Best Camping in and near San Onofre State Beach

89% (98 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next San Onofre adventure.

Perfect your surfing skills or check out sea life at this popular SoCal beach.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near San Onofre State Beach

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in San Onofre State Beach

89%

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San Mateo Campground

309 sites · RVs, Tents In San Onofre State Beach

89%

(55)

San Onofre Bluffs Campground

162 sites · RVs, Tents In San Onofre State Beach

Top-rated campgrounds near San Onofre State Beach

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Splitrock Farm and Retreat

34 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents101 acres · Fallbrook, CA

About Splitrock Farm and Retreat Far Away, Close to Home For more information... Visit our website www.splitrock.camp Instagram page @splitrockfarmandretreat. Tag your photos #splitrockfarmandretreat #SplitrockFAR #farawayclosetohome Or, contact the Camp Host through Hipcamp direct message or the direct line 760-645-5431. Splitrock Farm and Retreat started in January 2021 after a global search of a place to set roots, live off the land, and create an amazing place for recreation, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Splitrock Farm Splitrock was part of a 160-acre avocado farm that prospered from 1970 to 2017, generating over 1million pounds of avocados per year until the previous owners switched off the water in 2017. Ben purchased 101 acres in 2021 with plans to harvest the dead avocado trees for firewood and replant with organic, sustainable crops such as grapes, citrus trees, and flowers. Splitrock Retreat Splitrock's attraction comes from its unique groves, magnificent granite boulders, and sweeping vistas. Mixed within the avocado groves are several ancient groves and solitary trees that include 200 foot tall pines, hundreds of old oaks, and soaring palms. Freckled throughout the hillsides are thousands of humongous granite boulders, offering a prehistoric feel to the landscape. Above all, Splitrock offers unrivaled views. Over 40 miles of coastline includes views to Point Loma, the Carlsbad power station, and the Pendleton Hospital. To the northeast are views of near 11K foot snowy peaks of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio, with rolling hills of De Luz and Fallbrook in the foreground.

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Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents67 acres · Palomar Mountain, CA

This land has been a community gathering space for the Native's Ceremony and Healing Space for over a thousand years. Feast your eyes upon the Matates and traces of the people that once gathered here so long ago.Upon the mid 1800's we had a Settler named Nate Harrison find this to be the ideal space, and he set up homestead here, and lived an amazing full life. He was to become the first African American to aquire land here in San Diego County, and his homestead remains to this day; studied by archaeology students to this day.Sensitive habitat and magic lies within our gates, and we must approach the mountain as we would any sacred space; with RESPECT.We welcome you to enjoy Nate's land and inspire who you are deep inside your heart.

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(56)

Lakeshore Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lake Elsinore, CA

Enjoy a private lakefront camping area on Lake Elsinore. You will never get tired of the beautiful sunsets, night sky, or all the water-sports on the lake. Historic downtown is just minutes away where you will find restaurants, and stores all within walking distance. Perfect place for a basecamp for nearby hiking, biking, off-roading. Amenities include private dock, potable water, deluxe porta-potty, fire ring, 2 picnic tables(under a 10' x 10' canopy with water mister), and some shady trees🌴

94%

(8)

Native Falls Campground

61 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents25 acres · Temecula, CA

The reimagined Native Falls Campground is conveniently located only minutes from Temecula Valley wine country, yet offers a totally unique and serene lodging experience unlike anything in the area! Our hours are from 9am to 6pm everyday. Check in time starts at noon. Accommodations include fully furnished cabins, RV sites, and tent camping. The campground includes a lake with a waterfall, a sandy beach, lake toys, and catch & release fishing. Additional amenities include a Pickleball Court, shuffleboard, Pool Table, fire pits, picnic tables, hiking trails, and more!

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Bailes Farm

5 sites · Lodging80 acres · Fallbrook, CA

One of the last remaining undeveloped parts of Southern California, De Luz Heights is located adjacent to the Cleveland National Forest, and the Santa Margarita River (just a few miles from the campsite). This 12-month flowing river is the only one in Southern California that has never been altered or dammed by humans, and features a state-managed hiking trail with many water holes along the way with clear, clean water to dip into. On my 80 acres, there are no major roads going through or next to the property. My land is 13 miles from the Pacific ocean and enjoys a relatively mild yearly climate. Giant boulders provide topographical relief and offer platforms from which to enjoy the view of the nearby Santa Margarita Mountains. The valley views are filled with olive and avocado groves, vineyards, and horse ranches. The Camp Pendleton Marine Corps base is nearby, so you might hear some artillery in the distance on some occasions. The campsite embraces all the comforts of "glamping": a hot shower, composting toilet, beds with sheets provided, gas grill with a stovetop, pots and pans, kitchenware, a sink, picnic table, shaded deck, sofa, lounge chairs, and propane fire pit. The basics are provided: toilet paper, paper towels, purified drinking water, towels, sheets, cooking oil, etc. Campers need to bring their own blankets. I've created a network of hiking trails for especially fit hikers looking for a more rigorous hike than the nearby Santa Margarita River Trail. My trails lead through creek beds, over boulders, through rocky crags, with views of the Pacific ocean on a clear day. Hikers on my trails need to wear proper hiking boots with good traction. Sections of my trails will require bouldering with hands and feet. Expect to have fatigued quadriceps, some scrapes, and a sweaty hat brim. The campsite is accessible with a two-wheel drive vehicle; I drive a Kia Forte out there regularly. However, some tips when driving a two-wheel drive car: when going uphill on a dirt road, try to keep some momentum of about 12-15 MPH. If you stop and try to start again, your tires will spin out. If that happens, just reverse down the hill, and try it again with more momentum.

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Campo Nopalito

5 sites · Lodging15 acres · Valley Center, CA

Welcome to Nopalito Farm! We’re so happy you’ve decided to spend some time on this beautiful property! In case you’re interested, here are a few interesting things about our farm. Nopalito Farm has been in operation since late 2014, but the property itself has been a working farm for over 50 years. Lemons and avocados were the primary crops from the 70’s through the 00’s, and are still prominent throughout our 15 acres. Our predecessors then diversified the growing operation by planting a wide range of fruit trees ranging from guavas and passion fruit to peaches and figs. For a decade, hops were grown on 2 acres and were sold to breweries throughout southern California. We’ve since replaced the hop yard with perennial flowers, but continue to cultivate a wide variety of delicious fruits.

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Thundering Hawk Retreat

10 sites · Lodging50 acres · Valley Center, CA

Welcome to our Hipcamp located on a 50-acre flower farm in the heart of Valley Center. As soon as you arrive, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery. The sound of the creek flowing nearby will immediately put you at ease. Our serene setting is the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Our property is bursting with color and nature, thanks to the many types of flowers and plants that we cultivate here. You'll love wandering through the fields and taking in the beauty that surrounds you. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful getaway, our Hipcamp is the perfect place to disconnect and recharge. At night, the stars shine bright overhead, and the peaceful sounds of the creek and wildlife create a calming atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else. Whether you're camping in a tent, staying in a camper, or enjoying one of our glamping bell tents, you'll be able to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our farm. We can't wait to share our little slice of paradise with you! Follow us on Instagram @thunderinghawkretreat

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Horsetel River Retreat

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Fallbrook, CA

Settle in and saddle up for an unforgettable experience that combines the freedom of the road with the serenity of the ranch. We can't wait to welcome you to a piece of paradise! Whether you're seeking relaxation or an adventure, our place offers the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway. Explore the local charm of arts, wineries, festivals, and nearby trails off the beaten path. Bring your horses and have a peaceful place to stay while attending equine events in San Diego County and Temecula. Our ranch provides the perfect base for discovering the unique offerings of this quaint town and rugged terrain. We have direct access to the Santa Margarita River Trails, a three minute drive; which are famous for world-class hiking, mountain biking and horse riding along the last free-flowing river in Southern California. We are also a 20-minute drive to Old Town Temecula, 30-minute drive to the beach in Oceanside and 15-minute drive to the east gate of Camp Pendleton. In 1-2 hours, you can also get to Mount Palomar, Julian, Idyllwild, San Diego, Orange County and other destinations. We offer a camping spot large enough for your own trailer, RV or tents next to our barn. You can also select the add-on for our trailer to be set up and ready for your arrival (this option will appear at checkout). There is an outdoor shower and rustic water closet, as well as water and electric hookups. Please see the site descriptions or inquire for any additional details. Traveling with horses? They have room to stay in our Horsetel too! We have up to 5 stalls available in a covered barn, complete with automatic waterers, feeding mats, wash rack, round pen and fenced pasture. Any horses staying must be in good health and up to date on all vaccines. We can arrange for a trail guide to take you and your horses on the local trails, as well (trails are advanced terrain). **When reserving stalls for your horses, select only one guest for the sites to show as available. Horse stalls may not be booked without owners booking the campsite for the same duration. Boarding is not available.

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Black Canyon Family Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents53 acres · Ramona, CA

A few acres of natural land. There is a seasonal creek running through the area. It's a very quiet area. It's primitive, natural and we love it that way. The creek runs into the Cleveland national forest and down to the Mesa Grande Indian reservation. There is hiking and exploring! Come throw a tent up in one of the two camp sites or a hammock in the trees.. Hike the nature preserves in Santa Ysabel. Go to Wynola enjoy craft beverages, Josie's live music off the 76. Or just enjoy the peacefulness of the forest here and hike and reset your mind. The top 13 are residential, the bottom 40 will be open for exploring, camping, hiking and gardening! We are new homesteaders trying to do things more organically and real free range for our animals. We have a farm on the top 13 acres with cows, pigs, goats, sheep and chickens. More animals will come soon. We will eventually like to offer food from our farm to our guests. That way they can actually see where the food comes from and how ours raised!

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Villa Macala

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Hemet, CA

Book your Spring camping trip now, our most beautiful season! Villa Macala is a 20-acre oasis of detailed landscape, orchards and Southern CA native planting while complimenting the natural rocks and gorgeous views. This master planned 20 acres is a great escape from city life. Come take in the views, enjoy the many hiking trails and rest in the peace, quiet and beauty of Villa Macala. *NOTE: Scroll down to RV/Tent sites to book for a larger tent camping party over 4 people or for a camper van under 14 feet. Overlooking the Hemet Valley with gorgeous panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains, Villa Macala is reminiscent of an Italian Villa. The property landscape includes Olive Orchards throughout, a growing vineyard, fig trees, pomegranate trees and more set in the natural rock landscape. (NOTE: We have tent camp sites only and can accommodate camper vans and truck campers depending on size and which site selected, however we CANNOT accommodate pull behind trailers, pull behind campers or RVs of any kind). Villa Macala is 15 minutes from Diamond Valley Lake where you can enjoy a wildflower trail, fishing or mountain bike trails, museum and water park. It is 20-30 minutes to Pachea Trail and Simpson Park where you can enjoy more great hiking and mountain bike trails. It is also a 30-minute drive to Temecula Wine Country. Enjoy walking the grounds of the 20 acres and taking in the views. We have an outdoor bathroom (please note it is a good walk uphill from the campsites) that campers can use with a shower and small fridge to store your food. We also have a playground with swing set for kids to enjoy. Please bring your own tents. OTHER SUGGESTED ITEMS TO BRING: Your own fire wood, cooking wood, starter material, lighters, utensils, etc. We offer firewood bundles for $7 you can choose to purchase at time of booking or bring cash. Your own cooler to store food close to your site and grill that you need on hand since the small fridge is a good walk from those 2 places. We sell bags of ice for $4. Bring cash if you would like to purchase. Your own camp chairs. Easy up shade. Sunblock, cool clothes. We are closed for the bulk of summer but at times daytime temperatures can reach 90+ even in late spring and early fall. Please bring your own towels for shower use. The towels provided in there are for orchard workers during the week. Thank you! PLEASE NOTE: Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance. Please make sure to select the site you wish to stay at. SITE AVAILABILITY AND OPTIONS: We have 4 Tent Sites available and A Teardrop Trailer Site. All sites have fire-pits and picnic tables. SITE 1: Elderberry Park. This site is for a large group up to 12 people. Chose site 1 for groups larger then 4 people and groups with children. There is shade cover over the picnic table. *This is the only site that can accommodate a camper van. SITE 2: Olive Orchard. This site is located on the perimeter of our olive orchards overlooking the San Jacinto Mountains. This site can fit up to 2 tents and we recommend a maximum of 4 people. SITE 3: Private Corner. This site is in a private far corner of the property. We recommend a maximum of 4 people and have determined that for safety reasons this site is for adults only. If Site 3 is chosen it would require a Polaris Shuttle from the Camp Host down to the site, a car will not be able to go direct. SITE 4: This site is under the Oak Trees and is a very small site suitable only for 1-2 people max. TEARDROP TRAILER SITE: See listing for details. Sleeps 2 comfortably if guests are under 6 feet. *All tent sites can be shown to camp guests for decision and viewing upon arrival unless multiple groups are booked. All sites have either a covered firepit or a wood burning stove and all a picnic table. *We do our best to keep our maximum capacity of 12 campers at one time. FIRES: No fires are to be lit by the campers without verbal consent from property owner and instruction. SEE property owner/camp host upon arrival about what you may use on the property. He will provide instructions. If you have questions prior to check-in, please message us. Bring your own fire wood, starter material, lighters, utensils, etc. TASTINGS: Macala Orchards Olive Oil, Various Jellies and Jams & Pomegranate Juice all made from what we grow are available for tasting upon request. Please let us know prior to arrival if you are interested in a scheduled tasting during your stay! We can provide a tasting only if we have the proper staff during your visit to accommodate. Our products are available for purchase, with or without a tasting. We recommend you bring cash if you are interested. We also take Venmo! Thank you.

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Reid Ranch

5 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Vista, CA

Reid Ranch is located in North County less than 10 miles from the beach. You will have your own site with a private fire pit uniquely placed in the natural Granite rocks. Your experience will be one of a kind. So many activities near by. Close to numerous breweries and great wineries. I have lived in San Diego for over 30 years so I can give recommendations to the best of what San Diego has to offer. Downtown is a 45 minute drive or you have access to the train nearby. We have 2 hold tubs that can be added on that over look the coast. Located in the Mar Vista Valley only eight miles from the Pacific Ocean. We enjoy the best weather in the world. The ocean breeze along with gorgeous sunsets adds to the experience. Our private fire pit nestled in the granite boulders is truly one of a kind. We hope you come experience our slice of heaven for yourself soon.

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Ohana Goat Ranch and Campsite

1 site · RV, Tent41 acres · Fallbrook, CA

Learn more about this land:Shaded and private camping with the most affectionate and friendly goats you will ever meet! Enjoy the mindfulness and peace of just sitting and watching these sweet creatures graze, ruminate and snuggle. You can hike and have a picnic anywhere on our 41 acres of rock gardens and oaks in the hills of Fallbrook. Our resident pack goats Segovia and Lassen will bring your gear!!! There are caves in the rocks and when the spring is flowing there is an underground waterfall! In the evenings you'll be transported to what sounds like a rainforest as the peacocks and toucans of our neighbor Emerald Forest Bird Gardens start singing.Santa Margarita Preserve is just a few miles away. You can go for a hike and dip your feet in the water.Bring your bikes-Road or Gravel. There are greats roads in the area and miles of easements for gravel bikes. Check out @ohana_goat_ranch for more photos and updates to the space.

The best camping near San Onofre State Beach guide

Overview

About

San Onofre State Beach is among the most popular beaches in California, attracting surfers, swimmers, and campers, particularly in the summer months. This state park is spread out over three main areas: the sandstone San Onofre Bluffs, which offer campsites looking out over a swim beach; the San Onofre Surf Beach, which has breaks for surfers of all levels; and the inland San Mateo Campground, which is linked to Surf Beach via a nature trail. San Onofre is also an excellent spot for birdwatching, and it’s not uncommon to spot whales, sea lions, and dolphins swimming just offshore.

Notable campgrounds

Great for off-season camping: San Mateo Campground, just inland from the beach, has tent and RV camping all year long.
Great for watching the sunset: San Onofre Bluffs Campground offers front-row views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access down to the shore.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Campsites can be reserved up to six months in advance on the California State Parks website or over the phone.
Campgrounds tend to fill up fast, particularly on weekends and during the summer, so it's wise to book as early as possible.
San Onofre Bluffs Campground is open seasonally, from mid-May through September, but San Mateo Campground is open year-round.
The maximum permitted length for motorhomes and trailers is 36 feet. There are no hookups at San Onofre Bluffs Campground
If you can’t secure a reservation, look into availability at San Clemente State Beach, a few minutes’ drive up the coast.

When to go

San Onofre State Beach is popular throughout the year, though summer is by far the busiest time, when campgrounds fill quickly. While June can be overcast, the weather is still generally pleasant, and July through September is hot and dry. Winters are too cold to swim, but if you come between December and April, you may get the chance to spot migrating gray whales just off the coast.

Know before you go

There are plenty of spots to pick up groceries and other supplies within a 10-minute drive of the park in San Clemente.

Dogs are allowed in campgrounds, if leashed, but not on the beach or on trails.
Alcohol and smoking is not permitted on trails or on beach areas.
Generators are allowed in the campgrounds, but must be turned off between 8pm and 10am.
Accessible tent and RV/trailer sites, accessible restrooms, and accessible parking spots are available at both campgrounds. A beach wheelchair is also available for visitors to borrow free of charge.