- Waterside Camping
The best lakeside camping near Costa Mesa
97% (294) • 88 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Costa Mesa
Lakeshore Retreat
1. Lakeshore Retreat
95%
(171)
32mi from Costa Mesa · 1 site · Tent, RV
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🌴
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$72
/ night
Cross Bull Ranch/CBR
2. Cross Bull Ranch/CBR
97%
(310)
50mi from Costa Mesa · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
DEAR HIPCAMPER,
"Welcome" To Cross Bull Ranch/CBR Where You Can Unplug & "Disconnect" from Technology & Devices because...WE HAVE A GREAT Connection With Nature HERE ON THE RANCH
In 1926 "A Farmer" Named McDougal Came to CA from Santa Fe, NM in Search of A Better Life for He & His Family. Originally 40 Acres The Farm Provided ALL Produce, Dairy, Poultry & Beef to The Topanga Community via The "General Store" Until The End of WW2 IN 1945 when The American Public were Sold Post Military Chemicals as pesticides & fertilizers. It was Then That "Corporations" began Buying Up Fertile FarmLand, Clear Cutting, Mono-Cropping. Creating Corporate "Grocery Store" Chains DESTROYING "The Family Farm." My Son's Father & I Rescued This Land in 1998. It was Derelict. We were Handed A 1' HIGH FILE FULL OF Building Department "Violations" The Oaks were ALL Dying from Lack Of Fresh Air/Oxygen & Sunshine. We Removed (8) 5 TON DUMPSTERS/40 TONS OF GARBAGE INCLUDING: Cars, Car Parts/Tires, Toilets, Jacuzzi Tubs, Dishware, Newspapers, Utensils++. We Picked Up EVERY Chard of Glass from Broken Beer Bottles, EVERY Bottle Cap, EVERY Cigarette Butt. Which ARE NOT BIODEGRADABLE. It was A "Travesty." And... "A Labor Of Love."
We IMMEDIATELY "Invested" $5000.00 Clearing & Cleaning, "Healing"
The Oaks. With Ropes NOT Spikes. We Bought A Brush Cutter & Cut Down Weeds TALLER THAN ME. At 1st you Couldn't EVEN See The Topography Of The Land.
We Renovated an Existing Trailer Adjacent to The Farm House. The "Treehouse Trailer" as We Affectionately Call It Was Ou Home for 7 Years While I Resolved A 1' High File Of Building Violations, Woke at 5:30AM EVERY MORNING To Direct/General Contract A Crew Of Talented Artisans from San Miguel Allende, Mexico NONE Of Which Spoke English (Soy Boriqua) & Who'd NEVER Built or Renovated A House Before.
In 2009 after Separation, Divorce & Financial Devastation in '09/'10I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This "Dis-Ease" Ended Up Being "A Gift". It Lead me On "The Red Road" To Getting Baptized in The Native American Church in The Lakota Way, Taking "Refuge" in Tibetan Buddhism, Hosting Shaman & Healers from ALL OVER The World in Plant Medicine Ceremonies, Practicing Permaculture & Preparedness, Creating My Own Line Of "Cross Bull Ranch" Non-GMO Organic Food,Becoming A Certified Somatic Healing (Trauma Release) Practitioner &Ordained Minister.Until November of 2019 I had been Hosting Retreats, Workshops, Weddings++ In "Our Home." Until... covid.
Similar to "My Prayer" 10 Yeas Ago Asking "God" To Send Healers Who Needed Land to Support Their Work In Exchange/Barter For me To Receive The Healing I Needed. Again "I Prayed" HARD & Divine InspirationCame To me Similar to "Food Being Medicine," that Pachamama, "Mother Earth" is The MOST Potent Healer. I Decided to "Open Up The Land" To Offer To "Others" to Leave Society & Devices Behind. Ground Themselves. FULLY IMMERSING Themselves, Family & Friends in Nature "Maskless." In Order To Breathe Fresh Air. Filling Their Lungs With Life Sustaining Oxygen & Bathe Themselves in Sunshine which Is A PowerFULL Disinfectant, Recharge "Their Souls" & Stimulating Their Third Eye/"Pineal Gland."Helping Others To Re-Boot & BOOST Their Immune Systems.Which is Of The UTMOST IMPORTANCE "Right Now."
I Am
Lisa Cianci
and...
I AM
Looking Forward To Seeing YOU Here On The Ranch!
Until Then...
Take CareStay Safe
& Well!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$90
/ night
Bonelli Bluffs RV Resort & Campground
3. Bonelli Bluffs RV Resort & Campground
30mi from Costa Mesa
Nestled at the base of the stunning San Gabriel Mountains, Bonelli Bluffs offers a unique escape just 45 minutes east of Los Angeles. This serene campground provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life.
At Bonelli Bluffs, you can immerse yourself in nature without ever leaving the grounds. The campground features a beautiful beach-front park, two sparkling swimming pools, and inviting outdoor fire pits, ensuring that there’s always something to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or engage in various activities, this RV resort has it all.
In addition to the on-site amenities, Bonelli Bluffs is conveniently located near the charming attractions of San Dimas, California. Explore nearby hiking trails, discover local swimming holes, or indulge in delicious meals at nearby restaurants and shops. Experience the beauty of California firsthand at Bonelli Bluffs, where adventure and relaxation await.
Cleveland National Forest
4. Cleveland National Forest
93%
(85)
National forest 93mi from Costa Mesa · 436 sites
Hike, camp, or gaze up at the Milky Way in California’s southernmost national forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Angeles National Forest
5. Angeles National Forest
92%
(228)
National forest 48mi from Costa Mesa · 791 sites
Experience the beauty of nature without having to stray far from Los Angeles.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Launch Pointe
6. Launch Pointe
31mi from Costa Mesa
Launch Pointe stands out as a premier RV camping destination in Southern California, offering a diverse range of seven unique camping spaces tailored to meet every camper's needs. Whether you seek a tranquil retreat, a spacious lawn with stunning lake views, or convenient access to essential amenities, Launch Pointe has it all. In addition to traditional RV sites, guests can enjoy the charm of vintage trailers and cozy yurts, providing a distinctive camping experience.
Families will find plenty of entertainment options, including the impressive Canopy Court playground, designed to be every child's dream. This playground features a variety of climbing structures and play equipment, all situated on a cushioned surface to ensure safety and comfort. Don't forget to explore the newly added splash pad, perfect for cooling off on warm days.
At Launch Pointe, relaxation is key. You can unwind in a hammock beneath the shade of majestic pecan trees or indulge in thrilling water sports by skiing behind a boat. With its beautiful surroundings and numerous outdoor activities, Launch Pointe is the ideal spot for a memorable camping getaway.
San Bernardino National Forest
7. San Bernardino National Forest
94%
(151)
National forest 86mi from Costa Mesa · 863 sites
Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Perris State Recreation Area
8. Lake Perris State Recreation Area
73%
(13)
State park 45mi from Costa Mesa · 409 sites
Hike, climb, swim, or take your boat out on the water at this SoCal reservoir.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
97% (294) • 88 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Costa Mesa
Lakeshore Retreat
1. Lakeshore Retreat
95%
(171)
32mi from Costa Mesa · 1 site · Tent, RV
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🌴
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$72
/ night
Cross Bull Ranch/CBR
2. Cross Bull Ranch/CBR
97%
(310)
50mi from Costa Mesa · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
DEAR HIPCAMPER,
"Welcome" To Cross Bull Ranch/CBR Where You Can Unplug & "Disconnect" from Technology & Devices because...WE HAVE A GREAT Connection With Nature HERE ON THE RANCH
In 1926 "A Farmer" Named McDougal Came to CA from Santa Fe, NM in Search of A Better Life for He & His Family. Originally 40 Acres The Farm Provided ALL Produce, Dairy, Poultry & Beef to The Topanga Community via The "General Store" Until The End of WW2 IN 1945 when The American Public were Sold Post Military Chemicals as pesticides & fertilizers. It was Then That "Corporations" began Buying Up Fertile FarmLand, Clear Cutting, Mono-Cropping. Creating Corporate "Grocery Store" Chains DESTROYING "The Family Farm." My Son's Father & I Rescued This Land in 1998. It was Derelict. We were Handed A 1' HIGH FILE FULL OF Building Department "Violations" The Oaks were ALL Dying from Lack Of Fresh Air/Oxygen & Sunshine. We Removed (8) 5 TON DUMPSTERS/40 TONS OF GARBAGE INCLUDING: Cars, Car Parts/Tires, Toilets, Jacuzzi Tubs, Dishware, Newspapers, Utensils++. We Picked Up EVERY Chard of Glass from Broken Beer Bottles, EVERY Bottle Cap, EVERY Cigarette Butt. Which ARE NOT BIODEGRADABLE. It was A "Travesty." And... "A Labor Of Love."
We IMMEDIATELY "Invested" $5000.00 Clearing & Cleaning, "Healing"
The Oaks. With Ropes NOT Spikes. We Bought A Brush Cutter & Cut Down Weeds TALLER THAN ME. At 1st you Couldn't EVEN See The Topography Of The Land.
We Renovated an Existing Trailer Adjacent to The Farm House. The "Treehouse Trailer" as We Affectionately Call It Was Ou Home for 7 Years While I Resolved A 1' High File Of Building Violations, Woke at 5:30AM EVERY MORNING To Direct/General Contract A Crew Of Talented Artisans from San Miguel Allende, Mexico NONE Of Which Spoke English (Soy Boriqua) & Who'd NEVER Built or Renovated A House Before.
In 2009 after Separation, Divorce & Financial Devastation in '09/'10I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This "Dis-Ease" Ended Up Being "A Gift". It Lead me On "The Red Road" To Getting Baptized in The Native American Church in The Lakota Way, Taking "Refuge" in Tibetan Buddhism, Hosting Shaman & Healers from ALL OVER The World in Plant Medicine Ceremonies, Practicing Permaculture & Preparedness, Creating My Own Line Of "Cross Bull Ranch" Non-GMO Organic Food,Becoming A Certified Somatic Healing (Trauma Release) Practitioner &Ordained Minister.Until November of 2019 I had been Hosting Retreats, Workshops, Weddings++ In "Our Home." Until... covid.
Similar to "My Prayer" 10 Yeas Ago Asking "God" To Send Healers Who Needed Land to Support Their Work In Exchange/Barter For me To Receive The Healing I Needed. Again "I Prayed" HARD & Divine InspirationCame To me Similar to "Food Being Medicine," that Pachamama, "Mother Earth" is The MOST Potent Healer. I Decided to "Open Up The Land" To Offer To "Others" to Leave Society & Devices Behind. Ground Themselves. FULLY IMMERSING Themselves, Family & Friends in Nature "Maskless." In Order To Breathe Fresh Air. Filling Their Lungs With Life Sustaining Oxygen & Bathe Themselves in Sunshine which Is A PowerFULL Disinfectant, Recharge "Their Souls" & Stimulating Their Third Eye/"Pineal Gland."Helping Others To Re-Boot & BOOST Their Immune Systems.Which is Of The UTMOST IMPORTANCE "Right Now."
I Am
Lisa Cianci
and...
I AM
Looking Forward To Seeing YOU Here On The Ranch!
Until Then...
Take CareStay Safe
& Well!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$90
/ night
Bonelli Bluffs RV Resort & Campground
3. Bonelli Bluffs RV Resort & Campground
30mi from Costa Mesa
Nestled at the base of the stunning San Gabriel Mountains, Bonelli Bluffs offers a unique escape just 45 minutes east of Los Angeles. This serene campground provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life.
At Bonelli Bluffs, you can immerse yourself in nature without ever leaving the grounds. The campground features a beautiful beach-front park, two sparkling swimming pools, and inviting outdoor fire pits, ensuring that there’s always something to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or engage in various activities, this RV resort has it all.
In addition to the on-site amenities, Bonelli Bluffs is conveniently located near the charming attractions of San Dimas, California. Explore nearby hiking trails, discover local swimming holes, or indulge in delicious meals at nearby restaurants and shops. Experience the beauty of California firsthand at Bonelli Bluffs, where adventure and relaxation await.
Cleveland National Forest
4. Cleveland National Forest
93%
(85)
National forest 93mi from Costa Mesa · 436 sites
Hike, camp, or gaze up at the Milky Way in California’s southernmost national forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Angeles National Forest
5. Angeles National Forest
92%
(228)
National forest 48mi from Costa Mesa · 791 sites
Experience the beauty of nature without having to stray far from Los Angeles.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Launch Pointe
6. Launch Pointe
31mi from Costa Mesa
Launch Pointe stands out as a premier RV camping destination in Southern California, offering a diverse range of seven unique camping spaces tailored to meet every camper's needs. Whether you seek a tranquil retreat, a spacious lawn with stunning lake views, or convenient access to essential amenities, Launch Pointe has it all. In addition to traditional RV sites, guests can enjoy the charm of vintage trailers and cozy yurts, providing a distinctive camping experience.
Families will find plenty of entertainment options, including the impressive Canopy Court playground, designed to be every child's dream. This playground features a variety of climbing structures and play equipment, all situated on a cushioned surface to ensure safety and comfort. Don't forget to explore the newly added splash pad, perfect for cooling off on warm days.
At Launch Pointe, relaxation is key. You can unwind in a hammock beneath the shade of majestic pecan trees or indulge in thrilling water sports by skiing behind a boat. With its beautiful surroundings and numerous outdoor activities, Launch Pointe is the ideal spot for a memorable camping getaway.
San Bernardino National Forest
7. San Bernardino National Forest
94%
(151)
National forest 86mi from Costa Mesa · 863 sites
Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Perris State Recreation Area
8. Lake Perris State Recreation Area
73%
(13)
State park 45mi from Costa Mesa · 409 sites
Hike, climb, swim, or take your boat out on the water at this SoCal reservoir.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
W
Whitney
2 weeks ago
21 ft campervan
Great Lakeside camping spot! Was very private during the off season and the daily bird, duck and swan action on the lake made the trip feel anchored in nature. Easy and communicative host. Level lot and add ons like fire pit picnic tables solar lights and dock made it a great place to hang!
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f
fiona
February 2026
16 ft car
Beautiful spot with a little creek running thru the property. Lots of nature with birds and frogs singing. Close to a cafe and a restaurant and not too far from shopping, laundry etc. A great getaway.
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Jemma May
February 2026
16 ft pop-up camper
With pets
We loved car camping with our RTT at Ed's land! We decided to camp on the spacious area above the shoreline but it was nice being able to wake up and take a stroll down to the lake. We were aware of the spot being close to the street but didn't realize how close it ended up being. As avid boondockers, we were surprised by how close the street was to the site; however, the traffic noises ultimately became white noise throughout the weekend. It definitely didn't affect my sleep (and I'm absolutely a light sleeper) and putting on earplugs had me sleeping like a baby. It was especially nice being able to wake up so early and walk out onto the shore with a nice cup of coffee. It's also always nice knowing you're just a few minutes away from the city if you've forgotten anything for camp. I highly recommend this spot to first-timers or just anyone looking to get away from city chaos!
See moreA
Alynne
January 2026
Tent
With pets
Was amazing get away! Ed had amazing communication. Will book again.
See moreA
Alex
January 2026
Tent
Group trip
Lake was nice porta potty was clean was a great spot to camp
See morel
lin
December 2025
13 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Beautiful views, had a great time camping on Ed's land. Private dock was a plus
See moreC
Christian
November 2025
Tent
With pets
Once again, we had an awesome stay. Thanks again for everything Ed.
See moreJ
Jeanette
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
Stayed here during Thanksgiving and truly had the most relaxing time. We loved it so much we booked for the spring. Thanks Ed!
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B
Berkay
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
We had an amazing time camping at Ed’s place near Lake Elsinore!
The site was clean, peaceful, and easy to find. The sunset view over the lake was absolutely beautiful, and the stars at night were incredible.
Ed was a great host—he gave clear directions and even checked in to make sure we had everything we needed.
Highly recommend this spot for families or anyone who wants a quiet getaway close to nature.
See moreA
Ariel
November 2025
Tent
Nice property near the lake clean porta potty. Ed is very responsive and a good host.
See moreM
Michael
November 2025
20 ft Class B
With pets
Great spot lake front. The view is fantastic. Like other reviews, it is close to the road. The lights on pergola was a nice touch. I would stay again.
See moreS
Saud
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
The Place is absolutely gorgeous.
Very clean and private with great parking spots for non 4X4 vehicles.
Port potty was clean.
You can park your vehicle on the shore although I wouldn’t advise it for non 4X4 vehicles.
The only con I would say is that it’s so close to the street that you can hear the cars go by but it was okay.
There is everything you need in 5 minute drive radius, so don’t worry if you forget anything.
The host is super friendly and responsive.
Definitely coming back again.
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T
Tanya
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
Beautiful sunrises & sunsets! Enjoyed watching the birds around the lake.
See moreT
Trudell
September 2025
Tent
Fun spot, close to the road but nicely tucked away and thoughtfully laid out. Some road noise but nothing crazy. Porta potty was clean and the lighted canopy with misters was a nice touch. Loved the private dock. Close to shopping, too. Thanks, Ed!
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S
Sabrina
September 2025
Tent
With kids
The view of this lake was beautiful. My kids enjoyed seeing all the birds and ducks around and in the water. Nothing negative to say about it. My family and I enjoyed this spot a lot. We will definitely be coming back to camp here again.
See moreM
Miguel
August 2025
Tent
With kids
We have a lots of fun kids love it, wishing to come back soon!!!
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A
Annie
August 2025
21 ft campervan
With pets
Amazing! Absolutely loved our stay! Beautiful views and we felt safe. The traffic and people noise from the property across the the street was a bit loud late into the night but not noticeable until trying to fall asleep, all the other great stuff out weighed that by a mile! The private dock was a bonus treat, the cleanest port-a-potty I’ve ever been in, and super grateful for the ease in communication with Ed when I had a question about locking up before leaving. We will be back!!
See moreC
Cheyenne
August 2025
Tent
With kids
It was a nice little spot. We loved the fact that the porta potty was always so clean. The deck out over the water was great as well for my kiddos and fishing. Aside from the noise from the passing cars constantly, it was a perfect spot for a lakeside camp trip.
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A
Arturo
August 2025
Tent
With kids
Ed has a wonderful place here my family and I loved it I cant wait to come back
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Amir
August 2025
Tent
Great spot to hang out with family and friends. This place is sacred, gorgeous and extremely flammable! So keep your fire and sour drunk buddies out!
Lisa is a great person. Would love to see her again.
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