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Agua Caliente County Park Campground

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Agua Caliente County Park Campground, near Julian, California, is a unique spot that combines the beauty of the desert with the relaxation of natural hot springs. This campground offers a variety of accommodations, including tent sites, RV spots, and cozy cabins, making it suitable for all types of campers.

The standout feature here is the three spring-fed pools, including a sulfur pool that reaches a soothing 106 degrees. Visitors rave about the clean facilities, including hot showers and well-maintained restrooms, which make your stay comfortable. One camper noted, “The hot springs pool is great and has adult-only hours at night which is fantastic.”

For those who enjoy hiking, there are trails right from the campground, with options like the Moonlight Canyon trail that showcases stunning desert landscapes and wildlife. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the variety of feathered friends that frequent the area, as one reviewer mentioned enjoying visits from roadrunners and thrashers at their campsite.

While the campground can get busy, especially on weekends, many campers find it peaceful during the week. The friendly rangers and clean grounds contribute to a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking to unwind in the hot springs or explore the surrounding trails, Agua Caliente County Park Campground is a solid choice for a desert getaway.

Description

Agua Caliente is located in the desert of central Southern California. Pitch your tent or park your RV on the white sand between cacti and Mt. San Jacinto. Close to Palm Springs, and the Mexican border. Amenities include 3 pools, hot springs, restrooms, and games.

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Location

Agua Caliente County Park Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Address

39555 Great South Stage Route of 1849
Julian, CA 92036

Coordinates

32.95079446 N
116.30428236 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Good
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Cabins
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • Pull-Through Sites
  • 30 Amp Hookups
  • 50 Amp Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

21 Reviews

Reviewed Feb. 27, 2024

A funky little San Diego County campground with a hot spring

Camped here for three nights in March of 2019, in one of the partial hookup sites close to the pool. According to the map of the CG, there are 104 sites and 7 cabins. Partial hookups are closest to the pool/shower area, with full hookups and cabins farther back and tent sites in the middle.  

it seemed to be a well run facility. It was cool, cloudy and wet from recent rains when we were there and our site had a tiny stream running through it. Some sites, including ours, were not too level. The pool was not what I'd call "hot", probably in the mid to high 90s. 

There's a couple short trails in the park, we hiked Moonlight Canyon. We really enjoyed it!! A bit like a lunar landscape with wild desert plants and flowers. The highlight was seeing some desert bighorn sheep!

A small store sits just outside the park entrance and though it was small, it seemed to have at least one of everything you could possibly need, including my favorite Colorado  beer, Fat Tire!!

This park has a lot of rules, some quite unusual. Probably a good idea to familiarize yourself with them before you head out.

Site6A
Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Bill R., February 27, 2024
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Bill R., February 27, 2024
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Bill R., February 27, 2024
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Jan. 20, 2023

Large campground with lots of amenities

Lots going on here but felt peaceful midweek in Jan. 3 spring-fed pools, hot showers quarter operated, clean flush toilet bathrooms, water, hiking trails and ample roads to walk the dog on. Mountain lion country - be alert. Friendly rangers. Clean facilities and well-kept grounds. Horseshoe pits and large group picnic areas. Cute cabins for rent - no pets allowed in those. Will definitely visit again. Many of the tent sites are close together - if the campground was full you’d have little privacy but it’s a large place and there were hardly any tent campers when I was there, though more RVs and vans in the hookup section. Tent site 106 is very private. I liked 109 it was in a kind of bird thicket with privacy from the road etc.

Site109
Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by cal K., January 20, 2023
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by cal K., January 20, 2023
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by cal K., January 20, 2023
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Feb. 16, 2021

Great birding

We ended up here for one night in January and were so pleased with the experience. We stayed in the tent loop- grateful we brought along our chemical toilet, because the facilities were very very far! But- the nursing was amazing- we had a few roadrunners and thrashers that hung out in our campsite and dozens of small Birds with the bushes around.

Reviewed Nov. 11, 2020

Gorgeous

Amazing place to come for the day but also perfect spot for camping. It’s breathtakingly beautiful.

Reviewed Oct. 17, 2019

Disconnent from Reality😁

Hot spring campground in the Anza desert. Such a great place to come and reset from busy day to day hustle. Peaceful and clean, with cabins for those who dont tent or trailer camp.

  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Adrienne  G., October 17, 2019
Reviewed Oct. 13, 2019

Oasis in the Desert

Agua I was told by a park ranger is the jewel of the San Diego park system. The park is nesseled between two hills which act as a funnel for natural spring water. That spring water is used to feed three pools with one sulfur indoor which is around 106 degrees. It's the perfect place to relax. This is a perfect weekend escape from the city. There is no cell service. To get service you have to go to the cell phone lot 4 miles west at Vallecito campground.

  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Berton M., October 13, 2019
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Berton M., October 13, 2019
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Berton M., October 13, 2019
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Aug. 9, 2019

Desert camping with a clean hot springs pool

This is a great campground in the middle of nowhere.  A lot of RVs are in the center and seem set up as full-timers, but along the perimeter are some great, tucked-away sites.  There are also a number of "cabins" in a row.  Not a ton of privacy, but they're clean cabins with the basics - a bathroom, sink, bedframe, table/chairs.  The best part is sitting out on the little deck.  Personally, I like cabins 5-7 the best.  

It can get a little noisy if a motorcycle gang comes around, but the hiking is nice.  There's a good trail right from the campground but stay on the path because the cactus will get you!!!

The hot springs pool is great and has adult-only hours at night which is fantastic.  

I've been there a few times now and it's always a fun getaway with a different feel than going to the mountains.

Site106
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Kate W., August 9, 2019
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Kate W., August 9, 2019
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Kate W., August 9, 2019
  • (20) View All
Reviewed May. 7, 2019

One of the Best Campground in Southern California

2 outdoor pools and an indoor adult spa (102 degrees), RV sites with Power, Water and Sewer as well as tent sites. Flush toilets and hot/cold showers. This place is well maintained and the cleanest campground I have ever stayed at. Shuffleboard and Horseshoes courts, lots of hiking trails and things to see. The campground / pools are all fed from natural mineral springs. Pets are allowed within the campground and all sites have picnic table and fire-ring. Small store at the park entrance is great for the simply things you may have forgotten. They even have cabins available but they book up pretty fast. Rangers are all very friendly and helpful. Enjoyed my stay, I will be back.

SiteSite 79
Month of VisitApril
Reviewed May. 3, 2019

Nice, but can be very crowded

This place use to be great when it wasn't as popular as it is now. But, still a nice place with natural hot spring showers/bathrooms/pool/hot tub and now cabins to rent. Last time I was there there was a big party next to my campsite and they were pretty drunk and loud. They were not polite or followed any rules even after they were told to keep it down. So, if you prefer a quiet camp site, this is NOT for you. A lot of large groups camp here and usually not respectful of others or nature for that matter.

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Frank G., May 3, 2019
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Frank G., May 3, 2019
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Frank G., May 3, 2019
Reviewed Mar. 6, 2019

I love this place to take the kids.

One of the first camping spots I ever went too in the late 70s while in 3rd or 4th grade, was excited to have this be my kids first camping spots.

Camping, hiking, playground and pools!

I have had many great times here, but one bad college kids with a loud radio that ruined one trip, but that does not ruin my thought on this wonderful spot!

Reviewed Oct. 11, 2018

Best Secluded Campground for new campers!

This is a great campsite to go to if you are car camping folk. They have a small camp store right outside the park, Hot Springs, the swimming pool on making great hiking in the area!

  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Andy H., October 11, 2018
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Andy H., October 11, 2018
Reviewed Jul. 14, 2018

favorite winter escape

we love coming here to camp in the winter when the heat isnt too bad. the pools are fun for the whole family. the campground can be loud but its family friendly so that's a plus. there is an indoor pool that is adults only and runs on the hotter side. then there are 2 outdoor pools that are kid friendly. one is only about 2ft deep and the other goes to 5. both these pools are comfortable to swim in under any temperature and its refreshing to escape the desert heat. the pools can get busy during school brakes but during the weekdays it's pretty empty and relaxing. restrooms are easily accessible and fire pits are provided at all sites. aqua caliente is very clean so I highly recommend.

  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Katie O., July 14, 2018
  • Play button icon
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Katie O., July 14, 2018
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Jun. 17, 2018

Hot pool in the cold rain

We camped here over winter break. I had checked the weather conditions before we left and everything looked good. But there was a change at some point and since there is no cell service I couldn't check. But figured it out at 2 in the morning when we got a down pour of rain. Our campsite was located by the restrooms and near a creek. We heard the frogs all night long, I found it relaxing. My daughter, not so much. But she did love the pools. They felt amazing to be in, especially after a cold night.

There are coin operated showers.

Month of VisitDecember
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Crystal D., June 17, 2018
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Crystal D., June 17, 2018
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Crystal D., June 17, 2018
Reviewed Jun. 15, 2018

desert camping lackluster hot springs

this site is a beautiful place to night hike and star gaze. we were in awe when we drove up there and saw that there were so many sites. unfortunately this park is large and well visited so for those who look to camping as a way to escape. this is not the site for you however for those who are looking for a great getaway with the children or a large party there are group sites. We were drawn up there for the meteor shower and hot springs. although much to our dismay the hot springs has been turned into an indoor pool which was not what we were hoping for. nonetheless this camp ground provided beautiful star gazing - once everyone put out their lights- and a few great night hikes that we enjoyed thoroughly.

Reviewed Jun. 8, 2018

Beautiful sunrises & sunsets!

Waking up to a gathering of big horn sheep atop a ridge with a bright colorful sunrise set behind as backdrop as they stand there stoic against it all, was by far one my favorite ways to wake up ever!

Clean. Very family friendly. Friendly.

Month of VisitApril
Reviewed May. 2, 2018

Nice park

This park has something for everyone. The mineral pools, Horse shoe pits, paved roads for bikes, hiking. There are hook up and no Hook up sites as well as cabins. Careful if you bring dogs, it’s the desert and lots of cactus.

  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Lia G., May 2, 2018
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Lia G., May 2, 2018
Reviewed Apr. 19, 2018

Fun Family Friendly Campground

We stayed for a long weekend here and had a blast. There are 3 pools heated by the geothermal natural hot springs, one is adults only so you’re not stuck hanging with the littles! Great hikes, shorter in length but plenty challenging and gorgeous views. No cell service so you really get to unwind. Cute general store onsite for necessities (snacks, beer, s’mores fixings, geodes and crystals) but no more propane fills, closest is 30 Miles away- plan ahead. Well staffed and sparkling clean restrooms/showers. Dark Sky Zone so the star gazing can’t be beat!

SiteSpot 89
Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Lindy C., April 19, 2018
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Lindy C., April 19, 2018
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Lindy C., April 19, 2018
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Apr. 10, 2018

It’s hot out here!

In a nut shell – This campground is great if you enjoy hot springs, short hikes & clean restrooms. I at my end might not ever go back being that I don’t like to be around a bunch of kids, mainly in the pool area, plus the campground rules are just too much. For example – You need to put out your campfire at 11pm!

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Frank G., April 10, 2018
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Frank G., April 10, 2018
  • Review photo of Agua Caliente County Park Campground by Frank G., April 10, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to camp at Agua Caliente County Park Campground?

    Camping at Agua Caliente County Park Campground can cost between $29.00 and $75.00 depending on the site.

  • Does Agua Caliente County Park Campground have RV hookups?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Agua Caliente County Park Campground has 30 amp and 50 amp electric hookups, water hookups and sewer hookups.

  • Are fires allowed at Agua Caliente County Park Campground?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Agua Caliente County Park Campground, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Agua Caliente County Park Campground have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Agua Caliente County Park Campground does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Agua Caliente County Park Campground?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is unknown, AT&T is good, and T-Mobile is unknown.