Paso Picacho Group Campground
4.64116 reviews13652 Highway 79, Julian, CA 92036
Paso Picacho Group Campground
$40.00 - $250.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$40.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$250.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Paso Picacho Group Camp is $250 per night, accommodating 50 people and 10 vehicles. Standard campsites cost $40 per night, with discounts for seniors ($38) and disabled individuals ($20). Additional vehicles cost $10 per night.
About this campground
Nestled in a serene oak woodland forest at 5,000 feet, Paso Picacho Campground invites you to experience the perfect blend of comfort and wilderness. Each spacious campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, creating your own private outdoor living room beneath towering trees. Modern amenities including flush toilets and pay showers ensure you can refresh after a day exploring the network of hiking trails that begin just steps from your tent. Here, the rustling oak leaves and distant bird calls replace the sounds of everyday life.
Paso Picacho Group Campground provides a mix of camping accommodations suitable for families, groups, RVs, and tent setups. Primitive camping is not a feature at this site.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with stories spanning thousands of years. Long before prospectors arrived seeking gold in the 19th century, the Kumeyaay people called these Cuyamaca mountains home, living in harmony with the land and leaving traces of their presence throughout the region. The echoes of the gold rush era remain alive at the nearby Stonewall Mine, where fascinating interpretive exhibits bring the picks-and-shovels days to life. Every trail and meadow holds whispers of the past, from ancient gathering sites to old mining paths.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's gentle rhythms as warm summer days give way to cool, breeze-kissed evenings beneath the protective canopy of ancient oaks. The tree cover creates natural air conditioning, making even the warmest afternoons comfortable for outdoor adventures. When winter arrives, the campground transforms into a crisp wonderland where temperatures can dip to a bracing 25°F, perfect for cozy campfire gatherings. Year-round moderate winds whisper through the branches, carrying the fresh scent of pine and oak across the mountainside.
ElevationPerched at 5,000 feet above sea level, Paso Picacho offers a refreshing escape where the air is crisp, clean, and noticeably cooler than the valleys below. This mountain elevation creates a natural retreat where stunning vistas unfold at every turn, revealing layers of ridges that fade into the distant horizon. The higher altitude brings not just temperature relief but a sense of being above it all, where cloud formations dance at eye level and sunsets paint the sky in spectacular arrays of color.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a landscape where majestic oak woodlands blend seamlessly with stands of towering conifers, creating a diverse tapestry of green that changes with each season. Sunlight filters through the canopy, illuminating wildflower-dotted meadows that stretch between groves of ancient trees. Crystal-clear creeks babble through the terrain, their gentle music accompanying hikers along scenic trails. From your campsite, watch as morning mist rises from the meadows and evening light transforms the forest into a golden cathedral of nature.
Geological RegionPaso Picacho Campground sits proudly within the dramatic Peninsular Range, a mountain system that showcases nature's architectural prowess. This unique geological setting creates a diverse ecosystem where oak woodland forests mingle with coniferous groves, all punctuated by expansive meadows that bloom with seasonal wildflowers. Mountain creeks have carved gentle valleys through the landscape over millennia, creating the perfect corridors for the multiple hiking trails that weave through this elevated paradise. The interplay of elevation, water, and diverse vegetation makes this region a living classroom of California's mountain ecology.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible parking and restrooms are present near the visitor center. There are ADA-compliant campsites and trails, including the Azalea Glen and Stonewall Mine trails.
Sites SizeSites range in size from small and cozy to large group sites accommodating 50 people.
Sites PrivacySome sites offer privacy with shaded trees, while others may be clustered closely, leading to noise disturbances as noted in user reviews.
Total Campsites85 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites closer to restrooms for convenience. Avoid sites on steep slopes.
Best CampsitesSite #8 is highlighted for views of Stonewall Peak. Sites #46 and #49 are adjoining and spacious.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Reservations can be made for weekends April through October. First-come, first-serve from December to March.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per site.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate up to 50 people and 10 vehicles in designated parking areas. These sites are spacious and offer fire rings and picnic tables.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops and individual sites, some on uneven ground. Spacing between sites varies.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, reservations required April to October, first-come-first-serve December to March.
Reservation PlatformsReserveCalifornia (1-800-444-PARK) or online at parks.ca.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable December through March on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cancellation PolicyReservations strongly recommended for weekends from Easter through Thanksgiving. Cancellation policies are not explicitly detailed.
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.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Paso Picacho offers a wide variety of recreational activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, picnicking, and educational programs. Popular hikes include Stonewall Peak and Cuyamaca Peak trailheads, which start from the campground and offer stunning panoramic views.
Hiking
The Stonewall Peak hike is a 4-mile round trip with an elevation gain of 5500 feet, featuring switchbacks and exceptional views. The Cuyamaca Peak trail is a paved fire road leading to a 6-mile round trip hike with majestic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Salton Sea. Both are moderately challenging.Fishing
Fishing is available at nearby Lake Cuyamaca, which is stocked with trout.Biking
The park accommodates biking on paved roads and approved trails. Helmets are required for riders under 18.Wildlife viewing
Campers can view deer, wild turkeys, squirrels, and various bird species near campsites and hiking trails.Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground offers interpretive programs during summer, including exhibits on regional plant life, Kumeyaay history, and the historic Stonewall Mine site.Winter Activities
Winter camping is available with reduced site availability. Snow is occasionally present, offering picturesque landscapes.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not applicable at the campground but may be enjoyed at Lake Cuyamaca nearby.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed only in designated fire rings. Firewood for purchase; gathering wood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as squirrels, snakes, and red ants may pose minor hazards. Precautions against forest fires are advised.
Active alertsFirewood is quarantined due to the Goldspotted Oak Borer infestation. Consult park rangers for fire restrictions.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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 are accessible in Julian, including hospitals and police stations. The park headquarters provides immediate ranger assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to November 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are available across the campground, conveniently located near campsites, particularly near the showers and restrooms.
Proximity to water featuresLake Cuyamaca is 2 miles north, offering boating and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsSome visitors reported noise disturbances due to partying groups. Bugs and squirrels are frequent nuisances.
HostCamp hosts are available to assist with firewood and ice sales. They monitor campground rules and regulations.
Campground Map
13652 Highway 79, Julian, CA 92036
Driving directionsEast of San Diego, the park is accessible via Highway 79, five miles north of I-8. Detailed driving directions and a customized map are available online.
Highway 79 is paved and provides direct access to the park. During peak seasons, road conditions are maintained, and snow is uncommon. Seasonal closures do not apply.Nearby places
Julian (15 miles south, approximately 20 minutes), San Diego (50 miles west, approximately 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as firewood and ice are sold at the campground entrance and camp host sites. Additional groceries and fuel are available in Julian.
Camper Reviews
4.6
116 reviews
Paso Picacho Group Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Paso Picacho highlight its cleanliness, scenic beauty, and proximity to popular hiking trails like Stonewall Peak. Many appreciate its convenient amenities but mention noise issues and aggressive squirrels.
Review Summaries
Based on 116 reviews
What Campers Love
Users have praised the campground for its clean facilities, spacious sites, proximity to hiking trails, and beautiful surroundings. The availability of showers, fire pits, and picnic tables adds...
Based on 116 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include noise disturbances from other campers, aggressive wildlife like squirrels, and bugs during warmer months. Some users also reported limited parking and unclean showers.
Based on 116 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing quarters for showers, repellents for bugs and ants, and securing food to avoid theft by squirrels. Some suggest targeting midweek visits for quieter experiences.
Based on 116 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention bugs and heat, while winter reviews highlight snow and tranquility. Fall is popular for harvest season activities in nearby Julian.
Based on 116 reviewsCamper Quotes
"LOVE this campground. It’s not SUPER hardcore camping... but we like to have that option!" - Chelsie
"Spacious and easy to get to. Located near the beautiful Lake Cuyamaca and the quaint little town...
Based on 116 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #8 is recommended for its view of Stonewall Peak. Sites #46 and #49 are adjoining and ideal for groups.
Based on 116 reviewsAccessibility Features
ADA-compliant sites are appreciated, and wheelchair-accessible trails make the area welcoming for disabled visitors.
Based on 116 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Dogs are not permitted on trails.
Based on 116 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025