Arroyo Seco Trail Campground

Star4.55
359 reviews
13652 Highway 79, Julian, CA 92036
Peace & Quiet

Quick Facts

4,850 ft

Price

$30 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

8 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
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

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Reserve California
Provider
760-765-3020cuyamaca@parks.ca.gov
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What Campers Say

4.55

Top-Rated

Based on 359 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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

13652 Highway 79, Julian, CA 92036

Arroyo Seco Trail Campground

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.

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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season Apr–Oct; summer reviews praise weather, hiking and horseback riding.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Within peak season; trails and scenery remain attractive in fall.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring is in peak season with pleasant hiking weather and park access.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Open year-round but winter accessibility and cold nights can deter campers.

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.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 30 consecutive nights.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Vault toilets
Group Sites

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.
HikingThe 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 viewingThe remote and natural location is excellent for wildlife viewing, with species such as deer, birds, and squirrels commonly spotted.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include encounters with rattlesnakes, aggressive squirrels, and poison oak.
Active AlertsFire restrictions are enforced during dry seasons. Check with park management for updates.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Arroyo Seco Trail Campground

Reviews

4.6
359 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
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 359 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 359 reviews

Common 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 359 reviews

Pro 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 359 reviews

Seasonal 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 359 reviews

Camper 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 359 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews are not available for Arroyo Seco Trail Campground.
Based on 359 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is noted as minimal due to the remote trail access and lack of developed facilities.
Based on 359 reviews

Pet-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 359 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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