The Cleveland National Forest offers a lot of hunting opportunities, as well as the San Diego Backcountry at large. Our outfitters are here to help you plan you hunting trip and navigate hunting territory, rules and regulations. Please be aware that these areas are actively patrolled by rangers and poachers will be prosecuted to the full extend of the law. You must have a valid hunting license and adhere to all hunting laws as prescribed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. We have a zero tolerance policy for poaching and illegal hunting activities.
Hunting is permitted in the Cleveland National Forest in accordance with hunting regulations set forth by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. You can hunt with a firearm in the Cleveland National Forest, in lawful pursuit of game, except within the boundaries of the Laguna Mountain Recreation Area. Only archery hunting is allowed in the boundaries of the Laguna Mountain Recreation Area. Hunting is not allowed anywhere in State Park territory.
The Cleveland National Forest is popular for its abundance of Mule Deer and Turkey hunting. Small game hunting includes; rabbit, squirrel and birds species such as dove and pheasant. Wild hog is another option and seasonal Duck hunting is allowed at Lake Cuyamaca in the winter months by reservation only.
Lake Cuyamaca offers duck hunting that includes; mallards, pintail and widgeon. The lake is open for hunting on Wednesday and Sunday during the season as set by State and Federal regulation.
The majority of birds do not arrive until after December 1 & so hunting is usually held off during the first half of the season. However, if fall rains and the arrival of enough ducks warrants the opening of the East Lake during the first half, they usually do so.
Management will initially place seven double blinds for the use of season members. Season members are accepted on a first come / first serve basis with payment of the $550 fee. Payment guarantees the member and a guest the use of the blind a minimum of six times during the season. Additional opportunities may develop if we get early rains and can open up the East Lake. Management will assign actual dates as soon as the season membership list is complete. A drawing will be held and dates and blinds will be assigned on a rotational basis. Register early as membership is limited.
We are very fortunate for the abundance of wildlife in the area and please be respectful and show consideration while hunting these regions.
We offer very unique blinds and hunting base camps using our camouflaged tree tents. Our comfortable, light and tactical tree tents can be staged in the trees and bring a whole new dimension to the hunting experience.
