Middle Lion Campground

The numbers that decide it

Site-level detail from Recreation.gov, checked 2026-08-05. Where a field says “not published”, the agency has not published it — it does not mean zero. See it on Recreation.gov

Middle Lion Campground

Middle Lion Campground is surrounded by chaparral covered mountains, shaded by cottonwood trees and is next to a peaceful stream. Facilities: Middle Lion has eight campsites. 6 sites are by reservation and 2 sites are first-come, first-served. They are located along a single loop, close to a creek. Tables, barbecue grills and/or fire rings are provided in each site. There is a vault toilet in the campground. There is no drinking water at this site. You need to bring your own water. Points of Interest: Middle Lion Campground is particularly beautiful in the fall. As the trees change color, you will find yourself surrounded by vibrant yellow hues! If you enjoy hiking there are several trails for you to choose from near the campground. The Lion Canyon Trail (22W06) starts at the back of the campground. After 1.3 miles you will reach the Rose Lion Connector Trail (22W16) on the right. After 0.6 miles you can take side trails to East Fork Lion Camp, which is within the Sespe Wilderness, or West Fork Lion Camp. The main trail continues 3.6 miles to Nordhoff Ridge for spectacular views. No mountain bikes are allowed in the wilderness. One mile away on the Rose Valley Road (6N31) is the Piedra Blanca trailhead where are three trails to explore. All three trails are located across Sespe Creek. The Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca National Recreation Trail (22W03) in the Sespe Wilderness will lead you to nearby massive white rocks, called Piedra Blanca! It is an easy walk for the first three miles. Another trail, the Sespe River Trail (20W13) will lead you downstream into the Sespe Wilderness. You will find some swimming holes along this walk. Remember, no mountain bicycles allowed on wilderness trails. If you would like to go on a mountain bicycle ride, take the Middle Sespe Trail (22W04) that leads up river 8 miles to the west to Middle Sespe Trailhead. Fire Use: Middle Lion Campground is a "Campfire Use Site." Campfires are normally permitted year around without a California Campfire Use Permit. Under some conditions, wood fires and barbecues may be prohibited in all areas of the national forest. Fires at Middle Lion Campground are only permitted in fire rings provided by the Forest Service. The Middle Lion Campground is no longer an Adventure Pass campground. This site is managed by the Parks Management for the Forest Service. $30/night for camping, $10 per extra vehicle.

Before you go