95% (6.8K) • 478 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Julian
Whiteside Mountain
1. Whiteside Mountain
100%
(391)
30mi from Julian · 1 site · Tent
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!"
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from
$98
/ night
Rancho Esquandolas
2. Rancho Esquandolas
95%
(21)
20mi from Julian · 1 site · Tent, RV
Located on the north side of Palomar Mountain between Temecula and Julian, the Rancho Esquandolas Vineyards is a serene 20-acre mountain retreat in the heart of Warner Springs wine country.
We offer full RV hookups with electricity, water, and septic at the top of the vineyard. Relax and take in the amazing views, go wine tasting at the wineries next door, or hike the Pacific Crest Trail to nearby Eagle Rock.
Enjoy the endless stars we get at night at 3200' elevation at the base of Mt. Palomar.
Potable water
Picnic table
Full hookups
from
$70
/ night
Starlight Outpost | Stargazing Stay
3. Starlight Outpost | Stargazing Stay
97%
(17)
32mi from Julian · 3 sites · Lodging
Starlight Outpost is a private, design-forward desert stay near Jacumba Hot Springs, located in Campo, California, about an hour east of San Diego.
This peaceful retreat is ideal for travelers looking for:
• Stargazing
• Quiet desert nights
• Romantic getaways
• A calm alternative to crowded Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel
Guests stay in a thoughtfully curated, enclosed structure designed for comfort, privacy, and sleep under dark desert skies.
If you’re searching for a Jacumba Hot Springs alternative that’s quiet, unique, and intentionally hosted — Starlight Outpost offers space to unplug, rest, and reconnect.
WHAT MAKES THIS STAY SPECIAL
• Exceptionally dark skies for stargazing
• Quiet desert location away from crowds
• Thoughtfully styled interior (not rustic camping)
• Private bathroom and kitchen setup
• Designed for couples and intentional travelers
This is not a party spot or campground — it’s a calm desert retreat.
WHAT THIS STAY IS PERFECT FOR
✅ Couples
✅ Solo travelers
✅ Stargazers
✅ Writers, artists, creatives
✅ Guests visiting Jacumba Hot Springs who want privacy
NOT A GOOD FIT IF
❌ You want nightlife or group gatherings
❌ You’re looking for a resort or social hot springs scene
❌ You plan to host parties or events
WHAT’S PROVIDED
Sleep & Comfort
• King-size mattress with memory foam topper
• Heated mattress pad (winter)
• AC available
• Multiple blanket & pillow options
Kitchen
• Refrigerator
• Sink with hot & cold water
• Hot plate + air fryer
• Dishes, glassware, utensils
• Basic spices, oil, pancake mix
• Indoor dining area
Bathroom
• Flushing toilet
• Hot & cold shower
• Towels & robes provided
Outdoor Amenities
• Fire pit for cooking
• Propane BBQ
Optional Add-Ons
• Stargazing telescope
• Electric s’mores kit
• Pizza oven with premade pizzas
Guests only need to bring food & drinks — everything else is provided.
LOCATION & AREA
Starlight Outpost is located in Campo, California, close to:
• Jacumba Hot Springs
• Lake Morena
• Desert hiking trails
• Historic rail sites
This is a peaceful desert area — quiet, dark, and intentionally slow.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$169
/ night
Running Rock Ranch
4. Running Rock Ranch
26mi from Julian · 1 site · Tent, RV
Desert with off-road track, electric and water hookup
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
$100
/ night
Dos Fernandos' Hideaway RV vineyard
5. Dos Fernandos' Hideaway RV vineyard
100%
(10)
42mi from Julian · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Profile Information -
Dos Fernandos' Hideaway is sitting on 18 acres in the heart of Temecula Valley Wine Country with 12 acres planted in vineyards that are harvested for Robert Renzoni Winery. There are five wineries within a mile of our location as well as the entrance to Lake Skinner just a quarter mile away.
If the weather permits, you may see and hear the many hot air balloons gliding over our vineyards and gardens. Our family acquired the land in 1990 and have planted every grape vine, flora and tree here since 2000. The grounds now enjoy mature shade trees and cypresses with resident owls, red tailed hawks, road runners and other wildlife.
Picnic table
from
$60
/ night
95% (6.8K) • 478 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Julian
Whiteside Mountain
1. Whiteside Mountain
100%
(391)
30mi from Julian · 1 site · Tent
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!"
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from
$98
/ night
Rancho Esquandolas
2. Rancho Esquandolas
95%
(21)
20mi from Julian · 1 site · Tent, RV
Located on the north side of Palomar Mountain between Temecula and Julian, the Rancho Esquandolas Vineyards is a serene 20-acre mountain retreat in the heart of Warner Springs wine country.
We offer full RV hookups with electricity, water, and septic at the top of the vineyard. Relax and take in the amazing views, go wine tasting at the wineries next door, or hike the Pacific Crest Trail to nearby Eagle Rock.
Enjoy the endless stars we get at night at 3200' elevation at the base of Mt. Palomar.
Potable water
Picnic table
Full hookups
from
$70
/ night
Starlight Outpost | Stargazing Stay
3. Starlight Outpost | Stargazing Stay
97%
(17)
32mi from Julian · 3 sites · Lodging
Starlight Outpost is a private, design-forward desert stay near Jacumba Hot Springs, located in Campo, California, about an hour east of San Diego.
This peaceful retreat is ideal for travelers looking for:
• Stargazing
• Quiet desert nights
• Romantic getaways
• A calm alternative to crowded Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel
Guests stay in a thoughtfully curated, enclosed structure designed for comfort, privacy, and sleep under dark desert skies.
If you’re searching for a Jacumba Hot Springs alternative that’s quiet, unique, and intentionally hosted — Starlight Outpost offers space to unplug, rest, and reconnect.
WHAT MAKES THIS STAY SPECIAL
• Exceptionally dark skies for stargazing
• Quiet desert location away from crowds
• Thoughtfully styled interior (not rustic camping)
• Private bathroom and kitchen setup
• Designed for couples and intentional travelers
This is not a party spot or campground — it’s a calm desert retreat.
WHAT THIS STAY IS PERFECT FOR
✅ Couples
✅ Solo travelers
✅ Stargazers
✅ Writers, artists, creatives
✅ Guests visiting Jacumba Hot Springs who want privacy
NOT A GOOD FIT IF
❌ You want nightlife or group gatherings
❌ You’re looking for a resort or social hot springs scene
❌ You plan to host parties or events
WHAT’S PROVIDED
Sleep & Comfort
• King-size mattress with memory foam topper
• Heated mattress pad (winter)
• AC available
• Multiple blanket & pillow options
Kitchen
• Refrigerator
• Sink with hot & cold water
• Hot plate + air fryer
• Dishes, glassware, utensils
• Basic spices, oil, pancake mix
• Indoor dining area
Bathroom
• Flushing toilet
• Hot & cold shower
• Towels & robes provided
Outdoor Amenities
• Fire pit for cooking
• Propane BBQ
Optional Add-Ons
• Stargazing telescope
• Electric s’mores kit
• Pizza oven with premade pizzas
Guests only need to bring food & drinks — everything else is provided.
LOCATION & AREA
Starlight Outpost is located in Campo, California, close to:
• Jacumba Hot Springs
• Lake Morena
• Desert hiking trails
• Historic rail sites
This is a peaceful desert area — quiet, dark, and intentionally slow.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$169
/ night
Running Rock Ranch
4. Running Rock Ranch
26mi from Julian · 1 site · Tent, RV
Desert with off-road track, electric and water hookup
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
$100
/ night
Dos Fernandos' Hideaway RV vineyard
5. Dos Fernandos' Hideaway RV vineyard
100%
(10)
42mi from Julian · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Profile Information -
Dos Fernandos' Hideaway is sitting on 18 acres in the heart of Temecula Valley Wine Country with 12 acres planted in vineyards that are harvested for Robert Renzoni Winery. There are five wineries within a mile of our location as well as the entrance to Lake Skinner just a quarter mile away.
If the weather permits, you may see and hear the many hot air balloons gliding over our vineyards and gardens. Our family acquired the land in 1990 and have planted every grape vine, flora and tree here since 2000. The grounds now enjoy mature shade trees and cypresses with resident owls, red tailed hawks, road runners and other wildlife.
Picnic table
from
$60
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
R
Ron
2 weeks ago
10 ft pop-up camper
Everyone there is so nice, this time we didn't really stay in the Hipcamp spot because of the rain. We just stayed in the free spot, but happy to have a nice safe pretty place to park for the night.
I wish we could've enjoyed it more, but we had to leave the next morning for San Diego. We will see you again next time smiley face.
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Benjamin
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Our second time around, first time during the winter, just as great as we remember it with some new additions!
Noticed there are some new homes/camps on nearby mountains in the area since our last time around but still very safe, cozy and private. The mountain is essentially double gated and one side has unobstructed views of the lake. The road up has definitely seen better days, at least 3 tricky spots, 4WD recommended, we've driven up to camp with AWD but we are definitely getting 4WD for next time. The last thing you want is to have to carry all your supplies up the mountain, a 15 minute drive can become a 1-2 hour steep hike up to camp. The weather was very comfortable, we brought a lot of winter camping supplies that we ended up not using as temps barely went under 55 degrees.
Having running water, electricity and a toilet up here is a blessing. We plugged in a 12V car fridge for a few days and grilled/cooked comfortably while keeping everything clean and organized.
Not too far from SD or Anza-Borrego for a day trip, we spent most of our days just hiking the mountain with my dog. Make sure to visit the bridge and cave during your stay. Might be nice to bring a mountain bike if you have one.
See moreN
NOE
November 2025
Tent
With pets
Absolutely beautiful, Very private and quiet. Expect to see wildlife, deer, coyotes, rabbits, etc. The cave is located in the other side of the hill top behind the water tank (go right). The road is a bit rough to get there so 4x4 or AWD definitely required. Other than that, you will love the landscape. If you want to escape to town its just a quick drive for decent dining options, we went to Hooleys. Would definitely come back.
See moreB
Brent
November 2025
20 ft campervan
With pets
Such a great spot! Easy check in and friendly hosts that have done a great job setting up the sites. We will definitely be back.
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Kaitlyn
November 2025
2 nights at Starlight Outpost | Stargazing Stay
Had an amazing stay! From the moment we pulled in I was in love! Had everything we needed to be comfortable. The night time vibes were amazing with the lighting and adorable decor. Don’t forget your warm clothes though, it was definitely colder then I expected but the heated bed made sleeping cozy!
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J
Jeffrey
November 2025
Tent
A very unique and beautiful spot to pitch your tent. The quiet was deafening, the views amazing. You can watch both the sunrise and sunset from the mountain top. The huge pergola provided space for a large picnic table with benches, a counter with sink and food prep areas plus a stove and propane. Two Adirondack chairs provide front row seats to the surrounding hills and rock formations, with the view extending all the way to the Pacific Ocean. The flush toilet perched on the side of a huge boulder was certainly one, of many elements, that made this spot so unique. Having this mountain top camp spot all to ourselves made this a most memorable experience. One more item, take seriously the 4WD, high clearance vehicle requirement. Thanks Steve for sharing Whiteside Mountain.
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m
manuel
November 2025
16 ft travel trailer
We had a great time. The place is easy to access and quiet
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Seana
October 2025
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
This place is absolutely incredible. The views were stunning and it was fantastic letting the dogs off leash to romp around. Todd was nice enough to share hiking, winery and food recommendations in the area that led us to a breathtaking hike to Eagle Rock via the PCT and a delicious winery (Sierra Roble) right next door. Also Garage 79 is a great spot to grab a beer and some tacos. This trip was the exact reset we needed. Rate to find a place with full hookups and complete privacy. We will 100% be returning.
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Jessica
September 2025
Tent
What a truly incredible place! I feel so grateful to Steve for making this spot available and for all the awesome work he's done making it feel so comfortable. While we visited during a heatwave it was actually cool and breezy from our perch on the covered platform. The kitchen was perfect for making even fairly elaborate camp-style meals. Whiteside Mountain is also the scene of a first for me - sleeping out completely under the stars with no tent! Truly magical. We were two women out there and we felt comfortable and secure the whole time. Steve was very communicative and helpful - 10/10 host! His stewardship of the land is really inspiring. It was really amazing to be able to roll in and be settled so quickly - the perfect balance between nature and man-made structure has been found here. Come for the unparalleled toilet view, stay for the total package!
See moreB
Brian
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Steve's land was an amazing location for my girlfriend, me, and our dog. The outdoor kitchen was super clean, and the camp stove worked perfectly for our cooked meals. The bathroom was also very clean, and I'd rank it #1 in terms of bathroom locations. There was a ton of space to explore, and our dog enjoyed being able to roam around the site. We brought a hammock to set up on the deck, and the breeze at the top of the mountain was perfect for it. Stars, sunsets, waking up above the clouds - the views were fantastic. There were lots of ants (we witnessed a colony migrating?), but we were prepared and kept our tent and the kitchen area pretty ant free. Overall, I would 100% recommend this place to those looking for a remote camp spot great for unwinding.
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Matthew
August 2025
Tent
This is one of the best camp sites I've been to for a long time. Love that we had 160acres of land all to ourselves. The platform and covered area for hanging out, food prep and views is perfect. Steve is a super host and extremely responsive even when in a totally different time zone 12 hours ahead. Steve has added so many fun features like the cave platform, the bunker, an awesome additional flat camping area with really fun table balancing on a rock. The scenery is truly spectacular. Would absolutely recommend this site and we will return for sure.
I would highly recommend a 4x4 and not an AWD. We did manage to make it up in a Nissan Outlander but it was not easy and had to make more than one attempt in some sections of the road.
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A
Ashleigh
July 2025
Tent
With pets
The views were absolutely amazing, sunset and sunrise, waking up to being up in the clouds. It was my dogs first time camping and she had a blast roaming around and climbing up rocks. Steve was awesome!! Really thought of it all with the trails, the cave, toilet with a view, sink, propane, grill…it was amazing! Such a fun and peaceful trip and will definitely book again and highly recommend!!
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Alexa
June 2025
Tent
Private area with a beautiful atmosphere. Surrounded by vineyards and cypress trees around your camp spot! Table area provided was wonderful! The string lights above the venue could not be more perfect! I was so in love with this stay!
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Shauni
June 2025
Tent
Group trip
This is my favorite hipcamp. We've stayed here 3 times in the last 5 years. This last time we brought our teenage children and they loved it and are already asking to go back. It's beautiful, peaceful, unique, fun, and adventurous. Just the right amount of everything!
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Z
Zachary
June 2025
Tent
Had an amazing time at whiteside mtn! Steve was a very accommodating and generous host! We enjoyed exploring around the property and being able to relax.
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J
John
May 2025
Tent
Amazing experience to have such beautiful landscape all to yourself. The amenities make it a much easier camping experience. Makes for a very fun adventure.
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Manny
April 2025
Tent
Group trip
My wife and I, along with our two pups, spent a few unforgettable nights at this beautiful campsite. The drive to the top was an adventure in itself, and the panoramic views along the way were absolutely breathtaking. We also really appreciated the thoughtful amenities, having running water and a flushable toilet made our stay even more comfortable. We can’t wait to come back and experience it all over again!
See moreJ
Jack
April 2025
18 ft campervan
I enjoyed a great host at conveniently located property.
See moreR
Ron
April 2025
10 ft pop-up camper
Wow, 1000% unexpectedly amazing. The place is a magical wonderland and the hosts are extremely kind and accommodating. We could not have asked for a better place to camp in our little VW. We literally woke up to hot Ir balloons surrounding us and the most peaceful stay that we have had in years. We will be back! Thank you so much!
See moreH
Hannah
April 2025
23 ft campervan
Wow, I had an incredible stay here! The property itself is absolutely magical, and I stayed in one of the private circles, surrounded by beautiful trees and vines which was so peaceful. The hosts are so lovely, and the wine is top notch! I bought a few bottles and my favorite was the Scottish Red. Seriously couldn’t recommend this place more highly and will absolutely stay here again when I’m in the area!
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