Best Tent Camping near Julian, CA

Cleveland National Forest and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offer diverse tent camping options near Julian, California. Pine Creek Road Camp provides free dispersed tent campsites with packed dirt surfaces approximately 15 miles south of Julian. Corte Madera Mountain in Cleveland National Forest offers backcountry tent camping at its 4,657-foot summit, requiring a free permit obtained from the ranger station. Banner Ranch Julian provides established tent-only sites with basic amenities, while Yaqui Wash offers primitive tent camping in a desert setting with mountain views on both sides.

Most primitive tent campgrounds near Julian require campers to bring their own water and pack out all trash. Pine Creek Road sites are situated on packed dirt with varying levels of tree coverage. According to camper reviews, some sites are tucked back from the road with good shade while others have minimal coverage. Road conditions vary significantly, with many dispersed camping areas requiring high-clearance vehicles. One camper noted that while Pine Creek Road itself is paved, the dirt access roads to campsites can have rough spots that require careful driving. Fire restrictions are common throughout the region, particularly during summer and fall months.

Spring and fall provide the most comfortable tent camping experiences in the Julian area. A visitor to Pine Creek Road Camp reported, "We never saw another person during our stay," highlighting the seclusion available at dispersed tent sites. Tent campers at Yaqui Wash benefit from the area's valley setting, which allows for "fairly easy hikes up the soft slopes" from camp. Backcountry tent camping at Corte Madera Mountain rewards hikers with panoramic views after a continuous 7.5-mile climb. Campers frequently mention the stark temperature differences between day and night, particularly at higher elevations. Walk-in tent sites often provide greater privacy than drive-in options, with tent pads typically set back from parking areas.

Best Tent Sites Near Julian, California (26)

    1. Pine Creek Road Camp

    6 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    13 miles

    "Great area--it's just close enough to some expensive campgrounds and a few connecting trails, so it's awesome to camp here for FREE. "

    "I drive an Acura RDX and had no problems (I actually had a lot of fun driving the road). 

    There were way more flies than we were expecting. Prepare to get swarmed."

    2. Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area

    16 Reviews
    Borrego Springs, CA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 767-5391

    "This is a great open camping area, you can camp near others or find a secluded spot of your own. There are fire rings, picnic tables, toilets and even showers."

    "Season starts around Halloween and ends in May for Red stickers. They have public restrooms spread through the grounds. It's great for tent camping and RVs/campers, tents."

    3. Yaqui Wash

    1 Review
    Borrego Springs, CA
    12 miles

    "It is well vegetated and allows for fairly easy hikes up the soft slopes."

    4. Los Coyotes Camp Cahuilla Reservation

    1 Review
    San Ysidro, CA
    14 miles
    +1 (760) 782-2790

    "This place was so big it had space for another 10 cars and tents. We’re coming back for sure."

    5. Kitchen Creek Road

    4 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    18 miles

    6. The Eyrie Farm

    1 Review
    Ramona, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (844) 843-3978

    $30 / night

    "We're happy to have this property on our platform. There are 2 sites to choose from, please read about them before booking. Check them out and leave them some love!"

    7. Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    19 Reviews
    Santee, CA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 668-2748

    $24 - $25 / night

    "No hookups here but they have great clean bathrooms and hot showers. Lots of hiking/biking straight from your campsite. This place is a jem, being so close to most parts of San Diego."

    "Great location for prepping someone prior to “roughing” it. There’s showers, and toilets, but no electricity. Boy/Girl Scouts and families with kids and dogs are here often."

    8. Banner Ranch Julian

    Be the first to review!
    Julian, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 383-1490

    $43 - $48 / night

    9. Julian Hideaway

    Be the first to review!
    Julian, CA
    5 miles
    +1 (760) 421-8705

    $80 - $50 / night

    10. Corte Madera Mountain

    2 Reviews
    Guatay, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 445-6235

    "If you’re looking for a nice hike, in the wild, with few people around, this is the one. Corte Madera Mountain in Cleveland National Forest, just east of San Diego."

    "You will need a permit, but you can get a free permit emailed to you if you call the rangers station. The Trail is a 7.5 mile out and back trail near Morena Village."

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Showing results 1-10 of 26 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Julian, CA

1296 Reviews of 26 Julian Campgrounds



Guide to Julian

Tent camping near Julian, California offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts.

Tent campers should check out Kitchen Creek Road

  • Kitchen Creek Road provides a peaceful wilderness experience with various secluded sites, ideal for those looking to escape the noise of everyday life.
  • This location allows pets, making it a great choice for families who want to bring their furry friends along for the adventure.
  • The area is accessible by both driving and hiking, giving campers flexibility in how they reach their campsite.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities at Pine Creek Road Camp

  • Pine Creek Road Camp features easy access for vehicles, making it convenient for those traveling with gear.
  • The campground is known for its peaceful and secluded atmosphere, perfect for couples or solo campers seeking solitude.
  • With no permit required, it offers a hassle-free camping experience, allowing for spontaneous trips.

Explore local attractions near Corte Madera Mountain

  • Corte Madera Mountain is a fantastic hiking destination, offering a 7.5-mile trail with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Campers can enjoy the tranquility of the area, as it tends to be less crowded, providing a more intimate connection with nature.
  • The trail leads to campsites surrounded by granite boulders, perfect for those looking to set up camp after a rewarding hike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Julian, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Julian, CA is Pine Creek Road Camp with a 4.8-star rating from 6 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Julian, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 26 tent camping locations near Julian, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.