Thousand Trails Pio Pico: A Stop Between Campuses and Commitments
Thousand Trails Pio Pico: A Stop Between Campuses and Commitments
After visiting Cal Poly Pomona, my son and I made our way to Thousand Trails Pio Pico—a quiet campground nestled in the hills near Jamul. It was our first time staying there, and it became a gentle pause before the next day’s visits to UC San Diego and San Diego State.
I planned to explore San Diego more thoroughly, but my son—ever committed to his running practices—asked if we could head home early. His discipline reminded me that sometimes the most meaningful journeys are the ones we choose to return to. Thankfully, our annual Cabin Pass gave us the flexibility to cancel a night without stress. That kind of grace in planning is a gift.
🏡Cabin Comforts
We were assigned the very first cabin near the entryway, which made settling in simple and convenient. Inside, the space was cozy and functional: wood‑paneled walls, a compact kitchenette, and a porch perfect for quiet reflection.
The cabin’s simplicity—just enough space, just enough comfort—was a reminder that rest doesn’t need excess.
🏃Running Free in the Campground
Though he missed formal practice, he didn’t miss movement. He ran through the campground —gravel paths and open fields.
Together, we explored the pool, children’s park, and the billiards/game room.
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Billiard/Game Room |
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🚗A Detour Worth Laughing About
I studied the route out of the campground the night before—just in case. But with spotty connectivity and a slow-loading Google Maps, we ended up heading toward Mexico instead of northbound. Pio Pico really is that close to the border. A little adventure to cap off a meaningful trip.
✨A Sacred Interlude
This wasn’t just a stop—it was a sacred interlude. A moment between milestones. A chance to breathe before the next big step. We prayed. We laughed. We talked about college, courage, and calling.
🌿Final Thoughts
If you’re traveling with a teen on the cusp of something big, I can’t recommend Pio Pico enough. It’s not flashy, but it’s faithful. It gave us space to move, rest, and remember what matters most—even when that meant changing plans to honor a deeper commitment.
And one of my favorite memories? Walking with my son under the stars and the moon. The quiet night sky reminded us that even in transitions, there’s beauty worth pausing for.
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