Descanso Real Estate

Welcome to Descanso, a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque mountains of San Diego County, California. This charming small town, located just 30 miles east of downtown San Diego, offers a delightful blend of rustic charm and natural beauty, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility and a connection to nature.

Descanso is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the majestic Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and the Cleveland National Forest, providing residents and visitors alike with endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails weave through the area, offering breathtaking views and a chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna. The nearby Lake Cuyamaca is perfect for fishing, picnicking, and enjoying a serene day by the water.

The town itself exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere, with a close-knit community that values its rich history and vibrant culture. Local shops and eateries reflect the town's character, offering unique finds and delicious dining options that highlight the flavors of the region. Don’t miss the annual Descanso Days celebration, where residents come together to celebrate their community spirit with fun activities and festivities.

For those who appreciate a slower pace of life without sacrificing access to urban amenities, Descanso is the perfect choice. With its beautiful landscapes, friendly community, and proximity to San Diego's attractions, this quaint town truly embodies the best of Southern California living. Whether you’re looking to buy a charming cabin or a sprawling ranch, Descanso awaits with open arms and endless possibilities.

Newest Listings in Descanso

$649,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ PTP2606432 MLS

Tucked along the banks of the Sweetwater River, this cedar-sided mountain retreat delivers the cozy cabin lifestyle backcountry San Diego is known for. Freshly re-roofed and wrapped in warm cedar siding, the 1,344 sq ft home sits on a private 0.72-acre parcel (2 parcels included 4090210100 & 4090212200) in the Bohemia subdivision of Descanso, just minutes from Alpine and the I-8 corridor. Step inside to a living room anchored by a wood-burning fireplace the kind of feature that makes this place feel like a true cabin getaway rather than just another house in the mountains. The floor plan offers 2 bedrooms and 2 baths per tax records, plus a versatile office currently used as a third bedroom, giving flexibility for guests, family, or a work-from-home setup. Outside, two additional structures round out the property envision an ADU, detached office, studio, or simply a shaded outdoor hangout space surrounded by oak and sycamore. The home is served by its own working well, and the wraparound deck and river frontage make it easy to see why the same owners have loved calling this place home for nearly three decades. A rare opportunity to own a slice of San Diego mountains with privacy, and room to grow. Some photos have been staged or altered to show the possibilities of the additional structures and outdoor spaces. ****Showings are to be confirmed by LA. Please schedule in showing time. Showings to only be held on Saturdays 10am - 1pm. Contact LA for questions. SHOWINGS MAY OVERLAP DURING THIS PERIOD.**** Tucked along the banks of the Sweetwater River, this cedar-sided mountain retreat delivers the cozy cabin lifestyle backcountry San Diego is known for. Freshly re-roofed and wrapped in warm cedar siding, the 1,344 sq ft home sits on a private 0.72-acre parcel (2 parcels included 4090210100 & 4090212200) in the Bohemia subdivision of Descanso, just minutes from Alpine and the I-8 corridor. Step inside to a living room anchored by a wood-burning fireplace the kind of feature that makes this place feel like a true cabin getaway rather than just another house in the mountains. The floor plan offers 2 bedrooms and 2 baths per tax records, plus a versatile office currently used as a third bedroom, giving flexibility for guests, family, or a work-from-home setup. Outside, two additional structures round out the property envision an ADU, detached office, studio, or simply a shaded outdoor hangout space surrounded by oak and sycamore. The home is served by its own working well, and the wraparound deck and river frontage make it easy to see why the same owners have loved calling this place home for nearly three decades. A rare opportunity to own a slice of San Diego mountains with privacy, and room to grow. Some photos have been staged or altered to show the possibilities of the additional structures and outdoor spaces. ****Showings are to be confirmed by LA. Please schedule in showing time. Showings to only be held on Saturdays 10am - 1pm. Contact LA for questions. SHOWINGS MAY OVERLAP DURING THIS PERIOD.****

8314 Old Hwy 80, Descanso

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Garrin Fuller (619-540-7752) from Listing Office: Serhant California Inc.

$649,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ PTP2606267 MLS

Enjoy your own private retreat where gorgeous views, and modern comforts, like paid solar and a whole house water filtration system come together in a lovely 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home. Descanso provides the best of both worlds: far enough away to truly feel like you've gotten away from everything, yet close enough to make everyday commuting a breeze. Inside, the home offers comfortable living spaces along with a cozy fireplace, laundry room and AC mini split unit. Step outside and enjoy the ever-changing scenery, peaceful mornings, and dedicated RV parking! Set against sweeping views of the hills and open meadows to the west and south, this is a setting that is hard to find. If you're looking for a home where you can slow down and reconnect with nature, without giving up convenience, this property is a rare opportunity. Enjoy your own private retreat where gorgeous views, and modern comforts, like paid solar and a whole house water filtration system come together in a lovely 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home. Descanso provides the best of both worlds: far enough away to truly feel like you've gotten away from everything, yet close enough to make everyday commuting a breeze. Inside, the home offers comfortable living spaces along with a cozy fireplace, laundry room and AC mini split unit. Step outside and enjoy the ever-changing scenery, peaceful mornings, and dedicated RV parking! Set against sweeping views of the hills and open meadows to the west and south, this is a setting that is hard to find. If you're looking for a home where you can slow down and reconnect with nature, without giving up convenience, this property is a rare opportunity.

9421 Elm Dr, Descanso

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Katie Larwa (619-787-4639) from Listing Office: United Real Estate San Diego.

$699,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ PTP2606042 MLS

ONE OF A KIND PROPERTY - 100 GALLON PER MINUTE WELL, BEAUTIFUL NATIONAL FOREST FRONTAGE, THREE BEDROOM TWO BATH NEWER HOME AND ADDITIONAL BUILDING SITES. PRIVATE COMPOUND PROPERTY IDEAL FOR ANIMALS, AGRICULTURE AND FAMILIES. Existing home is four years old solar panels, water storage, forced air heat with large 10,000 gallon storage tank. All located on the lower pad near the cul de sac entrance. This home was designed to be the additional home to a future, larger custom home that can be built on an upper site with a great view of Cuyamaca Peak. This property cannot be compared to any other available in the Descanso market. It has size, 8.67 acres, with huge well production 100-200 gallons per minute at 300 ft. and beautiful view with privacy. Priced to sell.... ONE OF A KIND PROPERTY - 100 GALLON PER MINUTE WELL, BEAUTIFUL NATIONAL FOREST FRONTAGE, THREE BEDROOM TWO BATH NEWER HOME AND ADDITIONAL BUILDING SITES. PRIVATE COMPOUND PROPERTY IDEAL FOR ANIMALS, AGRICULTURE AND FAMILIES. Existing home is four years old solar panels, water storage, forced air heat with large 10,000 gallon storage tank. All located on the lower pad near the cul de sac entrance. This home was designed to be the additional home to a future, larger custom home that can be built on an upper site with a great view of Cuyamaca Peak. This property cannot be compared to any other available in the Descanso market. It has size, 8.67 acres, with huge well production 100-200 gallons per minute at 300 ft. and beautiful view with privacy. Priced to sell....

23671 Echo Hills Rd, Descanso

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Hang Nguyen (504-261-5625) from Listing Office: San Diego Apartment Brokers In.

$875,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 260019363 MLS

Range Price $799,000-$875,000. Discover the privacy, space, and possibilities of country living in Descanso. Set on approximately 2.56 acres, this spacious residence offers approximately 2,669 square feet, three bedrooms, two-and-one-half bathrooms, and a two-car garage. Built in 1993, the home provides a generous and versatile floor plan with plenty of room for comfortable everyday living, entertaining, working from home, or creating dedicated guest and hobby spaces. The home comes with an all house generator, a fire hydrant and water tank and drip system. The expansive property offers a rare sense of separation and breathing room, with opportunities to design your ideal outdoor lifestyle—whether that includes gardens, recreation areas, additional storage, or space for animals, subject to applicable regulations. Agricultural zoning further enhances the property’s potential. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and relaxed pace of rural San Diego County while owning a substantial home with room to personalize and make your own. This is a unique opportunity for buyers seeking privacy, usable space, and the freedom of a larger property in the scenic community of Descanso.

24286 Sherilton Vly, Descanso

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Mark Pattison (619-777-9092) from Listing Office: eXp Realty of Southern CA.

$239,000

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ PTP2605829 MLS

This is a Forest Service Recreational cabin. If you are looking for that long term recreational cabin, this is it. Set up more as a home than a cabin, this home features a comfortable living room with a rock fireplace with insert, open kitchen, inside laundry and two bedrooms. You're going to love the wonderful patio with native rock walls and huge shading oak trees. Quiet area of the National Forest, walk to the post office and store, public library just around the corner. This is a Forest Service Recreational cabin. If you are looking for that long term recreational cabin, this is it. Set up more as a home than a cabin, this home features a comfortable living room with a rock fireplace with insert, open kitchen, inside laundry and two bedrooms. You're going to love the wonderful patio with native rock walls and huge shading oak trees. Quiet area of the National Forest, walk to the post office and store, public library just around the corner.

9800 Oak Grove Dr, Descanso

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: John Elliott (619-445-5011) from Listing Office: Descanso Real Estate.

$699,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ PTP2605325 MLS

Rare opportunity to own 9.84 acres in the peaceful mountain community of Descanso with 2 residences, sweeping mountain views, and privacy. The property features a 1,607 sqft 2-bedroom, 2.25-bath main residence plus an approx. 592 sqft manufactured home, creating added flexibility. The main home features vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and abundant natural light that bring the surrounding mountain views indoors. An enclosed sunroom provides additional space to relax, work, entertain, or simply enjoy the surrounding scenery year-round. A looped driveway provides convenient access to both residences, with additional parking areas for vehicles, recreational equipment, or guests. The property's mature oak trees and scenic mountain beauty make Descanso such a special place to call home. Property includes a private well with storage tank, septic system, propane service, and SDG&E utilities. Rare opportunity to own 9.84 acres in the peaceful mountain community of Descanso with 2 residences, sweeping mountain views, and privacy. The property features a 1,607 sqft 2-bedroom, 2.25-bath main residence plus an approx. 592 sqft manufactured home, creating added flexibility. The main home features vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and abundant natural light that bring the surrounding mountain views indoors. An enclosed sunroom provides additional space to relax, work, entertain, or simply enjoy the surrounding scenery year-round. A looped driveway provides convenient access to both residences, with additional parking areas for vehicles, recreational equipment, or guests. The property's mature oak trees and scenic mountain beauty make Descanso such a special place to call home. Property includes a private well with storage tank, septic system, propane service, and SDG&E utilities.

12350 Yucca Rd, Descanso

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Rachel Shreve (619-772-1088) from Listing Office: Keller Williams Realty.

$3,200,000

4 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ 260016959 MLS

YOUR PRIVATE LAKE AWAITS — LA MARQUESA Imagine waking to still water, towering oaks, lakefront tullies and birdsong, where the city feels a world away—yet downtown San Diego is approximately 40 miles from your door. Welcome to La Marquesa, an extraordinary 7,117 sq. ft. lakefront estate set on 7+ peaceful acres and one of only two residences privileged with access to this private, stocked lake. Expansive decks overlooking the water and mountains invite quiet mornings, spectacular sunsets and evenings beneath the stars. Inside, four spacious bedroom suites each offer an ensuite bath, complemented by two optional bedrooms, 6 full baths and a powder room. The dramatic great room, grand fireplace and rich English-style pub create an unforgettable setting for entertaining. The generous kitchen features quartz counters, center island, 8-burner Viking range/oven, stainless appliances, abundant cabinetry and Travertine flooring. A sweeping circular staircase, crystal chandelier and distinctive architectural details add timeless character. This is more than a home—it is space to breathe, room to gather and the privacy to truly escape. Properties like La Marquesa rarely come along. Come experience it in person—because photographs can capture the home, but they can't capture the feeling of being here. Views from every room! This is

26440 Old Hwy 80, Descanso

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Greg R Fox Jr. (619-840-9400) from Listing Office: Coldwell Banker West.

$279,000

PTP2605219 MLS

27 acres bordering Cleveland National Forest. Drilled well. Huge oaks. Secluded, quiet, close to riding and hiking trails. Perfect for weekend getaway of homesite. First time on market in over 50 years! 27 acres bordering Cleveland National Forest. Drilled well. Huge oaks. Secluded, quiet, close to riding and hiking trails. Perfect for weekend getaway of homesite. First time on market in over 50 years!

9779 Deer Valley Trl, Descanso

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: John Elliott (619-445-5011) from Listing Office: Descanso Real Estate.

$589,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ PTP2603988 MLS

New. New. New. There isn't much about this single-story, bright 2-bedroom, 2-bath plus den home that isn't new: new appliances, new soft-close kitchen cabinets, new flooring throughout, new kitchen and bathroom sinks, new countertops, new toilets, new vanities, new paint, new doors. At just over 1,000 square feet, this move-in-ready home sits on 0.6 acres in Guatay, CA room for your toys, animals, garden, or simply relaxing under majestic oak trees with your favorite beverage. Easy I-8 access puts you close to everything, while the setting itself feels worlds away. Make it your primary residence, your retreat, or your work from home nest. New. New. New. There isn't much about this single-story, bright 2-bedroom, 2-bath plus den home that isn't new: new appliances, new soft-close kitchen cabinets, new flooring throughout, new kitchen and bathroom sinks, new countertops, new toilets, new vanities, new paint, new doors. At just over 1,000 square feet, this move-in-ready home sits on 0.6 acres in Guatay, CA room for your toys, animals, garden, or simply relaxing under majestic oak trees with your favorite beverage. Easy I-8 access puts you close to everything, while the setting itself feels worlds away. Make it your primary residence, your retreat, or your work from home nest.

27544 Old Hwy 80, Descanso

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: John Elliott (619-445-5011) from Listing Office: Descanso Real Estate.

$295,000

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ NDP2604456 MLS

Privacy and independence! Fully off-grid cabin nestled between great oaks and a year-round stream. Property has two APNs, over half an acre: space for homesteading, animals, and projects. Built in 2015 as 500 sqft with vaulted ceilings and a loft bedroom, permit application and construction started to expand to 725 sqft with 620 sqft of decking. Downstairs consists of two living/family rooms plus a bathroom with rock/tile shower and space for composting/cassette toilet. Indoor staircase under construction. Working outhouse, with septic design for the house approved and perc test complete. Powered by a 2.3 kw solar array, fully owned, with 16-battery bank; NO ELECTRIC BILL! Two more dedicated panels for water heater. 5,000 gal water tank, water delivery available, with scanning and research completed for drilling a well. Satellite internet installed (Viasat). Everything needed for rustic living already in place, with major progress toward modernizing. Seller had to stop mid-project for personal reasons, now yours to finish. All this independence doesn't mean being off the map, though. Just minutes from the I-8 freeway, from Descanso's dining, schools, feed store, and entertainment, hardware store in Guatay, groceries and library in Pine Valley. 2.5 miles to nearest fire station. 25 mins to historic Julian, to fishing and kayaking on Lake Cuyamaca, and to views of the superblooms in Anza-Borrego State Park from Mt. Laguna. Property is priced to sell, comes with all plans for septic, well, and finishing construction, some permit fees already paid. Privacy and independence! Fully off-grid cabin nestled between great oaks and a year-round stream. Property has two APNs, over half an acre: space for homesteading, animals, and projects. Built in 2015 as 500 sqft with vaulted ceilings and a loft bedroom, permit application and construction started to expand to 725 sqft with 620 sqft of decking. Downstairs consists of two living/family rooms plus a bathroom with rock/tile shower and space for composting/cassette toilet. Indoor staircase under construction. Working outhouse, with septic design for the house approved and perc test complete. Powered by a 2.3 kw solar array, fully owned, with 16-battery bank; NO ELECTRIC BILL! Two more dedicated panels for water heater. 5,000 gal water tank, water delivery available, with scanning and research completed for drilling a well. Satellite internet installed (Viasat). Everything needed for rustic living already in place, with major progress toward modernizing. Seller had to stop mid-project for personal reasons, now yours to finish. All this independence doesn't mean being off the map, though. Just minutes from the I-8 freeway, from Descanso's dining, schools, feed store, and entertainment, hardware store in Guatay, groceries and library in Pine Valley. 2.5 miles to nearest fire station. 25 mins to historic Julian, to fishing and kayaking on Lake Cuyamaca, and to views of the superblooms in Anza-Borrego State Park from Mt. Laguna. Property is priced to sell, comes with all plans for septic, well, and finishing construction, some permit fees already paid.

26779 Old Hwy 80, Descanso

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Steven Marshall (760-520-5067) from Listing Office: The Scola Company.

$2,825,000

5 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 260010615 MLS

Most homes greet you at a front door. This one greets you in a courtyard — mature trees overhead, a wood-burning fireplace, the soft movement of water — and asks you to slow down before you’ve even arrived. This is a property designed with intention — where every detail, from the locally sourced wood beams overhead to the alder-trimmed doors and walls of French doors, was chosen to create something that feels less like a house and more like a state of mind. Light moves through the space differently here. So does time. The heart of the home is a chef’s kitchen that flows seamlessly into living, dining, and outdoor spaces — appointed with a walk-in butler’s pantry, and anchored by a handcrafted staircase that connects the home’s generous layout. Four fireplaces add warmth and character throughout. The first floor presents a formal living room, a full guest suite, a private office, and an indoor current pool — a rare amenity that transforms the daily ritual of movement into something genuinely restorative, regardless of the season. Beyond the residence, a detached workshop powered by a 600-amp commercial-grade meter stands ready for any creative or professional endeavor at the highest level. Oversized garages, open land, and thoughtful utility infrastructure support a property built not just for living, but for building something meaningful. The equestrian facilities are equally serious: three stables, two tack rooms, a lighted 100’ x 200’ arena, and a 60’ round pen — a complete, competition-ready setup on land near Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and its 100+ miles of riding trail Thriving oaks, mature fruit trees, owned solar, and 8.56 private acres partly bordered by forest service land complete an estate that is as rare as it is refined. To live here is not simply to own a remarkable property. It is to inhabit a way of life that most people only imagine. Now entertaining offers between $2,825,000 and $2,900,000.

23835 Viejas Grade, Descanso

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Richard J Spiering (619-540-3483) from Listing Office: Compass.

$109,900

PTP2404069 MLS

Nice lots with Oak trees. City water available, power pole on property, perc tests have been done but will need to be updated. There are three separate parcels combining .63 of an acre. Quiet area close to Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. Nice lots with Oak trees. City water available, power pole on property, perc tests have been done but will need to be updated. There are three separate parcels combining .63 of an acre. Quiet area close to Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.

Arrowhead, Descanso

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: John Elliott (619-445-5011) from Listing Office: Descanso Real Estate.

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Listings provided by North Texas Real Estate Information Systems (NTREIS). Listing data has been deemed reliable but is not guaranteed to be accurate by the MLS.

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