Ramona Trail Backpack

Cappie’s Scoop: Do you like sleeping in a tent? I do because it means I get to snuggle with mom and I really needed to snuggle with her on this trip. The hike to the campground started off sunny with blue skies but then the clouds rolled in. It was very windy and chilly. We got to camp and mom quickly setup our tent and after that we ate some dinner. The clouds started rolling into camp with some mist which looked cool but we thought it’s a good time to jump into the tent to stay warm. Mom packed my jacket, sleeping bag and an extra blanket. I was very warm. During the night we listened to the howling winds through the trees and couldn’t wait until the sun came up to defrost us. The low was expected to be 37 degrees. Glad it didn’t snow! In the morning we had breakfast at our campsite that had a picnic table. Then I chased my friends Copper and Bindi around camp and we hunted in the grass a bit for lizards and sticks. After that we packed up and hiked back to our cars. It was a fun trip and I didn’t want to go home yet! Don’t hesitate to add YOUR scoop in the comments below!

Tips: There are a few campsites in the area, the Toolbox Springs Yellow Post Sites and a few spots up further on Thomas Mountain. There was an unlocked bathroom with vault toilets near the yellow post sites along with fire rings and picnic tables. Remember to pack it out because there is no trash service. Also all sites are first-come, first-served. This is a great training backpack too especially if you’re planning for a multi-day trip.

Directions: From I-15 North, take the CA-79 S/Temecula Parkway exit and go 42.7 miles. Turn left onto CA-371 E and go 20.7 miles. Then turn left onto CA-74 W and about 4.4 miles up the road on your left is the turn for the trailhead. If you’re not a backpacker, about 1.5 miles from the Ramona Trail trailhead, there is a turnoff for Forest Road 6S13 that leads to Thomas Mountain (33.604049, -116.618583). It’s an 8 mile drive on a dirt road and the Tool Box Springs Campground is on the way before you reach Thomas Mountain. You can car camp instead and it’s still free!

Planning a Backpack – April 2021 Newsletter Special Issue