The best waterfall campgrounds near Camp Pendleton South, California

Looking to pitch your tent near Camp Pendleton South, California and chase waterfalls? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 500 options in the area, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Check out top-rated spots like Diana's Descanso Camp (138 reviews), Bowen Springs Camp Retreat (127 reviews), and Cross Bull Ranch/CBR (96 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities like trash disposal, potable water, and toilets. Plus, you can enjoy activities such as exploring historic sites, hiking, and horseback riding. With an average price of $55 per night and options as low as $5, you're guaranteed a budget-friendly and adventure-filled camping experience.

96% (460)

Top-rated campgrounds near Camp Pendleton South

Looking to pitch your tent near Camp Pendleton South, California and chase waterfalls? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 500 options in the area, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Check out top-rated spots like Diana's Descanso Camp (138 reviews), Bowen Springs Camp Retreat (127 reviews), and Cross Bull Ranch/CBR (96 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities like trash disposal, potable water, and toilets. Plus, you can enjoy activities such as exploring historic sites, hiking, and horseback riding. With an average price of $55 per night and options as low as $5, you're guaranteed a budget-friendly and adventure-filled camping experience.

96% (460)

Top-rated campgrounds near Camp Pendleton South

1. Hidden Falls Preserve

97%

(169)

34mi from Camp Pendleton South · 16 sites · Tents

This secret off-grid getaway on 80 acres provides stunning views at private tent sites with hiking, bird-watching, and wildflower-spotting. Relax in the shade of a eucalyptus grove, enjoy the sun shining over the sage scrub, enjoy the dark night, and find the hidden seasonal waterfalls. A short drive to Temecula, Diamond Valley Lake, and Lake Skinner, our private, scenic campsites offer both serenity and nearby activities including wine tasting, restaurants, hot air balloons, and paragliding. We are 100% off-grid with no hookups or potable water sources (yet), no showers (yet) in the middle of a conservation area. A significant portion of our proceeds goes directly to a local non-profit for habitat restoration efforts and other bird study projects. We hope to attract campers that want an off-the-beaten-path type experience without having to go to the mountains.

2. Svatantria Boutique Retreat

96%

(40)

45mi from Camp Pendleton South · 8 sites · Lodging

Welcome to Svatantria, a serene retreat nestled on 14 acres of enchanting landscape in the charming community of Julian, California. Here, meandering creeks, a tranquil pond, ancient oaks and vibrant native flora and fauna create a haven of natural beauty. Our retreat features four charming cabins and eight picturesque camping areas, ideal for both day-use and extended stays. Each accommodation is thoughtfully equipped with amenities such as BBQ grills, mini-fridges, and bathrooms with invigorating hot showers. Depending on your choice of rental, amenities may be either private or shared. During your visit, immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings by exploring our on-site labyrinth, hiking through the peaceful canyons, dipping your toes in the seasonal creek, or observing the diverse wildlife. Julian has been designated as a national dark sky community, making it a perfect spot for stargazing enthusiasts. Every year between mid-July and the end of August, visitors can view the spectacular Perseid meteor showers, adding an extra touch of magic to your stay. We also invite you to join our yogis for practice on the meditation platform, or unwind to the soothing sounds of a nearby seasonal creek and waterfall. Private and semi-private yoga sessions are available—please contact us for more details. Svatantria honors the Kumeyaay, the First Peoples of this area, who have stewarded the sacred land for more than 1,000 years. As it's current custodians we are are hopeful that you will join us in preserving its beauty, spirit and nurturing essence.

3. San Diego Canyon Creek

95%

(373)

43mi from Camp Pendleton South · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Try out camping without having to rough-it! You can rent the Honeycomb Cabin! Or swing through for a safe place to spend the night in your van, or tent, while taking advantage of San Diego and all it has to offer! So much to be seen or done within 30 miles! You can plan a visit to the World Famous San Diego Zoo, Museums, Sea World, Birch Aquarium, Safari Park, Lego Land and more! San Diego county has wine tasting, breweries, theaters and eateries of all kinds. There are several beaches, mountain lakes, and even the deserts! You can skydive, or scuba dive, go deep sea fishing, or lake fishing, mountain biking, hiking, climbing, or walking the boardwalk! SAN DIEGO CANYON CREEK is a SMALL PATCH of WOODS, NEAR a ROAD, in a NEIGHBORHOOD. In the midst of the trees we have a great view of the stars at night. Harbison Canyon is surrounded by rocky peaks, with a CREEK! We have multiple species of song birds, owls, hawks, and other wildlife that live in this Riparian Habitat. There is a chorus of frogs throughout the spring nights, and crickets year round! It's a very short walk to the neighborhood park- equipped with several types of playground equipment and public creek access, or a five minute drive to a Crestridge Ecological Reserve containing multiple trails. We have three campsites and a cabin on about an acre of land. If you'd like to hang out on the property, we offer a table and chairs with each campsite to lounge in while enjoying the fresh air and nature. There are also a couple of hammocks available. In addition, our SHARED amenities include an outdoor kitchen that includes a sink with hot water, 2 mini fridges,(full at times, extra coolers available) coffee maker, a two burner stove, a griddle, a toaster oven, blender, tea kettle, and a few pans, plates, bowls, cups, and utensils. Also here to SHARE is a Propane fire pit and BBQ area. The bathroom now includes a flush toilet, sink and shower. We are continuously making improvements. Fun Fact: Harbison Canyon was named after John Stewart Harbison - aka the King of the Bee Keepers. He arrived with over one hundred colonies of bees in 1874 and within 7 years he became the world's largest honey producer! Today there are just a few bees in the area.

4. Cleveland National Forest

93%

(83)

436 sites · Descanso, California

Hike, camp, or gaze up at the Milky Way in California’s southernmost national forest.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. San Bernardino National Forest

94%

(151)

863 sites · La Quinta, California

Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

89%

(47)

233 sites · Descanso, California

Summit peaks, visit waterfalls, and beat the SoCal heat at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Public campgrounds near Camp Pendleton South

100%

(4)

Wildomar Campground

25mi from Camp Pendleton South · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

Upper San Juan Campground

26mi from Camp Pendleton South · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

75%

(4)

Dripping Springs Campground

29mi from Camp Pendleton South · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

100%

(3)

El Cariso Campground

29mi from Camp Pendleton South · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

91%

(11)

Blue Jay Campground

30mi from Camp Pendleton South · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

100%

(1)

Falcon Group Campground

30mi from Camp Pendleton South · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

100%

(1)

Crestline Picnic Campground

30mi from Camp Pendleton South · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Cleveland National Forest

Site 5. The brush provides some privacy between sites. There are a lot of ants in this particular site though. I wouldn't recommend a large tent in this area.

50%

(3)

Oak Grove Campground

36mi from Camp Pendleton South · 58 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

Indian Flats Campground

42mi from Camp Pendleton South · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

Tool Box Springs Campground

49mi from Camp Pendleton South · 6 sites · in San Bernardino National Forest

Tool Box Springs Yellow Post Sites

49mi from Camp Pendleton South · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Bernardino National Forest

50%

(5)

Group Camp

49mi from Camp Pendleton South · 1 site · in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Adrian

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Absolutely beautiful property. The scenery was amazing and very quiet. Jordan and Rheanna were very responsive. I plan on coming here again.

Alvaro

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Svatantria Boutique Retreat

We loved spending a weekend at the cabin, with the highlight being lying down on the wood benches by the campfire and look at the stars. The cabin is well equipped with bed pillows a land and a battery to keep your tech things charged up ! Kitchen has cooking items and the bbq makes it easy to cook. Bathroom with hot water and bio toilets are very well thought.

Matt

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

It's always peaceful and beautiful, and the whole campground is obviously a labor of love. We love Dragon's Reach for the solitude and the view.

M

Madison

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Svatantria Boutique Retreat

Me and my partner had a lovely stay at Hellya cabin! We loved this spot especially for its view and quiet atmosphere. Parking was very close and we had a good distance from the other cabins. Keep in mind there are no heaters in this cabin but the building retained heat well at night and was cool during the day. Stuart and Janel’s dogs greeted us as we drove up and after a few barks they greeted us with snuggles! They were great company on our weekend trip. Thank you Stuart and Janel for letting us enjoy your land!

Eric

October 2025

2 nights at Svatantria Boutique Retreat

Location is beautiful, and the hosts have done so much work to make the property attractive and restful. The cabin was perfect for us, but others should know that the structures are very rustic and basic. The bedding and mattress were nice. People should prepare for a more camping-like experience and they will be happy. The kitchen and bathroom would be more useable with a few tweaks, which we will let the hosts know about. Definitely bring flashlights and possibly even your own camp stove if you want to be able to easily boil water. The hike to the cabin really is 5 minutes or less, and you should plan to carry your things over to it. The solar wasn’t functioning at the time of our visit, so we got by with battery packs charged at the house, which is a compromise for the mini-fridge since it can only power it for a little less than 24 hrs.

A

ANDREA

October 2025

2 nights at Svatantria Boutique Retreat

It was so nice and relaxing to be in this space. I stayed in the cabin, Inyaha, and it perfectly suited my needs. There’s another nearby cabin, but it was unoccupied while I was there, so no kids playing in the playground (no shade!)… I was able to cook yummy meals on my stove, and relax amongst the mountain. I’d highly recommend to anyone seeking rest & relaxation.

N

Nathan

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Hidden Falls Preserve

Breathtaking view if you camp at JP. The campgrounds below look amazing too. Some trees to offer shade and very clean and safe campground. Will definitely be returning soon!

J

Joe

September 2025

Weekend Trip to San Diego Canyon Creek

Laura is an excellent host! The site was very well kept, the sounds of nature were relaxing. It’s a very charming cabin. It had every amenity needed, and went above my expectations. Laura was kind to also suggest a spot nearby (Sunrise Highway, Cuyamaca Lake Pub Restaurant, and Old Mining Town) nearby that we went to after departing the cabin and it was a lovely experience. I’m very happy to have stayed here. I really enjoyed cooking here, journaling, and the comfy bed.

S

Samantha

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to San Diego Canyon Creek

Laura is absolutely amazing her campsite is absolutely beautiful she is the sweetest person ever she allowed my mom and aunt help set up and suprised me with my proposal I had no clue that was happening my amazing fiancé planned the whole thing and Laura was more than happy to let that happen on her property it was perfect. We definitely will be back again anytime we are in the San Diego area we will be camping there so peaceful and beautiful at night you can hear the creek water flowing the crickets it’s absolutely amazing all around 100/10

Alexandria

September 2025

3 nights at Svatantria Boutique Retreat

We highly recommend this beautiful site! We had a wonderful long weekend enjoying the cabin/site and Julian area. Our hosts made us feel so welcome and answered all our questions along the way.

R

Richard

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to San Diego Canyon Creek

It was a very nice and peaceful stay. Bathroom and shower were conveniently close. I would definitely return on my next trip to San Diego area

M

Mary-Rose

September 2025

Tent

1 night at San Diego Canyon Creek

Cute little backyard campsite with 4 close-knit sites, each with its own hammock—perfect for stargazing. We stayed at the Hawk’s Nest, which sits above the rest with great sky views (though carrying gear up the steep climb was a mini workout). Shared shower and kitchen had everything we needed—coffee maker, kettle, burner, pans, even “community potatoes.” The driveway is steep, so not ideal for compact cars, but once in, it’s cozy with plenty of nature sounds—crickets, coyotes, roosters at dawn. Earplugs are a must! Summer nights in El Cajon stay hot until late, so plan for that. Best surprise: a new country, LGBT-friendly bar called Neon Moon nearby with karaoke, cocktails, and lawn games. Laura, the host, was incredibly warm and communicative. Only 30 mins from San Diego, it’s a great spot for new campers with just the right mix of amenities and rustic vibes. Would definitely rebook!

Shannon

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Svatantria Boutique Retreat

Beautiful property! Very quiet and relaxing. It is less than 10 min from Julian but felt like you were 100 miles away from any city. Our cabin did not have a kitchen (which I knew) so we brought our Coleman stove. It was perfect. I would definitely go back!

Bekah

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to San Diego Canyon Creek

I loved my experience camping here! Laura was so kind and helpful and took time to show me how to work the propane fire pit. I felt very safe and the instructions were easy to follow - would definitely recommend it!

B

Bailey

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Svatantria Boutique Retreat

My stay here was peaceful! The cabin had everything I needed and surprisingly stayed cool despite the warmer temperatures outside. The property owners dogs were so cute and friendly as well. Overall I would stay again.

Jenifer

August 2025

1 night at San Diego Canyon Creek

Second time staying. It was just as lovely as before.

L

Lea

August 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to San Diego Canyon Creek

Love this spot! Great host, relaxing retreat, clean restroom and very accommodating! Will definitely stay there again!

C

Cristina

August 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at San Diego Canyon Creek

Laura was very understanding and accommodating. She had everything we needed. She was kind, funny and attentive. We were lucky to find her place available!

i

iola

August 2025

2 nights at Svatantria Boutique Retreat

I went to unplug, to reset and be under the stars and in nature. This place hit the sweet spot. Highly satisfied. Highly recommend much gratitude ⭐️

D

Dawn

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to San Diego Canyon Creek

We had a great time at Laura’s cabin. It had everything we needed. Lots of green and shady spots. It was so nice hearing the crickets and frogs at night.