Cleveland National ForestDiscover Free Camping Options in Descanso Ranger District: Your Ultimate Guide
Experience the great outdoors in the Descanso Ranger District of Cleveland National Forest, a stunning gem in Southern California that spans over 450,000 acres. With a diverse landscape featuring towering pines, rolling hills, and scenic vistas, this district offers a range of camping options for adventurers of all kinds. Popular campgrounds such as Pine Valley Campground and La Posta Campground provide well-maintained facilities, while the breathtaking Mount Laguna area invites visitors to explore its picturesque surroundings. For those seeking a more rustic experience, options like free camping at Stagecoach Campground and in the Cuyamaca Wilderness allow for a deeper connection with nature without breaking the bank. The district boasts over 60 miles of hiking trails and is home to a vibrant ecosystem, making it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike. Whether you're planning a family camping trip or a solo retreat, the Descanso Ranger District guarantees unforgettable memories under the stars.
Boulder Oaks Campground is located in the Descanso Ranger District, Cleveland National Forest (34 min east of El Cajon, CA) with an elevation of 3,172 feet. There are a total of 13 campsites. The campground is open all year. Max equipment length is 40 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Fees range from $16.00 to $32.00. Activities include horseback riding, hiking trails.
$35
Burnt Rancheria
Closed for the season
Total sites: 56
Booking Window: 6 months
Booking Window: 6 months
5,970 ft
66°F
52°F
52°F
weak
Burnt Rancheria Campground is located in the Descanso Ranger District, Cleveland National Forest (41 min east of El Cajon, CA) with an elevation of 5,970 feet. There are a total of 56 campsites including 8 tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from mid April to the end of October. 47 sites can accommodate RVs between 22 and 50 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $32.00 per night. Some amenities include shower, amphitheater, flush toilets.
El Prado Group Campground is located in the Descanso Ranger District, Cleveland National Forest (46 min east of El Cajon, CA) with an elevation of 5,472 feet. There are a total of 5 campsites which are all tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from the end of May to mid October. Max equipment length is 45 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Fees range from $45.00 to $75.00. Activities include biking, horseback riding, hiking trails.
Horse Heaven Group Campground is located in the Descanso Ranger District, Cleveland National Forest (44 min east of El Cajon, CA) with an elevation of 5,670 feet. There are a total of 3 campsites which are all tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from the end of May to the beginning of September. Max equipment length is 30 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Fees range from $60.00 to $150.00. Activities include biking, horseback riding, hiking trails.
Laguna Campground is located in the Descanso Ranger District, Cleveland National Forest (47 min east of El Cajon, CA) with an elevation of 5,615 feet. There are a total of 71 campsites including 7 tent-only sites. The campground is open all year. 64 sites can accommodate RVs between 20 and 50 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $35.00 per night. Some amenities include shower, restroom, flush toilets. Activities include biking, horseback riding, hiking trails.
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