Granite boulders surround the summit camping area at this hike-in site in Cleveland National Forest. Campers must complete a 7.5-mile round-trip trail with continuous elevation gain to reach the 4,657-foot peak, making this a commitment for backpackers seeking solitude. The US Forest Service requires a free camping permit, available by calling the ranger station ahead of arrival.
Views extend over the Lake Morena area and surrounding desert from the exposed summit position. The trail begins near Morena Village and climbs steadily through the forest. Campers exploring sites around Guatay will find this represents one of the more remote options in the region. Pack extra water for the sustained climb and prepare for primitive conditions at the rocky summit campsite.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundCorte Madera Mountain is located in California
Coordinates
32.757265631773265 N
116.58945735997554 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Pets
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Corte Madera Mountain needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 11 min from San Diego, CA
- 2 hrs from El Centro, CA
- 3 hrs 1 min from Yuma, AZ
- 3 hrs 6 min from Los Angeles, CA










