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.
National Forest System Roads
Follow California Vehicle Code on National Forest System Roads
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.…
Elevated Fire Use Restrictions
Campfire, charcoal fire restrictions. Smoking area restrictions. Welding, or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame as well as discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun restrictions.
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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