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U.S. Forest Service · CA

Cedar Creek Falls

High-demand San Diego-area waterfall day hike in the San Diego River Gorge with a daily permit cap; permits released a year out and often sell out.

Permit requireddayUseModerate to Strenuous6 mi1,800 ft gain
Access requirement

How to get a permit

2026 Cedar Creek Falls day-use reservationTimed release

Permits for the next calendar year are released on December 1 of the previous year; permits are limited and often sell out. Verify current release timing on Recreation.gov. Trip window: Year-round day-use; best in spring and fall.

Apply on official siteNot verified · Jun 22, 2026Available this season
Permit rules
QuotaOnly 75 permits are issued per day; permits are not sold on-site and there is no cell service at the trailhead, so permits must be reserved and downloaded in advance.
GroupPermit holder plus up to 4 additional members (maximum 5 people per permit).
Fees$6.00 non-refundable reservation fee per permit (covers up to 5 people).
TransferAll members must be listed on the permit; carry government-issued photo ID.
SafetyNo cell service at the site; carry ample water as heat illness is common. Cliff climbing, jumping, and diving are prohibited, and high-temperature closures may be issued by the District Ranger.
Where to stay

Campgrounds nearby

Official campground records near this destination. Availability is labeled with the source actually checked.

EL PRADO GROUP

17.8 miles away · CA · 5 sites

Availability not checked

Reservable

Availability: Unavailable

LAGUNA

18.3 miles away · CA · 97 sites

Availability not checked

Reservable

Availability: Unavailable

HORSE HEAVEN GROUP

18.6 miles away · CA · 3 sites

Availability not checked

Reservable

Availability: Unavailable

WOODED HILL GROUP

20.1 miles away · CA · 1 sites

Availability not checked

Reservable

Availability: Unavailable