- Camping with pets allowed
The best dog-friendly camping near Descanso
96% (5K) • 384 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Descanso
Clara Vista High Desert Retreat
1. Clara Vista High Desert Retreat
100%
(60)
24mi from Descanso · 1 site
This beautiful high desert retreat is a working artist's property with several stone and steel sculptures of the late artist, Norm Hines, available for viewing on the property. The guest cabin sits secluded on the southern ridge of Montezuma Valley, with spectacular views of Earthquake Valley and the distant mountains of Baja California and a short hike to Anza Borrego State Park. A gas fireplace in the cabin will keep you warm on those chilly winter evenings. Ideal for 1-2 people looking for solitude, stargazing and high-desert nature.
Cozy guest cabin with propane fireplace on 30 acre artist's retreat at 4000 feet elevation. One mi. hike to NW boundary of Anza Borrego SP. Four mi. to PCT. Hiking trails to large plutonic rocks, breathtaking view south into Mexico. Private portable toilet, outdoor cold water sink, outdoor grill, small camping stove, teapot, full size bed, Norm Hines sculptures on property for guest viewing. Great for bird watching, stargazing, desert solitude. 13 miles to Borrego Springs. 28 miles to Julian.
Guests love staying here: "Tom’s cabin was the perfect weekend getaway to decompress and detach. The site offers all the amenities you need. There are multiple trails located around the property if you’re looking to get a little activity in. Otherwise just sitting and hanging out is about as peaceful as it gets. A great place to go if you don’t want to venture out too far. This place just might be my monthly weekend hideout. Thanks Tom for sharing such a beautiful place."
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$125
/ night
Private mountain, ocean view 🏕
2. Private mountain, ocean view 🏕
98%
(43)
28mi from Descanso · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Completely private 54 acres single party camping. You will have the property to yourself with no other campers. This spot is designated for a quiet and tranquil experience in nature. At the top of a mountain you will find remote tranquility and views for miles. With 10 acres of the campground backing up to another 40 private acres of untamed land to hike you find solace. Of course there’s natural wildlife you get to experience like deer and little critters. We are 100% off the grid so no electricity, or plumbing. Compost toilets, old fashion water pump available for quick rinse but NOT drinking. As the host I’ll remain on the acreage but you will have your total privacy. Accessible in any vehicle.
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$86
/ night
The Happy Camper
3. The Happy Camper
100%
(32)
28mi from Descanso · 1 site
Beautiful spot located at my property on the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation. See a legal cannabis farm in action at all times of the seasons while sleeping in a fully functioning 2023 Jayco farmhouse edition camper. The camper has a new Queen bed, electricity, refrigerator, running water, wi-fi, heater and air conditioning. For cooking there are options such as the kitchenette in the camper, outdoor grill and camp stove with a flat grill. There is a fire pit stocked with wood . I also provide camping chairs, utensils and much more. The star viewing is amazing. There is a private hiking trail and a shaded dog area for your pet to enjoy. Local activities such as hiking and visiting historic Julian, a short drive to Anza Borrego are all in the area. We are located on the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation, make either a left or right from Hwy 79 onto Camino San Ignacio in Warner Springs, CA, keep to the left at the loop and drive out about 5 miles . When you reach the Ranger Station at the stop sign, make the first left at the sign located at 1600 Camino San Ignacio and drive all the way out to the back. The Happy Camper is located on the left.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$99
/ night
DeAnza Springs Resort
4. DeAnza Springs Resort
95%
(20)
30mi from Descanso · 65 sites · Tents, RVs
DeAnza Springs Resort is a family friendly resort in North America. Situated on more than 500 private acres of high desert (2600 feet above sea level) in Eastern San Diego County, it is ideal for year-round vacationing.
The Resort is comprised of 311 spacious RV sites, most with full hookups, (30/50 amps) and unlimited tent sites for camping. Comfortable rental units consist of fully furnished tiny homes and motel rooms.
Centerpiece to the Resort is a 7500 square foot clubhouse. It is home to the Oasis Lounge/Bar and cafe. There is also a computer area for public internet access.
No matter what activities you enjoy, you’ll probably find them available at DeAnza Springs Resort. Surrounded on three sides by the wilderness of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the resort grounds include grassy lawns, shade trees, two sparkling swimming pools and a hot tub with access to hiking trails in every direction.
Amenities include two swimming pools open year round (one indoor heated and one outdoors), an outdoor hot tub, tennis/pickle ball courts, shuffle-board courts, fitness center with sauna, and laundry facilities. There is also a large enclosed pet park and WiFi broadband internet access.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$63
/ night
Manzanita Village Retreat
5. Manzanita Village Retreat
99%
(98)
31mi from Descanso · 1 site
We are co-founders of Ordinary Dharma and Five Changes, and stewards of this land at Manzanita Village Retreat.
Thirty years ago we were searching for a place where the land itself would be an active support in our of work facilitating workshops and retreats. We were looking for land that was within easy reach of San Diego and Los Angeles, while still being remote and far from the noise of highways. The land is infused with the presence of the thousands of people who have come here for transformation and renewal.
We are now open to visitors from HipCamp -- we look forward to your visit
Caitriona Reed and Michele Benzamin-Miki
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$80
/ night
96% (5K) • 384 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Descanso
Clara Vista High Desert Retreat
1. Clara Vista High Desert Retreat
100%
(60)
24mi from Descanso · 1 site
This beautiful high desert retreat is a working artist's property with several stone and steel sculptures of the late artist, Norm Hines, available for viewing on the property. The guest cabin sits secluded on the southern ridge of Montezuma Valley, with spectacular views of Earthquake Valley and the distant mountains of Baja California and a short hike to Anza Borrego State Park. A gas fireplace in the cabin will keep you warm on those chilly winter evenings. Ideal for 1-2 people looking for solitude, stargazing and high-desert nature.
Cozy guest cabin with propane fireplace on 30 acre artist's retreat at 4000 feet elevation. One mi. hike to NW boundary of Anza Borrego SP. Four mi. to PCT. Hiking trails to large plutonic rocks, breathtaking view south into Mexico. Private portable toilet, outdoor cold water sink, outdoor grill, small camping stove, teapot, full size bed, Norm Hines sculptures on property for guest viewing. Great for bird watching, stargazing, desert solitude. 13 miles to Borrego Springs. 28 miles to Julian.
Guests love staying here: "Tom’s cabin was the perfect weekend getaway to decompress and detach. The site offers all the amenities you need. There are multiple trails located around the property if you’re looking to get a little activity in. Otherwise just sitting and hanging out is about as peaceful as it gets. A great place to go if you don’t want to venture out too far. This place just might be my monthly weekend hideout. Thanks Tom for sharing such a beautiful place."
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$125
/ night
Private mountain, ocean view 🏕
2. Private mountain, ocean view 🏕
98%
(43)
28mi from Descanso · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Completely private 54 acres single party camping. You will have the property to yourself with no other campers. This spot is designated for a quiet and tranquil experience in nature. At the top of a mountain you will find remote tranquility and views for miles. With 10 acres of the campground backing up to another 40 private acres of untamed land to hike you find solace. Of course there’s natural wildlife you get to experience like deer and little critters. We are 100% off the grid so no electricity, or plumbing. Compost toilets, old fashion water pump available for quick rinse but NOT drinking. As the host I’ll remain on the acreage but you will have your total privacy. Accessible in any vehicle.
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$86
/ night
The Happy Camper
3. The Happy Camper
100%
(32)
28mi from Descanso · 1 site
Beautiful spot located at my property on the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation. See a legal cannabis farm in action at all times of the seasons while sleeping in a fully functioning 2023 Jayco farmhouse edition camper. The camper has a new Queen bed, electricity, refrigerator, running water, wi-fi, heater and air conditioning. For cooking there are options such as the kitchenette in the camper, outdoor grill and camp stove with a flat grill. There is a fire pit stocked with wood . I also provide camping chairs, utensils and much more. The star viewing is amazing. There is a private hiking trail and a shaded dog area for your pet to enjoy. Local activities such as hiking and visiting historic Julian, a short drive to Anza Borrego are all in the area. We are located on the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation, make either a left or right from Hwy 79 onto Camino San Ignacio in Warner Springs, CA, keep to the left at the loop and drive out about 5 miles . When you reach the Ranger Station at the stop sign, make the first left at the sign located at 1600 Camino San Ignacio and drive all the way out to the back. The Happy Camper is located on the left.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$99
/ night
DeAnza Springs Resort
4. DeAnza Springs Resort
95%
(20)
30mi from Descanso · 65 sites · Tents, RVs
DeAnza Springs Resort is a family friendly resort in North America. Situated on more than 500 private acres of high desert (2600 feet above sea level) in Eastern San Diego County, it is ideal for year-round vacationing.
The Resort is comprised of 311 spacious RV sites, most with full hookups, (30/50 amps) and unlimited tent sites for camping. Comfortable rental units consist of fully furnished tiny homes and motel rooms.
Centerpiece to the Resort is a 7500 square foot clubhouse. It is home to the Oasis Lounge/Bar and cafe. There is also a computer area for public internet access.
No matter what activities you enjoy, you’ll probably find them available at DeAnza Springs Resort. Surrounded on three sides by the wilderness of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the resort grounds include grassy lawns, shade trees, two sparkling swimming pools and a hot tub with access to hiking trails in every direction.
Amenities include two swimming pools open year round (one indoor heated and one outdoors), an outdoor hot tub, tennis/pickle ball courts, shuffle-board courts, fitness center with sauna, and laundry facilities. There is also a large enclosed pet park and WiFi broadband internet access.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$63
/ night
Manzanita Village Retreat
5. Manzanita Village Retreat
99%
(98)
31mi from Descanso · 1 site
We are co-founders of Ordinary Dharma and Five Changes, and stewards of this land at Manzanita Village Retreat.
Thirty years ago we were searching for a place where the land itself would be an active support in our of work facilitating workshops and retreats. We were looking for land that was within easy reach of San Diego and Los Angeles, while still being remote and far from the noise of highways. The land is infused with the presence of the thousands of people who have come here for transformation and renewal.
We are now open to visitors from HipCamp -- we look forward to your visit
Caitriona Reed and Michele Benzamin-Miki
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$80
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Alexandria
3 weeks ago
With pets
Absolutely beautiful property with magical views and a fun artistic vibe. The amenities were simple in a perfect way. We felt peaceful and in touch with nature during our stay. Tom is very nice and respectful.
See more
b
bijan
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Manzanita Village Retreat
We loved our stay at this Adobe style hut in the wilderness. The amenities at the community kitchen were awesome and there was clean bathrooms with hot showers.
Lots of fun little trails to walk around the property and we got lucky with a new moon and clear skies to setup our telescope and do some of the best star gazing I have done yet.
All together Tom could not have been a better host. He was quick with the replies when we had questions but other than that we felt like we had the place to ourselves.
There were 2 trail makers also staying on the property that were fun to talk to and told us all about the trail they have worked on around the state parks and the one they are making on the property that will eventually be an awesome walk that scales the big hill behind the different living quarters. So far its only partially done but looks amazing thus far.
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L
Luke Monroe
January 2026
With pets
So grateful for Caitriona and Michele’s amazing retreat surrounded by public lands. The tiny cabin works very well for two people and we felt unbelievably welcomed by Tom (additional host) and Patrick and Em (currently blazing a new trail on the property). There wasn’t a retreat scheduled during our stay, so it was a very uncrowded environment.
The adobe cabin was an easy walk from the main home — you will pass by the viewing deck overlooking the rolling hills with cattle below and a healthy mix of desert/forest flora and fauna. It’s perfectly separate and private from the main retreat area without being too far. We found this time of year (January/February) very pleasant weather-wise, and the cabin temp was easy to regulate. The kitchen and bathroom with shower were clean well-stocked, bugs were almost nonexistent especially for being in such a rural setting (just be thoughtful and close doors behind you), and we felt safe to wander and ask for anything we needed.
We really want to highlight how kind and hospitable the additional host, Tom, was! Highly recommend visiting this Hipcamp if you are able.
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Travis
January 2026
With pets
Had such an incredible weekend staying at Caitriona and Michele's Hermitage! The property and surrounding land is absolutely stunning and PERFECT for pups. Was an ideal mix of feeling off the grid but with modern amenities just a walk away when needed.
The energy of the land truly is so grounding and calm - you can really feel it.
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A
A
January 2026
16 ft car
A variety of fun and eclectic sites and awesome bar (21 +) with billiards, potluck food goodies, and a dj for NYE! Didnt get check out the pool due to rain and travel plans but would definitely consider it again for the price point! And many thanks for a simple checkin with updates, etc. :)
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R
Rachel
December 2025
1 night at The Happy Camper
One the best experiences I’ve had in a long time. Thank you Davida, thank you Jim, truly.
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Ale
December 2025
X
Xiyue
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Clara Vista High Desert Retreat
We truly loved our stay at Tom's cabin. It's perfect for stargazing with stunning non-blocking views, a dark sky, cozy outdoor chairs, and a warm cabin.
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Erin
December 2025
With pets
Always a magical time! Thanks Tom for making it so special!
See moreB
Benjamin
December 2025
1 night at The Happy Camper
I cannot not recommend this stat enough. Book before it sells out. Davida and family are amazing, go go go!!!
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B
Brett
November 2025
5 nights at Manzanita Village Retreat
Stayed here for a 5 day solo retreat. Beautiful location, the cabin is private and set away from the main complex, and is very well insulated, warm at night and cool during the day. Caitriona, Michele, and Tom are all very friendly, welcoming, and respectful. Highly recommend.
See moreF
Felix
November 2025
With pets
Davida’s Happy Camper was my wife and I’s first Hip Camp experience and it was just perfect. The modern and cozy Jayco RV is just as described, the land is peaceful and inviting, and Davida is a sweet and thoughtful host! We loved the Apple Walnut bread and honey she gifted us. What a great touch! We only wish we stayed longer. But that’s why we plan to come back :)
See moreS
Stephen
November 2025
With pets
We had a great beautiful mountain setting., and a peaceful quiet night of sleep. Thank you for giving us a great three days and two nights of relaxing stress free retreat. Thank you so much you been a very great presous host. Steve and Katie Nolan ❤️ 💙
See moreT
Tara
November 2025
Weekend Trip to The Happy Camper
Loved the location, the camper and experience at The Happy Camper. Davida was wonderful in getting supplies prepared for a campfire, answering questions, and very responsive and respectful. Loved it and definitely will recommend and share another adventure in the Happy Camper again.
See moreB
Benjamin
November 2025
Weekend Trip to The Happy Camper
Don’t have much to say but amazing. Davida was a great host, it was exactly what I was looking for.
See moreM
Miranda
November 2025
With pets
Our stay at The Happy Camper was everything we had hoped for and more. The setup was thoughtful, cozy, and incredibly comfortable; the bed alone was one of the best we’ve ever slept on while camping. The entire space was spotless and clearly cared for with so much attention.
Davida, the owner, is truly something special. She was helpful, kind, and went well beyond expectations to make us feel welcome. You can tell she pours her heart into this HipCamp spot.
My 6-year-old absolutely loved it! She was over the moon with the outdoor family games Davida left for us to enjoy, such a fun and unexpected touch.
We can’t recommend The Happy Camper enough. A wonderful experience from start to finish, and we can’t wait to come back!
See moreT
Tovitaan
October 2025
4 nights at The Happy Camper
I loved camping at Davida’s, she provided everything my husband and I could possibly think of and forgot 🤣. The space is so beautiful and quiet and cozy I couldn’t have asked for anywhere better to relax at 💖
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B
Betty
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Manzanita Village Retreat
I’m almost too zen-ed out to write a review! This was such a tranquil getaway & Caitriona & Michele were very kind hosts. Thank you! The “hermitage” was very private & stayed magically cool through the afternoon sun while still getting warm enough to keep the window open at night! I’d describe it as 50% camping (sleeping on cots & peeing outside if you don’t want to do the walk to the common area) & 50% cabin (everything is set up for you and there’s access to the super well stocked kitchen, shower etc). The kitchen & bathroom are a short (2 min?) walk down the hill. There’s a beautiful stretch of the PCT less than 10 mins away. Sunrises & sunsets & stars, oh my! I hope to be back again soon. Thanks again!
See moreD
Debra
October 2025
With pets
This was our second stay here and both times were wonderful. The property is beautiful and peaceful. Davida is a very friendly and kind host, very great hospitality! We will definitely return again. Thank you Davida :)
See moreA
Annie
October 2025
With pets
There's places I've stayed at because I love for different reasons. It could be the ambience, the views, the bed, the perks of being central in a certain city I love, etc. You will fall in love with this remote place, the little touches such as the quality snacks they provided us, the beautiful trailer, the readiness of the firepit and bbq, etc. I can say whole heartedly the reason that made this place great was the owners. They're good people with good souls. They were just the most hospitable hosts I've met from all the private rentals I've done ( and I've done a lot.) We appreciate you. Thank you for making it a pleasant stay from start to finish. We'll definitely be back just to visit.
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