Falcon Group
Falcon Group
$60.00 - $120.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric sites range from $60 to $120 per night depending on seasonal rates and campsite.
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$120.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$120.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider951-736-1811
About this campground
Nestled along the winding curves of the scenic Ortega Highway, Falcon Group Campground offers three generous group sites perfect for memorable gatherings under Southern California's starlit skies. Each well-appointed site comes equipped with picnic tables for feast-worthy meals, BBQ grills for evening cookouts, and convenient access to vault toilets and fresh potable water. Adventure beckons just steps away, with popular hiking trails threading through the surrounding wilderness. For those seeking additional camping options, the neighboring Blue Jay Campground provides even more opportunities to explore this mountain paradise.
Falcon Group Campground caters specifically to group camping, with three separate areas tailored for groups of varying sizes. There is no RV camping or glamping available.
Weather and SeasonsFalcon Group Campground offers a delightful escape from Southern California's coastal heat, with its mountain climate providing refreshing variety throughout the year. Winter campers in February should pack warm layers, as crisp mountain air and occasional snow dustings create a magical alpine atmosphere. As autumn approaches, September brings fascinating wildlife encounters during tarantula migration season, while October and November deliver what many consider the perfect camping weatherβcool, comfortable days ideal for hiking and cozy evenings around the campfire.
ElevationPerched at 3,300 feet above sea level, Falcon Group Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where cool breezes whisper through towering trees. This elevated sanctuary provides natural air conditioning during warm summer months and transforms the landscape into a forested wonderland that feels worlds away from the bustle below.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 3,300 feet in the majestic Santa Ana Mountains, Falcon Group Campground immerses visitors in a captivating tapestry of mixed forest and chaparral landscapes. This dynamic ecosystem pulses with life, from the stealthy mountain lions that rule these peaks to the fascinating smaller residents like tarantulas making their seasonal journeys. While scorpions and rattlesnakes remind visitors they're in authentic wilderness, the real stars are the sweeping mountain vistas and the ancient oaks and pines that provide natural shade and shelter throughout the campground.
Geological RegionSet within the rugged beauty of the Santa Ana Mountains, Falcon Group Campground showcases Southern California's remarkable geological diversity. Here, ancient granite peaks meet resilient chaparral slopes, while pockets of mixed forest create cool, shaded retreats that have drawn outdoor enthusiasts for generations.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility details are provided.
Sites SizeGroup sites vary in size, with Lupine accommodating 40 people and 8 vehicles, Sage accommodating 30 people and 6 vehicles, and Yarrow accommodating 70 people and 10 vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThere is some criticism of privacy, as one reviewer remarked about unwelcome visitors using their parking lot and restrooms at Sage. Others noted that the sites are far apart enough to give a sense of seclusion.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Bring rope or lights to indicate reserved locations," advises one reviewer to avoid confusion with other visitors. Some campsites are uneven or rocky; choose tent locations carefully.
Best CampsitesYarrow is the largest site, accommodating 70 people. Lupine provides ample space and scenic surroundings. Sage is more secluded and offers space for smaller groups.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Lupine holds 40 people, Sage holds 30 people, and Yarrow holds 70 people.
Groups
Lupine accommodates up to 40 people and 8 vehicles, Sage accommodates up to 30 people and 6 vehicles, and Yarrow accommodates up to 70 people and 10 vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree group sites: Lupine accommodates 40 people, Sage accommodates 30 people, and Yarrow accommodates 70 people. Each site includes vault toilets, picnic tables, BBQ grills, and potable water.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFalcon Group Campground does not specify walk-up availability. Adjacent Blue Jay Campground offers first-come, first-served sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the scheduled arrival date incur a $10 fee plus any reservation fees. Late cancellations within 14 days of arrival result in forfeiting the first night's fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is known for its hiking and biking opportunities. Trails vary in difficulty, offering options for beginners and seasoned adventurers. Star-gazing and wildlife viewing are also highlighted by campers.
Hiking
The Falcon Trail (1.4 miles, easy) connects directly to the campground. Trabuco Canyon Trail is a scenic and more demanding 6.8-mile hike. The San Juan Trail, popular with mountain bikers, begins at the neighboring Blue Jay Campground and is known for its challenging ascent.Biking
The San Juan Trail is popular among mountain bikers and offers a challenging ride with steep climbs and ridge traverses.Wildlife viewing
The mixed forest and chaparral ecosystem provides habitats for various birds and wildlife, including tarantulas, scorpions, and rattlesnakes.Winter Activities
Limited activities noted; reviewers mentioned February as being cold with snow still present on trails.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as available activities.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings and charcoal grills are available. "Don't move firewood" policies apply to protect local forests.
Hazards
General hazardsTarantulas, scorpions, rattlesnakes, and mountain lions are present in the area. The narrow access road poses challenges for trailers, particularly at night.
Weather forecast
68
Β°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 17%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are accessible in Lake Elsinore, approximately 20 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available; reviewers did not mention recycling facilities explicitly.
Common complaintsSome reviewers mention issues with uninvited visitors using reserved restrooms and parking spaces. Complaints also include lack of signage, uneven campsite terrain, and cleanliness of restrooms.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Southern California, take U.S. Highway 15 to State Highway 74 (Ortega Highway) in Lake Elsinore. Travel 6 miles west of Lake Elsinore on 74 and turn north on North Main Divide Road. Proceed 5 miles to Falcon Campground.
From I-5, exit for Ortega Highway (State Highway 74). Take 74 east approximately 27 miles to North Main Divide Road. Turn north and proceed 5 miles to Falcon Campground.
The road leading up to Falcon Group Campground is narrow with only one lane for the last mile. Some reviews state it can be challenging for vehicles with trailers, especially at night due to fast-moving traffic and limited visibility.Nearby places
Lake Elsinore is approximately 20 minutes away from the campground.
Nearby supplies
Lake Elsinore provides various shops, restaurants, and recreation opportunities.
Camper Reviews
4.6
27 reviews
Falcon Group is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is praised for its scenic location, spacious group sites, and proximity to hiking trails. However, some reviewers raised concerns about maintenance and privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the scenic beauty, spacious group sites, and excellent hiking options. Reviewer quotes include, "The surrounding landscape was breathtaking," and "Great campfire, table, grille, and...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Privacy concerns were noted, as one reviewer wrote about unwelcome visitors at Sage. Other complaints include stuffy restrooms and rusted grills. One camper suggested bringing Lysol for the vault...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing cones or markers to indicate reserved areas and Lysol for the vault toilets. A reviewer noted to prepare for tarantulas in September and cold nights in February.
Based on 27 reviewsSeasonal Insights
September is noted for tarantula activity; February is cold and may have snow on trails. Recommendations include visiting in October-November to avoid bugs and extreme weather.
Based on 27 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Nice group campground with three sights you have to call to reserve." "Be careful if you're pulling a trailer up the hill at night." "Bathrooms are clean for a pit. Just bring Lysol spray for each...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews for Sage (1S) mention privacy concerns but ample space for tents. Lupine (1L) is noted for its slope but sturdy tables. Yarrow (1Y) is praised for its size and flat, shady areas.
Based on 27 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility.
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews mentioning pets.
Based on 27 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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