Forest camping near Dana Point
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93% (2086 reviews)
- Dana Point
93% (2086 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Dana Point
Camper favorites near Dana Point
Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.
Public campgrounds near Dana Point
Stories from the community
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Miranda
1 week ago
Weekend Trip to Thundering Hawk Retreat
We booked this trip on a last minute whim and the host was very responsive through text. Upon arrival Daniel greeted us and showed us to our campsite. He made sure we had everything we needed and the site was to our liking. He even came back once night fell and made sure we were set. He made sure to tell us about all of the other amenities they have available if needed. (Lamps, propane tanks, fresh sheets, etc.) 10/10 would recommend to anyone looking to camp. We can’t wait to come back! (Give Daniel a raise he’s the best 😂)
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Natalia
1 week ago
Tent
If you're looking for the perfect escape from the city, I can't recommend Gemini Moon Ranch enough. This place is an absolute hidden gem! Originally built by the architect behind Old Town Temecula, it now thrives under the care of Tracy and Peter, the kindest, most welcoming hosts you’ll ever meet. You can bring your own tent or stay in one of their two incredibly unique, cozy rooms (each full of charm and character). From the moment we arrived, it felt like stepping onto the set of an old western movie, complete with starry skies, peaceful mornings, and the sweetest animal crew (2 friendly dogs and 5 cats who might gently demand snacks 🐾).
Whether you're into yoga, meditation, or just sitting still with a coffee in nature, this place delivers. It’s ideal for solo getaways, couple retreats, birthdays, or even a small wedding. Honestly, it’s a magical spot that leaves you feeling recharged and totally at peace."
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Coral
2 weeks ago
Tent
The campground has beautiful views, private campsites, nice hiking trails, bathrooms, hot showers.
Loved it here, and will definitely come back!
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Dawn
2 weeks ago
15 ft travel trailer
With pets
A lovely stay! We had a pretty good site and they had porta potties and flush toilets so that's a bonus. Enjoyed learning more about the property, it's history, and it's potential from Vicki. The daily pig visits and watching fireworks from the casino were highlights for sure! Come prepared for mosquitoes, tho.
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Kaila
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Took my boyfriend and my two boys out to T-Rex Creek and it was on its own path, fit our family of four just nicely and was a beautiful spot with the added table, chairs, and firepit! We rented the bell tent and had the children take the cots that were included. The camp store was great, thanks Lyla (hope I didnt spell it wrong)! The observation deck nearby gave a real beautiful site! The bathroom was very nice! Our spot was shady, a big rock to climb on, and was a lot of fun hiking around.
We saw the properties very friendly goats, friendly barn cats, one of two Great Pyrenees and Alpaca, saw them during the animal encounter and my boys were so happy to have that one on one hour with them. Rick and Susanna were so kind showing us around!
My boyfriend even saw a pack of coyotes walking down our path during the night.
The only thing that was mildly irritating, NOT due to the property or the owner, but the campsite that is located next to the camp store about 200 ft from us. Unfortunately they were loud until 3am playing music and their older kids were running close to our campsite screaming and yelling so we didn't get much sleep.
However, we would still love to go back. Either back to T-Rex Creek or to try another site maybe further away. It was a real fun time.
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Seiko
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
We had an amazing experience at Redtail Rock! The views overlooking the valley were absolutely beautiful — both sunset and sunrise were breathtaking — and the stars at night were stunning. We loved the surprise encounters with the goats, alpacas, and the friendly dogs roaming the property, which made the trip extra memorable.
The host was kind and welcoming. There were some animal droppings around the site, but nothing unexpected given the open nature of the property. There were rocks to climb and plenty of space for the kids to explore and play.
Just a heads-up for larger groups: the site came with a small table and a few chairs, which wouldn’t be enough on its own for a big group (we were 15), but we brought extra tables and chairs and it worked out perfectly.
We’d definitely come back — such a special place!
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Tower
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Beautiful views and privacy. Camp store was awesome and would go back to see Whiskey the cat. Showers and nice bathroom great after a day at the river.
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Regina
2 weeks ago
Tent
Everytime we come to Split Rock we enjoy a really relaxing time birdwatching, hiking, bike riding and eating fire roasted meals. There are flushing toilets and hot showers. I hope everyone enjoys this place and cleans up after themselves so we can enjoy it for many years to come. Thank you Ben!
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Lisa
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
We loved all of the interactions with the animals! My girls (ages 7 and 9) had a great time with the goats, alpaca, dogs, pigs! We added in the animal encounter experience because we weren't sure we were going to see any animal otherwise and it was a great upgrade because we also were able to visit and learn about the chickens!
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Mario
3 weeks ago
Tent
Second time. Everything went great. Will book again for sure.
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S
Sa
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Goat heaven...the camp was fantastic for humans as well. Our son loved the goats, pig and llama! We played hide and seek in the rocks with the goats and even had a hot shower. They have put lots of love into this place and even had loads of special details (like organic treats at the camp shop!). Couldn't have been happier!!!
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Lisa
3 weeks ago
Tent
What an absolutely beautiful place. First I have to mention the hosts attentiveness and response. Vicki answered all my questions all the way from booking to check out and came by to say hello to make sure we were comfortable. There are various porta potties on site with hand washing stations, showers, and places to get water. They have a family of pigs on the grounds and the male pig came to visit us a few times during our stay (he loves belly rubs). Our site had a deck where we set up the tent, a really nice wooden table, brick fire ring, and a shovel to put out the fire. If you need fresh mountain air, stary skies, and a view, this is the place for you. Harrison Ranch we will see you again.
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María José
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
We had an amazing time at the campground! Walking alongside the goats, campfire, great views, good customer service… 100% recommend!
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Heather
3 weeks ago
Tent
I can't speak highly enough, everyone at every age thoroughly enjoyed the stay, the land and especially the animals. Can't wait to come back!!!
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Heather
3 weeks ago
With kids
What a wonderful hidden gem of San Diego. Everyone loved the property the hosts and mostly the animals that frequent your camp. Can't wait to visit again!
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David
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Love this campsite. Beautiful, peaceful and really well maintained.
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Vannia
3 weeks ago
With kids
I loved the whole experience! The host is very nice and asked how we were doing and if we needed anything when we met her at the store both days we stayed. I must say that the cute van is more for a couple only. I went with my two daughters, as Hipcamp allowed to reserve for 3 people and I thought there was space for three. The host offered to move somewhere else but we decided to stay there because we arrived late and we are tiny anyways lol. It’s very private! Toilet accesible 2 minutes walk, not so far away. The site has its own fire pit, so it was perfect for a s’mores night :) we added the e-bike experience and went around the property for 1.5 hours. It was beautiful to bike before the sunset! Also, we enjoyed some time with the goats and alpaca that were chilling by the camp store. They go everywhere and they are very friendly! Also the two dogs are super friendly. You can see Jackrabbits and many different birds. If you like animals and nature and going off grid, this is your place to go :)
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r
rhys
June 2025
Tent
The site was wonderful, hiking around was so much fun and there's so much to see, and the place is pretty well kept. You also get to see farm animals wandering around which was great! highly recommend
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Chris
June 2025
Tent
With pets
Tent camping at Gemeni Moon Ranch was such a cool and unique experience. The 5 acre grounds is surrounded by beautiful trees and rustic architecture. Once you get to the grounds, It feels like you've been transported back in time to an old western movie. Tracy and her partner were amazing hosts and greeted us upon arrival with a tour of the entire property. Pets are welcome which was great because we got to bring our dog along for the adventure. There is an outdoor kitchen and bathrooms on site, as well as tables for eating and a cozy bonfire area. There is also a creek that runs through their property and you can hear the frogs singing at night which was awesome! I would highly recommend camping on their property. It was such a great way to spend a few days out of the city.
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Forest camping near Dana Point guide
Overview
Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking for a camping experience near Dana Point, California with a forest setting, you're in luck. We have over 1000 options available that fit your criteria. Some of our top campsites in this area include Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch (518 reviews), Holcomb Valley Ranch (470 reviews), and Splitrock Farm and Retreat (320 reviews). With prices starting as low as $17 per night and an average price of $55 per night, you'll find options to fit any budget. Popular amenities at these campsites include toilets, campfires, and pet-friendly accommodations. And if you're into wind sports, surfing, or climbing, you'll have plenty of activities to enjoy in this beautiful forested area.