Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Looking to spend some time in the great outdoors of Southern California with your pup? Then plan a visit to the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park! About 50 miles east of San Diego, this beautiful, 24,700-acre site draws outdoor enthusiasts with its oak and woodland forests, expansive meadows, hidden waterfalls, and more than 100 miles of trails.

While some parts of the park are off-limits to four-legged visitors, your pooch will still have a woofderful time at Cuyamaca Rancho. Your furry pal is welcome in the campgrounds and picnic areas, as well as on paved roads and Cuyamaca Peak Fire Road, which will lead you up to the second highest point in San Diego County. The views at the top are pawmazing and not to be missed, so put on your hiking boots and leash Fido up! Start your hike in the Paso Picacho Campground, where there are two trailheads to choose from: one is located next to the maintenance yard, while the other is near campsite 69.

Cuyamaca Peak Fire Road is paved all the way to the top, but does have some steep inclines, so be prepared for a bit of a workout. Remember to take lots of breaks, enjoy the views, and bring plenty of water to keep yourself and your doggo hydrated! Once you reach the summit, you and Fido will be able to see the desert to the east and the Pacific coastline to the west. Don't forget to take photos of your pooch proudly standing at the peak! The hike is 6 miles round trip and should take about 3 hours to complete.

If you'd like to extend your stay at Cuyamaca Rancho, you may set up camp at the Paso Picacho or Green Valley Campgrounds. Both contain more than 80 campsites that are each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. Showers, water faucets, dump stations, and other amenities are also available. Wherever you are in the park, be sure to always keep your pupper on a leash and clean up after them, having a bag on hand a all times.

An unfurgettable experience awaits you and Fido at the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park!