Ramona, California sits at an elevation of 1,430 feet in San Diego County's eastern region, where oak woodlands meet chaparral landscapes. The area experiences warm summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cool winters with occasional frost, making spring and fall ideal for yurt camping and other outdoor accommodations. Winter visitors should prepare for temperature drops into the 30s at night, particularly at higher elevation campsites.
What to do
Hiking nearby mountains: At William Heise County Park, trails wind through oak woodlands with opportunities to spot local wildlife. "It's a great spot with hiking options close by," notes one camper. The park serves as an excellent base for exploring Julian's trails and natural areas.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Dixon Lake Campground offers fishing opportunities in a serene setting. "The lake is well maintained, good looking place," shares a visitor. The catch-and-release pond attracts anglers throughout the year, with fishing permits available on-site for a modest fee.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at several campgrounds provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We love this campground... deer and flocks of wild turkey," reports a visitor to William Heise County Park. Many campers recommend bringing binoculars for bird watching, especially around dawn.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Woods Valley Kampground receives praise for its natural setting. "It's so beautiful to be covered completely by the trees! It makes me feel like I'm in an actual Forest and not the middle of San Diego," writes one camper. The mature trees provide welcome shade during summer months.
Well-maintained facilities: Dos Picos County Park earns consistent recognition for its upkeep. "The well-maintained campground boasts paved pads for most sites, making setup a breeze. Each site comes equipped with a fire ring and picnic table, perfect for cozy campfires and outdoor meals," shares a recent visitor. Bathroom facilities receive regular cleaning.
Proximity to local attractions: Many campgrounds offer convenient access to regional highlights. "This place is a jewel, and if you live in San Diego, right in your backyard!" explains a Dos Picos camper. Most sites place visitors within 20-30 minutes of Julian's apple orchards, wineries, and historic downtown.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing at higher elevations. "We went in October with our AHG group. It was great and super dog friendly but WOW so much dirt created so much dust in the air," reports a William Heise visitor.
Reservation requirements: Most yurt camping options near Ramona require advance booking. Lake Jennings offers yurt accommodations but fills quickly. "We stayed two nights but never could get on the lake. It opens Friday at 3pm (after checkout). I'm sure this is posted prior to reservation, but it's surprising when visiting," notes one camper.
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds report active wildlife. "Beware the Poison Oak. If you're hitting the trails or fishing the bank, there's a lot of it," warns a visitor. Raccoons, coyotes, and insects may visit campsites, particularly when food is left accessible.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve offers numerous options for children. "There's lots for kids to do here! Feed the ducks, fish, ride the pedal boats. It's an awesome place for a day outside!" reports one visitor. The preserve maintains playgrounds, fishing ponds, and recreational facilities.
First-time camping spots: Dos Picos County Park works well for beginners. "This campsite was cool... As my professor Yoshi calls it, 'spoiled camping'. We had reception and were close to the nearest town! Showers available!" writes a first-timer. The park provides an accessible introduction to yurt camping in Ramona without excessive isolation.
Water recreation options: During warmer months, La Jolla Indian Campground offers water activities. "Love taking the kids near the end of summer for tubing," mentions a repeat visitor. Water levels vary seasonally, with best conditions typically in late spring and early summer.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites with connections vary across campgrounds. "Added an Extra Night. Nice hot showers and a great dump station to empty my tanks," reports a William Heise visitor who extended their stay. Most developed campgrounds offer water and electric hookups, with some providing full sewer connections.
Level sites considerations: Several campgrounds require attention to leveling. "Some sites need much leveling. I know which site to reserve next time!!" advises a Lake Jennings RVer. Calling ahead to request specific sites with easier access and more level terrain helps ensure a smoother setup experience for larger rigs.
