By Mimi Pollack

July 4, 2025 (Ramona) --  A nice place to retreat from the hustle and bustle of San Diego and escape to the countryside is Ramona, especially when you are walking around and enjoying the lavender fields at the new Camel Valley Lavender Farm on Old Julian Highway.

It is next to the Oasis Camel Dairy and getting to see many of the 21 camels that live there is an added bonus!

Gil Riegler founded Oasis Camel Dairy twenty years ago with his wife, Nancy. They opened up Camel Valley Lavender last year.

According to the website, Camel Valley Lavender gets its name from its spectacular view.  Camels graze on their native grass pasture while beautiful views of the Santa Ysabel mountains rise in the background, making the lavender fields a serene experience.