Camp Christmas Expands Festive Offerings For 5th Season In San Diego's East County

PINE VALLEY, CA — Camp Christmas is lighting the campfire for its fun-filled holiday festival in San Diego's East County.

The fifth annual event in Pine Valley features all the lights and sounds of the holiday season in one place, from a colorful dancing water show to holiday photo ops, train rides, winter hayrides and more. Tickets are now on sale for the 19-night season, which opens Friday.

With a variety of family-friendly activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Camp Christmas, according to Curtis Kauffman, the event's director.

"Whether you want to take in the sights and sounds with the kids singalong show, or play laser tag, there's something for the entire family," he told Patch. "The perfect evening of playing some carnival games on the Merry Midway and finishing the night with s'mores by the fire."

Camp Christmas made its debut in 2021. Kauffman said the location makes the festive event special.

The altitude at Camp Christmas is 4,000 feet and the evenings can be chilly. Warm clothing such as winter jackets, snow hats, scarves and gloves are recommended.

"Where else can you go in San Diego to get a hayride, train ride, axe throwing, and so much more — all at the same time — and in a festive, chilly outdoor environment," Kauffman said. "Crisp, clean mountain air!"

Admission includes a variety of attractions, including a festive light show, a dancing water show, train rides, winter hayrides, a bow and arrow arcade, bounce houses, a game room, a children's playground, a holiday theater featuring live entertainment, "Sappy," The Talking Christmas Tree, a nativity scene, and a holiday photo booth.

For an additional fee, attendees can enjoy laser tag, a tree top climbing wall and face painting.

This year Camp Christmas is also offering axe throwing, a circus-themed Merry Midway and a Camp Christmas raffle. Additionally, the festival boasts a Sugar Shack, and multiple dining options, including a new hot dog cart.

"New this year, we have axe throwing and the addition of the Merry Midway, which includes a variety of classic carnival games, as well as a robust raffle with fantastic prizes ranging from $500 to $3,000," Kauffman said. "Also new this year, a New York-style hot dog cart to compliment the array of food options."

Camp Christmas runs Friday through Sunday for back-to-back weekends, Nov. 21 through Dec. 14, then Dec. 17-23. The event is open from 5:30 to 9 p.m.

November ticket prices are $15 for adults and children 16 and older, and $10 for children 5 to 15 years old. December ticket prices increase to $17 for adults and children 16 and older, and $12 for children 5 to 15 years old.

Kids 4 and younger are free. There is a military discount of $2 per ticket that is available at the door. Parking is $10 per car.

Camp Christmas is located at 8668 Pine Creek Road in Pine Valley.