This last weekend we wanted a quick getaway and we found the perfect spot just off the Ortega Highway at a place called Blue Jay Campground. There are several little campsites along the highway and this is known for being one of the better ones. It is a little gem.

Blue Jay Campground

We were glad that they had availability last minute unlike some of the other well known camping spots in SoCal. We were celebrating a friends birthday and it was on the top of her list to be able to have campfire. After all, what’s camping without a campfire?!?! Even with the severe drought SoCal is having you are still allowed to have a contained fire in the pits provided.

We found two spots side by side that were perfect. Spots 38 & 39. There was ample room and lots of shade. It was very hot and the shade was welcoming and there was even a breeze! Some cold drinks and we could’t be happier.

The bathroom was only a short walk from our campsite and they were relatively clean. Please note that the bathroom does not have lights so you will need to bring your own light if you’ve gotta go in the middle of the night.

This place is very short distance from Hell’s Kitchen (a biker lunch spot) and a little store/deli. So if you’ve forgotten a few items this little store is not too far away to pick up what you need. We happened to make a stop there for a sandwich and met a local name Henry and his dog Sadie. Both were very friendly and made our stop there memorable.

Birthday Fun!

We enjoyed cooking some carne asada, hot dogs and burgers on the grill that the site had. The grates were a little far apart and we lost some precious meat, so we also used our Coleman grill. We also made sure to bring some birthday cake and candles for our birthday girl, Jessica.

There was an amazing sunset with the prettiest shades of orange. Once the sunset – the full moon was out and lit our whole campsite. Perfect for a midnight hike, but we decided to just enjoy the fire.

The next morning we enjoyed eating some scrambled eggs along with the left over meat from the previous night in a breakfast burrito. Yummy! Definitely a good time with good friends.