- Great Views
The best great views camping near Potrero
95% (1.3K) • 56 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Potrero
Whiteside Mountain
1. Whiteside Mountain
100%
(392)
9.4mi from Potrero · 1 site
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!"
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$98
/ night
GoodVibes Ranch Disc Golf & Camping
2. GoodVibes Ranch Disc Golf & Camping
93%
(96)
11mi from Potrero · 36 sites · Tents, RVs
Stay. Play. Unwind. 🌿🏕️ GoodVibes Ranch & Farm is your ultimate mountain escape, blending an 19-hole disc golf course, camping, community, music, art, fitness & horticulture clubs just 30 minutes from San Diego.
Check-in With Host Upon Arrival!
🏞️ 74 scenic acres provide space to relax, connect, and explore. Choose from:
🏕️ Private Tent camping, glamping units, or eco-friendly trailers 🚐
Amenities: Clubhouse Stargazing deck, picnic areas, fire pits, bathrooms, showers camping; a commercial kitchen
Activities: 19-hole disc golf course, hiking trails, billiards, and horticulture, music & art clubs
Sustainability matters here—recycle, compost, and enjoy the land responsibly. Whether you're gathering with friends, family, or flying solo, this is where nature meets community.
Come stay, play, and experience the GoodVibes!
Your stay supports our mission! As a 509(a)2 nonprofit, all proceeds fund GoodVibesWorldWideNetwork & Sage Sanctuaries, dedicated to holistic wellness, sustainable living education, and community empowerment.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp
3. Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp
98%
(452)
21mi from Potrero · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$41
/ night
In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat
4. In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat
99%
(118)
28mi from Potrero · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$40
/ night
Stargazers Retreat
5. Stargazers Retreat
95%
(19)
31mi from Potrero · 1 site
Come enjoy this beautiful glamping site with 180 degree panoramic views of the Volcan Mountains. Start your morning off with a beautiful hike followed by breakfast in downtown Julian just minutes away. Endless activities including cider, wine, mead and beer tasting. Gold mining, apple orchards, pumpkin farms, camel farm just to name a few. Wind down by enjoying a glass of wine sitting by a fit pit while gazing at the stars.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$135
/ night
Loomerland Ranch and Retreat
6. Loomerland Ranch and Retreat
98%
(255)
40mi from Potrero · 101 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Secluded Camping for Tents, RV's, Vans with Stunning Scenic Views on a working ranch close to Julian, great hiking on and around ranch, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and camping under the stars! Come out to the San Diego backcountry and experience the beautiful fall season!
Description:
Welcome to Loomerland, a unique 41-acre retreat nestled in the backcountry of San Diego, California, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Our property offers a serene camping experience with a touch of luxury, and the opportunity to reconnect with nature, yourself, and like-minded individuals. We have 5 friendly livestock guardian dogs that protect you and the property.
Accommodation Options:
• Camper / RV
• Campsite
• Yurt / Teepee (currently unvailable while making site improvements)
Amenities:
• High speed Starlink wifi
• Hot Outdoor Showers
• Outdoor Kitchen
• Flushable and Composting Toilets
• Hammocks
What We Offer:
• Multiple locations on our expansive 41-acre property
• Four mild seasons for year-round enjoyment
• A variety of outdoor activities, including hiking on property or (10 minutes from the Pacific Crest Trail), meditation, yoga, mountain biking, stargazing, and campfires
• Interaction with friendly animals like goats and sheep
• Holistic management and permaculture principles to ensure a sustainable experience
• Hosts with 25 years of experience in gut health, plant medicine, and entrepreneurship
Why Choose Loomerland?
Our property offers a unique blend of seclusion and adventure, with breathtaking views, pristine air, and clean water from an underground aquifer. Whether you're seeking relaxation or an adrenaline rush, our land has something for everyone. Spend your days exploring trails, bonding with our resident animals, or finding inner peace through meditation and yoga. In the evenings, gather around the campfire for meaningful conversations, stargaze, or simply unwind with your favorite drink.
Book Now:
Don't miss the opportunity to experience the hidden gem of San Diego. Book your stay at Loomerland today and start making unforgettable memories under the stars. Your adventure awaits!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$15
/ night
Santa Ysabel Dark Sky Retreat
7. Santa Ysabel Dark Sky Retreat
98%
(84)
41mi from Potrero · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Private mountain campsites that sit at 3200 feet.
Disconnect at one of our quiet campsite (zero neighbors) that is located in a dark sky zone. Gaze at the Milky Way at night as you relax while listening to the sounds of nature. Come here to disconnect from city life and recharge while enjoying the smell of wild lilac and sage.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$60
/ night
Montezuma Valley Campground
8. Montezuma Valley Campground
98%
(52)
42mi from Potrero · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from
$40
/ night
Hideout Mountain Lodge
9. Hideout Mountain Lodge
95%
(370)
42mi from Potrero · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hideout Mountain Lodge is a peaceful retreat tucked away in the hills of Santa Ysabel, just over an hour from San Diego and a couple of hours from Los Angeles. Spread across 40 acres, the property offers a variety of places to stay — from remodeled cabins with fireplaces and private decks, to vintage trailers, campsites, and RV spots with full hookups and views of Lake Henshaw.
This is the kind of place where you slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the landscape. Guests gather around the community firepit, take walks through the oaks, or just relax on a porch and listen to the birds.
On weekends, you can wander over to Josie’s Hideout Saloon, our on-site bar and restaurant, known for its live music and western character.
We’re just a few minutes from the towns of Santa Ysabel and Julian, easy to get to but far enough away to feel like an escape.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$24
/ night
Kayhill Farm
10. Kayhill Farm
86%
(33)
24mi from Potrero · 1 site
Learn more about this land:
Urban camping spot with incredible views. Perfect for stealth vans and other smaller vehicles. Unfortunately we cannot accommodate travel trailers or Rvs at this time. Water, power, and sewer available. Property is close to freeways and stores. Also adjacent to nature preserve with moderate hiking trails, wildlife watching, and panoramic views. Site is at the top of a STEEP hill. Some maneuvering on your end will be required to get a vehicle in, but site is level once parked. Hookups are included but cannot be connected continuously. This is an URBAN camp spot meaning there will be some noise from the freeways and the city that's off in the distance. We live in a neighborhood so our neighbors sometimes make noise or have cars coming in and out. Our property is protected by security cameras.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$30
/ night
Dark Sky Wilderness Retreat
11. Dark Sky Wilderness Retreat
88%
(8)
43mi from Potrero · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
Nestled within an ancient ironwood forest with some of the best wildflower viewing around, you'll find the Borrego Institute for Living Design, a non-profit dedicated to "rehabilitating feral humans for reintroduction to the wild," with an emphasis on climate resilience and "biocultural renewal"––reconnecting people and place through hands-on naturalist practices like tracking, observation and listening, plein air arts, Biomimicry innovation and discovery, ethnobotanical cultivation, harvesting, renewal, and arts, "living archeology" fieldwork and trainings, and good old campfire stories. We call it The BILD.
Once the home of Gale Gordon, producer of The Lucy Show and a dear friend of Lucille Ball, noted Hollywood figure and former Borrego Springs mayor, the house and grounds retain their rustic Hollywood charm. We offer two 3 bed suites for retreats, guests, and short creative residencies, shared Infrared sauna and communal kitchen, with extensive grounds and incredible cactus garden. A photographers' delight!
Campers will discover their own classic Springbar-style canvas glamping tent with Memory Foam queen size mattress. Nature-lovers, artists, and creatives of all kinds will enjoy endless inspiration, glorious birdsong, beautiful wanderings, and incredible sunrises in this unique place. Enjoy birdwatching or artistic pursuits in deep solitude and silence under the Milky Way. It's like having your own State Park, minutes from the amenities of Borrego Springs, yet worlds away.
We offer two spacious Kodiak canvas tent-cabins for you, 10x10 and 10x14, with complete 4 wall ventilation as desired. Each has one Queen and we are happy to add an additional mattress or cot for you for maximum occupancy 4 persons. We also offer two car camping sites among the ironwoods––protected from wind and sun, with unbeatable views.
The campground offers Insta-worthy campfire chairs and bistro table dining, enchanted solar lighting, a gas BBQ, grill and campfire. Communal kitchen prep area. Easy access outdoor bathroom with privacy and eco-friendly toilet. Water and electricity accessible (no hookups).
Are you an artist, naturalist, tracker, researcher, or Indigenous biocultural practitioner? We are happy to accommodate special requests for spaces to draw, paint, do research, conduct Indigenous biocultural practice etc. How can we help you grow and support your connection to place? Find out what we do by visiting BorregoInstituteforLivingDesign.org or TEEMLab.com.
Please note: this is a remote wilderness area, home to much wildlife, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, bobcats, even mountain lions and rattlesnakes, and a great deal of prickly cactus. It can be very hot. It is not suitable for pets, and children should be supervised. Bring good shoes, drink lots of water, and stay out of direct sun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$64
/ night
95% (1.3K) • 56 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Potrero
Whiteside Mountain
1. Whiteside Mountain
100%
(392)
9.4mi from Potrero · 1 site
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!"
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$98
/ night
GoodVibes Ranch Disc Golf & Camping
2. GoodVibes Ranch Disc Golf & Camping
93%
(96)
11mi from Potrero · 36 sites · Tents, RVs
Stay. Play. Unwind. 🌿🏕️ GoodVibes Ranch & Farm is your ultimate mountain escape, blending an 19-hole disc golf course, camping, community, music, art, fitness & horticulture clubs just 30 minutes from San Diego.
Check-in With Host Upon Arrival!
🏞️ 74 scenic acres provide space to relax, connect, and explore. Choose from:
🏕️ Private Tent camping, glamping units, or eco-friendly trailers 🚐
Amenities: Clubhouse Stargazing deck, picnic areas, fire pits, bathrooms, showers camping; a commercial kitchen
Activities: 19-hole disc golf course, hiking trails, billiards, and horticulture, music & art clubs
Sustainability matters here—recycle, compost, and enjoy the land responsibly. Whether you're gathering with friends, family, or flying solo, this is where nature meets community.
Come stay, play, and experience the GoodVibes!
Your stay supports our mission! As a 509(a)2 nonprofit, all proceeds fund GoodVibesWorldWideNetwork & Sage Sanctuaries, dedicated to holistic wellness, sustainable living education, and community empowerment.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp
3. Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp
98%
(452)
21mi from Potrero · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$41
/ night
In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat
4. In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat
99%
(118)
28mi from Potrero · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$40
/ night
Stargazers Retreat
5. Stargazers Retreat
95%
(19)
31mi from Potrero · 1 site
Come enjoy this beautiful glamping site with 180 degree panoramic views of the Volcan Mountains. Start your morning off with a beautiful hike followed by breakfast in downtown Julian just minutes away. Endless activities including cider, wine, mead and beer tasting. Gold mining, apple orchards, pumpkin farms, camel farm just to name a few. Wind down by enjoying a glass of wine sitting by a fit pit while gazing at the stars.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$135
/ night
Loomerland Ranch and Retreat
6. Loomerland Ranch and Retreat
98%
(255)
40mi from Potrero · 101 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Secluded Camping for Tents, RV's, Vans with Stunning Scenic Views on a working ranch close to Julian, great hiking on and around ranch, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and camping under the stars! Come out to the San Diego backcountry and experience the beautiful fall season!
Description:
Welcome to Loomerland, a unique 41-acre retreat nestled in the backcountry of San Diego, California, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Our property offers a serene camping experience with a touch of luxury, and the opportunity to reconnect with nature, yourself, and like-minded individuals. We have 5 friendly livestock guardian dogs that protect you and the property.
Accommodation Options:
• Camper / RV
• Campsite
• Yurt / Teepee (currently unvailable while making site improvements)
Amenities:
• High speed Starlink wifi
• Hot Outdoor Showers
• Outdoor Kitchen
• Flushable and Composting Toilets
• Hammocks
What We Offer:
• Multiple locations on our expansive 41-acre property
• Four mild seasons for year-round enjoyment
• A variety of outdoor activities, including hiking on property or (10 minutes from the Pacific Crest Trail), meditation, yoga, mountain biking, stargazing, and campfires
• Interaction with friendly animals like goats and sheep
• Holistic management and permaculture principles to ensure a sustainable experience
• Hosts with 25 years of experience in gut health, plant medicine, and entrepreneurship
Why Choose Loomerland?
Our property offers a unique blend of seclusion and adventure, with breathtaking views, pristine air, and clean water from an underground aquifer. Whether you're seeking relaxation or an adrenaline rush, our land has something for everyone. Spend your days exploring trails, bonding with our resident animals, or finding inner peace through meditation and yoga. In the evenings, gather around the campfire for meaningful conversations, stargaze, or simply unwind with your favorite drink.
Book Now:
Don't miss the opportunity to experience the hidden gem of San Diego. Book your stay at Loomerland today and start making unforgettable memories under the stars. Your adventure awaits!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$15
/ night
Santa Ysabel Dark Sky Retreat
7. Santa Ysabel Dark Sky Retreat
98%
(84)
41mi from Potrero · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Private mountain campsites that sit at 3200 feet.
Disconnect at one of our quiet campsite (zero neighbors) that is located in a dark sky zone. Gaze at the Milky Way at night as you relax while listening to the sounds of nature. Come here to disconnect from city life and recharge while enjoying the smell of wild lilac and sage.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$60
/ night
Montezuma Valley Campground
8. Montezuma Valley Campground
98%
(52)
42mi from Potrero · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from
$40
/ night
Hideout Mountain Lodge
9. Hideout Mountain Lodge
95%
(370)
42mi from Potrero · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hideout Mountain Lodge is a peaceful retreat tucked away in the hills of Santa Ysabel, just over an hour from San Diego and a couple of hours from Los Angeles. Spread across 40 acres, the property offers a variety of places to stay — from remodeled cabins with fireplaces and private decks, to vintage trailers, campsites, and RV spots with full hookups and views of Lake Henshaw.
This is the kind of place where you slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the landscape. Guests gather around the community firepit, take walks through the oaks, or just relax on a porch and listen to the birds.
On weekends, you can wander over to Josie’s Hideout Saloon, our on-site bar and restaurant, known for its live music and western character.
We’re just a few minutes from the towns of Santa Ysabel and Julian, easy to get to but far enough away to feel like an escape.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$24
/ night
Kayhill Farm
10. Kayhill Farm
86%
(33)
24mi from Potrero · 1 site
Learn more about this land:
Urban camping spot with incredible views. Perfect for stealth vans and other smaller vehicles. Unfortunately we cannot accommodate travel trailers or Rvs at this time. Water, power, and sewer available. Property is close to freeways and stores. Also adjacent to nature preserve with moderate hiking trails, wildlife watching, and panoramic views. Site is at the top of a STEEP hill. Some maneuvering on your end will be required to get a vehicle in, but site is level once parked. Hookups are included but cannot be connected continuously. This is an URBAN camp spot meaning there will be some noise from the freeways and the city that's off in the distance. We live in a neighborhood so our neighbors sometimes make noise or have cars coming in and out. Our property is protected by security cameras.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$30
/ night
Dark Sky Wilderness Retreat
11. Dark Sky Wilderness Retreat
88%
(8)
43mi from Potrero · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
Nestled within an ancient ironwood forest with some of the best wildflower viewing around, you'll find the Borrego Institute for Living Design, a non-profit dedicated to "rehabilitating feral humans for reintroduction to the wild," with an emphasis on climate resilience and "biocultural renewal"––reconnecting people and place through hands-on naturalist practices like tracking, observation and listening, plein air arts, Biomimicry innovation and discovery, ethnobotanical cultivation, harvesting, renewal, and arts, "living archeology" fieldwork and trainings, and good old campfire stories. We call it The BILD.
Once the home of Gale Gordon, producer of The Lucy Show and a dear friend of Lucille Ball, noted Hollywood figure and former Borrego Springs mayor, the house and grounds retain their rustic Hollywood charm. We offer two 3 bed suites for retreats, guests, and short creative residencies, shared Infrared sauna and communal kitchen, with extensive grounds and incredible cactus garden. A photographers' delight!
Campers will discover their own classic Springbar-style canvas glamping tent with Memory Foam queen size mattress. Nature-lovers, artists, and creatives of all kinds will enjoy endless inspiration, glorious birdsong, beautiful wanderings, and incredible sunrises in this unique place. Enjoy birdwatching or artistic pursuits in deep solitude and silence under the Milky Way. It's like having your own State Park, minutes from the amenities of Borrego Springs, yet worlds away.
We offer two spacious Kodiak canvas tent-cabins for you, 10x10 and 10x14, with complete 4 wall ventilation as desired. Each has one Queen and we are happy to add an additional mattress or cot for you for maximum occupancy 4 persons. We also offer two car camping sites among the ironwoods––protected from wind and sun, with unbeatable views.
The campground offers Insta-worthy campfire chairs and bistro table dining, enchanted solar lighting, a gas BBQ, grill and campfire. Communal kitchen prep area. Easy access outdoor bathroom with privacy and eco-friendly toilet. Water and electricity accessible (no hookups).
Are you an artist, naturalist, tracker, researcher, or Indigenous biocultural practitioner? We are happy to accommodate special requests for spaces to draw, paint, do research, conduct Indigenous biocultural practice etc. How can we help you grow and support your connection to place? Find out what we do by visiting BorregoInstituteforLivingDesign.org or TEEMLab.com.
Please note: this is a remote wilderness area, home to much wildlife, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, bobcats, even mountain lions and rattlesnakes, and a great deal of prickly cactus. It can be very hot. It is not suitable for pets, and children should be supervised. Bring good shoes, drink lots of water, and stay out of direct sun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$64
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
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Nikki
1 week ago
Tent
Booked a spot in the Cove tent camping area. Very peaceful and secluded. Cows in the valley below brooding daytime and at night coyotes howling. Lots of stars in the clear skies. It was cold at night, late February, (low 40's) so I decided to car camp. The camp hosts are really sweet. The toilet was close and very well kept. This is a quiet spot, yet only about a 25 minute drive to downtown Julian. I was the only tent camper, the cabins near by had occupancy. There is also a lower tent camping area that gets much more sun. I hesitate to recommend it for selfish reasons! Definitely a place I will return to. Great spot!
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Rick
1 week ago
With pets
We loved our weekend stay at The Bluebirds Nest cabin. The place was very clean and comfortable. The temperatures got down to the 30’s at night and wood burning fireplace kept us warm and cozy.
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Ron
2 weeks ago
34 ft fifth wheel
With pets
Great location with great views of Lake Henshaw within the park. Great saloon/restaurant within walking distance.
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LETITIA
2 weeks ago
Tent
Our stay at Hideout Mountain Lodge was wonderful. The place was very clean, peaceful, and thoughtfully equipped with a flush toilet and hot shower—such a perfect mix of comfort and nature.
The hikes nearby were amazing, with breathtaking views and fresh mountain air that made every step worthwhile. It’s the ideal spot to relax, recharge, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. We would happily stay here again!
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Cindy
2 weeks ago
Tent
We loved car camping here. Our campsite had a bonfire pit and picnic table. We were also a quick walk to a flush toilet and a sink with potable water. We enjoyed a campfire while star gazing and hearing the occasional cow and coyote. We also heard lots of frogs throughout the night. The only downside was hearing the cars, but it wasn’t too bad.
The host was quick to respond to any question I had. I would love to come back here with a group. Thank you!
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Grant
2 weeks ago
Tent
The Cove is a great spot for camping in the shade and the artificial grass mats provided in spot #1 was more than enough to act as additional insulation between the ground and the tent. Also, great overall camping spot for those wanting to visit Palomar, Julian and other nearby areas.
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Noemi
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We really enjoyed our weekend getaway there. The staff there were so helpful and kind. Amenities were clean and the campsite was quite and filled with trees to provide ample shade. I would absolutely recommend.
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Matthew
3 weeks ago
20 ft campervan
Absolutely incredible location. Definitely worth a visit to escape into nature. A great group of people.
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Ally
January 2026
Tent
Ellen was very friendly and gave us a tour of the property. Beautiful site with her lovely ponies, dogs, and sage bushes. Stunning rock formations and very close to Jacumba Hot Springs. We had a wonderful experience!
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Sam
January 2026
Tent
With pets
Ellen was fantastic, a lovely host. She showed us around the property, including the ponies, right when we arrived. Her 3 dogs were very friendly and social and got along great with our own. Property is exactly as shown. We will stay again.
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Andrew
January 2026
Tent
Group trip
Loved camping at this site! Stayed at the starry night site. It was a clean site with good amenities, bathrooms, shared kitchen, and best of all dogs! Had 5 of the dog living at the property hanging out with us most of the night. There were also bunnies, chickens, goats, sheep, cats, and rooster. 10/10 experience would definitely come back here!
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Jen
January 2026
Tent
With pets
Such a magical piece of property and perfect for camping a few nights among the cool rock features. Ellen is a wonderful host and the dogs were a treat to me, traveling without my “pack” 🫶 I absolutely recommend this location and look forward to my return.
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Marlon
January 2026
Tent
Beautiful place to wake up to. Loved alll the animals
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Rae
January 2026
Tent
I loved Greg’s property. I saw such a gorgeous sunset and sunrise on spot 4. 2 places for building a fire, several flat spots for tents, and incredible views. Outhouse was well equipped and quirky. Greg gave me my space but was available for all of my needs. I was able to navigate slick and muddy road after atmospheric river in my 2024 crosstrek wilderness edition. It was fun!
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Michael
January 2026
16 ft car
A couple different camping options… the one at the too was really cool… nice boulders and sunset view.. mini Joshua tree vibes. Owner makes really nice tie die clothes and has sage for sale grown on property sustainably.. i didnt hike to top of her mountain but looked cool. 5 min to town. I did day lass at the hotsprings hotel. There are a couple if outbuildings to go to bathroom. I just camped in my van
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Julia
January 2026
22 ft travel trailer
We decided to take our RV out to the Hideout and had such a great time. When we pulled up, we did notice that site 15 was a bit tight for our trailer to be able to back in (not a lot of turn around space in front) so the manager was kind enough to let us use site 16 instead which was way better for our setup. I definitely recommend if you have an RV to book site 16. We had a beautiful view and nice open area for enjoying the campfire. Unfortunately it rained quite a bit while we were there so it did get quite muddy. It might help if there was more gravel on the ground to keep it from being so muddy. The bathroom and outdoor shower were both very nice, clean and worked well. The manager was super helpful and accommodating and checked in a couple times to make sure we had what we needed. Overall loved this campsite and definitely want to come back when it’s not rainy :)
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Michael
January 2026
With pets
We had an amazing stay at Cabin #10. It was very clean when we arrived and appreciated how fully stocked it was with appliances, plates, silverware. The view was perfect and the area surrounding our cabin was very well maintained. Thank you for the experience and we are looking forward to coming back again one day
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Jackson
December 2025
Tent
Sagewinds was great! Would def come back. Lot of options for where to camp, lots of beautiful property to explore, and nice adventure dogs.
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Alicia
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge
I had a great time at hideout Mountain. The airstream was well equipped and I had everything I needed to cook, relax, and stay warm. The Outlook near the site is gorgeous, and I spent most of my mornings looking at the view. Also enjoyed Josie’s hideout saloon and found the service to be really friendly and the vibe to be really nice. Live music was a great touch.
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Dave
December 2025
Tent
I was the only one up there, it was so peaceful! Road getting up there was sandy but my motorcycle made it up and down fine. Close to the town and the nice roads around there. Clear skies were great for stargazing. Host was very accommodating and answered all my questions and offered to help out in a situation I had. Would definitely recommend. Great view out over the desert. Running water was a bonus. I think there was a toilet bit I didn't use it on my stay.
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