurt but if you have a dog, you will pass through the donkey pin to the dog pin. The gate closes and separates the dog area from the donkeys and horse. It need to be open when your down because they sleep in there. They are sweet and have never kicked or bit anyone and if you have a dog you get a full tour. All of our guests with dogs have had no issues at all! If your dogs are large animal friendly then we are good with them being off leash!! We love dogs! Just know that the entrance gate opens and closes as we and our guests come and go at our home. We have a trampoline Basketball goal Outdoor Fireplace Above ground saltwater pool that you are welcome to use. We will be here when you check in to show you around. You will receive a gate code on arrival so you can come and go. We are family friendly No drugs or heavy drinking No leaving children unattended No entering into animals pins. No guests outside of you and whoever is in your van/rv We are just starting to set things up. We are working on a garden. We have avocados and oranges.

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Native Falls Campground

54 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents25 acres · Temecula, CA

We are very glad you found us! Our hours are from 9am to 6pm everyday. Check in time starts at noon. Accommodations include fully furnished cabins, RV sites, and tent camping. The campground includes a lake with a waterfall, a sandy beach, lake toys, and catch & release fishing. Additional amenities include a Pickleball Court, shuffleboard, Pool Table, fire pits, picnic tables, hiking trails, and more!

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(17)

Rogue Farm

1 site · RV6 acres · Ramona, CA

Hi there, Welcome to Rogue Farm. We have 1 RV spot available on a small, quiet organic vegetable farm in Ramona, CA. Ramona is located in San Diego County. The property is 30-45 min from the center of San Diego and is 5 min from shopping/grocery stores in town. The property is located near the mountains, there are hiking trails, loads of wineries and farms. We have a small farmstand on the property (we sell our produce from it) as well as farm animals (horses, cows, goats, pigs, poultry). The site has electrical and water hookups. There is no septic available. We love visitors and are happy to share our farm. For those with animals: All dogs must be kept in a leash when outside on the farm. We have livestock that not all dogs have been around and are used to interacting with them. Please be respectful of our farm animals, this is their home.

The best camping near Cuyamaca Rancho State Park guide

Overview

About

Strap on those hiking boots—four peaks over 5,000 feet await in San Diego's backyard at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. With granite hills, oak woodland forests, waterfalls, and lovely meadows, this 24,700-acre park offers a nice alpine break from SoCal’s deserts and beaches. Hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders can explore over 100 miles of trails, including a summit trail to the 6,512-foot Cuyamaca Peak. Boating and fishing on Lake Cuyamaca are other popular pastimes at Cuyamaca, a popular camping destination offering sites for tents, RVs, and cabin campers. Part of the greater Cleveland National Forest, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park borders Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Notable campgrounds

Best for lake trips: Paso Picacho Campground is just two miles from Lake Cuyamaca.
Best for waterfalls: Green Valley Campground is right next to the Green Valley Falls.
Best for cabin camping: Paso Picacho Campground also has rustic cabin options.

Tips for snagging a campsite

All Cuyamaca Rancho campsites are reservable 6 months in advance online or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Sites may book out on weekends during spring, summer, and fall, so reserve ahead.
If you have trouble finding a site, expand your search into the surrounding Cleveland National Forest.

When to go

Thanks to its elevation, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park’s mild summers offer a reprieve from sweltering SoCal temps. Summer highs are generally in the mid-80s, while winter lows in the 30s can bring snow and locals for sledding and snowshoeing. Spring is the best time to come for waterfall viewing.

Know before you go

Lake Cuyamaca has a restaurant, store, and tackle shop. Boat and kayak rentals are available.
Wildlife watching is popular—keep an eye peeled for woodpeckers, red tail hawks, Pacific tree frogs, rattlesnakes, foxes, bobcats, and mountain lions.
Although Cuyamaca Rancho State Park has cooler temps than other SoCal areas in lower elevations, the sun is strong and it’s important to bring sun protection and hydrate.
Most park campsites are pet-friendly and feature picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and shower access. Individual campsites do not have RV hookups, but dump stations are available.
Double-check road and trail conditions before winter trips, as snowfall is possible. The park’s rangers can be reached at (760) 765-3020.