Amazing views
Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.
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Off-leash friendly
Pets can be off-leash at this Hipcamp.
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Whiteside Mountain
100%
(390)4WD required
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Pets allowed
Showers
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for 6 guests$98
/ nightReviews
100% Recommend392 ratings · 283 reviews
Our second time around, first time during the winter, just as great as we remember it with some new additions!
Noticed there are some new homes/camps on nearby mountains in the area since our last time around but still very safe, cozy and private. The mountain is essentially double gated and one side has unobstructed views of the lake. The road up has definitely seen better days, at least 3 tricky spots, 4WD recommended, we've driven up to camp with AWD but we are definitely getting 4WD for next time. The last thing you want is to have to carry all your supplies up the mountain, a 15 minute drive can become a 1-2 hour steep hike up to camp. The weather was very comfortable, we brought a lot of winter camping supplies that we ended up not using as temps barely went under 55 degrees.
Having running water, electricity and a toilet up here is a blessing. We plugged in a 12V car fridge for a few days and grilled/cooked comfortably while keeping everything clean and organized.
Not too far from SD or Anza-Borrego for a day trip, we spent most of our days just hiking the mountain with my dog. Make sure to visit the bridge and cave during your stay. Might be nice to bring a mountain bike if you have one.
Benjamin K.
17 reviews
Absolutely beautiful, Very private and quiet. Expect to see wildlife, deer, coyotes, rabbits, etc. The cave is located in the other side of the hill top behind the water tank (go right). The road is a bit rough to get there so 4x4 or AWD definitely required. Other than that, you will love the landscape. If you want to escape to town its just a quick drive for decent dining options, we went to Hooleys. Would definitely come back.
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Noe T.
3 reviews
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.
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Jeffrey S.
1 year on Hipcamp
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!
Jessica C.
2 reviews
Steve's land was an amazing location for my girlfriend, me, and our dog. The outdoor kitchen was super clean, and the camp stove worked perfectly for our cooked meals. The bathroom was also very clean, and I'd rank it #1 in terms of bathroom locations. There was a ton of space to explore, and our dog enjoyed being able to roam around the site. We brought a hammock to set up on the deck, and the breeze at the top of the mountain was perfect for it. Stars, sunsets, waking up above the clouds - the views were fantastic. There were lots of ants (we witnessed a colony migrating?), but we were prepared and kept our tent and the kitchen area pretty ant free. Overall, I would 100% recommend this place to those looking for a remote camp spot great for unwinding.
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Brian L.
1 year on Hipcamp
This is one of the best camp sites I've been to for a long time. Love that we had 160acres of land all to ourselves. The platform and covered area for hanging out, food prep and views is perfect. Steve is a super host and extremely responsive even when in a totally different time zone 12 hours ahead. Steve has added so many fun features like the cave platform, the bunker, an awesome additional flat camping area with really fun table balancing on a rock. The scenery is truly spectacular. Would absolutely recommend this site and we will return for sure.
I would highly recommend a 4x4 and not an AWD. We did manage to make it up in a Nissan Outlander but it was not easy and had to make more than one attempt in some sections of the road.
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Matthew D.
7 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
Tent · With pets ·
Whiteside Mountain
The views were absolutely amazing, sunset and sunrise, waking up to being up in the clouds. It was my dogs first time camping and she had a blast roaming around and climbing up rocks. Steve was awesome!! Really thought of it all with the trails, the cave, toilet with a view, sink, propane, grill…it was amazing! Such a fun and peaceful trip and will definitely book again and highly recommend!!
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Ashleigh E.
10 months on Hipcamp
This is my favorite hipcamp. We've stayed here 3 times in the last 5 years. This last time we brought our teenage children and they loved it and are already asking to go back. It's beautiful, peaceful, unique, fun, and adventurous. Just the right amount of everything!
Shauni C.
8 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Tent ·
Whiteside Mountain
Had an amazing time at whiteside mtn! Steve was a very accommodating and generous host! We enjoyed exploring around the property and being able to relax.
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Zachary P.
10 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
Tent ·
Whiteside Mountain
Amazing experience to have such beautiful landscape all to yourself. The amenities make it a much easier camping experience. Makes for a very fun adventure.
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John F.
9 months on Hipcamp
My wife and I, along with our two pups, spent a few unforgettable nights at this beautiful campsite. The drive to the top was an adventure in itself, and the panoramic views along the way were absolutely breathtaking. We also really appreciated the thoughtful amenities, having running water and a flushable toilet made our stay even more comfortable. We can’t wait to come back and experience it all over again!
Manny D.
5 reviews
Recommends
· April 2025
Tent · With pets ·
Whiteside Mountain
Beautiful panoramic views and plenty of trails to explore. Steve is a very helpful and communicative host. The drive up the mountain is challenging but well worth it!
Jenna B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· April 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Whiteside Mountain
Really cool and unique spot! Incredible solitude! Beautiful views!
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Cade L.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· March 2025
Tent · With pets ·
Whiteside Mountain
I had a spectacular time on Whiteside Mountain! I was fortunate enough to spend 7 nights there with my two dogs for my birthday. The breathtaking views and peaceful solitude are exactly what I needed. I also appreciated the sense of security with two locked gates below, while still being conveniently close to town whenever I wanted a little socialization.
A special shoutout to Steve, who was incredibly kind and generous—he came to my rescue when my car battery died, quickly arriving to give me a jump (thanks again, Steve!). The camp has just about everything you need, including Wi-Fi and electricity to keep your phone charged and music playing. I can’t wait to return for another trip in the future—this is one of those places you’ll want to keep coming back to!
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Katie B.
2 years on Hipcamp
As the sun sinks into the Pacific, its rays shimmering against Otay Mesa Lake, a chorus of coyotes howls as daylight fades, revealing the lights of bustling San Diego and its surrounding communities. I couldn’t help but be awestruck that one of the nation’s largest cities is a mere forty minutes away.
After four months recovering from an injury and surgery complications, I wasn’t ready for full-on camping, but I needed to get out. Steve’s place struck the perfect balance between glamping and camping.
The site has a lean-to with an amazing view, plus a platform for a tent, a picnic table, counter, sink with running water, and a propane stove. Electricity is also available. The bathroom—with a toilet and a view—is just steps away. Speaking of toilets, Steve is responsive. When I asked, “Can I flush toilet paper?”, he quickly replied, “Yes.”
There’s plenty to do at Whiteside Mountain. I forgot to check out the cave but enjoyed exploring the mountaintop and finding the bridge. Trails weave through the property for hiking and short but tough bike rides.
The road up isn’t for the faint of heart or low-clearance vehicles. A high-clearance 4WD is a must. I’ve seen rough roads, and this last stretch isn’t easy.
With three fire pits, a water hose, and a fire extinguisher, safety is covered. There’s even a fire bunker. Hopefully, no one ever needs it, but it’s a thoughtful touch.
If you can’t tell, I had an 11/10 experience at Whiteside Mountain and highly recommend it. Thanks SW!
Carl E.
17 reviews
Recommends
· January 2025
Tent · Group trip ·
Whiteside Mountain
Welp, the reviews are true- this place is heaven on earth. Woke up above the clouds to the most beautiful sunrises, explored the cave, stargazed & had an incredible time. Oh! Totally worth the 3 day minimum because you have time to really soak in the experience. So nice to feel out in nature with all the basic amenities- bathroom, kitchen and even a shed to sleep in! 10/10 recommend
Makenna M.
2 reviews
This is easily one of the most beautiful camping spots we've ever had the pleasure of staying in. The drive up to the spot is a bumpy one but well worth the trip. Friendly and helpful host. A great escape from the city.
James K.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2024
Tent ·
Whiteside Mountain
This was an amazing experience! We are already looking forward to coming here again.
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Brad T.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2024
Tent · With kids ·
Whiteside Mountain
This is an epic camping spot! Can't wait to come back soon!
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Rhianna R.
5 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2024
Tent · Group trip ·
Whiteside Mountain
It my third time staying at the property. It is fantastic place. Close to San Diego, but it feels far away. Steve built structures that make staying there so much more comfortable. I will be back.
Vlad N.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2024
Tent · Group trip ·
Whiteside Mountain
This place is unlike anywhere else we've ever camped. I love having the camp kitchen and exploring the property during the day... but the SUNSETS!
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Lisa M.
5 years on Hipcamp
Always such a treat! We’ve been visiting a couple of times a year for awhile now and it never disappoints! Absolute haven for humans and fur babies! We love everything about this spot! We always leave rested and recharged and once we are at the top of the mountain we just don’t want to leave. Steve is awesome and we are so thankful he continues to share this beautiful space he created. It’s our absolute favorite camp spot in california and we camp alot. ☺️
Pris P.
6 reviews
My family enjoyed everything about this place that Steve created. Reminded me of a modern mountain Swiss Family Robinson. A nice escape from everyday life with all the modern accommodations. We brought an air mattress and slept in the wooden fort atop the mountain. It had a curtain that kept out light, breeze, and any unwanted critters. It was cozy & stayed the perfect temperature day & night. Steve was easy to contact and enjoyable to chat with making it all the better. He had suggestions & answered question’s promptly. We brought our 4 month old & dog whom both loved it up here as well. I’ve already told all my family & friends about this place. I’m sure we will be back. Just book it & enjoy.
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Destiny M.
1 year on Hipcamp
Mt Whiteside is such a unique place, by far our family's favorite camping destination. It's so remote, well appointed, and with lots of "projects" the owner does to add special touches to the area. We hope to continue to visit for years to come.
Cole S.
5 reviews
We recently stayed at Whiteside Mountain, and it was an excellent experience. Being locals from San Diego who frequently camp, we were thrilled by the sense of adventure that began the moment we turned off the road and headed up the mountain. The journey itself was a prelude to the remarkable camping experience that awaited us.
The attention to detail at Whiteside Mountain is truly impressive. It's clear that a lot of time, effort, and care have gone into creating this campsite. Unlike many other tent camping sites, this place genuinely makes you feel like you're in the middle of nowhere. The seclusion and natural beauty of the surroundings create a unique and immersive outdoor experience.
For our family, Whiteside Mountain was a perfect escape from our daily routines. The serene environment and the break from our regular day-to-day activities provided a much-needed reset. This camping trip was not just an adventure but also a rejuvenating retreat that we will fondly remember.
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Guillermo C.
1 year on Hipcamp
What Steve has done with this property is nothing short of incredible. I cannot think of the last time I was somewhere so remote and private, but also able to access luxury amenities like a flushing toilet, shower, and fully functional little outdoor kitchen. Our dog had the best time of his life exploring the property with (no run ins with snakes but I know they’re there so be watchful). Do yourself a favor and explore the property, Steve has created little wonders all around that are a joy to explore. Especially the cave! If going in the summer, would definitely recommend bringing some sort of counter fly measures. We were harassed nonstop by a group of menacing flies when the breeze would die down. One final note, please do not attempt this with a low clearance/2WD vehicle. The final stretch of dirt road before the property is no Moab, but will still require some form of either high clearance or 4WD to avoid getting stuck or creating further ruts in the road. Thanks again for having us Steve, we will certainly be back!
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Elijah S.
1 year on Hipcamp
The spot Steve has created is absolutely incredible. It’s gorgeous on its own but he’s gone to great lengths to make this place truly breathtaking. The structures are so well made and with top tier materials. So much care and thought went into everything he’s put together. We would recommend this place over and over and we plan to go again in the future. Thank you Steve!!
Marissa M.
1 year on Hipcamp
It was truly such an amazing experience. The kids explored all day and night, we kept a close eye because we didn't want them to slip/trip on any of the boulders as they climbed and played . My husband and I were in constant awe of how Steve and his family made this place happen! Truly appreciated all their hard work and did not take anything for granted. We respected their grounds as if it were our own home! Steve is not messing around when he says you need a high clearance AWD vehicle to get up that road (it was our boys first off-road experience and they LOVED it). And we loved the fall weather we got to enjoy, clouds add to the beauty of the sunset and we even got to stand in the clouds as they wisped by. Memories that will last a lifetime! Thank you to Steve and his family!
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Melissa N.
2 years on Hipcamp
A quick trip to the mountain from San Diego making time away feel longer than it actually was! Ahhh :) so relaxing…
The site was hard to leave with its spectacular views from all sides, exploration land and convenient set up including a kitchen sink, stove & bathroom with running water!
Steve was helpful , friendly and responded immediately. Smooth trip. Happy people and pups!
We’ll be back for sure.
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Nicole E. L.
2 reviews
Very impressive campsite, deck and bunker. The outdoor shower and restroom had the most beautiful views. Open land for hiking, climbing, and exploring. Watch out for wildlife. The best view of night stars! The water pool, solar lighting, and humble sleeping loft were a plus. Thank you for an awesome experience Steve 😊
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Melissa D.
2 reviews
Location
Jamul, San Diego, California, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
Hosted by Steve W.
Joined in June 2017Response rate: 100%Response time: Within 4 hours
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