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.…
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
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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