Waterfall Hikes Near San Marcos, CA
within 50 miles
Looking for the best waterfalls to hike near San Marcos? There are 7 waterfall hiking trails within a 50-mile radius of San Marcos. These trails range from easy to moderate difficulty, providing options for both casual hikers and experienced adventurers looking to explore the region's natural beauty.
Map of Waterfalls Near San Marcos
Today's Conditions
Live data from USGS gauges & National Weather Service
Water Flow
7 waterfalls near San Marcos have live flow data today
Updated about 1 hour ago via USGS
Best Day to Hike
Saturday
Mostly Sunny · 79°F
Flowing best right now near San Marcos
Updated about 1 hour agoRanked by live stream-gauge flow versus each waterfall's seasonal normal.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near San Marcos hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Find waterfalls to hike near San Marcos
Have your own travel site? Embed these waterfalls for free.
🚗 Easy Waterfall Hikes Near San Marcos (1 waterfall)
Easy access waterfalls are drive-up or short-walk friendly. Perfect for families, casual visitors, or anyone who loves waterfalls but is "so-so" about hiking.
🐕 Dog-Friendly Waterfall Hikes Around San Marcos (3 waterfalls)
Bring your four-legged friend along! These waterfalls welcome dogs on their trails.
All 7 Waterfalls Near San Marcos
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Near San Marcos
Are there easy waterfall hikes near San Marcos?
There is 1 easy waterfall hike near San Marcos, including Green Valley Falls.
Are there dog friendly waterfalls in San Marcos?
There are 3 dog-friendly waterfalls near San Marcos, including Cedar Creek Falls.
Are there kid-friendly waterfalls near San Marcos?
There are 3 kid-friendly waterfalls near San Marcos, including Green Valley Falls.
Can you swim in any waterfalls near San Marcos?
There are 2 waterfalls that allow swimming near San Marcos, including Cedar Creek Falls.
What is the shortest waterfall hike near San Marcos?
The shortest waterfall hike near San Marcos is Cedar Creek Falls at 1.5 miles round trip.
How tall are the waterfalls near San Marcos?
The tallest waterfall near San Marcos is Cedar Creek Falls at 80 feet.
Do any waterfalls near San Marcos require permits?
Yes, 1 waterfall near San Marcos requires a permit. Check individual trail pages for current permit details.
Can I camp near the waterfalls around San Marcos?
Yes, 7 waterfalls near San Marcos have nearby campgrounds.
What is the closest waterfall to San Marcos?
The closest waterfall to San Marcos is Washtub Falls, approximately 18.2 miles away.
🏙️ Other Cities Near San Marcos With Waterfalls
Nearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near San Marcos, California
Agua Tibia Spring
Agua Tibia Spring emerges at 92°F (33°C) near Rainbow in San Diego's foothills, where the name aptly means warm water in Spanis...
Temecula Hot Springs
Temecula Hot Springs emerges at 116°F in Riverside County's warm inland valleys, with remarkably alkaline chemistry (pH 9.1) re...
De Luz Warm Springs
De Luz Warm Springs emerges at 85°F from the rolling hills of northern San Diego County near Fallbrook, where water surfaces ju...
Murrietta Hot Springs
Murrietta Hot Springs flows at a dramatic 132°F (56°C) in Riverside County—68 degrees above ambient air temperature—with high s...
Warner Hot Spring
Warner Hot Springs reaches 138°F in the mountains northeast of San Diego, among California's hottest documented springs. Sittin...
Wrenden Hot Sprs, Elsinore Hot Sprs
Wrenden Hot Springs flows at 125 degrees Fahrenheit virtually roadside in Riverside County, making it one of Southern Californi...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near San Marcos, California on SoakingSprings.
Explore California springsWhere to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.