💦 Waterfall Plunge Pool
🟡 Moderate $6 per group visitor use permit required (up to 5 people) Reservation Required ⚠️ Safety Note
🌊 About Cedar Creek Falls
A striking waterfall and pool in the San Diego backcountry, reached via a permit-only trail system put in place after past search-and-rescue and safety incidents related to heat exposure and overcrowding.
📋 Visit Details
Entry Fee
$6 per group visitor use permit required (up to 5 people)
Water Temperature
💧 Cool, variable
Best Season
📅 Spring–fall
Water Type
Waterfall & swimming pool
Managed By
San Diego County Parks / US Forest Service (Cleveland NF)
County
San Diego County, California
Access Difficulty
🟡 Moderate
🗺️ Getting There
Address / Access Point:
Cedar Creek Falls Trailhead, 15519 Thornbush Rd, Ramona, CA 92065
Access Notes:
2.5-mile trail down (and back up) a genuinely hot, exposed San Diego backcountry canyon — heat exhaustion is a real risk separate from any water hazard
✅ Before You Go — Checklist
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Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
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Reservation required — book in advance or you may be turned away
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Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
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Bring cash or card for entry: $6 per group visitor use permit required (up to 5 people)
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Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
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Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
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Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace