Campgrounds in Mt. Laguna, California
- Mount Laguna meadows bloom during May and June.california poppies image by Jack Prichett from Fotolia.com
The Laguna Mountains are within the Cleveland National Forest in eastern San Diego County. A trail system offers an array of hiking, mountain bike and horse trails through the chaparral forest, many of which offer sweeping views of the desert below. Campgrounds are near a large meadow filled with wildflowers. It is a breeding ground for the endangered Laguna Skipper Butterfly, and provides a protected habitat. The meadow also provides a clearing for night sky tours hosted by student astronomers from San Diego State University. The region is extremely prone to wildfires. Check for closings and adhere to all fire safety advisories. - Set amid towering oak trees, the Burnt Rancheria Campground features views of desert hills and neighboring peaks. Open seasonally, it has 111 campsites, and accepts reservations for 50. The rest are on a first-come, first-serve basis. The sites are rustic, without water and electrical hookups. Amenities include flush toilets, showers, fire rings and picnic tables. Hikers can access part of the famous Pacific Crest Trail, which spans the coastline into Canada, as well as nearby hiking, bike and horse trails. Other activities include campfire programs, guided hikes during the summer, and access to a self-guided interpretive nature walk.
Burnt Rancheria Campground
Mount Laguna, California 91948
619-473-0120 - The Laguna Campground has 104 campsites tucked between oak and pine trees that open onto a large meadow. Of the sites, 50 are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Amenities include flush toilets, showers and fire rings. In the summer, San Diego State University holds "Star Parties," giving visitors tours of the night skies. Open seasonally, the campground accesses to the Pacific Crest Trail, Big Laguna Trail and Lightning Ridge Trail, as well as several biking and horse trails. Part of the meadow is fenced to create a protected habitat for the Laguna Skipper Butterfly, and some visitors can camp or walk through the butterfly territory.
Laguna Campground
Laguna Meadow Road
Mount Laguna, California 91948
619-473-2082 - The El Prado Campground requires reservations and accommodates large groups. There are five large camp areas providing space for up to 100 people. El Prado is adjacent to Laguna Campground, and visitors have access to the same trails and night sky programs. It is also within the protected habitat of the endangered Laguna Skipper Butterfly. The campground has flush toilets and showers.
El Prado Campground
Laguna Meadow Road
Mount Laguna, California 91948
619-445-6235 - Horse Heaven is another campground designed for large groups. It has three sites accommodating 40, 70 and 100 campers each. Each site has grills and picnic tables. Open seasonally, the camp sits in a wooded area, and offers direct access to the Lightning Ridge Trail and the Big Laguna Trail. This site is rustic, with amenities limited to vault toilets.
Horse Heaven Campground
Laguna Meadow Road
Mount Laguna, California 91948
619-445-6233
