Group camping takes on a different character at Horse Heaven Group Campground, where the US Forest Service maintains a forested site accommodating RVs up to 30 feet. Located within Cleveland National Forest near Alpine, this reservation-only campground operates from late May through August at rates between $60 and $150 per night.
The site provides drinking water and allows both campfires and pets, making it functional for larger gatherings in a wooded setting. Campers exploring sites around Cleveland National Forest will find this drive-in location offers group-focused amenities during the summer season.
Description
Overview
Contrary to its name, Horse Heaven Group Campground has no equestrian sites. Instead, this tent-only facility can accommodate gatherings of up to 100 people. It provides a great mountain getaway for city dwellers to relax and enjoy cool summer temperatures, hiking and other outdoor recreation, just one hour east of San Diego.
Recreation
The Laguna Mountain region is known for its great horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking trails. Visitors can get their boots dusty on a segment of the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail, which runs from California to the State of Washington, and access other trails within a short drive. Many picnic areas are located nearby.
Facilities
This site offers three areas for group gatherings: Lupine Loop can accommodate 40 people and 10 vehicles; Buttercup Loop can hold 100 people and 16 vehicles; Hollyhock Loop can hold 70 people and 12 vehicles. The facility is equipped with vault toilets and drinking water. A general store is located 2.3 miles away at Mt. Laguna and Pine Valley.
Natural Features
The campground is nestled in the pines at an elevation of 5,600 feet within the Laguna Mountains in the southern portion of Cleveland National Forest. The area is home to many species of birds and wildlife.
Nearby Attractions
Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, Big Laguna Trail System, Storm Canyon Overlook
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundHorse Heaven Group Campground is located in California
Directions
The campground is located 50 miles east of San Diego, California. Take I-8 to Sunrise Highway exit. Go approximately 14 miles until you see the Horse Heaven Group Campground sign and turn down the campground entrance road.
Address
DESCANSO RANGER DISTRICT
3348 ALPINE BLVD.
Alpine, CA 91901
Coordinates
32.8875 N
116.4408333 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 3/26/26
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 2/23/26- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 63 usersLast on 3/26/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 3/26/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 2/23/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 63 usersLast on 3/26/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 38 min from San Diego, CA
- 1 hr 12 min from El Centro, CA
- 2 hrs 13 min from Yuma, AZ
- 2 hrs 36 min from Los Angeles, CA
