Bobcat Meadow Campground
4.7410 reviewsBobcat Meadow Campground
$0.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campground is free with an Adventure Pass; $5 per night otherwise. (User review: David Partridge).
About this campground
Perched high above the desert floor, Bobcat Meadow Campground offers an enchanting escape where ancient oak groves meet endless vistas of chaparral-covered hills. This hidden gem within the Corral Canyon OHV Area serves as both a peaceful retreat and a gateway to adventure, with numerous connecting trails beckoning explorers right from their campsite. Here, the higher elevation brings blessed relief from desert heat, while the rustling oak canopy provides natural shelter and shade for those seeking a more intimate connection with California's wild backcountry.
Bobcat Meadow Campground provides basic camping accommodations, including tent and trailer sites within the Corral Canyon OHV Area.
Weather and SeasonsSpring transforms Bobcat Meadow into a comfortable haven, with April days warming to a pleasant 60 degrees before cooling to crisp 40-degree nights perfect for campfire gatherings and stargazing. Open year-round for dry camping, each season brings its own magic – from wildflower blooms to golden autumn light. The consistently serene weather conditions make this an ideal basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore the surrounding trails without the extreme temperatures found at lower elevations.
ElevationThe campground's elevated position delivers more than just spectacular panoramic views – it creates a unique microclimate where temperatures drop noticeably from the desert floor below. This natural air conditioning effect makes summer camping surprisingly comfortable, while the sweeping vistas stretch for miles across the rugged California landscape, offering sunrise and sunset displays that paint the chaparral in ever-changing hues of gold and purple.
Natural Features and SceneryBobcat Meadow lives up to its name as a wildlife corridor where morning visitors might spot deer grazing between the oaks or catch glimpses of rabbits darting through the underbrush. The campground's unique position at the intersection of oak woodland and high desert creates a diverse ecosystem where birdsong fills the air by day, while the haunting calls of coyotes echo across the canyons at night. The surrounding landscape unfolds in layers – from the protective canopy of gnarled oaks overhead to the endless tapestry of sage-scented chaparral that rolls toward distant mountain peaks.
Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic terrain of the Corral Canyon OHV Area, Bobcat Meadow occupies a special ecological niche where California's oak woodlands transition into high desert chaparral. This unique positioning creates a landscape of contrasts – weathered granite outcroppings emerge from grassy meadows, while ancient oaks stand sentinel over slopes carpeted in drought-adapted shrubs that stretch toward the horizon in an endless sea of muted greens and grays.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information on accessibility features available for Bobcat Meadow Campground.
Sites SizeEach site accommodates vehicles towing up to 27 ft. trailers.
Sites PrivacyCampground sites are nestled among oak groves, providing some level of privacy and natural shade.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #13 is recommended for its serenity, shade, and breeze. (User review: Lust TheWander).
Best Campsites"All dry camping but gorgeous serene #13 spot highly recommend." (User review: Lust TheWander).
Reserving a campsite
Groups
There is no specific mention of group camping facilities at Bobcat Meadow Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout"Each parking spot was designed to accommodate vehicles towing up to 27ft. trailers." (Authoritative source).
Open and Closed Season"Best seasons: Year Round." (Authoritative source).
Walk-in Availability"Very few other campers during the week - Monday - Thursday." (User review: David Partridge).
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Bobcat Meadow Campground include off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding, hiking on trails, and wildlife observation. The campground is situated in a diverse area that supports a range of recreational interests.
Hiking
The campground provides access to 1.2 miles of trails with connections to a larger trail system in the Corral Canyon OHV Area. These trails are rated as easy, making them accessible to a wide range of hikers.Wildlife viewing
Campers can observe local wildlife such as deer, rabbits, coyotes, and various bird species. "Some shade, see wildlife up close - deer, rabbits, birds, hear the coyotes, etc."Winter Activities
Winter activities like snowshoeing or skiing are not relevant to this campground given its location.Water Sports
No information provided about non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed except during elevated fire restrictions. "Have water in buckets to put out your camp fire." (User review: David Partridge).
Hazards
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 15.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services can be accessed through the Descanso Ranger District at (619) 445-6235.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingInformation about trash and recycling facilities is not provided. Campers are encouraged to adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
Campground Map
"Seven miles of rough paved road to get to the campground." (User review: David Partridge).
Nearby supplies
Passes can be purchased at the local ranger station in Alpine or at stores in Pine Valley and Lake Morena. (Authoritative source).
Camper Reviews
4.7
10 reviews
Bobcat Meadow Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Bobcat Meadow Campground is highly appreciated for its quiet atmosphere, proximity to trails, and natural beauty. Campers have mixed opinions about the amenities, particularly the lack of potable water and showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers highlighted the quiet setting, accessible trails, and the chance to observe wildlife as positive aspects. One reviewer noted, "Love these campgrounds because you can stay with an adventure...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most commonly mentioned drawbacks are the absence of potable water and limited amenities such as showers. One camper stated, "No drinking water here, but have water in buckets to put out your...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sufficient drinking water and be prepared for dry camping. Check fire restrictions before your visit, as campfires may not be permissible during elevated restrictions.
Based on 10 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is reportedly quieter and less populated during weekdays. The weather varies, with comfortable conditions in spring and fall, while summer may be warmer. "April 16 weekend had perfect...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Nice area to camp, has restrooms but no showers or hookups." "Secluded, chill place to camp or day trip." "GREAT offroading trails for any offroad toy you may have."
Based on 10 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #13 is specifically mentioned for its serene and shaded location. A camper described it as "gorgeous serene #13 spot, highly recommend."
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews do not explicitly address experiences with pet policies.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025