The best mountainous campgrounds near Julian, California

It’s all about history and adventure in Julian, California. Once a gold rush town, it’s now a mountain escape for San Diego urbanites. South of town, the Cuyamaca Mountains overflow with hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. At Lake Cuyamaca, anglers and boaters enjoy cool waters and mountain views.

Campgrounds and RV parks are the best way to experience the Julian outdoors. At William Heise County Park, choose from year-round tent camping, cabins, or RV sites with partial hookups. Wake up to views of the forest, and spend your days hiking and riding 11 miles of trails. This San Diego County park offers weekend ranger programs that are fun for the whole family.

On the shores of Lake Cuyamaca, choose from four campgrounds. Try self-contained RV camping in the South Lot, or enjoy the picnic tables and fire pits at Chambers Park. Anglers and boaters love the West Shore’s boat launch and tackle shop.

At Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, explore oak woodlands on the 100-mile trail system. Be sure to check out the waterfall and natural swimming holes near Green Valley. At Paso Picacho Campground, you’ll find excellent hikes up Stonewall and Cuyamaca peaks.

95% (5.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Julian

Property is located in the High Desert area of E. San Diego County in the In-Ko-)Pah Mountains. 5 camp sites to choose from and one (1) glamping unit "Casa Agave" which is a small home the sleeps four (4). One queen bed, 1 single and a sofa bed that sleeps one. To the west is Table Mountain a sacred Native American Ceremonial Ground that is on BLM land. The Northern boundary is the beginning Anza Borrego State Park. The East and South borders are private land. There is much evidence of campsites and artifacts that the land used to be inhabited by the Kumeyaay Nation. Mica and Garnets used to be mined in this area as well. The property is a transitional area where agave, juniper and scrub oak thrive. Wildlife in the area includes: Quail, Rattle Snakes, Lizards, Ravens, Roadrunners, Tarantulas, Rosy Boa, Mule Deer, Pack Rats, Bob Cats, Coyotes and at times Bighorn Sheep are spotted by Table Mountain. I have 10 chickens, 2 cats and my dog Bosco.

Banner Ranch Julian

92%

(224)

2.4mi from Julian · 17 sites · Tents

The ultimate way to experience the outdoors! We cannot wait for you to indulge in Banner Ranch. Nestled in the meadow you will find tent campsites underneath the cover of breathtaking trees. A creek flows through the valley, turkey and deer roam, and wildlife flourishes where the apple orchards once stood. During exploration of the sixty-two acres you will stumble upon many of the ranch nature trails. A spacious layout, perfect outdoor climate, and the company of family and friends is the recipe for a soulful stay in Banner Ranch! From Banner Ranch there is immediate walking access to the California Riding and Hiking Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and the charming town of Julian is a ten-minute drive. Banner Ranch is anchored by a historic General Store soon to offer an array of local handicrafts and refreshments. A stay includes complimentary car parking, restrooms, and is pet friendly. Please feel free to reach out if you would like to book Banner Ranch for a special occasion. Also, let us know if you are interested in booking a tiny house or covered wagon on the ranch for a glamping experience. Kindly pack in and pack out, always remember to leave the land better than you found it. Cell service can be spotty at best, Verizon has the strongest signal on the property. Tents are not provided.

Svatantria Boutique Retreat

96%

(40)

2.3mi from Julian · 8 sites · Lodging

Welcome to Svatantria, a serene retreat nestled on 14 acres of enchanting landscape in the charming community of Julian, California. Here, meandering creeks, a tranquil pond, ancient oaks and vibrant native flora and fauna create a haven of natural beauty. Our retreat features four charming cabins and eight picturesque camping areas, ideal for both day-use and extended stays. Each accommodation is thoughtfully equipped with amenities such as BBQ grills, mini-fridges, and bathrooms with invigorating hot showers. Depending on your choice of rental, amenities may be either private or shared. During your visit, immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings by exploring our on-site labyrinth, hiking through the peaceful canyons, dipping your toes in the seasonal creek, or observing the diverse wildlife. Julian has been designated as a national dark sky community, making it a perfect spot for stargazing enthusiasts. Every year between mid-July and the end of August, visitors can view the spectacular Perseid meteor showers, adding an extra touch of magic to your stay. We also invite you to join our yogis for practice on the meditation platform, or unwind to the soothing sounds of a nearby seasonal creek and waterfall. Private and semi-private yoga sessions are available—please contact us for more details. Svatantria honors the Kumeyaay, the First Peoples of this area, who have stewarded the sacred land for more than 1,000 years. As it's current custodians we are are hopeful that you will join us in preserving its beauty, spirit and nurturing essence.

San Diego Canyon Creek

95%

(373)

22mi from Julian · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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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Steven

2 weeks ago

Tent

12 nights at Hideout Mountain Lodge

Awesome! Quiet! Relaxing! Thank you!

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Madeline

2 weeks ago

3 nights at Splitrock Farm and Retreat

The view was stunning, the bus was comfy and was an added part of the experience for sure. Every morning I was woken up by the running of the goats lol. They would stop sometimes and hang out as well. Had a lovely solo camping trip here and would definitely return again!

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Michelle

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

Beautiful location and friendly host, we’d definitely stay here again! There were nice trails and it was so quiet and private. The drive on the dirt road to the campsites is a bit steep and uneven in places, which was fine for our SUVs, but we had friends with smaller cars (Prius, Mazda 3) who couldn’t comfortably make it due to their low clearance so we just shuttled them in our SUVs. We’d recommend making sure you bring a car with higher clearance.

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Zoe

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

Vicki and her daughter were so sweet and welcoming! We had the most peaceful time and the weather was pretty great for going in December. The drive up the mountain was a bit tricky because we didn’t know what to expect, but it was much faster and easier on the way down (I have a ford fusion and my car did great!). There are restrooms and showers but they are a bit far from most of the sites, there was a porta potty close by tho:)

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Matt

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

It was a beautiful place with nice bathrooms. We were surprised, pleasantly, about the free roaming pigs.

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Carl

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Beautiful property with and Jordan was a very cool and Mellow guy; greeted us with his family and adorable dog. They have been developing a disc golf course, which we took advantage of. They take pride in their property and ensuring people enjoy their stay. I hope all who stay there can respect this Great little gem Jordan and his family have tucked in a valley, as we will be returning in the future.

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Janille

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Splitrock Farm and Retreat

This place is so great. I want gatekeep but also tell everyone about it. This campsite in particular was very secluded, but still within walking distance of toilet. Granite Tabernacle had two campfires and the space it was in was so big there was so much room for activities. The animals walking around were so cute and the views were beautiful. The bathroom/showers were much cleaner than expected. The shower didn’t get warm but I got used to it eventually. The road leading up to each of the campsites did feel a little scary driving up, but I’m sure most cars can get there. Interacted with just a few people that worked there, but everyone was nice. The loop around the grounds was about 30 minutes walking and was nice to scope out potential next stays, which I definitely will be doing next year!

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Dominic

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Splitrock Farm and Retreat

Got there at night didn’t really know where to go. Great spot had a good time.

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Alyssa

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

Group trip

4 nights at Splitrock Farm and Retreat

Had an amazing time!! The property is so beautiful and absolutely loved all the goats roaming around the sites. Outdoor shower?!? Yes please! Had great water pressure too :) Very quick communication with Ben regarding any and all questions. Only issue with our specific site was very little level ground for tents but we made it work!

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Devon

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

The space was peaceful and secluded; exactly what I wanted from an escape from the modern world. Carlotta was very kind and helpful. There is so much land to explore that I will have to return to explore the rest.

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Mario

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Another great stay. Great views at this campsite. Very relaxing.

Leo

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Banner Ranch Julian

Loved this area! Super friendly people and the little general store sold fire wood as well! Highly recommend and will definitely be returning! Bathrooms were clean and at night they had their orchard lit up with Christmas lights!

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John

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

Quiet and relaxing area with beautiful view. Check in was easy. Vicki really went the extra mile to arrange rental of some camping gear for us when ours failed.

Sarah

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

My gf and I had the best time on Vicki’s land for thanksgiving weekend. It was such a treat to have amenities like a sink with warm water and flushing toilets. the land is stunning with views from every corner and fun hiking trails throughout the mountain. vicki has such great energy and made sure to welcome everyone. pumba the pig is so friendly and WILL eat anything left unguarded at night 🤭 so make sure to treat your trash just like any bear camping setting. thanks again vicki, we hope to come back some day!

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Andrea

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Splitrock Farm and Retreat

Such a beautiful campground! We’ve never been to one quite like it. Lush green and trees everywhere. Exploring different sites was an adventure, each one with a unique setup. It was an incredible experience being there with all the beautiful goats too! Really looking forward to our next visit!

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Brittany

3 weeks ago

3 nights at Splitrock Farm and Retreat

Magical! Great response from host when I had questions before & after booking about what to bring. The VW bus was nice and warm at the end of November. Absolutely adored the goats: super sweet. I loved seeing ALL the animals there. There was not one thing I didn’t love about this campsite: private, lovely views, bathroom within close walking distance, literally all the things. 5/5 stars, 100% would do again.

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Kimberly

3 weeks ago

12 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Splitrock Farm and Retreat

Great camping place. Its a beautiful piece of property, amazing sunsets, very peaceful, facilities were clean and in good order. We were at the Granite Gulch site and it was awesome, plenty of space, private, convenient to toilet. The goats were cute, a plus if you love animals. We will definitely be back.

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Courtney

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Splitrock Farm and Retreat

What an awesome weekend with family and friends! Splitrock Farm and Retreat was a joy! Remote, but not too far from others campers and Fallbrook, it was a great escape for tent camping. Host was communicative and the team on site was lovely.

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Rachel

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Splitrock Farm and Retreat

Amazing place! We loved it. Easy to find and easy to find a spot. Peaceful and adventurous

Harmony Farm

80%

(5)

41mi from Julian · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

2.5 acres of off grid land under the stars. Natural Landscape with lots of wildlife & starry nights! Pleanty to do in each direction. Right in the middle yet, away from it all! PACK IT IN, pack it OUT. NO TRACE left behind. There are dumpsters for trash within

Star Host camping experiences near Julian

28mi from Julian · 1 site · Lodging

Hi, I’m Eric. I host a unique mountaintop campsite overlooking the Palomar Mountains, just outside Temecula, CA. On the property, you’ll find a cozy A-frame cabin with views of the valley. Step out of your cabin to enjoy your own private lounge area with a propane fire pit—perfect for sunrise coffee or stargazing at night. We’re about 17 miles from Temecula Valley wine country, 45 miles from Julian, 45 miles from Palm Springs, and around 60 miles from the beaches in San Diego. Nearby, you’ll find plenty of options for wine tasting, hiking, and exploring the surrounding mountains. Garage 79, a local pub just down the road, is close by if you want to grab a drink or bite after a day of adventuring. It’s close enough for a quick getaway, yet far enough to feel completely removed from the busyness of everyday life. I look forward to hosting you on the mountain.

Glamp in Tiny Cabin #2

85%

(10)

19mi from Julian · 2 sites · Lodging

Tiny Cabin #2 (TC2) sits on top of the property with Mountain to Ocean views. It's a great place for a weekend getaway for Star gazing, watch a sunset and City lights. A place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. A short drive away is the towns of Alpine and Descanso, Cuyamaca State Park and Laguna Mountain. San Diego Beaches are down I-8 . TC2 has two seating areas for your privacy. Plus, plenty of space to roam around. It's above the common game and dining area. Inside has a queen size bed, a small refrigerator, sink, Coffee maker, and cabinet with cooking supplies. There is a microwave, one burner hot plate. The BBQ is propane. We have made some improvements to the TC put in new sturdy steps, bed frame and lights. While a campfire ban is on we do allow Duraflame type logs. The property is located in a high risk fire zone.

Clara Vista High Desert Retreat

100%

(58)

9.6mi from Julian · 1 site · Lodging

This beautiful high desert retreat is a working artist's property with several stone and steel sculptures of the late artist,  Norm Hines,  available for viewing on the property. The guest cabin sits secluded on the southern ridge of Montezuma Valley, with spectacular views of Earthquake Valley and the distant mountains of Baja California and a short hike to Anza Borrego State Park. A gas fireplace in the cabin will keep you warm on those chilly winter evenings. Ideal for 1-2 people looking for solitude, stargazing and high-desert nature.  Cozy guest cabin with propane fireplace on 30 acre artist's retreat at 4000 feet elevation.  One mi. hike to NW boundary of Anza Borrego SP. Four mi. to PCT. Hiking trails to large plutonic rocks, breathtaking view south into Mexico. Private portable toilet, outdoor cold water sink, outdoor grill, small camping stove, teapot, full size bed,  Norm Hines sculptures on property for guest viewing. Great for bird watching, stargazing, desert solitude. 13 miles to Borrego Springs. 28 miles to Julian. Guests love staying here: "Tom’s cabin was the perfect weekend getaway to decompress and detach. The site offers all the amenities you need. There are multiple trails located around the property if you’re looking to get a little activity in. Otherwise just sitting and hanging out is about as peaceful as it gets. A great place to go if you don’t want to venture out too far. This place just might be my monthly weekend hideout. Thanks Tom for sharing such a beautiful place."

More campsites near Julian

Dixon Lake Recreation Area

27mi from Julian · 3 sites

Dixon Lake stands out as a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque hills above Escondido, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. This campground features a variety of campsites, ranging from private, shaded spots to open areas that provide stunning views of the lake, surrounding mountains, and the twinkling city lights at night. Open year-round with 24-hour access, Dixon Lake is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike. The well-maintained roads and trails from the campground lead to excellent fishing opportunities along the shore, where anglers can catch trout, catfish, and bass. For those looking to explore the water, boats are available for rent at the park's concession stand, enhancing your experience on the lake. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, Dixon Lake offers a perfect balance of relaxation and recreation, making it a must-visit location for outdoor lovers.

Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve

29mi from Julian · 10 sites

Discover the charm of our award-winning campground, uniquely situated in the picturesque foothills of Santee, California. Just a short 20-minute drive from the vibrant attractions of San Diego, our campground offers an ideal blend of natural beauty and convenient access to city life. With 300 full hook-up campsites, each equipped with complimentary WiFi and select sites featuring cable TV, we cater to all your camping needs. For those seeking a cozy retreat, we also provide ten charming cabins. Our campers enjoy exclusive access to fishing in the serene Lakes 6 and 7, making it a perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts. In addition to our beautiful surroundings, we host special events exclusively for campers, fostering a sense of community and adventure. Whether you're looking to relax or explore, our campground is the perfect destination for your next outdoor getaway.

Rancho Los Coches RV Park

24mi from Julian · 32 sites

Nestled in the heart of east San Diego County, Rancho Los Coches RV Park stands out as the most historic RV park in Southern California, being the site of the smallest Mexican land grant from 1843. This unique campground offers a perfect blend of history and modern amenities, making it an ideal base camp for exploring the surrounding area. Located in Lakeside, Rancho Los Coches RV Park features resort-quality accommodations, including rental units, tent sites, and RV spaces. The park is designed to be family and pet-friendly, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their stay. Guests can take advantage of the park's proximity to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and swimming in nearby natural features. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable getaway. Experience the charm and tranquility of this hidden gem in San Diego County, where history meets adventure.

Lake Hemet Campground

41mi from Julian · 74 sites

Lake Hemet stands out as a unique camping destination due to its breathtaking backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, offering visitors a serene escape into nature. Nestled in Mountain Center and close to the charming town of Idyllwild, this picturesque lake is surrounded by tall pines, manzanitas, sagebrush, and majestic giant oaks, creating a stunning natural environment that captivates all who visit. As one of Southern California's most sought-after spots for camping and fishing, Lake Hemet has recently enhanced its appeal with the addition of the Soaring Pines Cafe, which serves delicious meals, and the Splashing Eagle Swim Zone, perfect for family fun during the warmer months. When you visit, don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars. The area is teeming with wildlife, including majestic eagles and hawks that can often be seen soaring through the forest and campground. With its combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and convenient amenities, Lake Hemet is the ideal getaway destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Burnt Valley winery and camping

100%

(2)

34mi from Julian · 2 sites

A breath taking piece of paradise located in the mountains above Palm Springs and Temecula. The historic Red Skelton Ranch, a private valley surrounded by mountains with the Pacific Crest Trail less than 1/2 mile to the east. The Ranch has 15 miles of trails, a swimable pond, with breath taking sunsets and dark skies full of stars. Just 8 minutes to a local casino and 30 minutes to shops and restaurants on El Paseo Drive in Palm Desert. You will literally be over the moon in love with the peaceful, serene valley surrounded by mountains, trees, sage, and organic farming. Schedule your stay or come visit us for the nickel tour.

Lake Hemet Recreation

100%

(11)

42mi from Julian · 10 sites

Lake Hemet Recreation Company is an authorized concessionaire of Lake Hemet Municipal Water District. Lake Hemet Recreation Company is a part of Basecamp Hospitality Basecamp Hospitality is a concessionaire working with National, State, and Regional Park Services as well as water districts and other park agencies. Since 1975, Basecamp has provided a superior level of service and commitment as concessionaires to our agency partners. The Company is committed to exceeding the expectations of these partners, as well as our day-to-day clients and customers. Basecamp Hospitality is proud to have achieved, and will continue to maintain, its position as the premier provider of comprehensive recreational, retail, hospitality, and event management services in California.

Sunset Hideaway Farm

88%

(4)

24mi from Julian · 35 sites

Located just 6 miles from Palomar Mountain Observatory- Basecamp is the perfect location to stay at. This historic campground is surrounded by vast farmlands growing mostly citrus and avocados. Drive through Pauma Valley and enjoy the views before you start heading up the mountain to Basecamp. The campground itself is undGo for a hike, star gaze and enjoy the outdoors!er a canopy of century old oak trees, along with the trailers and glamping tents, there are tent sites, sites with hookups as far as water, power and sewage.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best mountainous camping near Julian guide

Nearby attractions

Escape to Agua Caliente County Park for a rejuvenating camping experience. Camp amidst tranquil surroundings, soak in natural hot springs, and enjoy stargazing under clear night skies.