About FALCON GROUP
Overview Falcon Group Campground has three individual group campsites just off the scenic Ortega Highway in Southern California, which connects San Juan Capistrano and Temecula Valley Highway. The pleasant climate, scenery, trail system and convenient location, make this a popular destination for groups from Los Angeles and San Diego. Hiking is especially popular among campers. Recreation Hikers of any level can find trails that challenge and accommodate their recreational goals around the campground. Among them are the Falcon Trail, a 1.4-mile easy trail that connects to the campground, and Trabuco Canyon Trail, which provides scenic 6.8-mile hike into the backcountry. The San Juan Trial, which is popular with mountain bikers, has a trailhead at Blue Jay campground, adjacent from Falcon Group Campground. The trail climbs a very steep set of stacked switchbacks from the floor of Hot Springs Canyon and traverses briefly before steeply ascending a ridge toward Sugarloaf Mountain. There are also many ideal picnic spots and scenic overlooks along Ortega Highway.Facilities There are three individual campsites within the group campground. Lupine can hold 40 people and eight vehicles, Sage can hold 30 people and six vehicles, and Yarrow can hold 70 people and 10 vehicles. The facility is adjacent to Blue Jay Campground, which has first-come, first-served individual sites. Natural Features The campground sits at an elevation of 3,300 ft. off the Ortega Highway scenic drive in the Santa Ana Mountains, a route that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, valleys and forest. The area lies in a mixed forest and chaparral ecosystem and is inhabited by a variety of birds, plants and wildlife. Nearby Attractions The closest town is Lake Elsinore, which has various shops, restaurants and recreation opportunities.
How to Get There
From Southern California, take U.S. Highway 15 to State Highway 74 (Ortega Highway) in Lake Elsinore. Travel 6 miles west of Lake Elsinore on 74 and turn north on North Main Divide Road. Proceed 5 miles to Falcon Campground. From I-5, exit for Ortega Highway (State Highway 74). Take 74 east approximately 27 miles to North Main Divide Road. Turn north and proceed 5 miles to Falcon Campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to FALCON GROUP
Heading to FALCON GROUP? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for FALCON GROUP?
No central reservation system listed for FALCON GROUP. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/231947) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to FALCON GROUP?
From Southern California, take U.S. Highway 15 to State Highway 74 (Ortega Highway) in Lake Elsinore. Travel 6 miles west of Lake Elsinore on 74 and turn north on North Main Divide Road. Proceed 5 miles to Falcon Campground. From I-5, exit for Ortega Highway (State Highway 74). Take 74 east approximately 27 miles to North Main Divide Road. Turn north and proceed 5 miles to Falcon Campground.
How do I contact FALCON GROUP?
You can reach the park at phone: 951-736-1811.
References & Official Resources
