Lake Henshaw Resort, near Santa Ysabel, California, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy a mix of camping and fishing. With options for tents, RVs, and even cabins, it caters to a variety of camping styles, making it a convenient choice for families and friends alike.

The campground is known for its friendly staff and a well-stocked camp store that has everything from fishing gear to snacks and drinks. Visitors have mentioned that the showers, while a bit worn, provide plenty of hot water, which is a nice perk after a day outdoors. As one camper put it, “The staff from the store are all very kind,” highlighting the welcoming atmosphere here.

Fishing is a big draw at Lake Henshaw, with many campers reporting good catches right off the pier. The lake is home to interesting wildlife, including eagles and wild turkeys, adding a bit of adventure to your stay. While the water may have some algae, it doesn’t seem to deter the fishing fun. 

For those who enjoy a bit of peace and quiet, many sites are spread out, allowing for a more private experience. Just keep in mind that the campground can get busy, especially on weekends. Whether you're roasting marshmallows by the fire or casting a line into the lake, Lake Henshaw Resort offers a laid-back camping experience that’s worth checking out.

Welcome to Lake Henshaw Resort, a beautiful lake resting at the foot of the Palomar Mountains in California.

You can either camp, RV Hook-up, or stay in a house-kept cabin nestled away on the hillside overlooking the lake. A sparkling pool and spa, children's playground, grocery store and ice, clubhouse and laundry facilities complete the amenities.

Lake Henshaw Resort

Are you in need of a campground near Warner Springs, CA? Warner Springs is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Warner Springs camping trip.

Warner Springs

The Best Camping Near Warner Springs, California

Although, it was run down, the stay was fun. Nothing too exciting. If you’re just going to camp to be outdoors this is a good site

Good site

Lake Henshaw is not the most scenic or well maintained campground, but we enjoy going there. It is unique in that the campsites are not designated or even clearly defined, you basically pay an entry and set up camp wherever you like. There are fire rings and you can kind of tell where one site stops and the next starts in most places. There is always availability, even on holidays so it is one of the few places in San Diego County where you don't have to make a reservation a month or so in advance. 

The rules, if there are any, are very lax which works both ways. It's cool that I can gather natural materials to do a little bushcrafting, but we've also experienced a loud fiesta going crazy late into the night with music blaring. 

The bathrooms have been hit and miss. The first few times we went they were totally fine. On our last visit they were pretty dirty and didn't get cleaned while we were there. 

It is a short drive to Palomar Mountain for some nice hiking or Julian isn't far away for shopping and pie. 

Say 3.5 stars, if that were an option

Really enjoyed our time here tons of camping sites to choose from! Bathrooms close not very clean but lots of hot water!! Each site has a fire pit, water and a picnic table(old). People do live there but there are so many sites you don’t need to be near them, met a few “interesting” ones... they have a store and cafe but closed Tuesday and Wednesday. 

What sold us was the lake, it’s not clean at all but we caught a TON of fish. It’s catch and release due to an agley problem, no swimming. Every time we put our line in we got a fish it’s crazy. You do have to pay and $8 fee to fish which is across the street from the campground. Definitely drive but you can walk it’s just a painful walk! 

Will go back! 

Good site for families 

Camped and fish there for 3 days it was perfect, got away from the fires and smoke of L.A. to a quiet and private camp ground. No one around us and it was perfect. Will be going back real soon for sure, it was 15 of us and no one else. The lake was jumping with fish and again very quiet

Great getaway 

We took my nephews here and they cried when they had to leave. It was a lot of fun for us. The boys fished alllll day long and actually had a few catches. The people who were camping here were really nice! They seemed to love their campsites and highly recommended it. 

Kids had a blast

Stayed on a Sunday night with my girlfriend, we were the only campers for at least a few acres. We found a nice shady spot (90° day) and set up near a few fire rings before reaching the upper campground. We had a nice little fire going, roasted weenies, made s’mores and sang Kumbaya the rest of the evening. But in all seriousness its a nice little spot. The staff from the store are all very kind (Thank you Kimberly) and the store has just about everything you need if you forget anything for camping, fishing etc. Literally a mini Walmart. Even the maintenance man, Paul, is a great guy. I was only able to fish for a few hours, nothing but a nibble but I don’t blame that on the lake! Nice fishing pier, water has algae but nothing that got in the way of fishing. Saw some (what I believe are) condors, turkeys and other small animals/birds. Overall had a positive experience and would definitely visit again!

Fun One Night Stay

Went up for a weekend with my girlfriend great semi hidden spot with interesting wildlife. Saw a couple eagles by the lake and wild turkey are all around. The cabins we stayed at are nice and cheap on the weekdays.

Great little spot

Spaces are very close together.  The camp store was closed and the camp host was a little strange. I know that can be the case often but I didn’t want to have Covid vivid conspiracy conversations.  Not a spot I would have a desire TK go back to 

Not bad but not great 

Just passing through, perfect spot for the night. Showers a bit run down but plenty of hot water. Great location for easy access to fishing. Friendly staff. Store stocked with fishing gear, snacks and booze. 

Photos of Lake Henshaw Resort

Real photos from real campers