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Cleveland/Boulder Oaks
Overview
Cleveland/Boulder Oaks offers a serene escape within the southern reaches of the Cleveland National Forest. This campground provides a rustic atmosphere where the high desert meets unique transition-zone woodlands. Visitors come here to immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of the back country, far from the coastal bustle of San Diego. It serves as a vital staging area for those exploring the rugged landscapes of the Pacific Crest Trail, offering a peaceful starting point for many outdoor adventures.
Location & Surroundings
Situated at an elevation of approximately 3,100 feet, the park is nestled among ancient Coast Live Oaks and dramatic granite boulders. The environment is characterized by chaparral-covered hills and expansive views that change beautifully with the natural light of the day. Its proximity to Campo, CA, makes it a convenient base for exploring the historic sites of the Mountain Empire region while enjoying the cooler mountain air and the distinct seasonal changes of the high desert.
Amenities & Park Features
The facilities here prioritize a traditional camping experience rather than a resort feel. The park features spacious campsites equipped with standard fire rings and picnic tables. While it leans toward a primitive style without individual hookups, visitors have reliable access to potable water and vault toilets. A standout feature is the inclusion of seventeen dedicated equestrian sites, which offer corrals for those traveling with horses, making it one of the premier local spots for riders to camp with their animals.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor recreation is the primary draw for this destination. The campground provides direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail, attracting hikers from around the world who seek to experience the wilderness. Just a short drive away, Lake Morena County Park offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and additional hiking. For history enthusiasts, the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum in nearby Campo provides a fascinating look into the region's locomotive past through vintage train rides and historical exhibits.
Who This Park Is Best For
This location is ideal for travelers who value solitude and nature over modern resort luxuries. It is a perfect fit for equestrian enthusiasts looking for well-maintained trail access and those embarking on long-distance treks along the PCT. If you prefer a quiet night under a star-filled sky and do not mind a dry-camping environment, this park offers an authentic Southern California wilderness experience that is hard to match in more developed urban areas.
Amenities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
David Partridge
This is one of the many campgrounds I use when camping in the Cleveland National Forest. It is a primitive campground with vault toilets, water, picnic tables, and a fire ring. . Easy access, it is only a mile off Interstate 8 and paved highway to the entrance. The best part is the price - only $14 per night. A great site only an hour away from San Diego. This campground also has sites with horse corrals and there are normally a couple horse campers there as well. . Lots of birds and even had a Blue Jay come visit me in camp! . The Pacific Crest Trail runs by the campground and if you follow it up for a couple miles you can hike to Kitchen Creek Falls. The falls is decent in the late winter or spring, but after that not much water flowing through.
Agent Bey
Highly recommend this campground! Very cozy. Has water available and basic bathroom. Drive in campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. It gets windy out so prepare if you plan on using a tent. The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is right along the property. It seems to be a very popular trail.
ACRIAis Ascamm
Love this place so many memories running the pct 50 in 2011 to hiking it with my buddy Karl on his way to Canada
Desire Driskill
I've stayed 3 times now. Each time has met my expectations. It's a low Maintained campground and next to the freeway. However, for the price, $14.00 a night, as well as being in the middle of the pct, having vaulted toilets, nice big spots and in cell service, it's my go to for a quick and easy getaway.
Michael Shepherd
Beautiful California oak Grove with camp sites dispersed. The sites are very basic, the dirt path (road) that winds through the Grove to get to camp sites needs some work as it is very rutted and rough. The sites are spacious and arranged to be pretty private. 3 bars Verizon which is good for this back country area. Freeway is close and constant mumur in background.