Camping near Mount Laguna with horseback riding

Head to the hills for a hike, a bike ride, or even a sledding adventure.

90% (1002 reviews)
90% (1002 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Mount Laguna

Under $50

Star Hosts in Mount Laguna

12 top campgrounds near Mount Laguna with horseback riding

97%
(45)

Black Canyon Family Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents53 acres · Ramona, CA
A few acres of natural land. There is a seasonal creek running through the area. It's a very quiet area. It's primitive, natural and we love it that way. The creek runs into the Cleveland national forest and down to the Mesa Grande Indian reservation. There is hiking and exploring! Come throw a tent up in one of the two camp sites or a hammock in the trees.. Hike the nature preserves in Santa Ysabel. Go to Wynola enjoy craft beverages, Josie's live music off the 76. Or just enjoy the peacefulness of the forest here and hike and reset your mind. The top 13 are residential, the bottom 40 will be open for exploring, camping, hiking and gardening! We are new homesteaders trying to do things more organically and real free range for our animals. We have a farm on the top 13 acres with cows, pigs, goats, sheep and chickens. More animals will come soon. We will eventually like to offer food from our farm to our guests. That way they can actually see where the food comes from and how ours raised!
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$50
 / night
100%
(120)

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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$150
 / night
91%
(23)

Ranch Devlin, Selling Sunsets

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Julian, CA
Ranch Devlin is a private, gated lot minutes off the Great Southern Overland Stagecoach Route, 2 miles south of Scissors Crossing (S2 & 78). Perfect setting for a stop over on your way to San Diego, Orange County, LA or a spontaneous getaway from the city. Julian is 12 miles west, with several nice eateries, shopping, people watching and apple pie. Pacific Crest Trail and mountain bike access to the Anza Borrego State park is minutes away. Desert history in every direction. Amazing sunsets, active wildlife.
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$30
 / night
100%
(31)

Manzanita Ridge

1 site · Lodging9 acres · Descanso, CA
WE love where we live! And we think you'd like to visit! WE mostly enjoy our views, one of the benefits of living on a hill, there is nothing to obstruct the view! Come and hike, or just sit!
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$75
 / night
75%
(4)

Glamp in Tiny Cabin #2

1 site · Lodging8 acres · Alpine, CA
Tiny Cabin #2 (TC2) sits on top of the property with Mountain to Ocean views. It's a great place to Star gaze, watch a sunset and City lights. A great weekend getaway. 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 TV DVR, small refrigerator, sink, Coffee maker, queen bed and cabinet with cooking supplies. There is a microwave, one burner hot plate. The BBQ is propane.
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$77
 / night
100%
(201)

Birdsong Backcountry Retreat

8 sites · Lodging85 acres · Warner Springs, CA
Come experience the best that the San Diego backcountry has to offer on our 85 acre private nature retreat with it's miles of trails which take you thru groves of ancient Oaks, a monumental boulders maze, intoxicating sage, the most incredible sunset vistas and located just a couple miles from the North Mountain Wine Trail. the Pacific Crest Trail and the California Hiking and Riding Trail. The BLUEBIRD TINY HOUSE is one of 4 very private unique artisanal accommodations on the property. This vintage horse trailer was reimagined into a Tiny house by Lane and Laurie as a couples project in 2018 which they completely gutted and remodeled using beautiful natural materials , old fashioned wood cabinetry, handmade ceramic tiles and woven bamboo with fully equipped kitchen, quality linens, fireplace, AC, WIFI, smart TV. Bluebird Tiny House is tucked into a secluded forest meadow, named for the bluebirds that spend part of the year there and is a spacious feeling 320 sq ft. The spa-inspired bathroom features a hand-carved, wood vessel sink, eco-dual flush toilet,rain shower, and free-standing soaking tub with oak canopy view. The 40’ long deck spans the length of the secluded tiny house overlooking the forest to distant mountains and has alfresco dining area and plenty of furniture for cozying as well as hot tub sited for star gazing and firepit seating all within a large fenced yard to keep your fur babies close by. In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 forest therapy audio guide.. If you need to accommodate a larger group, check out Pinky's Nature Hideout which has a full kitchen, spacious living room, fenced yard for pets, corn hole, large deck and hot tub sited for star gazing, and firepit seating which overlooks the forest to distant mountains. It sleeps 4 people but the "Lounge" vintage Spartan trailer which is located behind the bunkhouse can be rented to sleep an additional 2 people and is only available to Pinky's guests. We provide guests the opportunity to really get away from it all in a untouched forest and chaparral setting with all the amenities one needs for a comfortable stay. In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 audio guide. Come getaway alone, with friends or family to our sweet little petfriendly glampsite CAMP CHESTER hidden under the oaks which features a vintage 1949 Canned Ham Tiny Trailer (sleeps 2 in a double and one on couch) , a 10 x 12 safari tent on deck w/queen bed, an outdoor kitchen with dining area and barista bar, bath house with hot water, rain-shower, claw-foot tub , compost toilet looking out to acres of sage and distant mountains and firepit. The owners are artisan builders and seasoned hosts who promise guests privacy and quiet. The camp is totally fenced for the safety of your pets and suitable for up to 6 people but sleeps up to 5 additional person(s) can bring tent. . It offers guests the opportunity to really get away from it all in a untouched forest and chaparral setting but offers all the amenities one needs for a comfortable stay. In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 audio guide. Camp Chester is a seasonal site and closed January thru March.
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$150
 / night
99%
(103)

In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Jacumba Hot Springs, CA
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.
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$40
 / night
Booked 2 times

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. 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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$60
 / night
100%
(5)

Glamping HypeDome at Campo Compound

1 site · Lodging1 acre · CA
Campo Compound offers a view of a beautiful mountain, with unrestricted sky views. Stars , stars, and more stars.. Campo 91906 offers rolling fields, organic farms, century old oak trees, beautiful vistas and a rustic natural beauty not found anywhere but here. Our neighbors, Animal Farm Refuge, have saved a plethora of cows, goats, pigs and so many more for you to visit...vegans only. We offer complete visual privacy with a cedar fenced enclosure for you and your belongings. Campo Compound is a secured base camp on a larger parcel of land, there are neighbors near by, so you do not have audio privacy. Campo 91906 offers 4 museums, a cafe, bbq, sandwich shop, taco shop, a Dollar General and is home to the Southern Terminus of the Pacific Crest Trail. The newly reopened Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel and Restaurant is 13 miles east offering mineral spring pools for use with a fee. The Desert View Tower is a local favorite tourist spot near by as well as Golden Acorn Casino. There are endless hiking trails, BLM land for target practice and The Colony is not far down the 8 for your EDM festivals and; Wellness Retreats. Also, Lake Morena is only 6 miles North where you can rent boats and go fishing. Campo Compound is a centrally located base camp for all your Mountain Empire adventures.
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$150
 / night
97%
(16)

Anzabella

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · CA
Experience the serenity of open spaces and breathtaking 360-degree views of mountains and natural landscapes at our peaceful location. Situated just 2 miles away from the renowned Pacific Crest Trail at Table Mountain Truck Trail, this area offers some of the most picturesque scenery in Southern California. Bring your furry friends or horses along to enjoy the freedom of the open space. Embark on exhilarating mountain biking adventures or engage in other outdoor activities to make the most of this beautiful setting. Rest assured knowing that the owners reside nearby, ensuring support is readily available if needed. Embrace the tranquility and beauty of this location as you create unforgettable memories surrounded by nature's splendor. Please know: Strict fire ban during windy conditions
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$24
 / night
86%
(138)

Beachin' Ranch Camping

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · San Diego, CA
Hello All Campers this is a self check in facility.... Camp host available from 7:30AM to 8:30AM and 3:00PM to 4:30PM only You can Call owner anytime (760)419-4839 Sorry we Don't have horse rentals but can offer guided rides through the area trails with pre arranged notice. So bring your horses and enjoy the ride D & J Stables is a family run facility created by Dick and Jenny Tynan in 2005. It is located on the Kimzey Family Ranch in San Diego. Since their passing, the Stables have been managed by their son Scott Tynan. Our stables offer a clean and quiet place for horse owners to board their precious companions - short or long term - or to serve as a weekend getaway for a person or group of friends/riders. Each Boarding Corral has walking space, shaded corners, automated water feeders, soft dirt, partially sheltered sides and is in close proximity to a round pen, a small arena (turnout) and is encompassed by a small walking track. No two corrals are close enough to each other for the horses to interact, reducing the likelyhood of mishap from a neighbor. Each Weekender Corral comes equipped with the same as the above, excepting only the partially sheltered side panels, and are right next to where you will be parking your trailer or camper. With access to all 38 miles of equestrian trails in the area and less than a 2 mile ride to the beautiful South San Diego beaches, D&J Stables is a prime location for horse men and women everywhere. We are excited to open up to the general public for the camping experience Horse ranch life style, Learn more about this land: Nestled against the mountains and beach of the San Diego/ Mexico border, open access to 38 miles of state beach trails and only 1.5 miles from the sands of Imperial Beach. We have pristine views and perfect weather San Diego is known for. D and J Stables is one of the last ranches with beach access to ride a horse on the beach. It's a rustic, one of a kind experience. Dogs are allowed but not in stable area thank you for your understanding.
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$55
 / night
100%
(31)

Earthbag Tiny House

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Ranchita, CA
Learn more about this land:The Earthbag Tiny House is situated on 5 acres of undeveloped land and includes an earthbag/stone outhouse, earthbag hot tub for two and an earthbag pool. The property has a large shaded area for folks to be together and gather during the heat of the day. We also have a large charcoal BBQ grill and gas grill available for guests to use. This property is off-grid, but fully equipped with solar power, running water, and wifi. You will be walking distance to an expansive area of BLM land, multiple hiking trails, horseback riding, and jeep/ATV trails. We are just 1 mile from the famous Pacific Crest Trail and a 10-minute drive to access Borrego Desert hiking. The owner/host will be staying on the south-western most part of the property.We can't wait for you to come stay with us!
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$95
 / night
Value Prop
Value Prop

Camping near Mount Laguna with horseback riding guide

Overview

In the mountains east of San Diego, the community of Mount Laguna and its surrounding area is a popular hiking and mountain-biking destination among San Diegans in the know. While plenty of people come up just for the day, either to cool off from the summer heat or play in the white powdery snow that often makes an appearance in the wintertime, it's worth spending a few days camping in the area to use it as a base for exploring the surrounding Cleveland National Forest and desert beyond.

Where to go

The Southern California Desert

Mount Laguna puts you in easy reach of the Southern California Desert, and Anza Borrego Desert State Park is less than an hour away by car. Drive just a little further and you'll hit the Salton Sea, a popular birdwatching spot.

The Southern California Coast

If you want to trade in hiking trails for sandy shores, you need only head down to the Southern California coast, a short drive from Mount Laguna. Here you'll find a mix of big cities and small coastal communities plus miles and miles of sandy beaches, some of which have their own campgrounds.

The Southern California Mountains

There's plenty more to explore in Southern California's Peninsular Range, from the Cleveland National Forest to the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. A little further away, the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument offers miles of hiking trails and great views over the Coachella Valley.

When to go

While Mount Laguna is at its most popular with campers in the hot summer months, it’s not a bad spot for shoulder-season camping, and many of the campgrounds in the surrounding Cleveland National Forest are open year-round. Come in April or October for cool, but sunny, weather sans crowds. Winter snow days in the region draw throngs of San Diegans, who come to the surrounding forest for sledding.

Nearby attractions

  • Experience the wonders of camping at William Heise County Park, a hidden gem nestled in nature's embrace. Set up camp amidst towering trees and enjoy the peacefulness of the surroundings. 

  • 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. 

Top cities near Mount Laguna

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