Granite Springs Trail Group Campground

Star4.40
131 reviews
13652 Highway 79, Julian, CA 92036

Quick Facts

4,850 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

16 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
Granite Springs Trail Group Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Campsites are $30 per night with no hookups available. Fees include entry for one motorized vehicle and one legally towed vehicle. Additional...
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Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
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

4.40

Recommended

Based on 131 reviews

128 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanrestroomshiking

Some mention

noise

"User reviews highlight the park's beauty and abundance of activities, though complaints arise regarding limited amenities and restrictive policies."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

13652 Highway 79, Julian, CA 92036

Granite Springs Trail Group Campground

13652 Highway 79, Julian, CA 92036

Driving directionsLocated approximately 50 miles east of San Diego, take Highway 79 north from I-8. The park is accessible through paved roads and is situated 15 miles south of Julian.
The park is easily accessible via paved roads. Highway 79 is the primary route, which remains open year-round. There are no significant seasonal closures or challenging terrain issues highlighted.
Nearby places
San Diego (50 miles), Julian (15 miles), Borrego Springs (approximately 35 miles).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies can be found in the nearby town of Julian, which is 15 miles north of the park.

Best Time to Camp at Granite Springs Trail Group Campground

Experience the gentle rhythms of mountain weather at nearly 5,000 feet, where summer days warm to a comfortable 82°F before giving way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire conversations. Winter brings its own magic with mild temperatures and occasional dustings of snow that transform the landscape into a peaceful wonderland. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions for exploration, with crisp mornings that gradually warm into golden afternoons.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Comfortable summer highs (~82°F), peak season for hiking and wildflowers; busy weekends expected.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Open year-round; fall offers cooler temps and quieter trails, good for hiking and views.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring wildflower displays and active wildlife viewing are called out as highlights by visitors.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Open year-round; snow is rare so winter is quieter but lacks winter-sport activity.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Peak season is from Easter through Thanksgiving. Pricing does not vary by season at this campground.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: The campground is open year-round; reservations are essential during weekends from Easter through Thanksgiving.
  • Current Alerts: Currently, the park is open, but fire restrictions may be in place due to wildfire risks. Visitors should verify restrictions before arrival.

About Granite Springs Trail Group Campground

Escape to the wilderness at Granite Springs Trail Group Campground, where primitive camping meets the untamed beauty of Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. This secluded retreat beckons equestrian adventurers and backcountry enthusiasts with its rustic tent sites and dedicated horse corrals. Far from the glow of city lights, this remote sanctuary offers an authentic connection with nature, where darkness reveals brilliant starscapes and the only sounds are wind through ancient oaks and the occasional whinny of horses settling in for the night.
Granite Springs Trail Group Campground offers primitive trail camping catering to hikers and equestrians.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 8 consecutive nights.

Amenities available

Firewood available
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Granite Springs Trail Group Campground is situated in a park known for its extensive outdoor opportunities. Over 100 miles of trails cater to hiking, biking, and equestrian activities. Wildlife viewing and seasonal wildflower observation are also popular.
HikingThe park boasts over 100 miles of hiking trails. Specific trails like the Harvey Moore Trail and Cuyamaca Peak Trail offer varied difficulty levels. No specific trails are mentioned directly linked to Granite Springs Trail Group Campground.
BikingBiking trails within Cuyamaca Rancho State Park cater to different skill levels. However, Granite Springs Trail Group Campground does not have specific mentions of biking trails.
Wildlife viewingWildlife such as mountain lions, gray foxes, and bobcats can be seen within Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. Granite Springs Trail Group Campground shares in these viewing opportunities.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsCuyamaca Rancho State Park offers interpretive exhibits and programs highlighting Kumeyaay history and regional ecosystems. Specific programming linked to Granite Springs Trail Group Campground is not detailed.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe site is remote and unlighted, which may pose challenges for late arrivals. Wildlife such as coyotes and rattlesnakes are present.
Active AlertsCurrently, the park is open, but fire restrictions may be in place due to wildfire risks. Visitors should verify restrictions before arrival.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Granite Springs Trail Group Campground

Reviews

4.4
131 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Granite Springs Trail Group Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's beauty and abundance of activities, though complaints arise regarding limited amenities and restrictive policies.
Review Summaries
Based on 131 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive mentions include clean restrooms, scenic trails, and wildlife. 'Loved the primitive, remote nature of the campground' and 'beautiful camp area with great hiking options' are typical...
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Based on 131 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include lack of water hookups, chemical toilets instead of flush facilities, and limited oversight by staff leading to noise disturbances. 'Chemical toilets are a drawback but manageable'...
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Based on 131 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Recommended to bring sufficient water due to non-potable sources and pack animal feed for equestrians. 'Arrive early to set up camp before dark' and 'check cellular provider for coverage' are useful...
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Based on 131 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Wildflower observation and wildlife viewing are cited as highlights during spring and summer. Cooler weather in winter may offer a more peaceful camping experience, but snow is rare.
Based on 131 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Great for equestrian camping and group outings, though facilities are basic.' 'Primitive and peaceful—the perfect escape from urban life.' 'Chemical toilets get the job done, but don’t expect...
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Based on 131 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific site reviews directly mention Granite Springs Trail Group Campground, but the group site is described as suitable for equestrians. Reviews for nearby campsites often praise scenic...
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Based on 131 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility reviews are sparse; the primitive nature of Granite Springs Trail Group Campground suggests limited accommodations for disabled visitors.
Based on 131 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed and not left unattended. Coyotes are noted as a potential hazard for pets, particularly at night.
Based on 131 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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