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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Henshaw
Hideout Mountain Lodge
Hideout Mountain Lodge
95%
(358)
2.1mi from Lake Henshaw · 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
Santa Ysabel Dark Sky Retreat
Santa Ysabel Dark Sky Retreat
98%
(84)
2.7mi from Lake Henshaw · 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
Manzanita Village Retreat
Manzanita Village Retreat
99%
(95)
6.7mi from Lake Henshaw · 1 site · Lodging
We are co-founders of Ordinary Dharma and Five Changes, and stewards of this land at Manzanita Village Retreat.
Thirty years ago we were searching for a place where the land itself would be an active support in our of work facilitating workshops and retreats. We were looking for land that was within easy reach of San Diego and Los Angeles, while still being remote and far from the noise of highways. The land is infused with the presence of the thousands of people who have come here for transformation and renewal.
We are now open to visitors from HipCamp -- we look forward to your visit
Caitriona Reed and Michele Benzamin-Miki
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$80
/ night
Rancho Esquandolas
Rancho Esquandolas
95%
(21)
6.8mi from Lake Henshaw · 1 site · Tent, RV
Located on the north side of Palomar Mountain between Temecula and Julian, the Rancho Esquandolas Vineyards is a serene 20-acre mountain retreat in the heart of Warner Springs wine country.
We offer full RV hookups with electricity, water, and septic at the top of the vineyard. Relax and take in the amazing views, go wine tasting at the wineries next door, or hike the Pacific Crest Trail to nearby Eagle Rock.
Enjoy the endless stars we get at night at 3200' elevation at the base of Mt. Palomar.
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
from
$70
/ night
The Happy Camper
The Happy Camper
100%
(32)
7.3mi from Lake Henshaw · 1 site · Lodging
Beautiful spot located at my property on the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation. See a legal cannabis farm in action at all times of the seasons while sleeping in a fully functioning 2023 Jayco farmhouse edition camper. The camper has a new Queen bed, electricity, refrigerator, running water, wi-fi, heater and air conditioning. For cooking there are options such as the kitchenette in the camper, outdoor grill and camp stove with a flat grill. There is a fire pit stocked with wood . I also provide camping chairs, utensils and much more. The star viewing is amazing. There is a private hiking trail and a shaded dog area for your pet to enjoy. Local activities such as hiking and visiting historic Julian, a short drive to Anza Borrego are all in the area. We are located on the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation, make either a left or right from Hwy 79 onto Camino San Ignacio in Warner Springs, CA, keep to the left at the loop and drive out about 5 miles . When you reach the Ranger Station at the stop sign, make the first left at the sign located at 1600 Camino San Ignacio and drive all the way out to the back. The Happy Camper is located on the left.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$99
/ night
Loomerland Ranch and Retreat
Loomerland Ranch and Retreat
98%
(253)
8.9mi from Lake Henshaw · 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
Birdsong Backcountry Retreat
Birdsong Backcountry Retreat
100%
(236)
11mi from Lake Henshaw · 8 sites · Lodging
Come experience the best that the San Diego backcountry has to offer on our 85 acre private nature retreat with it's miles of trails which take you thru groves of ancient Oaks, a monumental boulders maze, intoxicating sage,
the most incredible sunset vistas and located just a couple miles from the North Mountain Wine Trail. the Pacific Crest Trail and the California Hiking and Riding Trail.
The BLUEBIRD TINY HOUSE
is one of 4 very private unique artisanal accommodations on the property.
This vintage horse trailer was reimagined into a Tiny house by Lane and Laurie as a couples project in 2018 which they completely gutted and remodeled using beautiful natural materials , old fashioned wood cabinetry, handmade ceramic tiles and woven bamboo with fully equipped kitchen, quality linens, fireplace, AC, WIFI, smart TV.
Bluebird Tiny House is tucked into a secluded forest meadow, named for the bluebirds that spend part of the year there and is a spacious feeling 320 sq ft.
The spa-inspired bathroom features a hand-carved, wood vessel sink, eco-dual flush toilet,rain shower, and free-standing soaking tub with oak canopy view.
The 40’ long deck spans the length of the secluded tiny house overlooking the forest to distant mountains and has alfresco dining area and plenty of furniture for cozying as well as hot tub sited for star gazing and firepit seating all within a large fenced yard to keep your fur babies close by.
In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 forest therapy audio guide..
If you need to accommodate a larger group, check out Pinky's Nature Hideout which has a full kitchen, spacious living room, fenced yard for pets, corn hole, large deck and hot tub sited for star gazing, and firepit seating which overlooks the forest to distant mountains. It sleeps 4 people but the "Lounge" vintage Spartan trailer which is located behind the bunkhouse can be rented to sleep an additional 2 people and is only available to Pinky's guests.
We provide
guests the opportunity to really get away from it all in a untouched forest and chaparral
setting with all the amenities one needs for a comfortable stay.
In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to slow down and connect to nature to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 audio guide.
Come getaway alone, with friends or family to our sweet little petfriendly glampsite CAMP CHESTER
hidden under the oaks which features a vintage 1949 Canned Ham Tiny Trailer (sleeps 2 in a double and one on couch) , a 10 x 12 safari tent on deck w/queen bed, an outdoor kitchen with dining area and barista bar, bath house with hot water, rain-shower, claw-foot tub , compost toilet looking out to acres of sage and distant mountains and firepit. The owners are artisan builders and seasoned hosts who promise guests privacy and quiet. The camp is totally fenced for the safety of your pets and suitable for up to 6 people but sleeps up to 5 additional person(s) can bring tent.
.
It offers guests the opportunity to really get away from it all in a untouched forest and chaparral
setting but offers all the amenities one needs for a comfortable stay.
In addition, we have developed 2 forest therapy trails that will bring your ability to
slow down
and connect to nature
to a whole new level and encourage you to try it using our MP3 audio guide. Camp Chester is a seasonal site and
closed January thru March.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$105
/ night
Manzanita Hill Woodland Camping
Manzanita Hill Woodland Camping
93%
(14)
12mi from Lake Henshaw · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Showers
from
$45
/ night
Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch
Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch
93%
(1276)
13mi from Lake Henshaw · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This land has been a community gathering space for the Native's Ceremony and Healing Space for over a thousand years. Feast your eyes upon the Matates and traces of the people that once gathered here so long ago.Upon the mid 1800's we had a Settler named Nate Harrison find this to be the ideal space, and he set up homestead here, and lived an amazing full life. He was to become the first African American to aquire land here in San Diego County, and his homestead remains to this day; studied by archaeology students to this day.Sensitive habitat and magic lies within our gates, and we must approach the mountain as we would any sacred space; with RESPECT.We welcome you to enjoy Nate's land and inspire who you are deep inside your heart.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$59
/ night
Clara Vista High Desert Retreat
Clara Vista High Desert Retreat
100%
(58)
13mi from Lake Henshaw · 1 site · Lodging
This beautiful high desert retreat is a working artist's property with several stone and steel sculptures of the late artist, Norm Hines, available for viewing on the property. The guest cabin sits secluded on the southern ridge of Montezuma Valley, with spectacular views of Earthquake Valley and the distant mountains of Baja California and a short hike to Anza Borrego State Park. A gas fireplace in the cabin will keep you warm on those chilly winter evenings. Ideal for 1-2 people looking for solitude, stargazing and high-desert nature.
Cozy guest cabin with propane fireplace on 30 acre artist's retreat at 4000 feet elevation. One mi. hike to NW boundary of Anza Borrego SP. Four mi. to PCT. Hiking trails to large plutonic rocks, breathtaking view south into Mexico. Private portable toilet, outdoor cold water sink, outdoor grill, small camping stove, teapot, full size bed, Norm Hines sculptures on property for guest viewing. Great for bird watching, stargazing, desert solitude. 13 miles to Borrego Springs. 28 miles to Julian.
Guests love staying here: "Tom’s cabin was the perfect weekend getaway to decompress and detach. The site offers all the amenities you need. There are multiple trails located around the property if you’re looking to get a little activity in. Otherwise just sitting and hanging out is about as peaceful as it gets. A great place to go if you don’t want to venture out too far. This place just might be my monthly weekend hideout. Thanks Tom for sharing such a beautiful place."
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$125
/ night
Black Mountain Llama Farm
Black Mountain Llama Farm
100%
(12)
13mi from Lake Henshaw · 1 site · Lodging
Our property is 5 acres of flat land with a well and solar system. The house is the old FBI communications building from the 1950's with a flat roof for people to see views in all directions. The Cleveland national forest is less than a mile away and Black Mtn is in the distance stands at 4000 feet. We hike it with the Llamas and feel blessed to live in a beautiful place. We want to share this wonderful location with our community.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$108
/ night
Thompson Palms Campground
Thompson Palms Campground
98%
(26)
14mi from Lake Henshaw · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a palm grower on 12 acres with many fruit trees, flowers, gardens, and animals.
45 minutes to the ocean. 1 hour from Mexico, 10 miles to San Diego Zoo Safari Park, 45 minutes to Sea World, 45 minutes to Legoland. We have about 30+ vineyards in our community for wine tasting. Many hiking trails including the MT Woodson trail to the famous Potato Chip Rock. Many other entertainment sites nearby, for info just ask.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$26
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Travis
6 days ago
With pets
Had such an incredible weekend staying at Caitriona and Michele's Hermitage! The property and surrounding land is absolutely stunning and PERFECT for pups. Was an ideal mix of feeling off the grid but with modern amenities just a walk away when needed.
The energy of the land truly is so grounding and calm - you can really feel it.
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Lisa
1 week ago
30 ft toy hauler
Once again Thompson’s Palm Farm proved to be a wonderful place to stay. Secluded, secure, and peaceful. Hosts Bernie and Hoa are kind, interesting to talk with, and generous. This is definitely a favorite place to visit. We’ll be back soon!
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M
Max
2 weeks ago
With pets
Very nice! We loved staying here. Very beautiful and clean grounds
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M
Michael
2 weeks ago
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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Rachel
2 weeks ago
1 night at The Happy Camper
One the best experiences I’ve had in a long time. Thank you Davida, thank you Jim, truly.
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C
Clint
2 weeks ago
Tent
Bernie is an awesome host. He communicated very well throughout. He gave me a little bit of the history and future plans for the "Thompson Palms Campground". It is definitely a unique place to camp. There are 3 RV spots (full hook-ups) and a ton of space for tent campers. You can choose to tuck yourself right into a cluster (or a row) of palms to set up camp if you want. Or, you can pick a spot right out in the open. The property also had a stand alone bathroom/shower available as well. It felt very secluded and offered a ton of peace and quiet. Great Hipcamp!
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R
Reed
2 weeks ago
Tent
It was a great experience, the view was very nice. I only wish the trees weren’t blocking it as much. Also the dirt road up there is very tight and narrow. It’d be a good idea to have a vehicle with higher ground clearance and good traction on tires. I aired down my tires on the way down and it was way smoother. But I would recommend, Vicki was very nice and welcoming. Only regret is I didn’t get to meet the pig up close.
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A
Alicia
2 weeks ago
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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R
Reid
3 weeks ago
With pets
Beautiful property. Our experience was restful and restorative, even through downpouring rain! Thank you for the wonderful stay.
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Ale
3 weeks ago
Anna
3 weeks ago
18 ft campervan
This place is amazing! The view from the Happy Hilltop Site is beautiful, and it feels very peaceful and quiet. The ranch has everything - including a shared kitchen area with a fridge, sink, and everything you need for cooking. Friendly dogs visited my site, and there were also goats, sheep, cats, and chickens around. I definitely recommend his place, especially for longer stays!
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N
Nicholas
3 weeks ago
Tent
Awesome place to unplug into nature!
The welcoming presence of Vicki and her staff was memorable.
Appreciated the small things:
- campsite with chairs & bench
- firepit + shovel
- clean facilities to wash up in.
This space is perfect for a car/tent camping trip, very nice views of sunrise/set, and convenient proximity to Palomar County Park. Reading up and speaking with Vicki, very interesting history to this ancient land as well, please check it out!
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X
Xiyue
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Clara Vista High Desert Retreat
We truly loved our stay at Tom's cabin. It's perfect for stargazing with stunning non-blocking views, a dark sky, cozy outdoor chairs, and a warm cabin.
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S
Steven
December 2025
Chuck
December 2025
26 ft campervan
If you read any review let it be this one. It was an absolutely gorgeous property very easily marked spots. Awesome hosts very good produce and maintained property. The spot is right in front of a cow enclosure they are very friendly. There is a beautiful koi pond. My only grievence is that we didn't stay longer. 10/10 property.
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Z
Zoe
December 2025
Tent
Vicki and her daughter were so sweet and welcoming! We had the most peaceful time and the weather was pretty great for going in December. The drive up the mountain was a bit tricky because we didn’t know what to expect, but it was much faster and easier on the way down (I have a ford fusion and my car did great!). There are restrooms and showers but they are a bit far from most of the sites, there was a porta potty close by tho:)
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Matt
December 2025
Tent
Group trip
It was a beautiful place with nice bathrooms. We were surprised, pleasantly, about the free roaming pigs.
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Erin
December 2025
With pets
Always a magical time! Thanks Tom for making it so special!
See moreJ
Jessica
December 2025
40 ft Class A
The property is beautiful. Bernie and Hoa were both super nice and social. Fresh eggs, fruit trees, palm, wild bunnies and cows. We were there for 3 weeks, and had plans been different we would have loved to stay longer. We will be back when we are in the area.
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Lisa
December 2025
30 ft travel trailer
What a slice of paradise Bernard and Hoa share with the campers. They are friendly, generous, and accommodating. Their property is just a few blocks away from the cute town of Ramona, CA! Marinade on Main is a favorite restaurant nearby.
Their property is secluded, secure, and peaceful behind a coded gate.
There are three camping sites that are quite large, and several tent sites.
The grounds are well maintained.
We enjoyed the proximity to downtown San Diego, La Mesa, Santee, and our son’s home nearby.
We were able to stay at Thompson’s Palm Farm quite a few days as there is water, electric, and septic.
We will return again and again!
See moreThe best camping near Lake Henshaw, CA guide
Overview
About
Resting at the base of Palomar Mountain, Lake Henshaw is a short drive from both San Diego and Temecula. Surrounded by world-class hiking trails and paths to view the seasonal wildflowers, this lake is one of the easiest locations to reach from the San Diego area. Enjoy live music on the lake throughout the summer and be sure to take a trip to the nearby town of Julian to explore the unique boutiques of this historic town.
When to go
The ideal time to visit Lake Henshaw is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty of the area is at its peak. Summer brings warmer temperatures perfect for water activities, while winter may be less ideal due to cooler weather and reduced services.
Know before you go
- Ensure your vessel meets the 10 to 25-foot boat length requirement for a smooth experience at the marina.
- Take advantage of the 112 parking spaces available for cars with trailers for hassle-free access.
- Remember to bring your fishing gear to make the most of the fish cleaning station after a successful catch.
- Check out the convenience store and restaurant to replenish supplies or enjoy a meal with a view.
- For a comfortable stay, lodging and shower facilities are at your service, ensuring a restful visit.
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