- Cleveland National Forest
The best cabins in Cleveland National Forest, CA
93% (85)
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Cleveland National Forest
San Diego Canyon Creek
San Diego Canyon Creek
95%
(373)
9mi from Cleveland National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Try out camping without having to rough-it! You can rent the Honeycomb Cabin! Or swing through for a safe place to spend the night in your van, or tent, while taking advantage of San Diego and all it has to offer! So much to be seen or done within 30 miles! You can plan a visit to the World Famous San Diego Zoo, Museums, Sea World, Birch Aquarium, Safari Park, Lego Land and more! San Diego county has wine tasting, breweries, theaters and eateries of all kinds. There are several beaches, mountain lakes, and even the deserts! You can skydive, or scuba dive, go deep sea fishing, or lake fishing, mountain biking, hiking, climbing, or walking the boardwalk!
SAN DIEGO CANYON CREEK is a SMALL PATCH of WOODS, NEAR a ROAD, in a NEIGHBORHOOD. In the midst of the trees we have a great view of the stars at night. Harbison Canyon is surrounded by rocky peaks, with a CREEK! We have multiple species of song birds, owls, hawks, and other wildlife that live in this Riparian Habitat. There is a chorus of frogs throughout the spring nights, and crickets year round!
It's a very short walk to the neighborhood park- equipped with several types of playground equipment and public creek access, or a five minute drive to a Crestridge Ecological Reserve containing multiple trails.
We have three campsites and a cabin on about an acre of land. If you'd like to hang out on the property, we offer a table and chairs with each campsite to lounge in while enjoying the fresh air and nature. There are also a couple of hammocks available.
In addition, our SHARED amenities include an outdoor kitchen that includes a sink with hot water, 2 mini fridges,(full at times, extra coolers available) coffee maker, a two burner stove, a griddle, a toaster oven, blender, tea kettle, and a few pans, plates, bowls, cups, and utensils. Also here to SHARE is a Propane fire pit and BBQ area. The bathroom now includes a flush toilet, sink and shower. We are continuously making improvements.
Fun Fact:
Harbison Canyon was named after John Stewart Harbison - aka the King of the Bee Keepers. He arrived with over one hundred colonies of bees in 1874 and within 7 years he became the world's largest honey producer!
Today there are just a few bees in the area.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$45
/ night
Mystic Canyon Inn
Mystic Canyon Inn
96%
(80)
9mi from Cleveland National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
Our home is eclectic, country, relaxed and homey.
We are conveniently located just 30 minutes from downtown San Diego and popular tourist attractions like Comic-Con, Balboa Park, the beautiful beaches and the world famous San Diego Zoo. 35 minutes east you will find beautiful Mount Laguna, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Pacific Crest Trail access and the town of Julian. About an hour east brings you to the desert, where natural beauty and recreation abound. 13 miles away, Viejas Casino boasts a beautiful outlet center. 4 miles away, Sycuan has a casino with entertainment and the golf resort of Singing Hills. Come enjoy the slower pace of the San Diego backcountry.
So, hike, bike or drive yourself to our little haven and say goodbye to the hustle and bustle!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$50
/ night
A taste of nature/wildlife.
A taste of nature/wildlife.
92%
(33)
15mi from Cleveland National Forest · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$150
/ night
Svatantria Boutique Retreat
Svatantria Boutique Retreat
96%
(40)
17mi from Cleveland National Forest · 8 sites
Welcome to Svatantria, a serene retreat nestled on 14 acres of enchanting landscape in the charming community of Julian, California. Here, meandering creeks, a tranquil pond, ancient oaks and vibrant native flora and fauna create a haven of natural beauty.
Our retreat features four charming cabins and eight picturesque camping areas, ideal for both day-use and extended stays. Each accommodation is thoughtfully equipped with amenities such as BBQ grills, mini-fridges, and bathrooms with invigorating hot showers. Depending on your choice of rental, amenities may be either private or shared.
During your visit, immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings by exploring our on-site labyrinth, hiking through the peaceful canyons, dipping your toes in the seasonal creek, or observing the diverse wildlife.
Julian has been designated as a national dark sky community, making it a perfect spot for stargazing enthusiasts. Every year between mid-July and the end of August, visitors can view the spectacular Perseid meteor showers, adding an extra touch of magic to your stay.
We also invite you to join our yogis for practice on the meditation platform, or unwind to the soothing sounds of a nearby seasonal creek and waterfall. Private and semi-private yoga sessions are available—please contact us for more details.
Svatantria honors the Kumeyaay, the First Peoples of this area, who have stewarded the sacred land for more than 1,000 years. As it's current custodians we are are hopeful that you will join us in preserving its beauty, spirit and nurturing essence.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$86
/ night
Ramona Wine Country Tiny Cabin
Ramona Wine Country Tiny Cabin
97%
(73)
18mi from Cleveland National Forest · 4 sites
We offer both a tiny cabin and RV with cabana on site.
This Tiny Cabin is located on beautiful 8 acres in Ramona Wine Country. Walking distance to Turtle Rock Ridge and La Finquita wineries and 28 more nearby. 200 acre open space preserve next door with miles of trails.
Comfy queen size bed in the loft (remote control stairs), refrigerator, freezer, microwave and coffee pot. Romantic lights in the trees, fire ring, private. Country getaway but close to restaurants, stores etc.
Glamping at its finest
Heater for the cold and AC for the hot. Nice fans too. Full bathroom with toiletries provided.
Perfect for a romantic getaway. Besides the spacious RV you have your own cabana. Enjoy The fire pit
under the stars. Walk to a winery on your own private trail. Cool
off in the beautiful
pool.
The RV has all the luxuries of home. Comfy bed, cooking needs, bbq, picnic table along with other lounging areas. Walk off the property to Simon Open Space Preserve. Over 200 acres of trails.
Enjoy the peacefulness of the country but it’s only 2.5 miles to Main St
Ramona with yummy restaurants, live music, wine tasting, breweries, whiskey tasting, antique stores, golf courses, hiking trails to name a few.
Enjoy a pool in the summertime. Forever views to enjoy from your private patio area. Comfy queen size bed in the loft (remote control stairs)Refrigerator, freezer, microwave and coffee pot. Only 45 minutes from downtown San Diego and within an hour from all areas of San Diego County. Two adults only. No children or pets.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$108
/ night
Coyote Moon Camping
Coyote Moon Camping
100%
(10)
23mi from Cleveland National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hidden gem in the high desert mountains of Julian California. Located an hour and half from San Diego. This two and a half acre property features jaw dropping sunsets, dark skies and a 360 view of all constellations and stars.
We offer tent camping, Rv parking or stay in an unfurnished tiny cabin.
Minutes away from world famous Julian apple pie and and worlds biggest desert state park, Anza Borrego.
Along the path of the pacific crest trail PCT.
Access to:
• Water
• smokeless and regular fire pit
• Hot tent stove
• WiFi
•Optional restaurant quality meals
• Tons of space for activities
• Pet friendly
• Off road and hiking tours
• Optional Auricular Accupunture outside in weightless chairs
• Amazing air quality
• No close nearby Neighbors
• Quiet and Peaceful except for occasional coyote in the distance!
• No noise restrictions within reason
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$40
/ night
Hideout Mountain Lodge
Hideout Mountain Lodge
95%
(359)
28mi from Cleveland National Forest · 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
Clara Vista High Desert Retreat
Clara Vista High Desert Retreat
100%
(58)
28mi from Cleveland National Forest · 1 site
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
In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat
In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat
99%
(118)
34mi from Cleveland National Forest · 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
Manzanita Village Retreat
Manzanita Village Retreat
99%
(95)
35mi from Cleveland National Forest · 1 site
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
Campo Nopalito
Campo Nopalito
99%
(596)
39mi from Cleveland National Forest · 7 sites
Welcome to Nopalito Farm! We’re so happy you’ve decided to spend some time on this beautiful property! In case you’re interested, here are a few interesting things about our farm.
Nopalito Farm has been in operation since late 2014, but the property itself has been a working farm for over 50 years. Lemons and avocados were the primary crops from the 70’s through the 00’s, and are still prominent throughout our 15 acres. Our predecessors then diversified the growing operation by planting a wide range of fruit trees ranging from guavas and passion fruit to peaches and figs. For a decade, hops were grown on 2 acres and were sold to breweries throughout southern California. We’ve since replaced the hop yard with perennial flowers, but continue to cultivate a wide variety of delicious fruits.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$94
/ night
Birdsong Backcountry Retreat
Birdsong Backcountry Retreat
100%
(236)
40mi from Cleveland National Forest · 8 sites
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
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Travis
1 week 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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Sean
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Campo Nopalito
The farm was beautiful and Jacob was an amazing host. Couldn’t have hoped for a better getaway.
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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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Nikki
2 weeks ago
With pets
Adil was a great host and very responsive. Despite the bad weather during our trip, we still enjoyed our time there. Booking the cabin in addition to our tents came in handy with the rain.
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Elisa
2 weeks ago
1 night at Granite Mountain
Such a cute spot! It was raining while we were there, so we’ll have to come back for the full experience. Great instructions and communication by host. Thanks for having us :)
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Olivia
3 weeks ago
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Tim
3 weeks ago
With pets
We absolutely loved staying at Campo Napolito. We stayed in the Eureka Casita which is very nice, spacious, and has a lovely minimal interior. The front porch and fire pit out front are amazing. We could have sat out there with our dogs for days. A big star of this property is the kitchen. It is very well equipped with just about anything you could ask for. When we were there, it really felt like a community with everyone gathering in the kitchen and easily sharing the space to cook at the same time. The communal seating areas are also very well done.
Jacob was an incredible host and we had a great time talking with him about his property and would love to visit again.
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J
Jen
3 weeks ago
With pets
Ken is a attentive host. The Black Cedar Haven cabin was cozy and peaceful, even in cooler weather. My pup enjoyed exploring campsite and trail to parking area.
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Miguel
3 weeks ago
2 nights at Granite Mountain
It was nice and quiet and a great escape. Ken our host was always super attentive.
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Priscilla
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Granite Mountain
Beautiful property, scenic views, had everything we needed for a weekend getaway. Ken is a wonderful host, provided great recommendations for things to do in the area! Will definitely come back to this location.
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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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Isai
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Campo Nopalito
The place was awesome and cozy. The sky was so clear for stargazing and the area was so peaceful. Jacob was so awesome and helpful. He made sure we weee very well take care of, brought us lights and an extra blanket so that we could be warm through the night. Will definitely be coming back here!
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Angela
December 2025
1 night at Granite Mountain
My husband and I absolutely loved our stay at the Rustic A-Frame. Ken was an amazing host and his attention to detail made our stay a perfect glamping experience. Site has beautiful views- of both the stars and the mountains! Super convenient location too, with Cleveland National Forest and Anza-Borrego SP easily accessible. Would definitely stay again!
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Kayla
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Coyote Moon Camping
Great spot! The shed keeps you much warmer at night. Definitely go during a new moon — the stars are just magical. There isn’t a toilet, it’s just a portable stool with bags, which may be a challenge for some, but there’s really nothing as thrilling like shitting in a bag in the wilderness.
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Jessica
December 2025
1 night at Campo Nopalito
Absolutely loved this place and the vibe!! Private, romantic, cute little area on the orchard. Owner was polite, responsive, and extremely helpful. Stayed in the roadrunner and the tent, loved them both!!! Shower was 10/10 too
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Denise
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Granite Mountain
I stayed in the eagles nest (site 3) cabin over the weekend and had an absolutely wonderful experience. It’s a very cute spot both beautiful and cozy and offers the perfect balance of comfort with a true glamping feel. The cabin was thoughtfully equipped with everything needed for a relaxing stay.
The views were breathtaking, and at night the sky was incredibly clear, allowing us to see so many stars. One of my favorite moments was having breakfast outside with a cup of coffee while taking in the peaceful surroundings and fresh air it felt calm and restorative.
The host was great: communication was easy, directions were clear, and everything from check-in to the stay itself was smooth and stress-free. I would highly recommend this cabin to anyone looking for a relaxing escape in nature without sacrificing comfort.
It’s fur baby friendly: My pup had such a wonderful time. I truly enjoyed my trip and will be making a second trip.
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Curtis
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Campo Nopalito
Absolutely wonderful. Comfortable cabin with plenty of warm blankets, nice and clean bathrooms/shower, fully stocked and highly functional kitchen, all on a stunning plot of the desert. My only regret is not getting to stay longer.
If you are considering this, book now...you won't regret it :)
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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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Renae
December 2025
With pets
Staying at coyote cabana on nopalito farm was such a great experience. Jacob was very friendly and keeps the land well maintained. The comfort of sleeping on mattresses with warm blankets made our get away so much more comfortable. If you are looking for a casual get away from home and want to enjoy nature, this is the place to stay. The host’s dog Gertie is very friendly and played all day with our dog Loba. Off leash friendly was what stood out to us when booking this location.
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Erin
December 2025
With pets
Always a magical time! Thanks Tom for making it so special!
See more 93%
85 ratings · 30 reviews
Recommends
· January 2026
With kids ·
Wildomar Campground
Great campsite
W
Wray W.
2 reviews
Recommends
· April 2025
What a great campground! I’ll definitely be back. It was so peaceful and well maintained.
O
Olivia G.
8 reviews
Recommends
· April 2025
Such a magical place to camp! Highly recommend it
E
Erin C.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2021
First time camping here, and I'll definitely come back. Of the 50+ individual spots, I think a grand total of 10 of them were occupied leaving the entire campgrounds largely "to us"! Granted it was cool October weather and mid-week, but hey! totally worth taking a day off from work! Facilities were nice (TP running awfully low though!) and everything was pretty clean. There were no payment envelops in the box at the entrance to the campgrounds, thus no way to pay for the spot. This implies to me minimum attention from the forest service (at least around the time we went).
Marc M.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2021
Overall a nice first come first serve campground. We were hiking the PCT and used the tent sites across the bridge. Very nice, large sites . Unfortunately no one was taking care of the campground itself. No toilet paper in the bathrooms and it looked like they had not been cleaned in a month. Very disappointed.
April 24 and 25 2021.
Holly A.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2019
Camped here the Saturday before Thanksgiving 2019 and really enjoyed it! It wasn't packed, maybe ~10-20% capacity. There's 50 Drive-in sites, some of which are clustered together well enough to make for a great group camping trip. It's $20/night per site, and you pay at the campground entrance. It's a self-service drop box with envelopes, so you can check in at any time of the day or night. Even though it's an honor system, there was a park ranger checking the drop box at 9:30am sharp on Sunday morning so make sure to bring cash! Picnic bench and fire pit ring available at each camp site. Depending what site you're at, it's only a couple hundred paces to water spouts, dumpsters, and stocked latrines. Great drive-in campground!
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Julia F.
4 reviews
May 2018
Stayed here over Memorial Day. Advantages are that it's available long after other campsites fill up. That said there isn't much to do around the camp. There's a very steep hike across the road. Getting there requires crossing the highway. It's strenous and uphill. I conferred with other campers and few made it to the top. The sites vary in size. I stayed in #5 which was overun with ants in the afternoon. I don't mind bugs, but this was so bad there was little room to pitch a small tent. The bathrooms are ok, some are flushing but smaller. The drop toilets have more space. The camp host was friendly. There's just not a lot to do around the campground.
Amy G.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2017
First come first serve. You pay cash at the entrance then have to drive around until you find an open space.
Ivy G.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2017
Going during the week mid summer was fantastic! No one around!
Anna P.
8 years on Hipcamp
September 2017
We love this quick getaway for its easy access, large sites, and miles and miles of awesome trails for hiking or biking. The water levels on the ponds will vary at different times of the year, but the meadow just outside of the campground is a favorite for our kids - they ride their bikes over and sit on the rocks talking the night away.
Spectacular sunsets and mind-boggling starry skies await.
For the brave, watch the local weather report and plan a camping trip for the night before a good snowstorm, then wake up to a winter wonderland right in San Diego!
Nitpicks: The bathrooms are not very nice here and there is no dump/washout for RVs or campers.
Jack R.
8 years on Hipcamp
May 2017
We love this place so much that we came here two weekends in a row. We actually shot a bit of video here because it was so beautiful: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAYMnTTNoIY
Lindsay R.
10 years on Hipcamp
May 2017
Came up here around Memorial Day weekend after unsuccessfully trying to get a spot up at Blue Jay. Arrived around 3pm and the place was pretty open but that soon changed. I took Site 19 which I thought was the best spot with a nice little stairway leading up to the site and a tent clearing behind some bushes for extra privacy. It's a small campground but cozy. The only real downside is it's close to the Ortega Highway so you don't get a lot of quiet, but it's good cause it's a short drive to get supplies if you need them.
Dexter K.
2 reviews
May 2017
Went here on a Friday morning during early May, and secured a first come first serve spot no problem (there was only a couple other people camping). There are lots of cool spots along the creek, we camped across the creek in 21 and had a huge area basically to ourselves. There's plenty of shade and trees, and shrubbery. Lots of places to picnic and hang a hammock. Later in the day more campers rolled up, but still remained largely quiet and peaceful. The drive in is awesome and there's trails around the campgrounds including the PCT. This place is a seriously awesome and underrate spot I would highly recommend to anyone. Also there is new vault toilets, running water and it's only $15 a spot!! See for yourself!
Ps. brig bug spray
Nicole A.
10 years on Hipcamp
April 2017
Hidden campground and absolutely peaceful. My boyfriend and I stayed there in April and the campsites around us were empty and the neighbor we did have was super friendly! Clean toilets too! Even though it isn't far from San Diego, it was pretty chilly up there so make sure to check the weather so you can pack accordingly.
Paige B.
8 years on Hipcamp
April 2017
This place is just magical! I can't believe that this is so close to San Diego. It's a combination of meadow and forest and is currently bright green from all of the rain. The campsites are spread out pretty well, so you don't feel like you're right next to other campers. Definitely will be back here!
Lindsay R.
10 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· March 2017
Fantastic campground! Pacific Crest Trail is easily accessible from anywhere on the campground, there's a great restaurant walking distance just outside of campground entrance, and each site is a bit unique. They have coin-operated showers and some bathrooms are flush. Well-maintained.
Natalia R.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· March 2017
Great hiking, check out Alpine and Pine Valley.
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Jolene L.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· March 2017
This is one of those rare places in Southern California where you can see deciduous trees with leave that change color in the fall!
Jeremy F.
10 years on Hipcamp
January 2017
Beautiful campground. Very well maintained. We stayed in January and had the campground to ourselves. I believe the torrential rains and being there mid-week probably kept a lot of people away. We managed to do a little hiking between rains. We would certainly stay there again.
Phyllis S.
9 years on Hipcamp
December 2016
Love this campground, and camp here at least twice a year. Nice sites, most with shade, and a great host. Lots of trees and plants and you can hear the coyotes at night. Lock up food, as there are raccoons who aren't bashful about wandering through your site even when you right there. Store just a few miles away.
Dianne B.
9 years on Hipcamp
July 2016
I like to camp at Cibbets Flat from Sunday to Tuesday. Most people have cleared out by Sunday, leaving 2 days of glorious stillness and solitude. The evenings get chilly, despite the warm days, especially from Oct-May. During summer (Jun-Sep), the temperature can be in the 90's at the high, to the low 50's at the low. Layering is key to comfort! For the cost of an overnight stay ($14, double that for a double size campsite) it can't be beat! There's plenty of hiking in the area, and access to a beautiful creek. The campground has plenty of water spigots (not potable!) and vault toilets.
Ryan B.
9 years on Hipcamp
June 2016
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is in Utah - please update the description of this campsite! Thanks.
Jack H.
9 years on Hipcamp
April 2016
My favorite campground in the San Diego area. Just a short drive off the 8 only a stop or two past the usual roads to Julian and Lake Cuyamaca. Open meadows, beautiful forests, plenty of hikes, and some lakes and gorgeous views all around. A wonderful place. We came up here Easter weekend and had no problem finding a 2 person walk-in space on Saturday and had a larger space on the next day. A general store, cabin restaurant, and an outdoor store nearby if you need any comforts. Wonderful area and campground.
Dominic D.
11 years on Hipcamp
October 2015
Perfect spot for a weekend getaway. No reservations make it nice, but always a risk! Calm, quiet and serene. This is a favorite spot of mine!
Raleigh B.
10 years on Hipcamp
October 2015
Beautiful little campground tucked away and forgotten. Very well maintained with many new features like campsite tables and new pit toilets. Just off of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and usually used by thru-hikers or those trying to avoid Mt. Laguna campgrounds.
Jacob Z.
10 years on Hipcamp
May 2015
Try for the first come first served campsites. They are more wooded, especially with pine trees. Also if you have young ones or dogs be wary of rattlesnakes. There is a good chance they are hanging around the campsite.
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Mark B.
10 years on Hipcamp
March 2015
Ask a ranger how to get to the “golfball.” You’ll earn yourself some sweet 360 degree views, all the way out to Salton Sea.
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Hipcamper
10 years on Hipcamp
March 2015
This one is about an hour from San Diego and a getaway spot for many city dwellers. Especially in the summer months, campsites will be crowded. If that’s not your thing, try spring or early fall.
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Hipcamper L.
10 years on Hipcamp
March 2015
Check out Three Sisters Waterfall! The views and the swimming spots are well worth it, but be sure to bring water and food for the journey; the hike is a bit strenuous.
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Hipcamper
10 years on Hipcamp
March 2015
If you’re planning to head to the popular Mount Laguna Campground, we’d recommend spot #81; it’s pretty private for a large campground, shielded on 3 sides with trees.
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Hipcamper
10 years on Hipcamp