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.…
Orosco Ridge Closures
Forest Order details the implementation for temporary closures of Orosco Road, Boden Canyon Road, and Santa Ysabel Road to protect arroyo toads and their habitat during sensitive seasonal conditions. These closures will be implemented based on hydrologic and temperature triggers and will remain in…
Forest Truck Trail and Road Closures
For additional updated conditions, visit 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…
Prescribed Fires Begin on the Cleveland
The Cleveland National Forest is planning prescribed fire operations this fall & winter. Work will continue through the spring as weather conditions allow. We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from…
Water Unavailable at Penny Pines Trailhead Spigot
Attention Hikers: There is currently NO WATER available at the Penny Pines Trailhead. The water spigot pump is broken and there is no estimated time of repair at this time. Be prepared to bring or seek out alternative water sources.
Airport Fire Burned Area Closure
The Cleveland NF has closed the Airport Fire burned area perimeter on the Trabuco Ranger District of the Cleveland National Forest. This closure prohibits going into or being upon any National Forest System lands, roads, and trails within the boundaries of the closure. The closure will be in effect…
Camping Stay Limits
This order prohibits extended camping in developed campgrounds, undeveloped areas, and maximum annual camping durations. The purpose of this order is to provide for the protection of natural resources by prohibiting long-term or semi-permanent occupancy of National Forest System lands within the…
Cedar Creek Falls Forest Orders
Forest Order No. 02-23-02 closes the cliffs surrounding the falls, 02-23-03 requires visitors to have a permit to access the falls, 02-23-04 prohibits alcohol along the entirety of the trail system.
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
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!