Walked through here to get to the hiking trails, everything looked clean and well maintained, no trash anywhere. It was hard to find where to leave payments and the "camp host" was not around. Maybe set up a more convenient payment process with QR codes to pay electronically. We were the only people there in the couple hours with another couple on the way out when we got there. It was an enjoyable hike with convenient signs marking all the different paths. read more

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This campground was great! Very quiet, clean, and has pretty views of the mountain ridge. I arrived on Friday around 1pm, the campground was still very empty; fellow campers didn't start arriving until Saturday afternoon. The entire campground was clean, restrooms were clean for being outhouses, and everyone was very respectful. I took out the wild horse trail which was 4.5 miles out and 4.5 miles back to the trailhead. Trailheads are literally walking (steps) away from my site. Gorgeous views out here!!! read more

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All was well besides some exhausted walkerother than that the trail was great a must hike read more

Dripping Springs Campground - Ready for take off - Campgrounds Near Me - Temecula, California

Dripping Springs Campground seems like a popular spot to camp as it was completely full both times I visited. The campsites have plenty of parking spots, firepits, and restrooms nearby (no showers.) There are also equestrian-dedicated campsites.The camp hosts seem to run a tight ship; no problems noted with lots of families with young kids and groups of twenty-somethings. Reservations are essential, especially in spring and summer. The trails are what really attracted me to this area; the campsite is right next to the Agua Tibia wildnerness and protects several endangered species (the creek was closed due to Arroyo Toad spawning time). Lots of wildflowers were in bloom and the trails were well maintained. There are a few seeps along the Dripping Springs trail but I didn't make it all the way up the dripping spring marked on the Agua Tibia Wildernss map at the trailhead. Adventure Pass required for day parking in the lot. read more

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We were there a year ago. The picnic tables were all dry rotted. The turn about at the end of the road is not marked well and not illuminated. Our trailer fell off the inside of the road. The camp host said that has happened before. No caution cones or even reflectors or a sign. read more

This is one if the better campgrounds I've been to. 1. The trail is nice. Its a good hike and not too hard. 2. The workers here are very friendly. 3. It's clean and everyone takes care if their own mess when they leave. The lots are pretty paved and there's a fire pit, grill, and area for your pots. My family and I only used the the fire pit, as we like more real camping. We make our own fire and we don't use propane or a portable stove or anything. We also chop our own wood. You're not supposed to chop wood at this camp site but we found dead trees and wood and chopped that. Lot 20, 21, and 22 seem pretty nice. I think lot 21 is the nicest. There's water and the bathroom is fairly clean. No showers, or a lake to fish in. All and all, this place was pretty decent. I would definitely camp here again and again! read more

Dripping Springs Campground - Beautiful moon - Campgrounds Near Me - Temecula, California

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This review is mostly for the trail, as I didn't camp here (and I wouldn't want to: a lot of the sites towards the entrance had very little flat spots, little shade, and there's not even any showers), but that's beside the point. I might have enjoyed the Dripping Spring trail more, if it actually had something that dripped or even a spring. But it is so unaptly named! While it was my 'bad' for choosing hiking buddies that I did not match the pace of (imagine my growing irritation of basically having to jog up and then back down the hills of this particular trail), I did really look forward to the view from the top of the trail. Alas, the view was better around 1/3 of the way up... at the point you can see the full lake and the mountains across the way, you should just turn around and go back. The top of the trail is a sign post and a bunch of logs to rest on, and the vegetation so overgrown that all you see is... plants. I was expecting big blue skies and a 360 degree view and got neither. I was told if I hiked up another 4 or so miles on the connecting trail that the view would be better, but I already felt misled and didn't want to post a 2-star review in further disappointment (yes, I am aware I could just skip writing a review, but Yelp is my journal so I can remember people and events). As it were, I'd already completed about 6 miles to a 3,000 ft. elevation at mostly a jogging pace. I was done. Would I return? Maybe, but there's other trails and camp grounds in SD county. Pros: - no trail off-shoots (read: you can't get lost) - fairly wide path that's easy to follow - a decent workout - decent restrooms Cons: - vegetation was grossly overgrown - must check self for ticks due to said vegetation - no dripping springs and no mountainous views at top read more

Dripping Springs Campground - TL: hills you climb TR: best view BR: top of trail BL: view from top of trail. - Campgrounds Near Me - Temecula, California

Great place for camping and hiking with a ton of green and scenic places to explore. And here to hike with the dog for the first time and found this to be worthy of a 5 star review Parking requires a Wilderness pass and camping for this location requires California Park reservation. The hike which is located at the end of the campground begins with the trail head and useful information. During the rainy season being shoes and gear your not afraid to get wet as there's a stream that requires crossing if you want to follow the hike uphill The actual hike is not too bad with a gradual climb that is wide enough and maintained so no worries about slipping too much or missing your footing. Switch back probably less than 20 and once you reach the top is level from there Great experience read more

Dripping Springs Campground - Campgrounds Near Me - Temecula, California

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Pulled in here last Sunday on the way home from an extended River camping trip thinking I would have a quick drive home the next morning. Driving in, to the right I noticed a shady looking guy with a poor camp set up who appeared to be taking notice of our arrival. We selected a nice camp site (#4) and set up and then left for a quick dinner in Temecula. We arrived back at camp to find our trailer had been broken into and items stolen. The sun had just set so it was getting dark as we reported the break in to the Camp Host. Funny in that the shady camper area was now very dark but I could hear him moving around as we talked to the Host. Coincidence, I wonder!!!!!!! Could have been worse as we may have interrupted the thief. Broken window and items stolen but Thankful he missed some of the more expensive items. read more

My friends and I camped here last weekend and it was an okay experience. The site was easy to get to, since there was no gate. However, it was difficult to find the campsite, since the numbers on the ground were a little worn out. When we arrived, the campsite was clean and not dirty, so we appreciated that. However, the bathrooms that were located in front of our campsite was locked and when we asked the camp host if he can unlock it for us, he was very rude and raised his voice at some of my friends. He accused us for locking the door and refused to come back, if the door was locked again. The main issue wasn't us or the neighboring group locking the door, but rather the door itself since something was keeping the door locked. After 2 days, he finally posted a sign saying "out of order" on the door. Overall, the campsite is fine because it's clean and the bathrooms (that were open) were well maintained. If we hadn't encountered that rude camp host, I would have give this place a 5 star review, but because we had such a negative experience of just asking for help, I had to rate my overall experience a 3. read more

Beautiful wildflowers were in bloom and snow capped mountains were a stunning view when we visited last week (March 2023) The River was also full so we had to take our shoes and socks off to cross the stream. Bring a towel if you don't want to air dry. read more

Dripping Springs Campground - Campgrounds Near Me - Temecula, California

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I really enjoyed hiking at this place. Second time I visit. We did the 2.5 miles of the wild horse trail and then decided to go down to the river you see below. We took the river back to the campground. There was plenty of shade on this trail only downer was that there were sooo many ticks both on the trail and on the river. I think I removed about 3 or 4 ticks off my bf and I removed 2 off myself that I could find. These by the way are Dog ticks. I was considering calling the ranger and informing them because these could easily get on dogs or humans and bring that home to bite hikers and others. Over all I had a great time and truly enjoyed myself. read more

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I know which sites are better than others but I won't tell you because I don't want it to be booked up all the time. The campground has vault bathrooms which can use some removal of spider webs. I know insects and wild life are inevitable but there's a physical camp host that has the responsibility to maintain the campground, no? Other than the spider webs, the main campground is pretty well kept. Watch out for the bees though! Oh, there's also a dog that barks throughout the night. I assume it's the campground neighbor's dog from what I got from other reviews. But don't worry, it's just warning you about the wondering coyotes. happy camping! read more

I was pleasantly surprised by how nice this campground was! Each space is clearly marked as reserved or open, has a nicely paved parking spot, comes with a picnic table and a lot of open space to set up camp. The campground also has bathrooms that aren't disgusting and a water spigot so you don't have to bring in a ton of water. The only downside to this campground is the noise - campers really let loose and enjoy themselves here so just come prepared with ear plugs and you should be fine. *Dog friendly* read more

Dripping Springs Campground - Guarding campground #6 - Campgrounds Near Me - Temecula, California

Great spot to camp & the camp host, Mike, was very helpful & welcoming! * clean campground * clean restrooms! * great energy read more

Dripping Springs Campground - Campgrounds Near Me - Temecula, California

The camp hosts keep one of the cleanest bathrooms I've ever had while camping. The spots are a tad closer than I'd like but if you are able to, book the upper level spots which come with stable spaces. You can book them even if you do not have a horse. There's a nice little river and multi-level hiking options which is nice as even within my family we all have a different skill set; lol. - No showers. - No sinks. - Water spout spaced evenly between to be shared with multiple sites. - Trash cans & dumpsters available. - Clean bathrooms. (Tons of spiders & bugs; as to be expected.) - Nice hiking options. - Close to a river. - Easily accessible; right off the main road! I have to go through my photos to sight which ones were shady and which were not. Some had NO shade & that can be rough if you don't have an E-Z Up or some kind of shade cover; especially if it is hot already. If you get there early, drive around and you can ask the hosts to switch sites. They were very gracious in letting us change from a no shade spot to a upper level horsie spot. :) read more

Nice place to spend a couple days. Quiet and clean. It's local which makes it ideal..

Let's get it out of the way and say there are no showers, no sinks and no flush able toilets. Gross right? Vault toilets are like glorified porta pottys. Not happy! Now the good stuff. Easy to get to from San Diego. 11 miles east of Temecula on the 79. Great group sites. Friendly camp host. Well stocked with toilet paper. Lots of shade and pavement for kids to ride around in. Bring scooters. There are also great trees to climb and an easy short hike right on site. So next time Vail Lake is booked come here for a cheap vacation. $15 for a single site and only $30 for a double site with up to 15 people. read more

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Fun campground. Each campsite is next to each other but each is big enough that it doesn't really matter. Went with a big group of college students and i was sure we would've been annoying to neighboring campers but because of how big the camp site was everyone minded themselves. I was actually surprised they had bathrooms; it was a toilet and a deep dark hole beneath it but its better than popping a squat. read more

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I have to say that my family and I are supper sad, the camp host and his family are leaving the grounds and no longer will be the host here. It is a shame that they have to go as they did a fantastic job maintaining the area. The forestry service needs to look at Jose as he is so unprofessional! He drives through the camp area very fast and is rude to campers. He put a stop to the host selling wood, which makes no sense at all when there is a big sign that states " buy it where you burn it!" How do you do that when you can not purchase wood. As a federal worker myself I would be ashamed to have a man like Jose working with decent people who are looking to relax in the mountains. I give two stars because of the National Forest service failing to do their job. I hope they release him from his duties as he is a sore eye to the government! I strongly recommend that all that frequently use this site go else where as you will not be happy with Jose and his lack of service! read more

Dripping Springs Campground - Campgrounds Near Me - Temecula, California

We had an awesome time here. The lady camp host especially made it really great. She was nice and attentive and REALLY helped us out because we were kind confused. we stayed in spot 18! it was pretty chilly at nice but overall fun! the hiking trail is beautiful. besides the crows in the morning being loud and eating my dogs food.. the site comes with a fire pit, a bench, and a bbq. they have running water spouts every other couple sites. the bathrooms were as good as you'd expect.... haha. read more

Dripping Springs Campground - our dinner - Campgrounds Near Me - Temecula, California

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We were there for two nights. Very quiet. The camp host was very nice and helpful with a situation we had with an air mattress. We will be back very soon. Highly recommend. read more

Had a great girls overnight here at Dripping Springs campgrounds this past weekend. It was about an hour and 20 minute drive from San Diego. We stopped at the Stater Bros on Temecula Pkwy on the way in for ice and fire wood (and Starbucks and Which Wich). GPS took us to the entrance. When we drove in the camp host is setup in the first spot, but we didn't stop since we already had our reservations. I'd say the first few spots were the least desirable, the least shade and privacy. As we drove through, the spaces opened up a bit, and there were more trees. Our spot was very nice, but also very sunny, the spots on the right hand side while driving in (the lower numbers) had a bit more shade in the hot afternoon sun. Once the sun started to set we had a lovely evening. We lit up our firewood in the fire pit, and grilled up our sausages, veggies and shish kebabs. We had plenty of space for our 3 tents, as well as 3 cars (even though I believe you're only supposed to have 2). There were pit toilets just a few minute walk away. There were some larger groups/families that were out and about during the day, and then seemed to go to bed pretty early. Us, and a few other camps were up a bit later (midnight) around the fire, but other than seeing them when I walked to the bathroom I couldn't hear anyone else. Early in the morning I did hear the loud dog barking from a neighbor that was mentioned in a few of the other reviews. There's a nice little hiking trail right off of the campsites, we only made it about 30 minutes in the heat, but I imagine would be nice once it starts to cool down a bit. read more

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This campground was great! We arrived Friday evening (Around 9pm, there's no gate, so no need to worry about gates being closed for late arrivals), and left Sunday around noon. It was really fun. Amenities: The campgrounds are clean, just as described in previous reviews. They the cleanest vault toilets I have ever seen. It smelled clean and they were always stocked with plenty toilet paper. The only thing to note is that they get really hot inside, since the sun beats down on them all day. I guess some people wouldn't mind that, but to me it seemed like a sauna. Also, there were black widows, one inside in one of the corners (luckily, away from the toilet), and the other just outside the door. I was a little freaked out at first, but soon realized they weren't a threat. Just leave them alone and you'll get along just fine. Spiders love warm and dark environments. Although the campground does not have showers, they do have running water. There are various water spigots all around camp. They also have a large trash bin for garbage. Each campsite has a picnic table, grill, and fire pit. The sites are pretty big, great for group camping. Wildlife: Our first night there we encountered a jack rabbit. During the day we had about four bees that would not leave. Our second night we encountered a large spider which we think was a tarantula of some sort. It wasn't a Goliath tarantula (Those are only found in S. America), but it was pretty big. It crawled right up to our fire pit, and parked it right next to it. Naturally my wife was terrified. I tried to run it off, but the heat of the fire was too comforting i guess. Eventually I had to drop a log on it. There are a lot of ants, which might have not climbed onto our tent had it not had sap from our last trip. Luckily it was only one side, and they did not get into our tent. Final Notes: This campsite is really great. There weren't a lot of people. I think out of 28 site, only 6 or 7 were occupied. (Note: Sites 10-14 are closed, looks permanently) We were able to make reservations a couple of weeks in advanced, but about a week before we tried to changed site numbers but were unsuccessful because all the other sites were "Walk-Up" sites, which means "First come, first serve". I guess they don't allow reservations 1 week in advance just to leave some spots open. Not sure the reasoning. Reserved sites are clearly marked with posted signs, just look for your name on the sign. There are a few trails there if you like hiking. Civilization is just a short 15 minute drive away. There's a Home Depot close by, which came in handy when we decided to build a shower out of PVC. While there, we also went to old town Temecula. It's a really nice old fashioned town, with little shops and restaurants. All in all, just a great campground. We had loads of fun. I'm giving a 4* only because I don't think it's "as god as it gets", but it is a great campground. read more

Dripping Springs Campground - Beautiful sunset - Campgrounds Near Me - Temecula, California

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A campground is only what the Host at the time makes it, particularly a small one such as Dripping Springs. I was lucky and got a great host for my extended stay here. He was friendly, courteous (even to those who didn't deserve it), kept the bathrooms spotless, and was always laughing with the campers on his daily and even rounds. Great hiking trails here, a river running along the South end, and a quick drive to Temecula for groceries/supplies or entertainment. It could use a few more treed spots for summertime shade, but all in all, wide generous spots with a wide variety, upper and lower decks, to choose from. There are horse corrals for equestrian campers, as well. read more

Recreation.gov is the worst! See attached letter and response. Case Description: On 9/23 I made reservations for Dripping Springs campground. 10/21 I received an email reminder of the reservation. On 10/27 I arrived at the campground with travel trailer in tow after driving 83 miles to find the campground CLOSED! I received an email AFTER THE RESERVATION STARTED advising me if the closure. I was eventually able to find accommodations at a KOA at a much higher cost. I did receive a refund for the closed park but would like to be reimbursed for the additional expense that I had to pay. Please advise me on how to submit the added expense. Thank you Response: Thank you for contacting Recreation.gov. We've reviewed your request for reimbursement and wanted to provide the following information: I do apologize that the campground did not notify you of the closure before your reservation started. However, we are not responsible for any expenses paid for other arrangement due to the closure. I do apologize for the inconvenience. We hope this helps address your request. If you need any additional information or support, please refer to the Help & Support section below for further assistance. I no longer trust Recreation.gov read more

Absolutely Love this Campground! So many good times here and more to come.. Trails are really close and everyone is very friendly! Close to stores and many campsites do have cell service..Camp host is really nice.. restrooms are clean.. running water close by.. Trails are beautiful and campsite is dog friendly. read more

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Five stars for ease of use, cleanliness, natural beauty, trail, water etc etc. The camp host and his family are super awesome. Hes an ex Marine and is always around cleaning the vault toilets and checking for comfort. Ive never felt safer! There are fly traps everywhere so no flies! There were even a group that didnt like thier reserved spot and was able to switch with no issues. The fire ring and grill are in great shape and the large table in each spot is just whats needed. The spaces are well groomed. And the road is paved and in perfect shape. read more

Dripping Springs Campground - Campgrounds Near Me - Temecula, California

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Pleasantly surprised by this little camping spot. Camped here over the 4th July weekend. Clean and well maintained and while the toilets do not have running water, they were spotless. Plenty of trees to provide shade and a BBQ & fire pit as well as a picnic table on each site with water close by. If you are into birding bring your binoculars- we saw quite a few but had sadly left our binoculars at home. Close to Temecula so we did some wine tasting over the hottest part of the day. Will definitely visit here again. read more

Pretty good camping area considering it's proximity to society. Gets very busy on the weekend so if you plan on going then make sure to get a reservation. They have toilets but they're pit toilets so some people might think that's icky. Well go to a hotel then. There's running water, a creek near by that runs during certain seasons and trails. There's also rattle snakes and coyotes. Best to camp during the week. Also it's getting hotter so not sure how comfortable it is mid summer. Oh and the idiot that owns the property next door is noisy as F. Sounds like his dogs are dying all the time, a lot of yelling, and rap music too loud for hours sometimes as well. read more

The campground host was super cool and the place was neatly kept clean. The trail that started from the campgrounds is also perfect for kids. read more

Me and my daughter stayed here March 15 and we're going to stay two nights but my daughter was just to cold and it rained the whole time. I loved the rain, my 8 year old not so much lol. The host was super friendly, restrooms were clean, well maintained campground. They even refunded me the second night we didn't stay without me even asking and I wasn't going to ask because we just left because it was cold not anything wrong with the campground or the host or anything. Thank you read more

Just a beautiful little slice of paradise for a cheap $15 dollars a night. No cell service though in the whole joint. Took a star off for that.... Even though its not really Dripping Springs fault lmao. read more

As most others already mentioned - no shower, no electricity, only glorified portable potty, etc. oh, and mostly no cell phone reception, except when you hike up the hill. Overall nice camp sites. This review is mainly for the campground check in experience. When we arrived the site we reserved, there were already people who settled down. The camp host claimed that he didn't have the reservation list and gave away that site. He offered us another site that already had a "reserved" sign. His response was, "do you want it or not," when we expressed our concern. Also he either has naturally reddish skin or he's got down some nice cool beer that his dog also seemed to be enjoying... Anyways, no one else came to kick us out of that site. And the next day Mr Camp Host was like a different person. Sober up much? read more

Fun fun fun Tonight, I felt like finishing my reviews for all these different places I have frequented, so stop on by and relax your mind, get rid of the phone and tune in to the sounds of nature, lovely spot! read more

I camped there on 6/11/2016 and also experienced complete mayhem. The campground was completely unsafe with drunk underage teens, and drunk college kids. They were breaking down trees for firewood, racing their cars throughout the campground and cussing and fighting. This was not just one campsite, but many. There is no Park Ranger there and no security. The campground host just recommended that the campers call 911. Keep in mind there were other campers there with their kids. Camp at your own risk, the camp ground host does not do any security or patrolling and hides in her trailer at night. No joke, if you have a family or want solitude do not go there. If you are a party goer and want to raise some hell, its perfect for you and I recommend it cause nobody will call the cops on you. read more

Great little campground right off the 74 just outside Temecula. This is dry camping only with pit toilets and running water. Paved, level spaces include a picnic table and fire ring. Campground is clean and well maintained. There was a resident camp host when we were there. This is first come, first serve but I doubt it gets very busy. A beautiful, flowing stream at the end of the loop provides access to a couple of nice trails & opportunities to hike. No cell service here. Great getaway area, but still close to everything Temecula has to offer. read more

We just spent 3 days there.. From July 10 to the 13 the. The New camp host was very awesome.. BUT the only problem we had was that the toilets need emptied.. The bathrooms are cleaned every day we were there but the toilets had so much crap in them.. And I mean literally full of crap... So maybe if the toilets were emptied out there. May not be so many flus in the bathroom.. We seen the camp host clean the bathrooms and. Maintain the camp sites.. He worked really hard.. Its a great place to camp but the bathrooms need some help.. read more

Pretty good campground for pretty cheap, $15 for a single site or $30 for a double. Unfortunately we went on a weekend that was in the high 90s and our campsite was one of the biggest single spots, but didn't have shade. 1-6 does not have shade!!! Most other spots are shaded. Spots come with bench, grill, fire pit, and some even have an oven. Bathrooms are clean. No showers but plenty of water spikets throughout with cold, clean water. A hiking trail through the beautiful mountains and only about 8 minutes from stores in Temecula. Overall a great weekend trip, clean spaces and we'll kept! read more

Dripping Springs Campground - Campsite 6, the biggest single spot, but only shade after about 6 PM - Campgrounds Near Me - Temecula, California

The campground itself is nice- well maintained [vault] toilets, convenient potable water spigots. The sites are a bit close together (depending on which you choose, of course) but were nice and all appeared to be level. The campground was a lot closer to civilization than I was hoping, but checking a map more extensively would have saved me there. Make sure you bring firewood- you can gather and chop some yourself (I believe- check with the parks dpt website to be sure), but if you're not the lumberjack type and want to buy some, the closest place to buy will be the walmart in temecula, and I feel like no one wants to start a camping trip by spending too much $$ on firewood at walmart of all places. read more