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Best Campgrounds near Julian, CA

1,471 Reviews

The mountain town of Julian, California sits at the intersection of diverse camping landscapes, from wooded mountain retreats to desert wilderness. William Heise County Park, located about 5 miles from downtown Julian at 4,200 feet elevation, offers developed campsites with tent and RV options, cabins, and hiking trails through oak woodlands. Nearby, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park provides two campgrounds (Green Valley and Paso Picacho) with access to waterfalls and mountain views. For those seeking more primitive experiences, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers free dispersed camping at Blair Valley and Culp Valley primitive campgrounds, where campers can enjoy stargazing and desert solitude just outside Julian's apple orchards.

Camping regulations vary significantly between the mountain and desert areas surrounding Julian. Many established campgrounds enforce strict quiet hours and fire restrictions, particularly at William Heise where rangers actively patrol and enforce 10 PM quiet hours. As one camper noted, "They are very serious about their rules here. Quiet time strictly enforced at 10 PM and no fires after 11 PM." Weather conditions fluctuate dramatically with elevation and season, with mountain campgrounds experiencing nighttime temperatures 10-15 degrees cooler than daytime forecasts. Cell service is surprisingly good at William Heise but spotty in more remote areas. Most developed campgrounds require reservations, especially during fall apple season when Julian becomes a popular weekend destination.

Wildlife viewing opportunities enhance the camping experience around Julian, with multiple campers reporting wild turkeys and mule deer at William Heise and Cuyamaca. Lake Cuyamaca offers fishing for trout, bass, and catfish, with lakeside camping available. The area's diverse terrain supports various recreational activities, from mountain biking to stargazing. Campers consistently mention the convenience of Julian's proximity, allowing easy access to supplies and the town's famous apple pie. Site privacy varies considerably, with some campers noting that "most campsites are right on top of each other" while others found secluded spots: "Site 65 was up a small hill from the sites below it and surrounded by trees and brush, so there was a good amount of privacy." Summer brings flies and insects to many campgrounds, particularly in bathroom facilities.

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Best Camping Sites Near Julian, California (281)

    1. William Heise County Park

    46 Reviews
    Julian, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 765-0650

    $24 - $34 / night

    "Nice campground away from the main roads. All spots outside of the R.V. loop are spread out and pretty secluded. Very friendly and helpful rangers. About a 10 minute drive from Julian pie co."

    "We stayed in spot 34 close to bathrooms, has partial shade, picnic table and fire pit. Also has hooks ups for campers. It’s a Great spot with decent privacy. Good flat spot for a tents also."

    2. Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    35 Reviews
    Julian, CA
    10 miles
    Website

    "Just outside of Julian which is a charming little town.

    Decent for some seclusion/isloation as the road through is winding.

    When in early January. 65-70 during the day. ~45 at night."

    "Blair Valley is at the base of Julian... no not Ramona the other direction."

    3. Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

    23 Reviews
    Descanso, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 765-3023

    $40 - $250 / night

    "There's some hiking trails that aren't dog friendly. Cuyamaca lake, Anza Borrego, and Julian are nearby to explore."

    "Didn’t know that this type of camping (actual woods) existed this close to San Diego."

    4. Borrego Palm Canyon Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    31 Reviews
    Borrego Springs, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 767-5311

    $35 - $125 / night

    "Activities: numerous hiking trails, accessible from the campground. The most popular one is the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail which leads to the oasis of California Fan Palms."

    "Very clean, well-maintained, and nice location. Very strict check-in time. However, you can tell they are cleaning the sites and making sure the sites are in order."

    5. Lake Cuyamaca Recreation and Park District

    11 Reviews
    Julian, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 765-0515

    $32 - $45 / night

    "Located at Lake Cuyamaca in Julian. Gorgeous views of the lake!!!! Picnic area, tent camping sites, and also cabins and condos as well."

    "Proximity to the lake was great for the kids. The view was also amazing. Bathrooms were clean but lots of bugs (but expected). No showers on this West Shore section of the campground."

    6. Green Valley Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

    16 Reviews
    Descanso, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 465-3020

    $40 / night

    "Wild turkeys roam around the campground. There are trailheads in the campground along with plenty of nearby trails."

    "Close to Julian, CA about 10-15 minutes. We camped during Veteran’s day weekend. The terrain of the campground is ideal for kids. Trees, hills, and large rocks for the kids to climb on."

    7. El Prado Campground

    22 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 473-2082

    $35 / night

    "It is a big, big campground that is wooded and adjacent a large meadow, recreational area and lake (when not dried out, drought sucks)."

    "This is the closest campground to the lakes. Just a couple steps away from the beautiful meadow it overlooks. Lots of trees for hammocking!!"

    8. Culp Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    17 Reviews
    Ranchita, CA
    13 miles
    Website

    "I’ve hit bottom coming out of California business driveways more often.

    It’s located well up the mountain from Borrego Springs on a scenic highway."

    "The ground is sand and rock, and outside of clean vault toilets there are no amenities. We had a decent spot with three tents set up and brought our own fire ring."

    9. KQ Ranch Resort

    9 Reviews
    Julian, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 765-2771

    "Membership costs us around $2000 And have access to / 3000 different camp sites nationwide At any time of the year a drop of a dime essentially"

    "Great location and beautiful scenery in the mountains. The resort has lost of activities to participate in. Also, great hiking trails."

    10. Burnt Rancheria Campground

    23 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 473-0120

    $35 / night

    "I love this campground because it's woodsy and close to home.  You get that far away feel without being too far away. "

    "We had hosts that were helpful, friendly, the restrooms were stocked/clean, they brought firewood around, and were just good people."

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Recent Camping Photos near Julian, CA

456 Photos of 281 Julian Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Julian, CA

1471 Reviews of 281 Julian Campgrounds

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Granite Springs

    Little Known Gem

    Primitive camp site with chemical bathrooms. Has 3 areas to set up tents. First come first serve, but you must check in at the ranger station before you go. $5 per camper. We comfortably fit 3 tents on one site.

  • M
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Mission Bay RV Resort

    Trashy park

    Several issues here. First the most obvious the connections are at the front of the space on the drivers side. If you back in you better have 100 feet of hose sewer and power cord. Reservations failed to tell me while on the phone that the power was out but they’re still charging full price. Most of the lots are dusty dirt lots well over half of the park is not in use and in disrepair. There is trash everywhere and the staff could care less if you’re enjoying yourself. Do yourself a favor and spend the 20 extra dollars to stay at Campland Overall a waste of money and beach front property

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Sweetwater Summit Regional Park

    Great camp

    Close to the city, camp is clean and staff is friendly and helpful.

    Showers were clean, and partial hookups are only $35 a night. Cheapest I've found in California.

  • Kai K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    Loved The Off-Roading and Beautiful Views

    Loved how much road there was to explore. We went about 2 hours deep into this area and there was still more to explore. The best part here was the stars, so stunning. Be careful in the summer as it is very hot during the day.

  • j
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Lake Henshaw Resort

    My stay review

    This place is pretty. The staff is nice and not too strict. The place can definitely need a lil tlc but for the price per dayits nothing too complain too much. The pool is cool the showers and bathroom are all functional. Wich is a good thing. I was told to pick any spot i liked wich made my stay even better. No hookups at all i had my rv/camper but that was no problem i took my generator. Place is definitely recommended if you're a not too picky person.😉

  • D
    Aug. 31, 2025

    San Elijo State Beach Campground

    Cool spot

    Difficult to book. 6 months in advance but if you do. The full hookup spots are located in the middle of the campground. Don’t feel like you missed anything if you can’t get beachfront. Bushes, fences block any views unless your in dry camping down toward south end of park. Camp store is permanently closed so that Convenience is no longer here. Bathrooms and showers are clean and somewhat nice.

  • Elise F.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Fry Creek Campground

    Loved it

    We absolutely loved Fry Creek. It might be our favorite place to camp so far. Our site was removed from others so we weren’t bothered by neighbors. 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. We were constantly surrounded and graced by the sounds of woodpeckers, pigeons, mountain quail, bluebirds, jays, and more. One important note though is 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. Despite this, it was a lovely place. Will be returning one day.

  • Elise F.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    Perfect weekend getaway

    This campground is located in the Mission Trails Regional Park, and we absolutely loved it. There are clean bathrooms with flushable toilets and showers, and sinks to wash off things. The rangers even supplied Dr. Bronners Castile soap in each bathroom. We stayed in site number 17 and it was lovely. Each camp site has a picnic table, fire ring, and tent pad. Online says you can buy firewood but they no longer provide that service, so make sure you bring your own firewood! You can’t swim in the lake, but you can fish and it’s very pleasant to walk around and bird watch. There is so much to do in this urban park, you could spend many days here. P.S. the Mission Trails visitor center is spectacular.

  • Moo
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Oceanside RV Resort

    For tent campers - pretty solid place for a quick couple stays

    First, the campsite has the MOST CLEANEST restroom and shower booths I have ever visited for tent camping. This is no doubt that for those folks who are needed for good built qaulity toiletery, this will be your location.

    For the down sides;

    1. The trains - There is a rail right behind the tent sites so if you are looking for the tent sites with quiet location: PLEASE STAY AWAY from here. the trains do not operate from around 10 pm, back on operating starting from 5 am.

    2. for T1 tent site, BE AWARE that there is a dog park RIGHT next to the tent site: there will be a urine odor all over the place.

    3. If you are planning on cooking, just be aware that there is no proper location to do a dish wash. You would need some sort of wipes to do.

Guide to Julian

Camping near Julian, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, this area has something to suit your needs.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Borrego Palm Canyon Campground. One reviewer said, "The Palm Canyon trail starts from the campground - no need to drive to the trailhead, and it is a hike worth doing."
  • Fishing: Head to Lake Jennings for some fishing. A visitor mentioned, "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."
  • Stargazing: The clear skies in the area make for great stargazing. One camper at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground noted, "The stars at night are gorgeous! You can spend hours just staring up at the sky."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground said, "Flush toilets, bathrooms, well lit, and warm showers."
  • Friendly staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of the campground staff. One camper shared, "The ladies at the front are always so incredibly sweet!" at Lake Jennings.
  • Spacious sites: Campers enjoy the roomy campsites. A review for Lake Jennings stated, "Spaces are good size and plenty of room in between the next site."

What you should know:

  • Busy during peak times: Many campgrounds can get crowded, especially on weekends. A visitor at Lake Hemet Campground mentioned, "It is super busy, a lot of people around."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Blair Valley Primitive Campground, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A camper noted, "No facilities but good cell service."
  • Check-in times: Be aware of strict check-in times at some campgrounds. One reviewer at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground mentioned, "Very strict check-in time."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places like Lake Jennings, which has a playground and plenty of space for kids to play. A visitor said, "The campground had a ton of bonuses, close to town if you need things but far enough away to feel the full camping experience."
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. One camper at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground suggested, "Bring your bikes. There’s also a trailhead to the oasis right in the campground."
  • Pack snacks and meals: Having food on hand can save time and keep everyone happy. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground advised, "Bring your own shade for this campsite, your own water too."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site you choose. A reviewer at William Heise County Park mentioned, "A more experienced human might not have struggled as much but it be hard to get a 20 ft plus trailer into this particular site."
  • Look for full hookups: If you need amenities, opt for campgrounds like Lake Jennings that offer full hookups. A visitor noted, "There are areas that are full hookup, partial hookup, no hookup, tent only areas, and group camping."
  • Be prepared for noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially during busy times. A camper at San Diego Metro KOA mentioned, "The area around the campground doesn’t leave one feeling particularly safe."

Camping near Julian, California, is a great way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best camping sites in Julian, CA?

William Heise County Park is widely considered one of Julian's best camping destinations. Located about 5 miles from downtown Julian, this hidden gem offers over 100 camping spots with excellent privacy between sites. The park features well-maintained hiking trails, beautiful wooded surroundings, and facilities including hot showers and a dump station. For a luxury camping experience, Julian Luxury Glamping provides fully furnished glamping tents, gated entrance, and access to hiking trails. Both locations offer a peaceful retreat while remaining close to Julian's charming downtown area, perfect for enjoying the town's famous pies and local attractions.

Is tent camping available in Julian, and what are the options?

Julian offers excellent tent camping options. Stagecoach Trails Resort provides a secluded experience with spacious sites about 20 minutes from Julian's downtown. For a unique experience, Loomerland offers tent camping on a working farm where you'll hear chickens, peacocks, and enjoy a rustic atmosphere. Both public and private options exist throughout the Julian area, with sites ranging from primitive to those with amenities like picnic tables and fire rings. Most tent sites in the region offer partial shade from pines and oaks, providing a comfortable camping experience. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall) when Julian's mild climate makes tent camping particularly enjoyable.

What camping areas are available around Julian Lake?

Lake Cuyamaca Recreation and Park District offers camping with gorgeous views of the 110-acre lake. The West Shore section features tent camping sites with proximity to the water, which is great for families. While these sites require carrying gear from the parking lot, the lakeside location makes it worthwhile. Bathrooms are clean, though there are no showers in this section. For more options near the lake, Paso Picacho Campground in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is located south of Julian near Lake Cuyamaca. This wooded campground offers about 90 sites with flushable toilets, clean showers, and water spigots, providing easy access to the lake and extensive hiking and mountain biking trails.

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