Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Cuyamaca Rancho State Park in San Diego County features 100+ miles of trails, Stonewall Peak with ocean-to-desert views, camping at Paso Picacho, and stunning mountain scenery at 4,000–6,500 ft elevation!
🦁 Mountain Lion Country
Hike in groups, keep children close, don’t hike alone at dawn/dusk. If encountered: don’t run, appear larger, make noise.
Stonewall & Cuyamaca Peaks
| Peak | Details |
|---|---|
| ⛰️ Stonewall Peak | 5,700ft—2mi hike, ocean views! |
| ⛰️ Cuyamaca Peak | 6,512ft—2nd highest in SD County |
| 👁️ Views | 360°: Pacific, Salton Sea, desert |
100+ Miles of Trails
| Popular Trail | Details |
|---|---|
| 🥾 Stonewall Peak | 4mi RT, moderate, best views |
| 🥾 Cuyamaca Peak | 3.5mi, Lookout Fire Road |
| 💦 Green Valley Falls | Easy, seasonal waterfalls |
| 🐴 Equestrian | Multi-use trails |
Paso Picacho Campground
| Camping Info | Details |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Sites | 85 (year-round) |
| 🏠 Cabins | 4 cabins available |
| 💵 Fees | $30–$45/night |
| 🐕 Dogs | Campground only (not trails) |
Lake Cuyamaca
Adjacent Lake Cuyamaca (operated by Helix Water District) offers fishing and a 4.6-mile lakeside trail—perfect for easy hiking!
FAQ
How hard is Stonewall Peak?
Moderate—2 miles one way with 850ft elevation gain. The final section has stone steps carved into granite. Views from the top are spectacular!
Are there mountain lions?
Yes, they live here. Hike in groups, keep children close, avoid dawn/dusk solo hikes. If you see one: don’t run, make yourself big, shout, throw objects.
Can I bring my dog on trails?
No—dogs are not allowed on trails. They’re permitted in campgrounds, picnic areas, and on paved roads and Cuyamaca Peak Fire Road only.
🏔️ San Diego’s Mountain Escape
