Group Camp Location - San Diego area

[sdnative]

I have been tasked with planning a father-son weekend getaway for my church. Figured I would post up here to see if anyone has suggestions.

Criteria:

• In or near San Diego county.
• Minimal cost, basic group camp type of fee. No full-service type resorts.
• Accessible by car.
• Camping options - tent, ground (sleeping bag/cot) or vehicle
• Facilities (bathrooms, shower, etc.)
• Something to do - hiking, fishing, water activities like paddle boating, etc.
• Away from the city a bit.
• Fire pit
• other?

Maybe something like Santee Lakes, but looking for other options. I would expect there to be about 25-50 people.

No yoga, mediation or holistic wierdness. Just somewhere to get away from the routine for a couple of days.

Any suggestions? Thanks!

 

[landcruising]

I am now involved with my kids in the YMCA adventure guides (dad and kids activities) they have been to several places. Maybe a few options although some are costly. I'm just geeting strated in the group but these were recommeded.

Indian Hills, Jamul

USS Midway overnight

Vail Lake

Raintree ranch lodges/camp Julian

Dos Picos Ramona

Lake Jennings Lakeside

Santee Lakes

Bluebird Camp in Wildomar/Elsinor

 

[sdnative]

Thanks Carl, I'll look into some of those.

I clarified some of the criteria tonight.

Church is going to cover the cost of the facility, so most retreat type places are out. Updated first post with new criteria.

Something like Agua Caliente would be nice, but it would be too hot in July. Possibly William Heise or something along those lines.

 

[sdnative]

Has anyone stayed at the Doane Valley Campground on Palomar Mtn? Thoughts, experiences?

Looks like site #1 has a larger capacity, so I am thinking sites #1-3 may works for us. I read the bugs are really bad. What would be the best time of year to go? We're thinking July/August.

 

[bcaskey08]

I've stayed at the observatory campground (federal) and the fry creek campground (federal) both of which are located on the top of Palomar mountain. I would recommend them both, there is fantastic hiking and the observatory tour is awesome too.

Plus you can take Nate Harrison grade up in the land cruiser, its graded and paved in some spots but very scenic.
Any cars in your group can take south grade rd and they both meet up on the top of the mountain

In addition the federal parks are $15 a night and you dont need a reservation

 

[sdnative]

Ironically, it looks like we will be staying at the same campground we did our meet & greet camp last year - Horse Heaven.

Does anyone remember or know if this campground has showers or running water? I am getting conficting info depending on which website I check. No one is answering the phone at the Descanso ranger station.

 

[shakotankei]

I remember there being toliets and I think a faucet a few feet away from the toliets.

 

[Brentbba]

Running water and two pit toilets at that campsite. No shower tho.

 

[sdnative]

Thanks guys

 

[sdnative]

I am starting to plan for this year's camp trip (admittedly a little late). Last year we ended up staying at Horse Heaven and it was great. It looks like it is reserved already for our dates this year. We may be able to move the date, but if not I need to look at other options.

Anyone have any experience with these group camps in Big Bear area?

Shady Cove
Buttercup
Skyline

Basically I am looking for a group camp for about 30-40 people, with toilets and running water in a nice area for about $100-ish per night or less. Showers and local activities like swimming/fishing/hiking/etc would be a plus.

Any others within a couple hour drive from San Diego that fits this criteria?

Thanks for any input!

 

[1FZj80]

Try Camp Whittle in Big Bear.
Also, Vail Lake as an option.