Julian, California

Camping at Paso Picacho

Originally added by Kenny Melton

Great for families and hikers. Hikers: Stonewall (2 miles) and Cuyamaca Peak (3.5 miles). Both mountain and ocean views (depending on campsite). Hike to Lake Cuyamaca as well.

Paso Picacho, 5 miles north of Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, sits at an elevation of 5,000 feet. The most popular hikes start from this camp, including the 2 mile hike up Stonewall Peak (elevation 5,700 feet), and the 3.5 mile hike up Cuyamaca Peak (elevation 6,512 feet), both which offer breathtaking views of the deserts to the east, the coast to the west, and Lake Cuyamaca at the bottom. Lake Cuyamaca, operated by the Helix Water District, is two miles north of Paso Picacho and offers boating and fishing. Paso Picacho campground has 85 campsites. Reserve your campsite here.

Day-use visitors may use the picnic areas provided at the campgrounds for $8 per vehicle. The receipt is good for the entire park for the day. The picnic areas offer tables, restrooms, and BBQ's. Visitors may also park in legal turnouts along the highway and hike for free. Fire is not allowed anywhere except in the developed picnic areas and campgrounds.

The beautiful park offers camping and hiking in an oak woodland forest, with a sprinkling of pines and lovely meadows with creeks. There are over 100 miles of trails which can accommodate every skill level.

Tip:

Best Campsites: 8, 22, 36, 52, 62, and 65. Also book early to reserve the prime spots during peak Summer and Fall months.

Photos: slworking2, slworking2, slworking2, slworking2