How much does camping cost at Paso Picacho & Cabins?

Camping fees at Paso Picacho & Cabins range from $40-$250/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Paso Picacho & Cabins first-come first-served or reservation?

Paso Picacho & Cabins accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Paso Picacho & Cabins before I book?

Yes! Paso Picacho & Cabins has 42 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Paso Picacho & Cabins?

Paso Picacho & Cabins is open April to October.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Paso Picacho & Cabins?

Yes, Paso Picacho & Cabins has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Is there cell service at Paso Picacho & Cabins?

Cell phone service at Paso Picacho & Cabins is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Paso Picacho & Cabins have?

Paso Picacho & Cabins has 85 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Paso Picacho & Cabins?

Yes, pets are allowed at Paso Picacho & Cabins. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Paso Picacho & Cabins?

Paso Picacho & Cabins offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Paso Picacho & Cabins

Q: Can I have a campfire at Paso Picacho & Cabins?

Fire policies at Paso Picacho & Cabins: Campfires are permitted only in provided rings. Firewood is available for purchase; gathering wood is prohibited.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.55

359 reviews

13652 Highway 79 Julian, CA 92036

Scenic ViewsGreat HikingSummer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near San Diego Hiking Camping California Mountain Camping +2 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,000 ft

Price

$40 - $250/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

85 campsites

Season

Reservations availab...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,000 ft

Price

$40 - $250/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

85 campsites

Season

Reservations availab...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Paso Picacho & Cabins

$40.00 - $250.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard campsite fee is $40/night. Seniors pay $38/night. Disabled visitors pay $20/night with a State Parks Disabled Discount Pass. Extra vehicles...

Standard Site Fee$40.00

Group Site Fee$250.00

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Reserve California

Provider

(760) 765-3020cuyamaca@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

13652 Highway 79 Julian, CA 92036

Paso Picacho & Cabins

13652 Highway 79 Julian, CA 92036

Nearby places

Julian (15 miles south, ~20 minutes), San Diego (~50 miles west, ~1 hour drive).

Nearby supplies

Firewood and ice available for purchase at the campground. Julian (15 miles south) contains general stores, dining options, and camping supplies.

Weather at Paso Picacho & Cabins

Current alert: No active alerts noted in materials.

Best Time to Camp at Paso Picacho & Cabins

Summer brings mid-70s to low-80s daytime highs and nights that drop into the 45–60°F range. Temperatures rarely push above 90°F under the tree cover. Winter nights can hit 25°F, cold enough for serious campfires. Summer also means red ants and biting flies, so bring high-grade insect repellent. Weekends and holidays fill up fast from April through November. Early reservations matter if you're planning a summer visit.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Popular hiking season with comfortable temps and abundant scenery; peak season begins in spring.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April to October.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Reservations available April-November; first-come/first-serve December-March.

About Paso Picacho & Cabins

Paso Picacho sits at 5,000 feet in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, offering 85 campsites spread across tent, RV, group, and cabin options. Sites range from $40 to $250 per night and include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to flush toilets and pay showers. The campground puts you within walking distance of Stonewall Peak and Cuyamaca Peak trailheads, plus Lake Cuyamaca 2 miles north.

Paso Picacho Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent, RV, group camping, and cabin lodging. Primitive camping options are available elsewhere within Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.

Historical Significance

The Kumeyaay people lived on this land. The Stonewall Mine, part of California's gold rush era, operated nearby and left traces of that history in the surrounding mountains.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings mid-70s to low-80s daytime highs and nights that drop into the 45–60°F range. Temperatures rarely push above 90°F under the tree cover. Winter nights can hit 25°F, cold enough for serious campfires. Summer also means red ants and biting flies, so bring high-grade insect repellent. Weekends and holidays fill up fast from April through November. Early reservations matter if you're planning a summer visit.

ElevationPerched at 5,000 feet above sea level, Paso Picacho offers a natural air conditioning system that delivers pleasantly cool summer days and crisp, star-filled winter nights. This elevation sweet spot means you'll escape the scorching valley heat while enjoying four distinct seasons in Southern California's mountains.

Natural Features and SceneryOak woodlands transition into conifer stands at this 5,000-foot elevation, creating a hybrid forest zone uncommon in Southern California. Meadows roll between tree groves, and mountain creeks thread through the terrain. Lake Cuyamaca, 2 miles north, adds fishing and boating to the landscape. Gray foxes, bobcats, and mountain lions move through the park, though sightings are rare. The elevation keeps temperatures cooler than the surrounding lowlands, and the forest canopy provides natural shade across most sites.

Geological RegionRising 5,000 feet within the ancient Peninsular Range, Paso Picacho campground occupies a stunning geological crossroads where oak woodlands blend seamlessly with stands of conifers. This unique elevation creates a diverse ecosystem of rolling meadows threaded with crystal-clear mountain creeks, offering campers a front-row seat to Southern California's most captivating mountain scenery.

Scenic ViewsStonewall Peak and Cuyamaca Peak offer panoramic views of deserts, oceans, and Lake Cuyamaca.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground offers six rudimentary camping cabins equipped with wooden bunks. These cabins are described as basic, lacking electricity and running water at each site.

Programs & ActivitiesInterpretive programs are offered during the summer season, including guided tours of Stonewall Mine and exhibits on Kumeyaay native life.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 30 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Limit of eight persons per campsite.

Groups

The group site accommodates up to 50 persons and 10 vehicles in a designated parking lot.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground uses a loop design with a mix of flat and sloped terrain. Sites toward the back can be steep. Spacing between neighbors is inconsistent, so privacy depends on where you land.

Reservation PlatformsReserveCalifornia (1-800-444-PARK or online).

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up camping available December 1 to March 31. Unspecified number of sites are available for walk-ups.

Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy explicitly documented.

AccessibilityAccessibility features include accessible parking and restrooms near the visitor center. Specific campsites and the Cedar Cabin are ADA-compliant. The Stonewall Mine and Azalea Glen hiking trails are wheelchair accessible.

Site SizeCampsites at Paso Picacho are described as spacious and generally flat, although several sites towards the back have steep slopes.

PrivacyUsers report varying levels of privacy; some campsites provide ample space between neighbors, while others are closely situated.

Total Campsites85 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid steep or uneven sites toward the back of the campground. Sites near trailheads offer easier access to hiking.

Best CampsitesSites #8, #46, and #49 get mentioned in reviews. Choose carefully. Some sites sit flat and spacious, while others toward the back have steep slopes that complicate setup. Privacy varies. Some sites offer decent spacing, but many are close together.

Need help booking Paso Picacho & Cabins?

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Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Paso Picacho Campground offers a wide array of amenities designed to cater to campers seeking comfort and convenience while enjoying nature. According to official sources, the campground provides water faucets located every few campsites, flush toilets, and pay showers (with token-operated systems). Additionally, each campsite is equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, ensuring that visitors have essential resources for typical camping activities. Firewood and ice are available for purchase on-site, enhancing convenience for campers. Restrooms and showers are described as well-maintained in some user reviews, while others note occasional lapses in cleanliness.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Paso Picacho Campground is a hub for recreational activities, offering access to hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and nearby fishing opportunities. The campground serves as a starting point for iconic hikes such as Stonewall Peak and Cuyamaca Peak, both of which provide breathtaking panoramic views. Swimming and biking opportunities are limited or restricted, but campers often enjoy boating and fishing at Lake Cuyamaca, located two miles from the camp.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBiting flies, red ants, and squirrels are prevalent. Wildlife encounters possible with mountain lions and other species. The campground observes strict fire regulations due to wildfire risks.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted only in provided rings. Firewood is available for purchase; gathering wood is prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10 PM-6 AM.

Emergency ServicesSan Diego County Sheriff's Office nearby (specific distance not available). Contact numbers listed: Park phone: (760) 765-3020; emergency ranger contact unavailable.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are conveniently located near campsites, allowing campers to dispose of waste easily. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the sources.

Water FeaturesLake Cuyamaca is two miles away, offering boating and fishing opportunities. Nearby creeks add to the scenic environment.

Camp HostCamp hosts are present for assistance, firewood sales, and fee collections. Some reviews noted host availability issues.

Cell CoverageCell phone service availability is not explicitly described in authoritative sources or reviews, but some campers note connectivity issues in the area.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.6

359 reviews

Top-Rated

Paso Picacho & Cabins is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Paso Picacho Campground is highly regarded for its scenic beauty, accessibility, and variety of recreational activities. However, some campers noted issues such as noise disturbances, unclean facilities, and aggressive squirrels.

Review Summaries

Based on 359 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 359 reviews.

Site 8Loved
Site 8 is frequently praised for its view of Stonewall Peak.
Site 32Loved
Site 32 is described as spacious and close to restrooms.

What Campers Love

Positive reviews frequently mention the campground's proximity to popular hiking trails, spacious campsites, availability of clean restrooms, and convenient access to Lake Cuyamaca.

Based on 359 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include noise disturbances during nighttime hours, inconsistent restroom cleanliness, and the prevalence of bugs and aggressive squirrels.

Based on 359 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing high-grade insect repellent, quarters for the showers, and extra firewood. Many suggest choosing campsites with flat terrain and avoiding those at the back with steep...

Based on 359 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest summer is popular for hiking and wildlife viewing, but winter offers solitude despite colder temperatures. Noise complaints are more frequent during peak summer weekends.

Based on 359 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Love Paso Picacho. The site spacing and layout is fantastic. Never feels crowded, even when many of the sites are full." "This campground is amazing! It has good bathroom facilities and nice areas...

Based on 359 reviews

Accessibility Features

The Cedar Cabin and specific ADA sites are praised for their accessibility. Wheelchair-accessible trails are highlighted as a major advantage.

Based on 359 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed but restricted to paved roads, picnic areas, and campgrounds. Complaints focus on the restriction of dogs on trails.

Based on 359 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Hikers who want trailhead access from their tent door will do well here. Site 8 has a direct view of Stonewall Peak, and the 2-mile summit hike leaves straight from camp. Summer temps stay in the mid-70s under the conifers, and trout fishing at Lake Cuyamaca is a short drive nort

Skip if

Noise enforcement is loose, and reviewers flag late-night violations as a recurring problem. Steep back sites frustrate anyone with heavy gear or an RV. The squirrels are genuinely aggressive, and summer brings biting flies that repellent alone won't fully handle.

Nearby Campgrounds

Highly Popular

4.6

(359)

Paso Picacho Group Campground

13652 Highway 79, Julian, CA 92036

Paso Picacho Group Campground sits in oak woodland forest at 5,000 feet within Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, near Julian. The 85 sites (tent, RV, group, and cabin lodging) run $40–$250 per night and require reservations. Showers, flush toilets, fire rings, and a camp store make this a comfortable base for hiking trails like Stonewall Peak, though reviews mention noise from weekend groups and aggressive squirrels stealing food.