Fisherman's Camp

For Californians seeking a genuine escape into the wilderness, where the journey to the campsite is as much a part of the adventure as the stay itself, Fisherman's Camp near Murrieta offers an authentic backpacking experience. This secluded, hike-in campground is nestled deep within the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness, part of the expansive Cleveland National Forest. It's a destination that appeals to those who value solitude, the challenge of a trail, and the immersive beauty of an untouched natural environment.

Fisherman's Camp is not a drive-up campground with extensive amenities; rather, it is a primitive trail camp, designed for backpackers and serious hikers. Its allure lies in its peaceful setting, the opportunity for extensive trail exploration, and the raw beauty of the canyon. For locals, it represents a chance to truly disconnect from the urban bustle and reconnect with the wild heart of Southern California.

In this comprehensive overview, we will delve into what makes Fisherman's Camp a unique and rewarding choice for Californian outdoor enthusiasts. We'll explore its specific location near Murrieta and the various ways to access this hidden gem, outline the essential services (or lack thereof, characteristic of a primitive site) to help you prepare, highlight its key features and the extensive network of trails it provides access to, and provide crucial contact information for planning your trip. Our aim is to furnish you with all the factual details necessary to embark on a fulfilling wilderness adventure.

While the name "Fisherman's Camp" might evoke images of a bustling fishing resort, this particular site is a testament to the rugged, less-traveled paths. It is a gateway to a vast wilderness, offering a serene base for those exploring the San Mateo Canyon. Reviews from real customers highlight the beauty of the trails and the quietude of the camp, even noting the varying creek conditions that add to the dynamic nature of the experience.

Fisherman's Camp is located near Murrieta, CA 92562, USA. More specifically, it resides within the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness, which is a designated wilderness area within the Cleveland National Forest. This is crucial information, as it immediately signals that Fisherman's Camp is not a car-accessible campground but rather a hike-in or backpacker's camp.

To reach the area that provides access to Fisherman's Camp, one typically heads west from I-15 on Clinton Keith Road, then turns south (left) onto Tenaja Road for approximately 9.9 miles. From there, a right turn onto Cleveland Forest Road (FS 7S01) leads to a paved road for about 2.4 miles to a small unpaved parking area, which serves as a trailhead. Alternatively, visitors can access the area via the Tenaja Falls Trailhead.

Access to Fisherman's Camp from the trailhead involves a hike. Reviews mention a "very steep path" from one trailhead or "two slightly less inclined pathways from the Tenaja Falls Trailhead." The distance to the camp itself is approximately 1.66 to 2.5 miles, depending on the specific starting point within the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness. The trail descends into the canyon, offering views of surrounding hills and valleys. It's described as a "well-traveled" trail, although recent conditions can impact ease of passage, especially regarding stream crossings.

It's important to note that a National Forest Adventure Pass may be required to park at trailheads within the Cleveland National Forest, and this pass must be displayed. While day use typically requires a sign-in at the trailhead, overnight stays at Fisherman's Camp necessitate obtaining a wilderness permit in advance from a Cleveland National Forest Ranger Station (such as the Trabuco Ranger District office). This level of preparation is characteristic of accessing a true wilderness area, reinforcing its appeal for self-sufficient backpackers. Cell service is likely minimal or non-existent in this remote area.

As a primitive, hike-in wilderness campsite, Fisherman's Camp offers very limited services. This is by design, intended to preserve the natural environment and provide a rugged outdoor experience. Campers must be entirely self-sufficient and prepared for minimal amenities.

• Hike-in Campsites: Fisherman's Camp provides undeveloped, dispersed sites suitable for tent camping. There are no designated, numbered campsites with amenities. Campers select a spot within the general camping area.
• No Potable Water: There are no reliable sources of potable (drinkable) water directly at the camp. While Deep Creek or San Mateo Creek runs by the camp, its flow varies seasonally (can be "dry as a bone" or running), and any water from the creek must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption. Campers must carry in all their water or have the means to treat natural water sources.
• No Restroom Facilities: There are no vault toilets, flush toilets, or any other restroom facilities at Fisherman's Camp. Campers must adhere to Leave No Trace principles, which typically involve digging a "cat hole" for human waste at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites, and packing out all toilet paper.
• No Fire Rings/Pits: Campfires are generally prohibited at Fisherman's Camp due to its location within a designated wilderness area and the high fire danger prevalent in Southern California. Even if a small, primitive fire ring exists from previous use, open flames are rarely permitted. Campers should plan for no fires and use portable stoves for cooking.
• No Picnic Tables or Benches: The campsite is undeveloped; there are no picnic tables, benches, or other furniture. Campers should be prepared to set up their gear on the natural ground.
• No Trash Service: This is a strict "pack it in, pack it out" wilderness area. All trash, including food scraps, must be carried out of the wilderness.
• No Hookups: Absolutely no electrical, water, or sewer hookups are available. This is solely for primitive tent camping/backpacking.
• No Cell Service: Expect little to no cellular reception due to the remote nature of the location.

• True Wilderness Experience: Offers a genuine opportunity for solitude and immersion in nature, far from developed campgrounds and urban conveniences.
• Gateway to Extensive Trails: Fisherman's Camp serves as a central hub for various hiking opportunities within the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness, including connections to the San Mateo Trail, Lucas Canyon, Bluewater Trail, and the Tenaja Falls Trail.
• Proximity to Tenaja Falls: A significant highlight is its connection to the Tenaja Falls Trail. While the creek can be dry at times, when water is flowing, the falls are a beautiful natural attraction accessible via a scenic hike.
• Shaded, Riparian Zone: The camp is situated in a shady area alongside a creek (Deep Creek or San Mateo Creek), with mature trees like sycamores and oaks, providing a cooler and more pleasant environment than exposed areas.
• Birding and Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting offers opportunities for observing local bird species and other wildlife in their native habitat.
• Dog-Friendly Trails: The San Mateo Canyon Wilderness and associated trails are generally dog-friendly (with dogs on leash), allowing companions to join the adventure.
• Overnight Backpacking: Ideal for backpackers looking for a primitive overnight stop on longer multi-day treks within the wilderness area.
• Sense of Accomplishment: Reaching the hike-in camp and spending time in a truly undeveloped setting provides a rewarding sense of accomplishment for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Described by visitors as a "great spot to camp while backpacking" and offering a "tranquil territory," emphasizing its quiet nature.

Address: Murrieta, CA 92562, USA (specific location within San Mateo Canyon Wilderness, Cleveland National Forest)

Phone: As a primitive, hike-in campsite, Fisherman's Camp does not have a direct public phone number. For information regarding wilderness permits (required for overnight stays), trail conditions, fire restrictions, or any other details related to the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness or Cleveland National Forest, you should contact the relevant USDA Forest Service Ranger District.

The most appropriate contact for this area would be the:

Trabuco Ranger District Office (Cleveland National Forest)

Phone: (951) 736-1811 (Please verify this number as contact details for Forest Service offices can change)

It is highly recommended to check the official Cleveland National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/cleveland) for the most current alerts, conditions, and permit information before planning your trip.

Fisherman's Camp stands as an exceptional destination for Californians who are seasoned hikers, backpackers, and true wilderness lovers. Its defining characteristic as a hike-in, primitive campsite within the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness directly caters to those who actively seek an escape from the built environment and crave an unadulterated outdoor experience. For locals in Southern California, who often navigate crowded trails and busy campgrounds, Fisherman's Camp offers a refreshing and profound sense of solitude.

The accessibility, while requiring physical effort, is a key draw. Being able to access such a remote-feeling wilderness area within a relatively short drive from major population centers like Murrieta and beyond is a significant advantage. The journey itself, through shaded canyons and along varied terrain, is an integral part of the adventure, allowing for a gradual immersion into nature before even reaching the camp. This provides a rewarding sense of accomplishment that typical drive-up sites cannot offer.

Furthermore, Fisherman's Camp acts as a strategic gateway to a vast network of trails within the San Mateo Canyon, including the popular Tenaja Falls Trail. This makes it an ideal base for multi-day backpacking trips or for a challenging overnight experience that allows for extensive exploration of the region's natural beauty, from scenic canyon views to the serenity of a flowing creek (when water is present). The presence of mature trees and a riparian zone offers a welcome natural coolness, even in Southern California's warmer months.

For Californians who adhere to Leave No Trace principles and are prepared for self-sufficiency—carrying in all water, packing out all waste, and understanding that amenities are non-existent—Fisherman's Camp offers a pristine environment to truly connect with the wild. It’s a testament to the diverse and challenging outdoor opportunities available within their home state, providing a rigorous yet immensely rewarding experience for those ready to embrace the call of the wilderness.

Fisherman's Camp

Murrieta, CA 92562, USA