Blue Jay Campground
Closed due to Airport Fire burned area closure through May 23, 2026. Fire use restrictions are also in effect across Cleveland National Forest. The lower loop remains closed due to hazard trees. Access from Lake Elsinore side only due to Ortega Highway construction closures on alternating weekends.
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
Extreme Heat Closure October 2nd-8th 2026
To provide for public safety, going into or being upon the San Diego River Gorge/Cedar Creek Falls Closure Area is prohibited within the Palomar Ranger District of the Cleveland National Forest. This Order is effective from October 02, 2026, through October 08, 2026.
Dispersed Camping and Stay Limits Prohibition
Camping outside of a Forest Service developed campground is now limited to no more than 14 days in a calendar year. As well as camping inside of a Forest Service developed campground for no more than 14 days in a calendar year.
About
Blue Jay Campground offers 50 campsites spread across a forested setting in the Santa Ana Mountains of Cleveland National Forest. Located approximately 4 miles north of Ortega Highway (Highway 74) on North Main Divide Road, the campground sits within the Trabuco Ranger District and provides a true backcountry camping experience with sites varying in distance apart. Amenities are basic but functional: vault toilets, trash cans, fire pits, and grills are provided. The campground has potable water available. A 22-foot vehicle length limit applies, making this better suited for tent camping and smaller trailers rather than large RVs. The lower loop has been closed due to hazard trees. The area serves as a basecamp for exploring the surrounding trail network, including routes for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The Trabuco Ranger District maintains trail information and maps for connecting routes throughout the area.
Directions
From Lake Elsinore, take Ortega Highway (Highway 74) west approximately 20 miles. Turn north onto North Main Divide Road and continue approximately 3-4 miles to the campground. Note: Access is currently only available from the Lake Elsinore side due to CalTrans construction closures on alternating weekends.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 22ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 22ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| SM.FS.TrabucoRD@usda.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (951) 736-1811 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
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