Cleveland National Forest encompasses 460,000 acres spanning San Diego, Orange, and Riverside counties at elevations from 1,500 to 5,900 feet. The forest transitions from chaparral to coniferous woodland across its varied terrain, creating distinct camping experiences depending on your chosen area. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer days typically reach 85-90°F with cool evenings.
What to Do
Hiking near Observatory Campground: The 10-mile loop trail system offers various connecting routes with panoramic views. "The trail itself is a big loop (10 miles) that connects to another loop and another. Almost 20 miles of hiking if you want it. We did an out and back. Trail was nice but it does get narrow often... The views were fantastic," shares Ryan W. from Observatory Campground.
Visit Palomar Observatory: Located just 2 miles from Fry Creek Campground on a scenic hiking trail. "There's a nice trail that goes there from the campground and has good views of the little valley. There are plenty of spots and all of them are shaded," reports Berton M. from Fry Creek Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Skinner stocks the reservoir throughout the year, though requires an additional permit. "The lake is stocked with fish throughout the year, but they require you to buy a riverside county lakes fishing permit for each day if you want to fish. Boat rentals are available but bring your own boat," notes Timothy A.
What Campers Like
Natural surroundings: Bird watching is popular at several forest campgrounds. "This campground is definitely a birder's paradise. We were constantly surrounded and graced by the sounds of woodpeckers, pigeons, mountain quail, bluebirds, jays, and more," says Elise F. from Fry Creek Campground.
Stargazing conditions: Higher elevation campgrounds offer excellent night sky viewing. "Great campsite for stargazing... If you have a telescope would recommend you bring it," recommends lordIrm from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated sites. "The sites are cute and back up to old Oak growth and chaparral forest, and there are not very many but there always seems to be one or two available especially during the week," writes Andy H. about Dripping Springs Campground.
What You Should Know
Bug preparation: Several campgrounds report significant insect activity. "This entire area is swarmed with flies. We brought nets to put around our faces and without these, I don't think I would have survived. So definitely bring nets for your face, bug spray, and citronella," warns Elise F.
Limited cell service: Most forest campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "Do not expect cell service of any kind, for us that was a wonderful escape," shares Michelle C. from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground.
Water considerations: Some campgrounds have limited water access in drier months. "The creek was completely dry but plenty of bugs abound," notes megan from Fry Creek, highlighting the importance of bringing adequate water supplies.
Tips for Camping with Families
Splash pad alternative: Lake Skinner offers family-friendly water play. "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. On the flip side they have a super nice splash pad park that's no additional cost!" explains Jennifer D. from Lake Skinner Recreation Area.
Family activities beyond hiking: Some campgrounds offer additional recreational options. "Free mini golf, horseshoes, disc golf and pool area with 3 pools, one specific for kids. Golf cart friendly," notes Jessica L. about Temecula-Vail Lake KOA.
Campsite selection for families: Choose sites with adequate space for children. "We spent the weekend up in the 'Rincon' loop, it was nestled up away from the main group of RVs. It was a perfect spot for the kiddos to ride their bikes and goof around... Also there is a large grass patch in the middle of the loop that is perfect for a volleyball net or a serious corn hole tournament!" recommends Scott V.
Tips from RVers
Dog friendly campgrounds in Cleveland National Forest: Several RV sites accommodate larger rigs with pets. "Nice big trees around all the spots. People are friendly and it's like you're in the wilderness," notes Robert C. about Temecula-Vail Lake KOA.
Site selection for shade: Many RV sites lack adequate coverage during summer. "Up top there are a few sites that have very little shade like the one we were in 199-201. The majority of the sites have ample shade and was still tolerable in July heat," shares Scott V.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require planning. "Last minute booking... we got a site with no electricity just water and sewer. Got a bit warm but it was manageable. The park has a pool, cafe, and other great amenities," explains Raf A., highlighting the importance of temperature management strategies for summer camping.
