Dispersed camping at the Scissors Crossing PCT trailhead puts campers directly on the Pacific Crest Trail corridor in the high desert east of Julian. The site is drive-in accessible and listed as big rig friendly, making it usable for larger vehicles. Motorcyclists and hikers both use it as a multi-night base, with the surrounding roads and trails giving reason to stay beyond a single night. Grapevine Canyon Road lies roughly 3 miles to the northeast for those wanting a nearby alternative.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsScissors Crossing PCT Parking is located in California near Julian
Coordinates
33.10124273205377 N
116.47417053155131 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 4/14/26
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 7/20/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 4/14/26
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 7/20/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Features
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 3 min from San Diego, CA
- 1 hr 10 min from El Centro, CA
- 1 hr 40 min from Riverside, CA
- 2 hrs 10 min from Yuma, AZ


