Mataguay Scout Ranch

For us Californians, especially those of us in the Southern part of the state, the desire to escape the urban sprawl and immerse ourselves in nature is a constant. While our state boasts numerous parks and wilderness areas, finding a comprehensive outdoor education and recreation hub that caters to groups and offers a diverse range of activities can be a unique challenge. Mataguay Scout Ranch, nestled in the picturesque mountains near Santa Ysabel, provides just such a robust and engaging environment. It's a place where youth, families, and various organizations can truly connect with the outdoors and develop valuable skills.

Mataguay Scout Ranch, owned and operated by the San Diego-Imperial Council of the Boy Scouts of America, is far more than just a place to pitch a tent. It's a vast 600+ acre property designed to deliver a full camping program year-round, complete with an impressive array of activities that extend beyond basic outdoor living. While some older reviews may hint at areas that "could use some work," recent feedback consistently highlights ongoing improvements and the dedicated efforts of volunteers, ensuring that the camp is continually evolving to serve its mission. This article will explore what makes Mataguay Scout Ranch a valuable resource for locals, detailing its location, available services, unique features, and why it's a fantastic destination for structured outdoor adventures in California.

Mataguay Scout Ranch is located at Mataguay Rd, Santa Ysabel, CA 92070, USA. This prime location places it approximately 50 miles northeast of downtown San Diego, within the backcountry of San Diego County near Lake Henshaw. The ranch is "nestled in the pines and oaks of our local mountains," offering a distinct chaparral foothills environment with a vast oak forest, providing a different experience compared to higher-elevation "pine" camps.

Accessibility to Mataguay Scout Ranch is generally good, with routes via Highway 79 (e.g., from Ramona or connecting from Highway 76 for those coming from the north). While in a wilderness setting, the main roads leading to the ranch are typically maintained, accommodating various vehicles. Once on the property, visitors will find a sprawling layout designed to host numerous campsites and program areas. The camp's extensive acreage means there is "enough room for a group of any size," from individual scout units to larger non-Scout organizations. The camp also features an exciting 7-mile Mataguay Pacific Crest Connector Trail for those seeking a more challenging approach or extended hike into the camp from Barrel Springs.

• Year-Round Camping Facilities: Mataguay Scout Ranch is open for year-round camping, accommodating all Scouting units (Packs, Dens, Troops, Teams, Crews) as well as other non-Scout organizations, including church groups, clubs, and associations.
• Campsites with Basic Amenities: All campsites at Mataguay are equipped with essential amenities, including KYBOs (latrines), running water, and campfire rings. There are also several large communal campfire rings for bigger group programs.
• Lodges, Cabins, and Administration Buildings: For units or groups requiring more structured indoor spaces, the camp offers lodges, cabins, and administration buildings that can be utilized for training, as a central hub, or simply as a getaway spot.
• Swimming Pool and Aquatics: The camp features a swimming pool for recreation and training. Boating at the lake is also available, providing aquatic opportunities. Units can arrange for their own lifeguards or through the Ranch Director.
• Extensive Shooting Sports Ranges: Mataguay is well-equipped with shooting sports facilities, offering programs for archery, BB guns, .22 rifle, black powder (muzzle loading) rifle, and shotgun shooting. These can be used for pleasure or for merit badge/advancement requirements.
• Equestrian Program: The ranch boasts an "extensive equestrian program," including opportunities for horseback riding, trail rides, and even the Horsemanship Merit Badge.
• Dining Hall: A dining hall and kitchen facilities are available, particularly for larger summer camp programs, to provide meals for campers.
• Program Staff and Leaders: While units can provide their own specialists (e.g., lifeguards, range masters), the Ranch Director can also arrange for qualified staff to support various programs and activities.
• Hiking Trails: Numerous hiking trails are available throughout the ranch grounds for exploration, including the Mataguay Pacific Crest Connector Trail.
• Special Programs: The camp offers various annual programs, including spring and fall family camping events like "Fun with Family," and specific merit badge and advancement opportunities.

• Comprehensive Outdoor Program: Mataguay Scout Ranch stands out for its wide array of available programs and activities, making it a true adventure hub. This includes a robust list of shooting sports, an extensive equestrian program, and various aquatic activities.
• Merit Badge Opportunities: For Scout units, the camp provides extensive instruction for over 40 merit badges, covering a broad spectrum of skills and knowledge. This includes unique features like real glider flights, geocaching, mountain boarding, and COPE (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience) courses for older Scouts.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: "Nestled in the pines and oaks of our local mountains," the ranch offers a scenic backdrop for all activities. Visitors note the beauty of the landscape, especially "in spring, everything is so green and the weather is great!"
• Large Property for Exploration: With over 600 acres (some sources cite closer to 1000 acres or 840 acres), the ranch offers ample space for hiking, exploration, and diverse program areas, ensuring a varied and engaging experience.
• Community and Volunteer Spirit: Reviews highlight a strong sense of community and the impact of volunteers. Comments like "it is so wonderful to see so many volunteers taking an investment in the care and upkeep of this awesome property" demonstrate a dedicated effort to improve and maintain the camp.
• Kid-Friendly Environment: The camp is recognized as a "great place to get kids out in nature," offering reasonable opportunities for Cub Scout families and creating a fun and engaging atmosphere for youth.
• Year-Round Accessibility: The ability to camp and participate in activities year-round adds significant value, allowing locals to enjoy the ranch in different seasons.
• Historical Context: As a Boy Scouts of America property, it carries a legacy of outdoor education and youth development, providing a structured yet adventurous environment.

Address: Mataguay Rd, Santa Ysabel, CA 92070, USA

Phone: (866) 437-2272 (General San Diego-Imperial Council number, often used for camp inquiries)

Mobile Phone: +1 866-437-2272

For specific inquiries about booking, programs, or current camp conditions, it is best to contact the San Diego-Imperial Council of the Boy Scouts of America directly. Their official website (sdicscouting.org/camps/mataguay-scout-ranch) or email (sdiccamp@scouting.org) would be the most reliable sources for the most up-to-date information, including reservation procedures, program details, and any necessary forms. Some older contact information lists a direct line to a camp director, but the main council line is generally the best starting point.

For us Californians, especially families and youth groups in the San Diego and wider Southern California region, Mataguay Scout Ranch is an invaluable local asset. It's more than just a campground; it’s a dedicated outdoor education and adventure center that fosters growth, skill development, and a deep appreciation for nature. We understand the importance of getting kids "out in nature," and Mataguay provides a safe, structured, and incredibly fun environment for exactly that.

Its year-round accessibility means that it's always an option for a weekend escape or a more extended program, allowing us to enjoy the local mountains in all seasons. The diverse range of activities, from archery and rifle shooting to swimming, boating, and an extensive equestrian program, ensures that there's truly something for everyone. This variety is key for keeping young minds engaged and for offering opportunities to earn merit badges and develop new skills, which is a huge draw for local Scout units and families alike.

While some older perceptions of the camp might suggest a need for upkeep, recent reviews highlight a strong volunteer spirit and ongoing improvements, showing a commitment to enhancing the experience for all visitors. This community investment resonates with us Californians who value well-maintained public and private recreational spaces. Mataguay's unique blend of wilderness immersion and structured programming makes it an ideal destination for creating lasting memories, fostering independence, and instilling a love for the outdoors in the next generation. It truly is a local gem for outdoor adventure and youth development.

Mataguay Scout Ranch

Mataguay Rd, Santa Ysabel, CA 92070, USA