The best campgrounds near Ocotillo, California with climbing

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Ocotillo, California? Look no further than Hipcamp, the go-to website for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 825 options available in the area, you'll find the ideal accommodation to suit your needs. Whether you're into horseback riding, exploring historic sites, or wildlife watching, there's something for everyone. And don't worry about breaking the bank, with prices as low as $10 per night and an average price of $49 per night. For top campsites, check out the highly-rated options like Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), The Desert Rose Collective (378 reviews), and Splitrock Farm and Retreat (320 reviews). Plus, enjoy popular amenities such as trash disposal, campfires, and potable water. So get ready to embark on your next camping adventure with Hipcamp!

96% (1.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

basecamp, full with running water and sink

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Ocotillo, California? Look no further than Hipcamp, the go-to website for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 825 options available in the area, you'll find the ideal accommodation to suit your needs. Whether you're into horseback riding, exploring historic sites, or wildlife watching, there's something for everyone. And don't worry about breaking the bank, with prices as low as $10 per night and an average price of $49 per night. For top campsites, check out the highly-rated options like Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), The Desert Rose Collective (378 reviews), and Splitrock Farm and Retreat (320 reviews). Plus, enjoy popular amenities such as trash disposal, campfires, and potable water. So get ready to embark on your next camping adventure with Hipcamp!

96% (1.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Whiteside Mountain

100%

(389)

44mi from Ocotillo · 1 site · Tent · Jamul, CA

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!"

2. King Creek Campground

98%

(683)

40mi from Ocotillo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Descanso, CA

Currently we don’t have any creek and pond water on the land. Mild seasonal temperature swings, fresh air, clear evening skies for star gazing, the property is in a valley surrounded by the Cleveland National Forest and it was formally used as a 1950's Boys Scouts of America campsite. Our Mom purchased the family property over 40 years ago, and my siblings and I grew-up with weekend trips exploring and camping on the property. With love and respect that all that Mother Nature designs be left wild and free, the more than 100 acres is dispersed with groves of old oak trees, mountains are covered in chaparral and manzanita shrubbery, and seasonal waterfalls, streams, a lake with a dam, dirt roads, and hiking trails. Our family's wish is to share our little bit of heaven on earth property with others who will love it as we do. We are happy to share more about the history of the more than 100 acres when you come up to the property for your next camping adventure. Our property is located in Descanso, California. Descanso is located east of Alpine and west of Pine Valley. Descanso is a small census-designated place in the Cuyamaca Mountains, within the Mountain Empire area of southeastern San Diego County, California. Elevation: 3,573′ Zip code: 91916

3. San Diego Canyon Creek

95%

(373)

48mi from Ocotillo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

4. Cleveland National Forest

93%

(83)

436 sites · Descanso, California

Hike, camp, or gaze up at the Milky Way in California’s southernmost national forest.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Time Traveler Retreat Julian Cabin

100%

(5)

42mi from Ocotillo · 3 sites · Lodging · Julian, CA

Built in the 50’s it is sitting on 2 parcels and is over ½ acre in size. We also have 2 other cabins for rent in Julian for larger groups. The outhouse that you see was used when it was first built and now is for storage. The original owner built the house himself and it was originally on piers alone with no other foundation! There is a folder in the bedroom closet of the house over the years. The decorations were here when we bought it so we kept them to preserve the house’s uniqueness. We treasure this house which is nestled amongst the trees and has so many beautiful birds that visit. Many turkeys love to stop by too! If you hear the deep cooing from the monster doves (who are very shy) you can try to spot one. They are amazing. We really hope you love it as much as we do.

6. In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat

99%

(115)

9.3mi from Ocotillo · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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. I have 10 chickens, 2 cats and my dog Bosco.

7. DeAnza Springs Resort

94%

(18)

12mi from Ocotillo · 65 sites · Tents, RVs · Jacumba, CA

DeAnza Springs Resort is a family friendly resort in North America. Situated on more than 500 private acres of high desert (2600 feet above sea level) in Eastern San Diego County, it is ideal for year-round vacationing. The Resort is comprised of 311 spacious RV sites, most with full hookups, (30/50 amps) and unlimited tent sites for camping. Comfortable rental units consist of fully furnished tiny homes and motel rooms. Centerpiece to the Resort is a 7500 square foot clubhouse. It is home to the Oasis Lounge/Bar and cafe. There is also a computer area for public internet access. No matter what activities you enjoy, you’ll probably find them available at DeAnza Springs Resort. Surrounded on three sides by the wilderness of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the resort grounds include grassy lawns, shade trees, two sparkling swimming pools and a hot tub with access to hiking trails in every direction. Amenities include two swimming pools open year round (one indoor heated and one outdoors), an outdoor hot tub, tennis/pickle ball courts, shuffle-board courts, fitness center with sauna, and laundry facilities. There is also a large enclosed pet park and WiFi broadband internet access.

8. Montezuma Valley Campground

98%

(51)

43mi from Ocotillo · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Borrego Springs, CA

Learn more about this land: Welcome to Montezuma Valley Campground! We are excited to welcome you to our special corner of the world. About the property Our property is in the high desert above Borrego Springs at 4,300'. We border Anza Borrego State property which means you’ll be adjacent to plenty of beautiful open spaces. There are many trails in the park which lead to the desert floor from our fence line. On a clear day you can see the Salton Sea from the bottom of the property. We have great access to nearby points of interest including Borrego Springs which is 20 miles away, Anza Borrego State Park which is adjacent to Julian at 40 miles away, Palomar observatory which is 40 miles away and Cuyamaca Lake which is fantastic for fishing only 45 miles away. If you need to pop into town for any supplies or services you can access Borrego Springs (20 miles away), Julian (40 miles away), Ramona (45 miles away), and Temecula (50 miles away). We have 3 horseshoe pits and 9 frisbee golf baskets for recreation onsite and we have incredible dark skies for excellent stargazing. You may see many different forms of wildlife including mountain lions, coyotes, foxes, bob cats, racoons, badgers, and rattle snakes. You will see many rabbits, squirrels and tons of birds of all kinds! We are really the perfect location for those who love the outdoors! Owners live on site but we like to greet, meet, and then leave you to your stay! Please reach out if you have questions or concerns though. About the listing Our listing is for tents, vans and truck campers, trailers, or RV’s and we can accommodate rigs up to 25ft in length. A few of our 5 sites are pull through sites on dirt and may require some leveling. All sites are dry camping only as we do not have any hookups, though there are two bathrooms and water available in a centralized area on the property. You can expect High desert and scrub brush environments. Any vehicle should be able to access our property but 4-wheel drive vehicle might make it a little easier to access areas on the outside perimeter of the property. While staying with us you can expect some noise from coyotes, raven….wind and a little highway traffic on s22. Each site will accommodate up to 6 people. Amenities listed below: -Picnic table provided -Two bathrooms available -Pets allowed -Potable water available via spigot -Trash bins available -Limited cell service, no wifi Additional details to note Fires are illegal in our area so please no campfires at anytime. Dogs must be leashed and please no barking + clean up after them. Quiet hours by 10pm please + low light since we are a stargazing area. We do not have a kitchen or cooking area so please BYO supplies. Check in is after 1pm and check out is by 11am.

9. The Desert View Tower

98%

(261)

8.2mi from Ocotillo · 3 sites · Tents · 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!

10. Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

98%

(446)

16mi from Ocotillo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · 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, even if the days are hot. There is almost always a breeze and sometimes a wind, so bring your kites. 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. I like to tell people that this is sacred land and it is. Come see the magnificent boulder formations. Come for the quiet. Come for the stars. Remember that the Jacumba Hotel Hot Springs and restaurant is 5 minutes away and the food is exceptional. The place to heal 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! They offer day passes. 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 Certified Organic 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

11. Oasis Ranch

96%

(86)

28mi from Ocotillo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Westmorland, CA

Our Rural location is set in the Imperial Valley within driving distance to Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, Bombay Beach, Los Angeles, and San Diego. The Oasis Ranch offers multiple locations on the property including: Pond Site surrounded by +35 year old oak trees. Desert terrain along with river washes lined with desert Cedar. Beautiful one of a kind locations are very accessible, we are happy to help facilitate and coordinate where appropriate and needed.

12. A taste of nature/wildlife.

92%

(33)

41mi from Ocotillo · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Julian, CA

You will enjoy 6 acres where you'll be able to hang a hammock, read a book, or watch our daily visitors, deer and/or wild turkeys. There's no city noise around here, you'll fall asleep to the sound of crickets and bullfrogs. Lastly, it's a short distance over the hill for you to enjoy the small town of Julian and their famous apple pie. *Please note pond is closed for cleaning *Some areas of the property are used for storage of building materials for active building and improvement of the property. We offer 2 guest at 150.00 a night, each additional guest is 25 nightly. KIDS ARE FREE. Learn more about this land: Hip-campers will enjoy wide open space where they can hang a hammock or feed cat fish in the pond. There are hiking trails and beautiful sunsets. Deer and turkey visit regularly. There are no city sounds, you will fall asleep to crickets and bullfrogs. The old town of Julian is within reach. 150.00 night for 2 people, each addition person is 25 dollars. KIDS UNDER 18 FREE. Contact Frank 7605808613

13. Old well ranch

99%

(45)

45mi from Ocotillo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Jamul, CA

I’m at 2300’ on north side of Lyons peak I have sweet tasting water very quiet and at the end of the road about an 1/8 mi off Lyons valley road there’s is a nice country store since 1940 many people visit store as a destination on any weekends bicycles,Harley’s classic cars I’m a cook I serve bbq Mex food American food or you can cook over open fire store has everything thing you desire there’s Julian for pie , lake cuyamaca , hiking best area for camping or extended stay to see all of San Diego and Mexico Baja theres a shower bath room and very clean area super quiet you will love your stay firewood for campfires is included so you will make great memories of your stay campsites are improving as time goes on to make you camping experience great

14. Bee Land! True Off-Grid Camping

100%

(4)

46mi from Ocotillo · 5 sites · RVs · Bombay Beach, CA

Learn more about this land: Welcome to Bee Land! 5 acres of off-the-grid earth: desolate, empty and stunning! This is a property for those who really want to experience the desert at night. Camp under the stars, near the Salton Sea. You will be surrounded by the mountains and endless sky. There is nothing else except the stark beauty of this completely undeveloped landscape. However, you are 5 miles from Bombay Beach, 8 miles from Niland and Slab City. Take a day trip to Palm Springs , Joshua Tree, or the other side of the Salton Sea. Go off roading! Hike the Chocolate Mountains! Lay on one of the beaches along the Salton Sea. There’s so much do if you are open to the total experience of what desert life can provide. You never know who you will meet! Perfect alternative to the over-priced airbnbs for the Bombay Beach Biennale. Update: There is now a clearcut, straight path leading out to the property directly from the main road. There is also an entrance and property markers. All details and directions will be provided after booking is formalized.

15. JP Longstock Ranch

75%

(4)

29mi from Ocotillo · 2 sites · Lodging · Campo, CA

This is a historical property in campo California. A great old west town with an interesting history behind it. This particular property was where the Buffalo soldiers kept their working horses close to 100 years ago in what is now the last standing original buffalo soldier barn. Old artifacts and handmade tack can still be found in the giant rustic barn. The barn is now used to breed unique crossbred horses that have gained Note-oriety, and have been featured on the cover of magazines, including the Boot Barn campaign (who intend to use the barn in in future photo shoots) as well as use famous spotted horse, Confettis American Warrior in the next ad campaign being shot in Hollywood next month. We tried to keep the barn with its original charm and added some world class beautiful horses that are available for riding around the property and/or photoshoots during your stay for an additional cost. We have extra stalls available for people who would like to bring their own horses for a unique camping experience including riding your horse in Camp Locket and along the USA/America border wall. Lots of space for trailer and very secure stalls in the barn. We are just starting out doing this, but have the options of staying in a brand new shed yet to be converted, in the barn inside an old stall to have a real authentic experience where the soldiers used to rest or a tent overlooking the old historical barn and the fabulous horses (right now we have babies!). We have multiple cross fences fenced areas including stalls and areas for your dog but will need to discuss details beforehand. We are very pet and people friendly.

Camper favorites near Ocotillo

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Oasis Ranch

96%

(86)

28mi from Ocotillo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Westmorland, CA

Our Rural location is set in the Imperial Valley within driving distance to Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, Bombay Beach, Los Angeles, and San Diego. The Oasis Ranch offers multiple locations on the property including: Pond Site surrounded by +35 year old oak trees. Desert terrain along with river washes lined with desert Cedar. Beautiful one of a kind locations are very accessible, we are happy to help facilitate and coordinate where appropriate and needed.

A taste of nature/wildlife.

92%

(33)

41mi from Ocotillo · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Julian, CA

You will enjoy 6 acres where you'll be able to hang a hammock, read a book, or watch our daily visitors, deer and/or wild turkeys. There's no city noise around here, you'll fall asleep to the sound of crickets and bullfrogs. Lastly, it's a short distance over the hill for you to enjoy the small town of Julian and their famous apple pie. *Please note pond is closed for cleaning *Some areas of the property are used for storage of building materials for active building and improvement of the property. We offer 2 guest at 150.00 a night, each additional guest is 25 nightly. KIDS ARE FREE. Learn more about this land: Hip-campers will enjoy wide open space where they can hang a hammock or feed cat fish in the pond. There are hiking trails and beautiful sunsets. Deer and turkey visit regularly. There are no city sounds, you will fall asleep to crickets and bullfrogs. The old town of Julian is within reach. 150.00 night for 2 people, each addition person is 25 dollars. KIDS UNDER 18 FREE. Contact Frank 7605808613

Old well ranch

99%

(45)

45mi from Ocotillo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Jamul, CA

I’m at 2300’ on north side of Lyons peak I have sweet tasting water very quiet and at the end of the road about an 1/8 mi off Lyons valley road there’s is a nice country store since 1940 many people visit store as a destination on any weekends bicycles,Harley’s classic cars I’m a cook I serve bbq Mex food American food or you can cook over open fire store has everything thing you desire there’s Julian for pie , lake cuyamaca , hiking best area for camping or extended stay to see all of San Diego and Mexico Baja theres a shower bath room and very clean area super quiet you will love your stay firewood for campfires is included so you will make great memories of your stay campsites are improving as time goes on to make you camping experience great

Bee Land! True Off-Grid Camping

100%

(4)

46mi from Ocotillo · 5 sites · RVs · Bombay Beach, CA

Learn more about this land: Welcome to Bee Land! 5 acres of off-the-grid earth: desolate, empty and stunning! This is a property for those who really want to experience the desert at night. Camp under the stars, near the Salton Sea. You will be surrounded by the mountains and endless sky. There is nothing else except the stark beauty of this completely undeveloped landscape. However, you are 5 miles from Bombay Beach, 8 miles from Niland and Slab City. Take a day trip to Palm Springs , Joshua Tree, or the other side of the Salton Sea. Go off roading! Hike the Chocolate Mountains! Lay on one of the beaches along the Salton Sea. There’s so much do if you are open to the total experience of what desert life can provide. You never know who you will meet! Perfect alternative to the over-priced airbnbs for the Bombay Beach Biennale. Update: There is now a clearcut, straight path leading out to the property directly from the main road. There is also an entrance and property markers. All details and directions will be provided after booking is formalized.

JP Longstock Ranch

75%

(4)

29mi from Ocotillo · 2 sites · Lodging · Campo, CA

This is a historical property in campo California. A great old west town with an interesting history behind it. This particular property was where the Buffalo soldiers kept their working horses close to 100 years ago in what is now the last standing original buffalo soldier barn. Old artifacts and handmade tack can still be found in the giant rustic barn. The barn is now used to breed unique crossbred horses that have gained Note-oriety, and have been featured on the cover of magazines, including the Boot Barn campaign (who intend to use the barn in in future photo shoots) as well as use famous spotted horse, Confettis American Warrior in the next ad campaign being shot in Hollywood next month. We tried to keep the barn with its original charm and added some world class beautiful horses that are available for riding around the property and/or photoshoots during your stay for an additional cost. We have extra stalls available for people who would like to bring their own horses for a unique camping experience including riding your horse in Camp Locket and along the USA/America border wall. Lots of space for trailer and very secure stalls in the barn. We are just starting out doing this, but have the options of staying in a brand new shed yet to be converted, in the barn inside an old stall to have a real authentic experience where the soldiers used to rest or a tent overlooking the old historical barn and the fabulous horses (right now we have babies!). We have multiple cross fences fenced areas including stalls and areas for your dog but will need to discuss details beforehand. We are very pet and people friendly.

Public campgrounds near Ocotillo

Great family trip! Kids loved running around the campground.

96%

(16)

Burnt Rancheria Campground

25mi from Ocotillo · 57 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

100%

(11)

Cibbets Flat Campground

26mi from Ocotillo · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

Wooded Hill Group Campground

26mi from Ocotillo · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Cleveland National Forest

Horse Heaven Group Campground

27mi from Ocotillo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

98%

(25)

Laguna Campground

28mi from Ocotillo · 49 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

Boulder Oaks Campground

28mi from Ocotillo · 47 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

100%

(1)

El Prado Group Campground

28mi from Ocotillo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

Bobcat Meadow Campground

32mi from Ocotillo · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

Corral Canyon Campground

33mi from Ocotillo · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

Stories from the community

T.C.

2 weeks ago

18 ft Class B

1 night at King Creek Campground

Rugged and remote location with lots of space to explore. The old dam is super cool. I spent two nights there and had fun adventures. Hosts are very cool with an interesting backstory. The dirt road is pretty steep in parts, so you gotta know what you're doing with a heavy vehicles.

I

Isaac belmontes

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

Super awesome place. First time camping with kids and it was very nice experience.

A

Avery

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat

Great off grid place to stay. Beauty all around. Greg is very accommodating and makes sure you are good. Thank you!

J

Jeffrey

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Whiteside Mountain

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.

Q

Quinn

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

Lovely spot. Perfect for stargazing! Just a tip-if you click on the map it will not take you to the correct place but if you directly plug in a ur coordinates, it’s perfect!

David

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

We loved our night at Carlotta’s place. It all started with a fund ride down off roading (bring a higher car) which the kids loved, then she upgraded us to a bigger site with a decent outhouse. The highlights were definitely the privacy, the swings and the awesome hikes around the property. Would definitely recommend, especially with a nice host like Carlotta!

Neil

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

Great location - less than an hour from San Diego, but you feel much further. Tons of stars at night and we couldn't hear any noise from the other sites. Road in isn't bad if you have some clearance and AWD/4WD. Would happily stay again.

g

gabriel

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Beautiful views, good trails and fun dogs. Hopefully we can camp in this spot again.

Jay

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat

Hi Greg. It was great to meet you. Thanks for hosting our stay at Site 4. It was just what my boys and I were looking for in a weekend campout under the stars. We look forward to coming back again in the future!

C

Cae

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

Really beautiful spot with friendly, accommodating hosts. We stayed at the Dam site and felt completely secluded. It was a warm day but the site has a big shaded area so we were very comfortable. There was an outhouse as expected and it even had a nice view. The hosts were kind enough to even leave us water for dousing the fire and a trash can. This is not a glamping situation at all, but it's exactly what we were hoping for and expecting when we booked it! There are many historical sites and features that we didn't have time to check out this time but are looking forward to seeing on the next trip. Only word of caution is that the road really is pretty rough to get in. You definitely need reasonably high clearance and we were glad to have 4WD on the way back out, although you could probably get by with FWD. Normally I think people overstate this in reviews but I really don't think you should try to access this site in a sedan or low-ish crossover. Not a complaint, just a heads up.

S

Sophia

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

Loved this spot! We did combo truck/tent camping and enjoyed a lovely weekend hosted by Carlotta and her 2 dogs. Hollow was the dog to stay with us practically the whole weekend and led us around the property while we explored. She also watched over us at night and had our backs throughout our stay. This is a great spot for beginning campers looking for a step up into a more secluded camp, we recommend bringing friends and enjoying this awesome nature rich spot. We definitely plan on coming back! P.S. the drive in is a rocky dirt road, we recommend only bringing higher sitting verticales: trucks, jeeps, SUVs, etc.

J

Jim

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

The property is beautiful, natural Southern California foothills with tons of wildlife. All I could hear was the wind and the birds, and lots of them! No noisy neighbors and it was wonderful! Carlotta was a great host, and I’m thankful to her and Richard for making their property available to others to enjoy. They provided well water, privacy and a beautiful landscape with lots of lovely trails to trek. The road in and out is a bit harrowing, and I’m glad I had my AWD Subaru. I want to come back again soon, and hopefully with more time to explore the little town of Descanso down the road. Download your maps before you leave because there is no GPS or cell service. Ahhh…

E

Elisa

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Amazing views and Ellen was so helpful. We loved meeting all of their animals and exploring the property. Cute tie-dye too!

Jenn

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

Carlotta and her husband were so incredibly hospitable and helpful during our stay. My group of friends had a wonderful time cooking, listening to music, and going on nature walks throughout the property. I would absolutely recommend King Creek Campground, especially to those with a large group. We will absolutely be back - thanks again Carlotta!

Jenn

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

We booked the entire campsite and had a wonderful time. My full review is on meadow campsite page!

S

Samantha

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to San Diego Canyon Creek

Laura is absolutely amazing her campsite is absolutely beautiful she is the sweetest person ever she allowed my mom and aunt help set up and suprised me with my proposal I had no clue that was happening my amazing fiancé planned the whole thing and Laura was more than happy to let that happen on her property it was perfect. We definitely will be back again anytime we are in the San Diego area we will be camping there so peaceful and beautiful at night you can hear the creek water flowing the crickets it’s absolutely amazing all around 100/10

Mackenzy

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at King Creek Campground

Wonderful. secluded, quiet spot! The host showed us a great little hike to watch the sunset. Tons of shade, so even with the heat it stayed cool. The pups are super cute and fun bonus.

R

Richard

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to San Diego Canyon Creek

It was a very nice and peaceful stay. Bathroom and shower were conveniently close. I would definitely return on my next trip to San Diego area

M

Mary-Rose

September 2025

Tent

1 night at San Diego Canyon Creek

Cute little backyard campsite with 4 close-knit sites, each with its own hammock—perfect for stargazing. We stayed at the Hawk’s Nest, which sits above the rest with great sky views (though carrying gear up the steep climb was a mini workout). Shared shower and kitchen had everything we needed—coffee maker, kettle, burner, pans, even “community potatoes.” The driveway is steep, so not ideal for compact cars, but once in, it’s cozy with plenty of nature sounds—crickets, coyotes, roosters at dawn. Earplugs are a must! Summer nights in El Cajon stay hot until late, so plan for that. Best surprise: a new country, LGBT-friendly bar called Neon Moon nearby with karaoke, cocktails, and lawn games. Laura, the host, was incredibly warm and communicative. Only 30 mins from San Diego, it’s a great spot for new campers with just the right mix of amenities and rustic vibes. Would definitely rebook!

Jessica

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Whiteside Mountain

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!