Burnt Rancheria
4.65203 reviewsMile 23, Sunrise Hwy, Mt. Laguna, CA, 91948, USA
Quick Facts
6,000 ftPrice
$35/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
75 campsites
Season
Open for reservation...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyShowers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
6,000 ftPrice
$35/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
75 campsites
Season
Open for reservation...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyShowers
Get DirectionsBurnt Rancheria
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Rates are seasonal with nightly fees set at $35 for both Standard Nonelectric and Tent Only Nonelectric campsites during the peak season (April 18 -...
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Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$35.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider619-473-0120
What Campers Say
4.65
Top-Rated
Based on 203 reviews
Most mentioned
cleanrestroomsspacioushiking
Some mention
bugs
"User reviews for Burnt Rancheria Campground are generally positive, praising its cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and friendly staff. However, some common complaints include noise from other campers, close proximity of certain sites, and occasional issues with bathroom availability."
Fees & Passes at Burnt Rancheria
$35/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights per visit and 14 nights total per calendar year.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled anytime before arrival for a $10 fee. Late cancellations (midnight on t...
Prices verified November 24, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Vista Recreation (Concessionaire under USFS) website.
Best Time to Camp at Burnt Rancheria
Experience nature's full palette at Burnt Rancheria, where mountain weather creates its own microclimate of comfort. While the valleys below swelter in summer heat, you'll find refreshing mountain breezes and comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking and exploration. Winter transforms the landscape with occasional dustings of snow and gentle rains that nurture the forest, creating a serene retreat far from the crowds.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: April 18 through October 18.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open for reservations from mid-April (April 18) to mid-October (October 18).
- Current Alerts: Fire restrictions may be imposed during hot and dry weather conditions. Visitors should call ahead for updates.
About Burnt Rancheria
Escape to Burnt Rancheria Campground, where 75 thoughtfully designed campsites await among the whispering pines of Cleveland National Forest. Each site serves as your personal basecamp, complete with a sturdy table for family meals under the stars and a traditional campfire ring where stories come alive. During peak season, the convenience of coin-operated hot showers ensures you can refresh after a day of mountain adventures while still embracing the authentic camping experience.
Burnt Rancheria Campground primarily supports tent and RV camping, with no electric or water hookups available.
Historical SignificanceStand at the crossroads of ancient and modern journeys at Burnt Rancheria, where the legendary Pacific Crest Trail passes nearby on its epic 2,650-mile journey from Mexico to Canada. This land holds deeper roots still, with the neighboring village bearing witness to centuries of indigenous heritage. Here, the stories of native tribes who first called these mountains home blend with the footsteps of modern adventurers following dreams along America's most iconic trail.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full palette at Burnt Rancheria, where mountain weather creates its own microclimate of comfort. While the valleys below swelter in summer heat, you'll find refreshing mountain breezes and comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking and exploration. Winter transforms the landscape with occasional dustings of snow and gentle rains that nurture the forest, creating a serene retreat far from the crowds.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,000 feet above sea level, Burnt Rancheria offers a natural air conditioning system that provides welcome relief from the desert heat below. From this mountain throne, sweeping panoramas unfold across the landscape, where the stark beauty of the desert floor meets the cool refuge of the pine-covered peaks, creating a dramatic contrast that captures the essence of Southern California's diverse terrain.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a botanical paradise where towering pines mingle with ancient oak groves, creating a canopy of green that filters golden sunlight throughout the day. At 6,000 feet, this mountain sanctuary showcases nature's artistry through winding trails that reveal breathtaking vistas at every turn. The jewel of these views appears at Desert View Picnic Site, where the shimmering expanse of the Salton Sea stretches across the desert floor like a mirage made real, offering sunset views that will leave you reaching for your camera.
Geological RegionBurnt Rancheria sits majestically within the rugged embrace of Cleveland National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary contrasts. At 6,000 feet elevation, dense woodlands and stately oak groves create a lush mountain ecosystem that seems worlds away from the arid expanses visible below. This unique positioning offers visitors the rare opportunity to experience both mountain and desert environments from a single vantage point, with the distant Salton Sea serving as a glittering reminder of the diverse geological wonders that define Southern California.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites and modern restrooms with features suitable for people with disabilities are available. One reviewer mentioned a concrete setup that made it easier for a 93-year-old camper to navigate without tripping hazards.
Sites SizeVaried. Some sites are spacious and can accommodate multiple tents, while others, particularly in the 60s, are described as small and better suited for minimal setups.
Sites PrivacyVaries significantly. Some sites are described as spacious and well-separated, offering a high degree of privacy. Others are closer together, making them less private.
Total Campsites75 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors suggest avoiding sites near Sunrise Highway due to construction noise (e.g., #19). Sites #30 and #31 offer large, spacious areas suitable for families.
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is strictly by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights per visit and 14 nights total per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each Standard campsite accommodates up to 8 guests.
Groups
No specific group site details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutBurnt Rancheria features multiple loops (Amphitheater, Pinyon, Yucca, Lilac) with varying site sizes and layouts. Most sites are drive-in accessible.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from mid-April (April 18) to mid-October (October 18).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, phone, or mobile app. Contact center incurs a higher booking fee of $9.
Walk-in AvailabilityApproximately half of the sites are first-come, first-served. Visitors are advised to arrive early during peak seasons as spaces fill up quickly.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival for a $10 fee. Late cancellations (midnight on the day before check-in) incur an additional penalty: forfeiting the first night's recreation fee. No modifications are allowed on the check-in day.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Burnt Rancheria Campground offers a diverse set of activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, stargazing, and guided educational programs. Reviewers highly appreciate the Desert View Trail and the easy access to the Pacific Crest Trail. Summer activities include 'star parties' hosted by the San Diego State University Observatory.
Hiking
The campground provides direct access to hiking trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail and the Desert View Trail. These trails offer scenic views and vary in difficulty. The Desert View Trail is notable for its 'bird's-eye view of the desert 6,000 feet below.'Biking
Biking is allowed on specific trails within the surrounding area but is not permitted on the Pacific Crest Trail.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with mentions of unique bird species and abundant natural surroundings.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs such as campfire talks and guided hikes are available during the summer. Brochures for self-guided interpretive trails are also provided by camp hosts.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground is operational from mid-April to October.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not available due to the campground's mountainous location.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions are implemented during dry seasons, and campfires may be prohibited. Visitors should call ahead for updates.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsVisitors have noted issues with biting flies, wasps, and occasional hornet infestations in specific sites (e.g., Site 051).
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed during hot and dry weather conditions. Visitors should call ahead for updates.
Weather at Burnt Rancheria
45
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include Cleveland National Forest Rangers (call 619-445-6235 for emergencies during non-reservation season) and a hospital in San Diego approximately 50 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 18 through October 18.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available throughout the campground. Reviewers noted their convenience and frequency.
Proximity to water featuresNo direct lakes or rivers exist within the campground, though nearby hiking trails offer scenic vistas of the desert and Salton Sea.
Common complaintsReviews indicate proximity of campsites leading to reduced privacy, occasional loud music at night, and bugs being an issue. Some campers also reported locked flush toilets during non-peak seasons.
HostCamp hosts are known for being helpful and maintaining clean facilities. Specific hosts, such as Heather and Tye, have been praised for their friendliness.
Campground Map
Mile 23, Sunrise Hwy, Mt. Laguna, CA, 91948, USA
Driving directionsLocated 50 miles east of San Diego, California. From I-8 take the Sunrise exit. Go approximately 11 miles to Milepost 23. Stop at entrance for campground information and site location.
Burnt Rancheria is directly accessible via paved roads and situated along the Sunrise Scenic Byway. It is generally easy to access, but visitors should note that fire restrictions and closures may occur during hot, dry weather.Nearby places
San Diego, CA (50 miles, approximately 1 hour drive)
Pine Valley, CA (approximately 4 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available a short drive away at Laguna Mountain Lodge Mart and other nearby locations. Firewood is sold on-site for $8 per bundle.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.7
203 reviews
Burnt Rancheria is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Burnt Rancheria Campground are generally positive, praising its cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and friendly staff. However, some common complaints include noise from other campers, close proximity of certain sites, and occasional issues with bathroom availability.
Review Summaries
Based on 203 reviews
What Campers Love
"Well-maintained facilities," "friendly and helpful camp hosts," and "clean restrooms" are recurring themes. Many reviewers also appreciated the spaciousness of certain campsites and the scenic...
Based on 203 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviewers noted issues such as 'sites being too close together,' 'locked flush toilets without prior notification,' and 'occasional problems with noise from other campers.'
Based on 203 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring quarters for the coin-operated showers; purchase firewood outside the campground to save money. Avoid weekends if seeking a quieter experience, as weekdays are significantly less crowded.
Based on 203 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Weekends and holidays are busier, with occasional noise complaints. Summers feature star parties and family-friendly programs, while weekdays offer a quieter, more secluded experience.
Based on 203 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The bathrooms were the cleanest bathrooms I have ever seen at any campground." - Ann H. "Loved the shower." - Sung H. L. "Great star gazing and wonderful views of the desert." - Katherine S.
Based on 203 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites in the 60s are noted as small. Site #51 lacks shade and is prone to high temperatures. Site #43 is spacious and well-suited for families. Site #003 is valued for its size and partial seclusion.
Based on 203 reviewsAccessibility Features
Positive mentions include the concrete layout of certain sites, which enhances accessibility for elderly guests. Hosts are attentive and accommodating to specific needs.
Based on 203 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, with a limit of two per site. However, some complaints were noted about owners not keeping dogs on leashes, despite host efforts to enforce this rule.
Based on 203 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 24, 2025
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