Tenaja Campground

About

Tenaja Campground is a primitive backcountry camping destination within the federally designated San Mateo Canyon Wilderness in Cleveland National Forest. Once accessible by vehicle, this site is now a wilderness campsite requiring a hike of 1.6 miles from Fisherman's Camp Trailhead, 3.5 miles via Tenaja Trail from Tenaja Trailhead, or 2 miles via San Mateo Canyon Trail. The camp occupies a grassy meadow surrounded by oak and sycamore trees at the confluence of Tenaja Canyon and San Mateo Canyon. As a wilderness area, there are no developed facilities whatsoever. Campers must be fully self-sufficient, packing in all gear, water, and supplies, and packing out all trash. Campfires are strictly prohibited in San Mateo Canyon Wilderness; only propane or sterno fuel stoves are permitted. A free wilderness permit is required for overnight stays and must be obtained from the Trabuco Ranger District office in Corona. An Adventure Pass is required for trailhead parking. The area receives light use and offers a genuine wilderness experience, particularly rewarding in spring when wildflowers bloom. Group size is limited to 15 people. The site is first-come, first-served with no reservations.

Directions

From I-15, exit Clinton Keith Road and head west. Turn north onto Tenaja Road, then right on Rancho California Road (FS 7S01) for 0.8 miles to reach Tenaja Trailhead. Hike approximately 3.5 miles via Tenaja Trail to reach the camping area. Alternatively, access via Fisherman's Camp Trailhead for a shorter 1.6-mile hike.