San Diego Lake

sutherland Reservoir

Lakes in San Diego CA
San Diego County Lakes & Reservoirs

Salton Sea, way out past Anza Borrego desert is indeed surreal, but nothing too spectacular

Baja mountain camping at Laguna Hanson. Baja California Norte
Lake Dixon in North County San Diego, near Escondido, CA

Barrett Lake, near Tecate CA
w/ plenty of off-roading trails @ Corral Canyon OHV Park

      • south of Interstate 8
      • steep slopes & granite boulders
      • vegetation is chaparral & coastal sage
      • elevations range – 1,600′ – 3,681′
      • wood fires prohibited
      • portable stoves permitted
      • groups limit – 15 people
      • visitor permit required
hikes NFS camping

Looking for alpine lakes, dense forest and dramatic mountain scenery? 

Of course you are. That’s why half the population relocated to California, to endlessly search for summer vacation destinations in alpine bliss and stay overnight next to a secluded mountain lake. You’ll need to leave SoCal to find these beauties, but they are out there if you have the time to travel and spend a week enjoying one. Midweek, the fish are all yours. Check out our huge California Lake List.