Arroyo Seco Trail Campground
4.64116 reviews13652 Highway 79, Julian, CA 92036
Quick Facts
4,850 ftPrice
$30 - $40/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
8 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
4,850 ftPrice
$30 - $40/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
8 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Arroyo Seco Trail Campground
$30.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard campsites range from $30 to $40 per night. Extra vehicles cost $10 per night. Senior and disabled discounts available.
Standard Site Fee$40.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$30.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$70.00
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Reserve California
Provider760-765-3020cuyamaca@parks.ca.gov
What Campers Say
4.64
Top-Rated
Based on 116 reviews
374 Google reviews
Some mention
noise
"User reviews highlight the high privacy and remote nature of Arroyo Seco Trail Campground, noting its suitability for equestrian campers and backpackers. However, some users may find the minimal amenities challenging."
Fees & Passes at Arroyo Seco Trail Campground
$30 - $40/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay is 14 nights.
Cancellation: Cancellations must adhere to ReserveCalifornia's cancellation policy guidelines.
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official California State Parks website.
Best Time to Camp at Arroyo Seco Trail Campground
Experience the best of Southern California's mountain climate, where summer days reach a toasty 97°F, perfect for seeking shade beneath ancient oaks, while winter nights transform the landscape into a crisp wonderland as temperatures dip to 25°F. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions for camping, with comfortable temperatures that make every outdoor adventure memorable.
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 through October.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Arroyo Seco Environmental campsites are open year-round on a first-come, first-serve basis.
- Current Alerts: Fire restrictions are enforced during dry seasons. Check with park management for updates.
About Arroyo Seco Trail Campground
Tucked away in the serene wilderness of Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Arroyo Seco Trail Camp beckons adventurers seeking an authentic backcountry experience. This primitive environmental campsite invites tent campers and equestrian enthusiasts to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in nature's embrace, where basic amenities meet boundless outdoor exploration.
Arroyo Seco Trail Campground is designated as a primitive camping site suitable for individual and small group campers. It is accessible via trail, caters to equestrian users, and provides a remote experience.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of the Kumeyaay people who called these mountains home for thousands of years, where ancient village sites whisper stories of the past. The echoes of California's Gold Rush era still resonate through the nearby Stonewall Mine, where fortune seekers once pursued their dreams beneath these same stars that now illuminate your camping adventure.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Southern California's mountain climate, where summer days reach a toasty 97°F, perfect for seeking shade beneath ancient oaks, while winter nights transform the landscape into a crisp wonderland as temperatures dip to 25°F. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions for camping, with comfortable temperatures that make every outdoor adventure memorable.
ElevationPerched at 4,850 feet above sea level, this mountain retreat offers a refreshing escape from coastal heat, where crisp alpine air fills your lungs and cool breezes rustle through the trees. Summer visitors especially treasure this high-elevation sanctuary, where temperatures remain comfortable even when the valleys below swelter in the heat.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a enchanting tapestry where majestic oak woodlands dance with towering conifers, creating a canopy of green that filters golden sunlight onto the forest floor. Verdant meadows stretch between the trees, providing natural gathering spaces where deer graze at dawn, squirrels chatter in the branches, and birdsong creates nature's soundtrack throughout your stay.
Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic Peninsular Range, this campground showcases Southern California's remarkable biodiversity where oak woodland forests blend seamlessly with coniferous groves. Crystal-clear streams meander through expansive meadows, creating a living landscape that changes with each season and offers endless opportunities for exploration and wonder.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe remote and unlighted nature of Arroyo Seco Trail Campground does not cater to accessibility features commonly found in developed campgrounds.
Sites SizeSites are described as primitive, accommodating tents and small groups.
Sites PrivacyGiven the remote location, sites are likely to offer high privacy compared to developed campgrounds.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviews suggest selecting sites with flat terrain and proximity to restrooms. Avoid sites on steep slopes.
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per standard campsite.
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 16 people. Areas are likely to be clustered, offering some privacy due to the remote location.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutPrimitive sites are spaced apart in a secluded area with shared access to chemical toilets and non-potable water.
Open and Closed SeasonArroyo Seco Environmental campsites are open year-round on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through ReserveCalifornia at 1-800-444-PARK or online.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available outside the peak season and reservations period.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must adhere to ReserveCalifornia's cancellation policy guidelines.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Arroyo Seco Trail Campground offers activities suited for nature enthusiasts, including hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. Its remote environment caters to campers seeking a quieter, less-developed setting.
Hiking
The campground is surrounded by trails, including the Arroyo Seco Trail, which leads to scenic views and connects to the larger trail system within Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.Wildlife viewing
The remote and natural location is excellent for wildlife viewing, with species such as deer, birds, and squirrels commonly spotted.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but the campground may be accessible for primitive camping during colder months, depending on trail conditions.Water Sports
Water sports are not applicable to this campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in designated fire rings, and firewood gathering is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include encounters with rattlesnakes, aggressive squirrels, and poison oak.
Active alertsFire restrictions are enforced during dry seasons. Check with park management for updates.
Weather at Arroyo Seco Trail Campground
55
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 18.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Nearest hospital is in Julian, approximately 15 miles away. Police services can be accessed in San Diego.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril through October.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned; campers are likely expected to pack out what they bring in.
Proximity to water featuresNo lakes or rivers are directly adjacent, but Lake Cuyamaca is approximately three miles away.
Common complaintsNoise complaints from groups partying late into the night and aggressive squirrels stealing food have been noted.
HostCamp hosts collect fees and provide assistance but are occasionally unavailable, as noted in reviews.
Campground Map
13652 Highway 79, Julian, CA 92036
Driving directionsLocated east of San Diego on Highway 79, approximately five miles north of I-8. The park entry is well-marked and accessible via paved roads.
Paved roads lead to the park entrance, and Highway 79 is accessible year-round. Seasonal fire hazards may affect road conditions.Nearby places
Julian (15 miles, 20 minutes), San Diego (50 miles, 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and fuel can be obtained in Julian, 15 miles away, at local stores. Camping supplies, ice, and firewood are also available at the park entrance station.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
116 reviews
Arroyo Seco Trail Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the high privacy and remote nature of Arroyo Seco Trail Campground, noting its suitability for equestrian campers and backpackers. However, some users may find the minimal amenities challenging.
Review Summaries
Based on 116 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciate the solitude, natural beauty, and equestrian accommodations of Arroyo Seco Trail Campground. The provision of horse corrals is noted as a significant benefit.
Based on 116 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints often center around the lack of amenities such as potable water, showers, and traditional restrooms. Some campers also note the difficulty of accessing the site due to its remote location.
Based on 116 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring their own water and supplies, including horse feed for equestrian users. Early check-in is recommended due to the unlighted nature of the site.
Based on 116 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often praise the pleasant weather and opportunities for hiking and horseback riding, while winter conditions may deter some campers due to limited accessibility and colder weather.
Based on 116 reviewsCamper Quotes
Direct quotes include: 'A great spot for solitude and trail riding,' 'Perfect for backpackers who want to disconnect,' and 'Make sure to pack in all your essentials, as there are no stores nearby.'
Based on 116 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews are not available for Arroyo Seco Trail Campground.
Based on 116 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is noted as minimal due to the remote trail access and lack of developed facilities.
Based on 116 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted, but campers emphasize the importance of keeping them leashed and attended at all times due to the presence of wildlife.
Based on 116 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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