About Us

The La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians has existed here for thousands of years. The campground is located on the south facing foothills of Palomar Mountain. The San Luis Rey River runs through the campground, which is also fed by natural springs.

The La Jolla Indian Reservation was established by Executive Order of the President of the United States, Mr. Ulysses S. Grant, on December 27, 1875. However, The Payómkawichum (Luiseño People) have always been here in this area. The La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians is one of six federally recognized Luiseño Tribes in Southern California. The La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians have always been a strong, resilient and resourceful people. In the early 1930’s, the Tribe established the La Jolla Indian Campground.

The La Jolla Indian Reservation consists of nearly 10,000 acres located at the base of Palomar Mountain in Northern San Diego County, California. Most of the land is undisturbed wilderness and is covered with many native plants and trees such as Sage, Chia, berries and many oak trees for making wiiwish (acorn pudding). There are also game such as deer and rabbit. These plants and game make up a small portion of our traditional food, all of which are still consumed by tribal members today.

The campground is located off of Highway 76 on the La Jolla Indian Reservation. From Escondido drive East  on Valley Parkway to Highway 76. Turn right (East) onto Highway 76 and drive for 8.6 miles. The campground turnoff is on the right-just before the convenience store. Click on link to get directions from Escondido.

If you are driving south on Interstate 15, take the Highway 76 exit and drive East for 24 miles. Click on link to get directions from Temecula. If you are hauling a large RV or trailer, we recommend you take Interstate 15.