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Camping near Cleveland National Forest

1,872 Reviews

Cleveland National Forest in Southern California hosts several campgrounds with varying facilities and landscapes. Temecula-Vail Lake KOA stands as one of the more developed options, offering tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations. Other established campgrounds in the region include Dripping Springs, Oak Grove, and Observatory Campground, providing options for both tent and RV camping with different levels of amenities. The area encompasses a mix of desert and mountain terrain characteristic of Southern California's inland region, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 6,000 feet across the various camping areas.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact the camping experience throughout Cleveland National Forest. Observatory Campground operates seasonally from April through November, while many other campgrounds remain open year-round. Water availability varies by location, with some campgrounds like Dripping Springs offering drinking water but no hookups. Temperatures can range dramatically between seasons, with summer bringing heat to lower elevations while higher sites remain cooler. Campground roads and access points may require careful navigation, particularly after rain events. A visitor noted, "Dripping Springs Campground is a good location to get out of Temecula for a quiet night. There is hiking and horse trails, but no other draw."

Campers frequently highlight the family-friendly atmosphere of many campgrounds in this region. The Temecula-Vail Lake KOA receives consistent praise for its amenities that cater to families with children, including recreational facilities like swimming pools, mini-golf, and biking trails. Reviews indicate that while some campgrounds have more developed infrastructure, others provide a more rustic experience with fewer amenities but greater solitude. One camper shared that Vail Lake KOA is "a huge park with multiple levels, free mini golf, a restaurant and bar, and mountain biking trails right next to the park." Public lands in the region typically offer fewer amenities but provide more seclusion for those seeking a quieter outdoor experience, though most developed campgrounds maintain toilet facilities at minimum.

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Best Camping Sites Near Cleveland National Forest (342)

    1. Temecula-Vail Lake KOA

    20 Reviews
    Cleveland National Forest, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (951) 303-0173

    "Bike trails are right next to the park. Fun trails watch out for rattle snakes. Only downside is the kids racing around in golf carts at night."

    "She told me that it had been around for decades under a different name, Buttercup I think. It has an established rotation of regular guests that come for access to wine country."

    2. Lake Skinner Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    Temecula, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 926-1541

    $25 - $45 / night

    "This is a great family campground right around the corner from Temecula, Murrietta, and Menifee."

    "The charge $10 per person per day to fish in their Lake. And you can’t swim or let the kids play in the lake because it’s a reservoir."

    3. Dripping Springs Campground

    15 Reviews
    Aguanga, CA
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 788-0250

    $25 - $50 / night

    "One of the water faucets with potable water was on the outskirts of our space, not at all bothersome. The toilets and dumpster were conveniently close, but not too close to be noticed."

    "It's close proximity to Temecula makes it easy to get to. Also, because it is small there were no issues with noise or traffic."

    4. Oak Grove Campground

    21 Reviews
    Aguanga, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 788-0250

    $15 - $30 / night

    "We were there for the full moon last month and even though it rained in the morning as we packed up me and my motorcycle camping friends had a blast sitting around the campfire and enjoying peace and the"

    "This campsite is located just a short drive from Temecula, campsites are well cared for, clean bathrooms, and some sites have great California oak tree cover."

    5. Observatory Campground

    18 Reviews
    Palomar Mountain, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 788-0250

    $20 - $40 / night

    "Palomar Mountain Observatory Campground is one of the prettiest spots I've seen to camp close to San Diego in Southern California."

    "Very pretty setting in forested valley below the famous telescope (now closed to all visitors - even to walk around outside). 30 or so sites, nice variety, some cater to astronomers, handicapped, doubles"

    6. Palomar Mountain State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Palomar Mountain, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 742-3462

    $40 - $130 / night

    "Most of the sites are on slopes, or require walking up/down a series of steps to access."

    "We drove up for an impromptu camp trip, it was only about an hour drive. I've never been up to Palomar Mountain although I've lived here for 30 years!"

    7. Fry Creek Campground

    12 Reviews
    Palomar Mountain, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 788-0250

    $15 / night

    "It was a nice large site next to the bathrooms (which were very clean and well maintained) and close to a water spigot and trash can. This campground is definitely a birder’s paradise."

    "Just south of Palomar Mountain Observatory (a must visit) Fry Creek is a heavily wooded (oak, fir, pine) campground in a narrow valley surrounded by steep forested banks."

    8. La Jolla Indian Campground

    20 Reviews
    Palomar Mountain, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 742-1297

    $40 - $120 / night

    "You can camp next to it as well and get in! It’s $35 per car they do have military discount. The total of $32 with discount. They also have porta potties every few 500 feet."

    "The spot we initially reserved was located on the little river, but once we got there, we realized we were a little too packed in with the rest of the visitors, so we requested to move to a more open spot"

    9. Pechanga RV Resort

    8 Reviews
    Temecula, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 587-0484

    "Very nice facilities, newer, walking distance to casino, pool, world renown golf course, restaurants, sports park facilities… take an Uber to the amazing wineries approx 5 min drive."

    "Close to freeway and golf courses. Lots of places to eat close by."

    10. Pala Casino Spa Resort

    8 Reviews
    Fallbrook, CA
    10 miles
    +1 (844) 472-5278

    "The Pala RV Park is located on the premises of the Pala Casino. The RV park is well maintained and has all the enmities of any RV park; including a pool."

    "Very well kept up resort. 5-8 minute walk from your camper to a slot machine. They allow early checkin and late checkout."

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Recent Camping Photos near Cleveland National Forest

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Recent Reviews near Cleveland National Forest

1872 Reviews of 342 Cleveland National Forest Campgrounds

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 4, 2025

    San Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping

    Busy beach camping

    This is a busy area for atv's and dirt bikes. No official camping areas, just find a spot in the sand. There was loud music around but it ended at a respectful time and staff was friendly. Very windy.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 4, 2025

    O'Neill Regional Park

    Campsite with playground

    Pretty average campsites with playground and clean bathrooms. Very windy roads in and out.

  • April H.
    Nov. 3, 2025

    South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    Quintessential SoCal Beach

    My upfront disclaimer is I knew what to expect.  It's easy to reserve these sites online at reservecalifornia.com but they go very quickly.  After waiting in line on the northbound PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) it was slow going driving in as any RV in front of you typically has some maneuvering to do to get settled in its site.  There is almost no privacy as the campground is situated on a bluff over looking the ocean and so any growth is scrub.  They have all the standard amenities including showers which cost extra.  You must buy tokens at a machine so be sure to buy enough as each token is only worth a very few minutes. (I still have a couple leftover from this trip)  The camp sites are dirt.  There is a camp store along with a restaurant with a limited menu.  They have tables with umbrellas at the edge of the bluff with an unbeatable view of the ocean.  They also have live entertainment-you'll need to check to see what & when.  The fire rings are tall, about 3' tall, which I didn't care for.  Hard to sit around that kind of fire.  There was also a sign posted warning campers of the hot items for theft.  The campground is arranged in 2 rows-one at the edge of the bluff and one inland.  The inland row is very close to the PCH so there's noise.   As far as camping experiences go, this is not the best.  But I didn't go there for a great "camping" experience; I went there to be in walking distance of a beautiful beach.  That did not disappoint!  Be advised-the walk to the beach is down a cliff and involves a lot of steps.

  • s
    Nov. 3, 2025

    Stone Creek Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    Great Trails & Views

    The site was nice and spacious, tall pines, great shade and star gazing, the falling egg corns were fun but the fire ban was a deal breaker... I reserved 1 1/2 months out so when I arrived the ban was in effect, stayed one night out of two. The trails were nice with plenty of great views, quiet walks and natural woodland creatures: woodpeckers, squirrels and birds. I'll stay again only if there's no fire ban.... Whats camping without a fire?

  • Heather K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 28, 2025

    Palm Springs-Joshua Tree KOA

    Great Campground

    I don’t tend to stay at KOAs but this one may change my mind. We got a spot that was big enough for two camper vans (promaster and express). The hot tubs were awesome. They even had a haunted house and hayride for the kids. Super cool spot.

  • Frank M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 28, 2025

    O'Neill Regional Park

    Nice campground

    It's a very nice campground about an hours drive from the beach and other tourist attractions. Usually sold out every weekend. The road to get there can be dangerous. Some wannabe race drivers and commuters avoiding crowded freeways will NOT tolerate anyone doing the speed limit and will pass regardless of the danger.

  • Kyle M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Pathfinder Dispersed Camping

    Free!

    No amenities. 14 day stay. Mostly secluded, except for some cow visitors. Road leading in is rough. Skill is needed to venture back.

  • Kyle M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Pathfinder Dispersed Camping

    Free!!!!

    Mostly secluded, and you get a few bovine visitors. No amenities. 14 day stays. The only important note is that the road leading up is rough, careful skill is needed.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 24, 2025

    South Ridge Yellow Post Sites

    Great spots, great views

    Great location! Beautiful views from every spot! Will definitely stay here again. Road is a little rough in sections coming up, so plan vehicle choice accordingly!

Guide to Cleveland National Forest

Camping near Cleveland National Forest, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful landscapes and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes that start right from their campsites. One reviewer from William Heise County Park mentioned, "The hiking trails were great for exploring and getting some exercise."
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Lake Hemet is a great spot. A visitor shared, "The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time. They stock the lake regularly so you have a good chance of catching trout."
  • Beach Access: For those who want to hit the beach, San Elijo State Beach Campground is right by the ocean. A camper noted, "Amazing site in a little town with all you need for a weekend getaway… great beach and surfing possibilities for the entire family."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at San Mateo Campground said, "Clean bathrooms and showers, but we stayed midweek and the place was very, very minimally occupied."
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer good spacing between sites. A reviewer at Dos Picos County Park mentioned, "This park seemed to attract family groups… it was great to see so many kids around the campground not on their devices!"
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One camper at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground stated, "The stars at night are gorgeous! You can spend hours just staring up at the sky."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some sites can get busy, especially on weekends. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground noted, "It can get a little loud on the weekends with drunk party-goers."
  • Check-in Times: Many campgrounds have strict check-in times. A visitor at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground advised, "Don't try to get there earlier; they usually won't let you in before check-in."
  • Limited Cell Service: Depending on where you camp, cell service can be spotty. A reviewer at San Mateo Campground mentioned, "Verizon is basically a dead zone in that area."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites that have amenities for kids. A parent at Lake Hemet Campground said, "Great place for family and kids. Affordable."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of fun activities. A camper at William Heise County Park suggested, "Bring your bikes. There’s also a trailhead to the oasis right in the campground."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep the kids happy with snacks. A visitor at San Elijo State Beach Campground mentioned, "There’s a mixed recycling bin here as well as a bin for food compost."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at San Clemente State Beach Campground noted, "We camped here no problem in our sprinter van."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground details. A visitor at Lake Hemet Campground mentioned, "Full hookups are available too."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Lake Perris State Recreational Area shared, "There was a large group of people blasting their music until 2/3 AM."

Camping near Cleveland National Forest, California, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there RV camping options available in Cleveland National Forest?

Yes, Cleveland National Forest does accommodate RV camping at select locations. Pechanga RV Resort offers premium facilities for RVers near the forest, featuring newer amenities, access to a casino, pool, golf course, and restaurants. Temecula-Vail Lake KOA provides another RV-friendly option with full hookups, reservable sites, and big-rig-friendly spaces. When camping within the forest boundaries, be aware that many campgrounds have limited facilities for larger rigs and may not offer hookups. It's advisable to check site specifications before arrival as some forest campgrounds have length restrictions and uneven terrain that may not accommodate larger RVs.

Where are the best campgrounds in Cleveland National Forest?

Cleveland National Forest offers several excellent campgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts. El Prado Campground stands out with beautiful hiking trails and access to a scenic lake perfect for exploration. El Cariso Campground provides a convenient and affordable option at $15/night with 24 sites nestled in the woods, no reservations required, and basic amenities including water faucets and bathrooms. Other notable options include Observatory Campground near Palomar Mountain and Dripping Springs Campground, both offering unique experiences within the forest. The best campgrounds typically feature a combination of natural beauty, hiking access, and basic facilities while maintaining the serene forest atmosphere.

Are dogs allowed at Cleveland National Forest campgrounds?

Dogs are generally allowed at Cleveland National Forest campgrounds, but must be kept on leashes no longer than 6 feet at all times. O'Neill Regional Park near the forest is pet-friendly and offers clean facilities with hiking trails suitable for dogs. Dripping Springs Campground also welcomes pets while camping. Pet owners should always clean up after their dogs and be aware that some trails within the forest may have pet restrictions, particularly in sensitive wildlife areas. During hot weather, be especially cautious with pets as shade can be limited at some sites and ground surfaces can become extremely hot. Always bring plenty of water for your dog and check specific campground regulations before your visit.

Can I find camping near water in Cleveland National Forest?

Cleveland National Forest offers several camping options near water features. Green Valley Campground in nearby Cuyamaca Rancho State Park stands out for its proximity to waterfalls accessible via a short trail from the campsites. Lake Hemet Campground provides lakeside camping with water activities in the vicinity of the forest. El Prado Campground also features access to a beautiful lake worth hiking to. For those willing to venture slightly outside forest boundaries, San Mateo Campground offers proximity to beach access. Water availability can vary seasonally, especially in smaller streams and falls, so checking current conditions before your trip is recommended.

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