San Diego Lakes

San Diego county has numerous recreational lakes, but only a few that allow overnight camping. Oak filled valleys and pine forests are nearby, but if you are seeking alpine lakes, surrounded by granite peaks and towering forests – then look to north for the Sierra Nevada mountains. Southern California landscape is nearly a desert terrain, with seasonal creeks and minimal rivers, so you won’t find lush greenery with natural lakes down here.

lakes San Diego

cleveland National Forest map

Agua Tibia Wilderness

Agua Tibia Wilderness Area

  • 15,900 acres
  • chaparral & oak at lower elevations
  • pine & fir forest at high elevations
  • elevations range 1,700′ – ­5,000′
  • 25 miles of trail
  • summer temperatures exceed 100°F
  • occasional snow in winter
  • best in winter through spring
  • wood fires prohibited
  • portable stoves permitted
  • water scarce
  • no overnight use of pack or saddle stock
  • groups limit – 15 people
  • visitor permits required
Agua Tibia lies right on the RIVERSIDE
& SAN DIEGO COUNTY border

Cleveland National Forest
Palomar Ranger District
1634 Black Canyon Road
Ramona, CA 92065
760-788-0250

Agua Tibia Map

Agua Tibia Trailhead

This is the trailhead for Agua Tibia Wilderness located at Dripping Springs Campground on Highway 79, near Temecula CA.

See more: Agua Tibia Mountain hike details

hiking SoCal