El Cariso Campground
Open year-round, first-come first-served. No reservations accepted. Fire restrictions are in effect through July 31, 2026, but campfires remain permitted within the campground's fire rings. Campers must bring their own water.
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.…
Cleveland National Forest to begin Prescribed Burning
Favorable weather conditions in place for hazardous fuels reduction workSAN DIEGO, October 28, 2026 — Cleveland National Forest is planning prescribed fire operations beginning this week, pending all required approvals. This work is expected to continue through Fall and into Spring, as weather…
Forest Truck Trail and Road Closures
Contact Information: Cleveland National Forest Supervisor’s Office (phone: 858-673-6180)Forest and road closures change frequently depending on the fire hazard level, weather, and various other unforeseen elements. This page is updated as changes occur. Weekend updates will be posted the Friday…
About
El Cariso Campground sits at 2,600 feet in the Santa Ana Mountains within Cleveland National Forest, positioned along the scenic Ortega Highway corridor between San Juan Capistrano and Lake Elsinore. The campground provides 24 single-family sites in a light-use setting, making it a solid option for those seeking solitude without venturing deep into the backcountry. The facility is basic but functional, with two vault toilets serving the campground. Campers should bring their own water as none is available on-site. The 22-foot vehicle restriction means this campground is suited for tents, small trailers, and compact RVs rather than larger rigs. Sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis at $15 per night. Nearby recreation includes the El Cariso Nature Trail for short day hikes and Morgan Trail for longer excursions. The El Cariso Visitor Center, located nearby on the Ortega Highway, provides information on forest conditions, wilderness permits, and recreational opportunities. Lake Elsinore is just 5 miles east for those interested in boating, fishing, or swimming.
Directions
Located adjacent to Ortega Highway (Highway 74), 25 miles east of San Juan Capistrano and 5 miles west of Lake Elsinore.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $15 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 22ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 22ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (951) 736-1811 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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