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    Alter Experiences

    4.9 (68 reviews)
    Closed 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

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    San Felipe - El Dorado Community Beach
    Jaclyn M.

    My family and I have enjoyed the Fox Den at the Cleveland National Forest and the Hacienda in San Felipe. Highly recommended both locations. Alter Experience is very thorough and ensures you'll have everything needed to enjoy your trip and feel pampered.

    My bell tent in background and next to tree tent.

    I've been following Alter Experiences via Instagram for a few years. I LOVE Mt. Laguna and was so curious about the glamping experience. I'm so happy I finally pulled the trigger and booked. This is 5 camping for sure. It was so nice rolling up and not having to set anything up. The kitchen was fully stocked and extremely clean. Our bell tent was so clean, really cute, and extremely comfortable. The beds are platform beds with comfortable pillows and mattresses. The temp dipped to 30° at night and we were warm and never even felt the wind blowing. As for my two kids (11 & 14,) they each had a tree tent they never wanted to leave. They both commented on how comfortable they were. It was a real treat for them to sleep in a hammock tent. We plan on making this an annual trip!

    Hammocks!
    Knikki R.

    What a perfect getaway! Comfy beds, beautiful views, bright stars and all within an hour of San Diego! Alter Experiences is the Ultimate camping experience - they leave you wanting for nothing, right down to pots and pans, in room heaters and cozy, fun hammocks to spend your days. Although I love camping, I've become an even bigger fan of Glamping! You don't have to lug a bunch of stuff up the mountain and you actually get a great nights sleep - really critical as I creep into my 50's and looking for a relaxing long weekend. I highly recommend Alter Experiences - it will exceed your expectations and their staff (our host was Shantel) are excellent.

    Wayne V.

    We loved Eagles Nest. It was clean, spacious and private. These sites are the best ones in the campground and some of the nicest that I've ever seen. It was such a beautiful, relaxing and stress free camping trip. I'm a "Real camper" but my wife and two kids aren't so its nice to have glamping amenities and still be in nature. It great only having to bring food water! The 3 elevated tents were fun and the big tent with beds and heater were so nice on a cooler evening. We also enjoyed the hiking trails and seeing the vistas from the world famous Pacific Crest Trail. Our camp host, Shantel was informative and helpful.

    Courtney C.

    I booked this amazing glamping trip for my dad and husband for a Father's Day gift and we took our two kiddos, ages 4 and 6. We stayed at the Blue Jay site and it was even better than the photos. We felt like we were the only ones at the campground! The kids loved the large hammocks (that felt more like trampolines!), tree swing and of course the s'mores. We loved having everything already there and set up and, of course, the super comfy beds as well as nearby plumbed bathrooms and showers. My hubby and I also enjoyed renting mountain bikes for the day from our hosts (Shantel and Rami were amazing)! We're beginner riders and had a great time riding around the nearby lake. My dad and I were able to hike a section of the nearby Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). We will definitely be back!

    Suzy W.

    My husband and I stayed at the Lions Den with two of our friends and their families (8 total) for two nights recently. We all had a great time and were really impressed with everything that was set up and provided for by Alter Experiences. It also gave us a chance to try out some gear and games to see if we would want to purchase them for ourselves (I loved the Luci solar lanterns and the water bag is really convenient for hand and dish-washing). Even though I had looked at their website and read the informative email from Shantel several times after making the reservation, we still packed a lot of "just in case" things, most of which turned out to be unnecessary and unused. Since we had three vehicles and the site only has space for two, we opted to pay for the regular campsite across the "road" rather than park it further away in the overflow lot. It's always nice to have your car nearby and it was worth the price difference ($28 per night for the campsite, but 1/2 off if you have an Interagency Military/Veterans Pass vs $10 per night for the overflow lot). Make sure to bring cash or a check if you have more than two vehicles. You pay the campground host or self-service fee tube for those, not Alter Experiences. The whole Lions Den site was bigger than I anticipated, and also pretty secluded considering it's part of a public Forest Service campground. The bell tent with a queen bed and sofa bed is tucked away in the trees at the back of the site and very private. One of the 3-person families slept there. The lounge tent with the two sofa beds is more in the open at the outer edge of the "main" area and is where the other family slept. Both families said the bell tents were comfy and spacious. One had trouble restarting the propane heater after they had to change tanks during the first night, so the husband hooked up a bigger tank he'd brought from home and it lasted the whole second night. My husband and I slept in a 2-person tree tent together the first night, but because of his snoring and me rolling into him (because he's heavier), I grabbed two of the extra sleeping bags that we'd brought with us and moved into the top of the two-story tent for the second night. It was VERY comfortable up there. I wish we had slept separately the first night too (lol). I was a bit worried about navigating the strap ladder for a middle-of-the-night nature call, so we put a cooler underneath the portal before I went to bed and used that as a step stool which worked out well. While we had planned to do some hiking during our stay, we were having such a great time visiting under the oaks and pine trees and the kids were having such a blast playing in the huge hammock, that we stayed at the site and enjoyed the scenery and each other's company the whole time. The kitchen was well-equipped and made meal prep and cooking easy, the slackline was fun for the kids and adults, and the campfire was perfect to tell stories and toast marshmallows around (sticks are provided) underneath the starry sky at night. We all agreed that it was an amazing experience and we hope to make it an annual trip!

    Bell tents and solar lights
    Amie C.

    We just had the most amazing glamping experience in Cleveland National Forest! Alter experience made everything so easy, we just had to show up with our cooler and clothes! EVERYTHING was set up and ready. Solar lights made getting around the camp at night easy and safe. The tents were huge and beautifully decorated, and extremely cozy. Mattresses were soft, pillows were perfect, and everything was extremely clean. The kitchen tent had everything we needed to prepare and cook! Coffee, tea, French press, seasonings, cookware, and so much more. Teens had a blast, playing instruments, laying in the tree hammocks, chilling in the tree tent, and connecting with each other and nature. Our camp host, Rami, definitely made us feel like family and made sure all our needs were met. The electric bicycles were amazing and fun to cruise around the campground effortlessly. Highly recommend! This was definitely an experience of a lifetime!

    Tree tents with one of the bell tents in the background.
    RachelMarie D.

    Such a wonderful experience camping at Lions Den site over the weekend. We have been glamping before and this site and campground is by far our favorite. The kids enjoyed the tree tents and on-site activities, the adults enjoyed the amenities and the expansive tents and campground. The hostess was very warm and welcoming and checked us in and checked in on us the second night to make sure we had all we needed. I highly recommend Alter Experiences. We are already planning our next visit.

    Fox Den
    Shauna H.

    Such a great way to camp/glamp. Everything really was great, the space with all the amenities and the many tables and camp kitchen were so helpful. The kids loved the double decker tree tent. We appreciated the little touches - umbrella over picnic table, lights around the canopies and tents, the condiments & coffee/tea/sugar provided, the toiletries - all very appreciated. The yurt style tents are beautiful inside, just like the pictures. Do continue to dress warmly in cool weather though, while there are heaters in the tents, it's still outdoor camping and the heaters only last so long on the propane tanks. Lots of blankets are provided, as well as towels for the on-site coin operated showers. Anything I thought we ran out of (we didn't, I just didn't look in the right place for the back-up), they were happy to provide to us.

    Bell tent at night
    A A.

    This is one of those places that I almost hesitate to review because I selfishly don't want it to get too popular! I celebrated a milestone birthday at Eagles Nest with my family. Pictures don't do the campsite justice. Unique, comfortable, and well-appointed. They've seriously thought of everything! Shantel was responsive and met at arrival to show us around. She also surprised me with a birthday sign, a beautiful grazing box, and an apple dumpling from Mom's in Julian. Such an amazing experience. 10/10 would recommend.

    Panoramic view of the Deer Peak site!

    Kudos to Shantel and Rami, the creative minds behind Alter Experiences and our wonderful hosts who made sure our stay at the Deer Peak campsite was pleasant and memorable! From the cozy bell tents in the middle of the beautiful Cleveland National Forest to the apple cider scented hand soap (an ode to Julian ) every detail was well thought of and executed to give our family an experience worth remembering. Thank you!

    Girls glamping weekend, Testsile style!

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    Amazing site and even better host! Great service and beautiful nearby hike recommendations.

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    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - Alter Experiences

    Is the campsite near any trails, waterfalls, or places to explore with children?

    Yes! All of our sites are within a few minutes of two of the best trail heads in Mount Laguna, half of them with direct access to the PCT and the other half to the Big Laguna Meadow Trail!

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - Alter Experiences

    My hubby and I also enjoyed renting mountain bikes for the day from our hosts (Shantel and Rami were amazing)!

    Mentioned in 31 reviews

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    Volcan Mountain Preserve - Mountain Lion tracks

    Volcan Mountain Preserve

    4.6(87 reviews)
    7.8 mi

    We tackled Volcan Mountain Trail with an eight-year-old, so we didn't make it the full way but it…read morewas such a nice experience. We also brought along our dog as it is a dog friendly trail as long as your dog is on a leash. The trail starts out pretty steep, but it's well-marked with clear paths throughout. One thing I really loved was all the signage explaining local plant life and animal tracks so it made the hike feel educational and engaging. My kiddo was really into looking at the different animal paw prints. This trail is great for hiking enthusiasts and beginners alike but just know your limits and pace yourself if you're newer to hiking. I would definitely say if it's sunny to make sure you bring plenty of water with you, but there are a lot of shady spots on this trail so that is a nice change from the hikes that are closer to coastal San Diego.

    It's a good hike to pair with a trip to Julian. My husband and I picked up sandwiches in town for a…read morepicnic on the trail. Parked next to the road and knew we were in the right place because of all the other cars. We made our hike a loop as we went up the mountain, taking the 5 Oaks Trail, and then came down using the Vulcan Mountain preserve trail. The 5 Oaks Trail has more of a view. There are a few seats to stop, sit (catch your breath) and enjoy the view. Sadly, we haven't had rain so it wasn't as green as I'm sure it would be on a normal January. Nevertheless, a great hike to work off all the apple pie you eat in Julian.

    Photos
    Volcan Mountain Preserve - Sign at the trailhead

    Sign at the trailhead

    Volcan Mountain Preserve
    Volcan Mountain Preserve

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    Inaja Memorial Park

    Inaja Memorial Park

    4.3(9 reviews)
    8.0 mi

    I was curious to see this trail-park, but didn't know the history till I read the board, (which I…read moreterribly forgot to take a full photo of). It memorializes 11 men that died while digging a fire line on steep canyon - three Forest Service firefighters, seven inmates firefighters & their correctional officer (from the Viejas Honor Camp (prison camp), died at approximately 8:00 PM (part of the blaze looped below their position and overran the crew) The fire, (which was started by arson on November 24, 1956), burned 43,611 acres before containment on the evening of November 28. This is from the National Forest Service Library website. It's has quite a few picnic tables, a couple grills by them but I personally wouldn't want to bbq out there. There are restrooms that are like porta pottys and a short trail (trails) but I didn't walk too far because of my knee. It's a beautiful, peaceful & scenic spot to go to if you live in the area or if you want to add to a pit stop while venturing out here. Main Street in Julian is down from here where you can grab a bite to eat at anyone of the restaurants/cafes.

    A small picnic stop on the way up to Julian. We stopped by…read moreto check out the nature trail and its viewpoint of the Santa Ysabel valley. The small loop trail is only .5 miles and about 15 minutes of hiking. This is a great place to stop and stretch your legs, go to the restroom, and maybe have a picnic before heading up to Julian.. - Restrooms - Views - Parking lot

    Photos
    Inaja Memorial Park
    Inaja Memorial Park
    Inaja Memorial Park

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    Lake Cuyamaca

    Lake Cuyamaca

    3.7(152 reviews)
    1.1 mi

    It's a challenge to find serenity in San Diego county. And even harder within driving distance of…read moredowntown. But then there's Lake Cuyamaca, a hidden gem. I went on a 6 mile hike with my wife around the lake and also through a couple of spurs off the main trail. There's one spot where you can look down into a valley and see where all the water collects. In those moments I try to use my mind's eye to see all sorts of animals running around thousands of years ago.

    I didn't realize how much you could do at Lake Cuyamaca. Look no further if you want a great…read morecampsite with fishing spots and trails scattered around the area! If you're just visiting for the day like us, you'll need to pay for day use which is $10 per car. This fee is waived for campers or if you purchase a fishing permit (which is separate from the California fishing license). We started off at the Tackle Shop where we figured out our day passes and fishing logistics. The worker gave some great recommendations for fishing spots and this is where our group split, with several people fishing and the rest hiking. The Lake Cuyamaca Loop Trail is fairly easy and straightforward. It's about 3 miles total with little to no elevation gain. The trail mostly wraps around the edge of the lake but there was a section through an open field...the lake probably at one point stretched all the way out there but has dried up now. There's only a small section that had shade so for the most part, you'll be exposed to the sun (I got extremely sunburnt). You can use AllTrails if you're worried about getting lost but I thought the trail was pretty clear. We finished the hike in about an hour and just hung out with the rest of our friends fishing. We got lucky and it was such a beautiful day, with clear blue skies. Will definitely be back because I heard you could rent boats to fish off of! Oh and dogs are allowed as long as they're on a leash!

    Photos
    Lake Cuyamaca
    Lake Cuyamaca
    Lake Cuyamaca

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    Santa Ysabel Nature Center - Information on the trail

    Santa Ysabel Nature Center

    4.5(2 reviews)
    9.0 mi

    Great place to visit. The center is full of information and exhibits showing the local plants and…read more wildlife. There are 12 miles of trails with different degrees of difficulty. Some of thrails are very step with long downhills, not good for people with bad knees. Hours of operation are from 8:00am to sunset.

    My friends and I weren't planning to come here but the mission we drove out here to see was…read moreunexpectedly closed today so we stopped by the nature center after a slice of pie. The facility is very clean and seems to be on the newer side, with lots of large windows and central A/C. There's a room with some taxidermy wildlife and informational boards to read about the various types of wildlife and plants in the area. There's a room with a projector and a ton of chairs that is probably used for teaching, but today they were just showing shots of a mountain Lion caught walking by a camera. Out on the patio there are seats and tables, as well as interactive gold panning and archeology installations. We spent some time at them and thought it was cool (as adults) so I'm sure kids love them. Then there's a short nature path you can walk down to get to a limited playground, and there is also stadium-like seating off to the side so maybe they do some sort of show here? Not sure. But that's pretty much it. Less one star because there's not much to see, but everything that is there is nice. There were only three other families we ran into while exploring, so not sure if it was an off hour or if this is typical.

    Photos
    Santa Ysabel Nature Center - View of the parking lot from the center

    View of the parking lot from the center

    Santa Ysabel Nature Center - Caterpillar on the trail

    Caterpillar on the trail

    Santa Ysabel Nature Center - Flowers on the trail

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    Flowers on the trail

    Enjoy the Mountain San Diego

    Enjoy the Mountain San Diego

    4.3(10 reviews)
    13.4 mi

    We had a great time with Emil on a 1 hr ride through rain and snow flurries. The ride was safe,…read morewell paced and super fun. I would recommend wearing some waterproof pants/jacket if you are going during such weather. This is my new favorite activity! Can't wait to do it again.

    I booked this adventure for 2 reasons: (1) to FINALLY get out of the house during this pandemic…read moreespecially since all we have been doing is working and we have been working more than ever since our job is considered 'essential', and (2) celebrate my boyfriends 30th birthday. This was my first time on a quad/ATV and my boyfriend has been riding dirt bikes since he was like 6yrs old. I love being outdoors & going on new adventures, and he loves riding ... so the mixture of those things i came upon this place. For birthdays I love and prefer creating memories instead of giving materialistic gifts. Example: For his 28th birthday I booked us a little personal speed boat in San Diego. Upon arrival check-in was easy, quick, and they gave us hand sanitizer so we felt assured. They had helmets and other PPE lined up and available for us to use, however we had brought our own (riding gloves, riding jerseys, riding DOT certified helmets, and googles) which they allow. Our guide Jorge was funny and very easy going. The ride overall was really fun!! During our ride our guide also took pictures of us and he took some awesome ones with amazing backdrops! The only complaint I have was that I only booked us the 1 hour ride. Next time we are doing the 2 hour ride for sure! And maybe the Big Bear location as well.

    Photos
    Enjoy the Mountain San Diego
    Enjoy the Mountain San Diego - Through the rocks

    Through the rocks

    Enjoy the Mountain San Diego - Let's take a break

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    Let's take a break

    Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles - Camp Osito Rancho

    Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles - Camp Osito Rancho

    4.4(14 reviews)
    86.4 mi

    BEST WEDDING VENUE EVER!…read more My husband and I dreamed of a wedding where everyone could stay together onsite, immersed in nature, with no worries about driving after a night of fun, and Camp Osito Rancho made that dream a reality. Our families stayed in the health center, lodge, and electrified cabins, while our friends embraced the adventure of summer cabins and tents. The venue offers so many stunning spaces, from the spacious dining hall for meals to the stage/amphitheater with fire pits--perfect for s'mores and late-night stories. We exchanged vows at the top of a hill near the outdoor pavilion, with a gorgeous backdrop of pine trees and a view of Big Bear Lake in the distance. We were able to offer our guests camp activities like archery and a pool day, as well as had room to setup other activities like craft tables and lawn games. The biggest perk was the complete freedom to choose our own vendors, allowing us to create a truly personalized experience (huge shoutout to Scratch Kitchen for catering--our guests still rave about the food). We spent a year making signs, collecting décor, buying solar lights, and crafting to transform this Girl Scout camp into a full-blown wedding festival. If you're up for planning the details, this venue is the ultimate blank canvas. Last but not least, the Camp Osito Rancho team is absolutely amazing. A huge thanks to Angel for her help throughout the year, Ryan for his help throughout the weekend, and to Gerardo for the tour that sold us from the start. For a wedding that feels like an unforgettable getaway, this place is pure magic

    Amazing camp!! Came with sweet elite Girl Scouts 2020. My daughter canoed, rode horses, zip lined,…read morelearned archery. So many activities. Well worth the work. Beautiful campsite.

    Photos
    Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles - Camp Osito Rancho
    Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles - Camp Osito Rancho
    Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles - Camp Osito Rancho

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    Alter Experiences - campgrounds - Updated May 2026

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