Hours
Monday, 0:30 PM - 4:30 PMTuesday, 0:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Wednesday, 0:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Thursday, 0:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Friday, 0:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Saturday, Closed
Sunday, Closed
Cleveland National Forest Introduce
Nestled in the heart of San Diego, California, Cleveland National Forest offers a peaceful escape from urban life. This expansive forest provides an array of recreational opportunities, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Covering over 260,000 acres, it features diverse ecosystems with oak woodlands, chaparral, and coniferous forests.
The forest is renowned for its scenic beauty, including the iconic Three Sisters Falls, serene lakes, and babbling creeks. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and picnicking. The landscape is dotted with charming campgrounds, perfect for those seeking an authentic wilderness experience.
Operating hours are Monday to Friday from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM. While the forest's administrative areas are closed on weekends, its trails and camping spots remain accessible throughout the week and beyond typical business hours.
- Hiking Trails: Explore diverse trails ranging from easy walks to challenging routes through rugged terrain and dense forests.
- Camping: Enjoy primitive camping in scenic locations like Cuyamaca Rancho State Park within the forest.
- Lakes & Waterfalls: Visit serene lakes and stunning waterfalls, providing picturesque settings for photography and relaxation.
Customer feedback highlights Cleveland National Forest as a place of natural beauty and tranquility. Many praise its ability to offer an escape from city life, with trails like Three Sisters Falls being particular favorites. Visitors also appreciate the forest's cooler temperatures, especially in winter months when temperatures dip to around 5°F.
Location
Customer Reviews
One of the most beautiful forest I’ve ever met, awesome landscapes, sunsets, lakes in the valleys, campgrounds around (hope next time I could get there). I really enjoyed this place to be away from city for a couple of days. I was there in late December, and it was chilly, around 5 degrees Fahrenheit.
Just a small 1 hour hop away from lakeside is a play land of multiple levels. From three sisters falls hiking trails, to ponds and creeks that flow across the road. Carefull when driving Boulder creek which cuts from Descanso to Julian. The dirt Road is beautiful for sight seeing while passing through but is dangerous with on coming cars where the road narrows only wide enough for one vehicle. Slow and safe is key.
Very greenery and beautiful scenic drive with tall pine trees, easy to park and lot of hiking trails, you can further go towards north to Julian and grab a nice lunch. Many places to stop by and see the scenic view. Lot of biking trails too and you will reach 5777 ft. There is a gift shop and lodge.
The views are breathtaking! There are so many trails to choose from and explore. There is plenty of parking conveniently located near most trails. For those without a park pass, you can also find parking within walking distance of some routes. Don't forget to bring your sunscreen, water, and your camera. Happy hiking, biking, running, or camping.
This area is so beautiful. The landscape is amazing. The color of the trees are spectacular. I've been here twice on two different areas and the trails are long and a bit challenging so you will take a few brakes. I do recommend to come with a hiking buddy.
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