Camping Areas As the Resource Center is on school property, there is no overnight camping allowed within the fenced in area of the Resource Center and ballfields.
There are several camping areas that are frequently used by PCT hikers just of the PCT trail. One is east of the Resource Center by creek before your cross the Highway 79. It is a soft sandy area. However precaution should be taken in rainy or stormy conditions that could create a flash flood. The other area is just south of the Resource Center on the other side of their chain link fence. There is a flat open area surrounded by large oak trees.
There is also overnight camping at Los Coyotes Reservation. The fee is $25 for 4 people at one campsite per night. There are port-a-potties, no showers, no Wifi. It is about 7 miles from the Resource Center and would require transportation
Resource Center Services - The following available Resource Center Hiker services are only available during non school hours. Services are available after 3:30pm to sunset Mon-Thur, after 1:30pm to sunset Fridays, and dusk to dawn Saturday and Sunday. Hikers must remain out of the fenced area during school hours.
All the services are free however the Center is a nonprofit and relies on donations, so donations for services used are greatly appreciated.
Bathrooms- There is a mens and women’s flushing toilet bathroom.
Free WiFi is available look for the Network - Resource Center and the code is- pcthiker
Charging Station is available to recharge phones and electronic devices
Water is available at multiple spigots around the center and all water is potable.
Trash drop - there is a dumpster for dropping off thrash
Hiker supplies - The Resource Center carries a small assortment of first aid supplies, fuel canisters, dehydrated meals, snacks and beverages.
Post Office staging - hikers are welcome to leave their gear at the center while they go to the post office to pick up supplies. Sometimes there are Trail Angels at the center offering rides to and from the Post Office.
Room rentals and ride services - The Resource Center tries to keep an updated list of those in the area overing room rentals and ride services. See the Hiker Greeter at the Center.
Here are some additional overnight offerings and places of interest.
Los Coyotes Reservation $25.00 for 4 people at one campsite per night. Port-a-potties, no showers, no WIFI, but there are other benefits.
Birdsong Backcountry Retreat is on Chihuahua Valley Road. This is a beautiful Glamping location. A perfect place for non-hiking family members to meet up with hikers. Sometimes they are able to pick up and delivery you. There is a 2 night minimum and reservations are suggested. http://www.birdsongbackcountryretreat.com 619-818-9343
The Lazy Y. Through AirBnB for reservations and info. This is a great country casual vibe that has farm animals!They charge $40 for pick up and return, and $60 if you want to go to Paradise Cafe out on 371. Toybox under the Oaks https://abnb.me/lCog1FCFneb The Barn Studio Under the Stars.https://abnb.me/YMq52vQi4T. Pasture Paradise Basecamp https://abnb.me/QFEwDxOzn3
Vineyards in the area
Shadow Mountain Vineyard used to have a few canvas buildings, but they are not open right now. They do have a lovely tasting room, fantastic wines a mom and pop with a legacy. https://shadowmountainvineyards.com/
Sierra Roble Vineyard is close to Highway 79, but not by much. RV camping? Amazing view and great wines. You could do two tastings here and Shadow Mt. with ease.https://www.sierraroble.com/
La Serenissima has a grand and stately tasting room. On Hwy 79 https://vinotiso.com/
Hawk Watch would be a great place to stop on the way up to Birdsong Backcountry. Great wine and they ringing the bell at sunset, a charming tradition.Often there is music! https://hawkwatchwinery.com/
Emerald Creek is on Highway 79 and a long walk, but perhaps you are doing section and are heading out towards Temecula.. This is our largest winery with both indoor and outdoor seating. Bocci court and often has music on the weekends. https://emeraldcreekwinery.com/
If you are looking for a beer? Garage 79 has bottled local craft beer and some draft. A seriously hip vibe. Omar sometimes has food truck vendors. Open from Thursday to Sunday. https://www.facebook.com/theGarage79/ 760-689-2004
Many of our restaurants have closed, but a great new one has opened. Punkers Cafe has picnic tables under large pines, a very small indoor area. Its on Highway 79. Great reviews on the food. Lovely breakfasts. Family run. Note, the music and decor will be punk themed. You can order by phone! https://punkerscafe.com/
Looking for some history? Warner Carrillo Ranch Museum, https://sandiegomuseumcouncil.org/museums/warner-carrillo-ranch-house/.Off Hwy 79 on 29181 San Felipe Road on the way to Ranchita. Open on weekends. Fantastic.
How about a look from the sky? Glider Airport, Sky Sailing.On Hwy 79 760-782-0404 7 days 9:00 to sunset https://www.skysailing.com/