Contrary to its name, Horse Heaven Group Campground has no equestrian sites. Instead, this tent-only facility can accommodate gatherings of up to 100 people. It provides a great mountain getaway for city dwellers to relax and enjoy cool summer temperatures, hiking and other outdoor recreation, just one hour east of San Diego.
Recreation
The Laguna Mountain region is known for its great horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking trails. Visitors can get their boots dusty on a segment of the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail, which runs from California to the State of Washington, and access other trails within a short drive. Many picnic areas are located nearby.
Facilities
This site offers three areas for group gatherings: Lupine Loop can accommodate 40 people and 10 vehicles; Buttercup Loop can hold 100 people and 16 vehicles; Hollyhock Loop can hold 70 people and 12 vehicles. The facility is equipped with vault toilets and drinking water. A general store is located 2.3 miles away at Mt. Laguna and Pine Valley.
Natural Features
The campground is nestled in the pines at an elevation of 5,600 feet within the Laguna Mountains in the southern portion of Cleveland National Forest. The area is home to many species of birds and wildlife.
Contact Info
This location has limited staffing. Please call (619) 354-8776 for general information.
Nearby Attractions
Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, Big Laguna Trail System, Storm Canyon Overlook
The facts
Season: Memorial Day – Labor Day Weekend — USDA Forest Service, Aug 24, 2026
3 bookable sites
Vehicles up to 30 ft
Up to 100 people per site
Loops: BUTR, HOLL, LUPI
Site types
3 Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric
Amenities
✓ Campfires allowed
✓ Fire pits
✓ Picnic tables
✓ Shade
✓ Pets allowed
Not recorded upstream: electric hookups, water hookups, sewer hookups, grills.
The campground is located 50 miles east of San Diego, California. Take I-8 to Sunrise Highway exit. Go approximately 14 miles until you see the Horse Heaven Group Campground sign and turn down the campground entrance road.
1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 1.9 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.
Map
More photos
Photo: Descanso Recreation · Recreation.gov
Member photos
Common questions about Horse Heaven Group
Can you reserve a site at Horse Heaven Group?
Yes, Horse Heaven Group is reservable through Recreation.gov.
How many campsites does Horse Heaven Group have?
3 sites.
What is the maximum RV length at Horse Heaven Group?
30 ft. That is the longest vehicle the sites here are recorded as taking; individual sites may be shorter.
Are pets allowed at Horse Heaven Group?
Yes, pets are allowed at Horse Heaven Group.
Are campfires allowed at Horse Heaven Group?
Campfires are allowed at Horse Heaven Group. Check for a current fire restriction before you go.
Also listed by
Horse Heaven Group also appears in other federal recreation data. Facts below are matched by name and location, not confirmed by Horse Heaven Group's operator.
USDA Forest Service — data as of Aug 24, 2026
A reservation charge is added to the price of the site
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