12 Best Private Campsites Near Potrero, CA, US 2025

Looking for a camping adventure near Potrero, California? Look no further than Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), Splitrock Farm and Retreat (320 reviews), and Bailes Farm (209 reviews), all with fantastic amenities and activities to enjoy. Whether you're into hiking, snow sports, or off-roading, Hipcamp has got you covered. Don't forget to pack your sense of adventure!

98% (454)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for a camping adventure near Potrero, California? Look no further than Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), Splitrock Farm and Retreat (320 reviews), and Bailes Farm (209 reviews), all with fantastic amenities and activities to enjoy. Whether you're into hiking, snow sports, or off-roading, Hipcamp has got you covered. Don't forget to pack your sense of adventure!

98% (454)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. King Creek Campground

98%

(683)

19mi from Potrero · 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

2. Time Traveler Retreat Julian Cabin

100%

(5)

30mi from Potrero · 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.

3. In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat

99%

(115)

28mi from Potrero · 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.

4. Manzanita Hill Woodland Camping

100%

(13)

33mi from Potrero · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Julian, CA

The perfect blend of a relaxing San Diego local mountain getaway with access to nearby local attractions and restaurants! Manzanita Hill offers private camping with proximity to historic Julian, shopping, dining, 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. Bring your own tent, pull in your camper van, or book into our Safari tent, nestled in oak woodlands on a deck, with private compost toilet. Manzanita Hill is just: - a five minute drive to antique shops, Patchwork Market, cideries, farm stands, 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, Dudley's Bakery, Santa Ysabel Art Gallery, access to Santa Ysabel Preserve and Interpretive Center, Cuyamaca Lake, 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 focusing on forest health and wildfire prevention. There is one adventure trail onsite and a community propane fire pit (allowed when extreme heat or high winds are not forecast), because, well... s'mores.

5. A taste of nature/wildlife.

92%

(33)

28mi from Potrero · 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

6. Old well ranch

99%

(45)

12mi from Potrero · 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

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!

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!

A

Andrea

October 2025

Group trip

2 nights at Manzanita Hill Woodland Camping

We had a wounderful time. From the very start Diana was very responsive. Upon our arrival she got all checked in a familiar with supplies and amenities. I was very impressed by all the small details such as signage and provided materials. Even more so impressed by how much work Diana takes to make the experience comfortable and environmentally sustainable. We got to see some wild turkeys at night and enjoyed looking at her bee hive boxes. Compost toilet was a new one for me and like she promised it was easy, comfortable, and left no smell. It would be a pleasure to stay again!

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.

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…

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!

Juliet

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Manzanita Hill Woodland Camping

This was probably my favorite Hipcamp stay so far-- it's conveniently located a short drive outside of Julian, but still perfectly quiet and with gorgeous mountain views peeking out behind the trees. With the cozy bedding package and cooking set we felt we had everything we could possibly need out here. Must recommend the hot propane shower too! Our hosts live on the property (with their tiny pup) and were as sweet as can be + very accommodating. Perfect spot to spend a solo weekend with a book, or for a peaceful getaway for two. There's a cot for a third person, and room around the campfire for plenty more if friends camp at the other site. Must, must recommend Manzanita Hill!

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.

C

Connor

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

This place was amazing! The hosts are very accommodating and the property is beautiful. I am looking forward to camping here again. I would recommend an AWD vehicle to get to the location. The hosts’ dogs are very sweet. The location has so much to see and all the camping spots are situated far away from one another so you still have privacy. You are also near the town of Julian so I’d recommend grabbing a pie for the campfire at night. I am looking forward to camping here again. 10/10 recommend.

Loukas and Stacy

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

What an amazing and special place! Campsites are secluded and spacious. Carlotta is a great hostess! Such a great place to unplug and get away from it all. We will definitely be coming back!

G

Graham

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Manzanita Hill Woodland Camping

Lovely site with oak-shaded hang-outs and a private spacious safari tent. Diana was great, super responsive and helpful. Wonderful spot to stay close to Julian. Great for 2 people, a little cramped for 4 maybe but works fine for a family!

K

Katy

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Old well ranch

We loved our stay here!! The property is great and perfect for a quiet night away. Tim was extremely accommodating and went above and beyond to help us out with everything we needed! It was such a nice bonus to be able to cook on the an actual stove and have access to a bathroom. Plus the views and the stars were beautiful!! We really enjoyed talking with Tim and so appreciated his clear dedication to making sure we had a great time. Can’t wait to stay again!

A

Austin

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

The site was beautiful and very private. Carlotta was exceedingly kind and helpful; She provided us a few gallons of water for bathing and cleaning our stuff, and was very willing to help us with any issues. I couldn’t recommend the site more. Her pup, Benny was a great addition to the trip as well. Make sure you have a vehicle with decent clearance for the drive in. A road car would not be a happy camper… pun intended.