Bobcat Meadow Campground

For Californians who love the raw beauty of the high desert and the thrill of off-highway vehicle (OHV) adventures, or simply seek a quiet, rustic escape under the vast Southern California sky, Bobcat Meadow Campground in Campo, California, presents a compelling option. Tucked away in the Cleveland National Forest, this primitive campground offers a unique blend of easy access to OHV trails and a surprisingly peaceful environment, making it a favorite for those with an Adventure Pass.

Bobcat Meadow Campground stands out as a "first-come, first-served" destination, catering to those who appreciate a more spontaneous and less structured camping experience. Unlike larger, more developed campgrounds, it maintains a serene ambiance, even with its proximity to designated OHV areas. This makes it an ideal spot for individuals and families looking to combine exhilarating daytime activities with tranquil evenings. Surrounded by groves of live oak and offering sweeping views of chaparral and distant desert, the campground provides a refreshing escape from the hotter valley floors due to its higher elevation.

The sentiment from real customers strongly reflects its appeal. One enthusiastic visitor exclaimed, "Love these campgrounds because you can stay with an adventure pass! It's actually pretty quiet even though the OHV area is close. Fantastic weekend trip!" Another praised its peaceful nature, describing it as "A very clean and quite campground in the high desert oak Savannah." These reviews underscore Bobcat Meadow's unique ability to offer both adventure and tranquility, all while being a cost-effective choice for those holding an Adventure Pass.

Bobcat Meadow Campground is situated on Los Pinos Rd, Campo, CA 91906, USA, within the expansive Cleveland National Forest. This location places it in the southeastern part of San Diego County, offering a high-desert environment that provides cooler temperatures compared to the lower elevations of the surrounding areas. At an elevation of approximately 3,800 feet, campers can enjoy a refreshing climate and expansive views.

Access to Bobcat Meadow Campground is typically via forest service roads off of major routes like Interstate 8, specifically near the Buckman Springs Road exit towards the Four Corners Trailhead. While the "road to the trail head is solid" according to reviews, it's important for Californians to be aware that some of the access roads leading directly to the campground might be unpaved dirt roads. While not necessarily requiring extreme off-road vehicles, a vehicle capable of handling unpaved surfaces is recommended, and larger RVs (over 27 feet in length) might find navigation challenging due to potentially narrow or winding sections. The campground's relative remoteness means cell service can be spotty, so downloading maps offline is advised. Despite these considerations, the journey is rewarded with a quiet and scenic destination, easily accessible for most Californians seeking an authentic backcountry experience not far from San Diego and other Southern California urban centers.

• 20 primitive campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Each campsite includes a picnic table and a fire ring (though campfire and charcoal fire restrictions apply frequently due to fire danger; always check current restrictions).
• Vault toilets (pit style toilets) are available for restroom facilities; there are typically two well-maintained vault toilets.
• No potable water is available; campers must bring their own water for drinking, cooking, and washing.
• Designated parking spots that can accommodate vehicles towing trailers up to 27 feet in length.
• Access to an extensive network of OHV trails in the adjacent Corral Canyon OHV Area.
• Trash and recycling bins are often available near the vault toilets.
• Ranger checks are periodic to ensure adherence to rules and conditions.

• Quiet and serene atmosphere, praised by visitors for its tranquility despite proximity to OHV trails.
• Located in a beautiful high desert oak savanna, surrounded by live oak groves and chaparral.
• Offers cooler temperatures compared to the lower desert, due to its higher elevation (3,800 feet).
• Direct access to the Corral Canyon OHV Area, providing miles of trails for dirt bikes, ATVs, and 4x4s.
• A cost-effective camping option, typically requiring only a valid Adventure Pass (or Federal Recreational Lands Pass).
• Opportunities for hiking on easy, relatively flat terrain (though some trails are shared with OHVs).
• Scenic views of chaparral and desert for miles.
• First-come, first-served availability, allowing for spontaneous trips.
• Suitable for both tent campers and RVs (up to 27 feet).
• Presence of wildlife (e.g., deer) in the surrounding area.
• A true back-to-basics camping experience, emphasizing self-sufficiency.

Address: Los Pinos Rd, Campo, CA 91906, USA

Phone: (619) 445-6235 (This number is for the Descanso Ranger District, which manages the area, rather than a direct campground line. It's the best contact for current conditions, fire restrictions, and Adventure Pass information.)

Mobile Phone: +1 619-445-6235 (Same as above, directs to the relevant Ranger District.)

Given its management by the U.S. Forest Service, visitors should also consult the Cleveland National Forest website for the most up-to-date information on Bobcat Meadow Campground, including any fire restrictions, seasonal closures, or changes in fees/passes. Passes can be purchased at local ranger stations (e.g., in Alpine), participating vendors in Pine Valley or Lake Morena, or sometimes online.

For Californians, Bobcat Meadow Campground offers a unique and highly suitable outdoor escape, particularly for those in Southern California. Its prime location within the Cleveland National Forest provides a quick and accessible retreat from urban life, allowing locals to immerse themselves in nature without extensive travel. The campground’s elevation ensures cooler temperatures, making it a desirable destination even during warmer periods when lower-lying areas can be uncomfortably hot.

What truly sets Bobcat Meadow apart for local Californians is its dual appeal: it serves as a fantastic base for OHV enthusiasts looking to explore the extensive Corral Canyon trail system, while simultaneously providing a surprisingly quiet and serene atmosphere for those seeking a more traditional, peaceful camping experience. The requirement of an Adventure Pass makes it an affordable option for frequent users of federal recreation lands. With its basic but clean amenities, and a focus on self-sufficiency, Bobcat Meadow fosters a genuine connection with the outdoors. It's an ideal spot for Californians seeking a blend of high-desert adventure and tranquil relaxation, all within their beloved home state.

Bobcat Meadow Campground

Los Pinos Rd, Campo, CA 91906, USA