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Camp Cajon
Camp Cajon was a rest stop located near the Cajon Pass in Southern California, and it was built in 1919. Back in the day, it was a popular spot for people driving into the Los Angeles area. The camp was a place where travelers could take a break, grab some supplies, and enjoy the beautiful mountain views as they made their way through the tough terrain of the San Bernardino Mountains.
Camp Cajon was important because it represented the early days of road trips when more and more people were starting to explore the country by car. It had picnic areas, a small store, and even a monument to honor the pioneers who had traveled through the area before there were good roads.
Sadly, in 1938, a big flood destroyed Camp Cajon, and it was never rebuilt. Even though the camp is gone, its memory still reminds us of the early days of road travel and how crucial the Cajon Pass has always been for getting around Southern California. Today, the area where Camp Cajon used to be is part of a major transportation route.
Camp Cajon Dedication
The Overland Trail
The Flag
Out Where the West Begins
Just California
"One of the finest public camps in the West."
Camp Cajon picnic area and campground was developed by William H. Bristol between 1919 and 1921 along National Old Trails Road in Cajon Pass (in the vicinity of present-day intersection of Interstate 15 and Highway 138). It served as a welcome station for motorists entering the San Bernardino Valley, and included numerous round concrete picnic tables, as well as stone stoves and fire pits. A flood washed out the picnic area in 1938.
Map circa 1915
Map 2022