Parks
15 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Wells Park1.2 mi from downtown
- Renette Park0.8 mi from downtown
- Bostonia Park2 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in El Cajon
4 kinds of free outings in and around El Cajon.
Good days out in El Cajon don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- El Cajon Library201 E. Douglas Ave
- Fletcher Hills Library576 Garfield Ave.
- Rancho San Diego Library11555 Via Rancho San Diego
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Cabrillo National Monument18 mi southwest
- Cleveland National Forest19 mi east
- Corral Canyon Campground23 mi east
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge14 mi southwest
- Otay Mountain Wilderness16 mi southeast
- Cabrillo National Monument18 mi southwest
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
More info on this cute garden in El Cajon ⬇️ Currently 50% off for Museum Month! There’s animals,
An activity Short shared by San Diego Mamas.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Boardwalk Arcade in San Diego County, California
An activity Short shared by San Diego MicroTours.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in El Cajon?
Parks, Libraries, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in El Cajon this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.