Most of the camping I've ever done has been at least a few hours away from home. I've never aimed my eyes close by when looking for a destination, but when the time came to have a quick, leave after work on friday, one night camp trip, I began searching close by our home in Corona and settled on going to Blue Jay Campground located in the Cleveland National Forest a few miles off of Ortega Highway on the North Main Divide Road. I had heard of and read about Blue Jay before, but had talked to no one who had actually been there before (my dad took me once when I was 8 or so, but I don't recall the event). Despite the uncertainties going into the trip, Blue Jay ended up being a great choice. We found the quiet and relaxation I love about camping in remote areas close by home, which only makes me want to explore the Ortega Corridor further.
 |
| Prepping the camp gear a few hours before leaving Friday afternoon. |
 |
| After finding a site and setting up camp, we were treated to an exceptional sunset. |
 |
| Our home for the previous night shortly after sunrise. |
 |
| Because of its location on the edge of a valley, our site had a view and no neighbors: exactly what we like. |
 |
| Somewhere on the San Juan Trail heading south out of the campground on our morning hike. |
 |
| Trail head for Falcon Trail, which runs north out of the campground. |
 |
| A view along Falcon Trail of the sprawling valleys and mountainsides. |
 |
| The morning was ideal for strolling through the surrounding meadows dotted with Oak and Pine trees. |
 |
| It's the little details that matter. |
 |
| The three of us, along with a jug of water in hand. |
 |
| A friendly reminder. |
