Lake Camping in Encinitas, California, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2024

United States
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California
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Encinitas

94% (503 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Encinitas

Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

93%

(15)

Villa Sans Souci

2 sites · RVs5 acres · Temecula, CA

Beautiful location on 5 acres at 2200ft, overlooking Temecula Valley wine and horse country with 50-mile panoramic lake, mountain and vineyard views. Vineyard right next door. Close to DePortola Wine Trail wineries and Horseman's Row, just 20 min from Old Town Temecula. Wine tours, hot air ballon rides, horseback riding. Miles of dirt roads to explore. Stunning sunrises, sunsets, scenic views and dark nights for serious astronomy or just stargazing. Two great locations for RV/motorhome (max 37ft) with wifi, water and 30A electric hookups.

Nalas Lake Play

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

Welcome to Lake Elsinore!! Im excited to be your host and help you make some great memories! This land does have a slope. But it also has a flap spot ontop perfect for camping with some amazing lake views and some gorgeous night skys. The stars feel so close to you that you think you can just reach out and grab them! There is a paved road that leads to the top of the street which is the most recommended way to get to this property since the road that google maps gives you is not paved and its too narrow for some cars. You are close to homes and stores. But your also secluded away to give you some privacy. Making you feel at one with nature. This small town is sourrended by loving people making it a jewel not just for the views and lake. This land is perfect for camping tents, Glamping tents, 4x4 Car Campers, and even small RVs(There is a small slope to get up into the property so make sure your RV is capable). The Property is just 3 minutes away from Lake Elsinore, here you can fish, swim, BBq, and many more activity that the lake offers. Being so close to it makes you want to be out there all day and come back at night to enjoy your night shows on the property with the stars. The property seize is 0.11 acres which is 4,791sq Feet. Only about 800sq Feet has a slope the rest is just flat land ontop. That gives you 3,800+ sq feet of land to just enjoy and have fun on!

98%

(200)

Stallion Oaks Ranch (Retreat)

18 sites · Lodging, Tents243 acres · Descanso, CA

In 2003, the Grosvenor Family Foundation donated the 238-acre retreat property located in Descanso to The Unity Center. Much of the land, including more than 12 structures were destroyed during the Cedar Fires in October of 2003. In the years since the fire, members of our community have lovingly tended to the land and slowly nurtured the trees and flowers. The result is acres of pristine wilderness, with hiking trails, a small lake and even a hill of daffodils that bloom every Spring.Our vision is to create a world-class retreat center and campground that promotes spiritual renewal and personal growth in a natural setting, by providing a location for education, inner reflection, positive recreation and acceptance. The Ranch is owned by The Unity Center, a progressive spiritual community that emphasizes living consciously and making a positive difference in the world. This is a sacred and special place . So whether you're planning a retreat, a wedding or a special event, we hope you'll come away from the Ranch feeling renewed.

12 top lakeside campgrounds near Encinitas

97%

(58)

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🌴

San Diego Mountain Lodge

40 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Julian, CA

San Diego Mountain Lodge is a beautiful escape to nature sprawled out over 40 acres of land on Hideout Mountain, a breathtaking spot in Santa Ysabel, CA. With a combination of offerings ranging from glamping in our vintage camper trailers, RV sites with full hookups, and campsites, to a luxury experience in our remodeled cabins each with a fireplace. Gather and share ideas with fellow guests at our community firepit and picnic tables. What makes Hideout Mountain a magical place? The stunning views of Lake Henshaw and the valley and surrounding mountains, stretching as far as the eye can see. We also have a one-of-a-kind restaurant and bar on the property, Josie's Hideout Saloon. We are located just a few minutes drive away from downtown Santa Ysabel and Julian, with easy access off Hwy 76.

Stallion Oaks Ranch (Retreat)

18 sites · Lodging, Tents243 acres · Descanso, CA

In 2003, the Grosvenor Family Foundation donated the 238-acre retreat property located in Descanso to The Unity Center. Much of the land, including more than 12 structures were destroyed during the Cedar Fires in October of 2003. In the years since the fire, members of our community have lovingly tended to the land and slowly nurtured the trees and flowers. The result is acres of pristine wilderness, with hiking trails, a small lake and even a hill of daffodils that bloom every Spring.Our vision is to create a world-class retreat center and campground that promotes spiritual renewal and personal growth in a natural setting, by providing a location for education, inner reflection, positive recreation and acceptance. The Ranch is owned by The Unity Center, a progressive spiritual community that emphasizes living consciously and making a positive difference in the world. This is a sacred and special place . So whether you're planning a retreat, a wedding or a special event, we hope you'll come away from the Ranch feeling renewed.

100%

(1)

Rustic Mountain Cabin

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Palomar Mountain, CA

Rustic tranquility on Palomar Mountain. Looking for a place for your family to enjoy the mountains in comfort? This lovely cabin nestled amongst a mixture of oak/pine woodland with 80 foot tall trees. The original cabin was built in 1923 and is one of several historic cabins in the area. The fireplace and potbelly stoves add coziness. Stargaze from the second floor "eagles nest" or simply enjoy the activity of the tree tops. There are several nooks to settle in with a good book or just enjoy the surroundings. This cabin is a little bit above 6,000 feet in elevation in a small cabin neighborhood. Locate on Evergreen Trail, a dirt single lane road, it's a great birders retreat. Several species of birds have been seen in the area as well as deer. Relax on the deck or take a relaxing walk down the trail. Palomar State Park is approximately 2.5 miles away. The park offers 14 miles of forest and meadow trails, spectacular view points especially on Boucher Hill and Doane Pond, a fishing pond with trout, bass, and cat fish. The World Famous Palomar Observatory is about an 8 mile drive away. The General Store or Baileys Store are available for forgotten amenities. Cell phone service is a challenge on Palomar Mountain. Internet service is via Starlink and dependent on a clear view of the sky. Service may have momentary interruptions.

Nalas Lake Play

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

Welcome to Lake Elsinore!! Im excited to be your host and help you make some great memories! This land does have a slope. But it also has a flap spot ontop perfect for camping with some amazing lake views and some gorgeous night skys. The stars feel so close to you that you think you can just reach out and grab them! There is a paved road that leads to the top of the street which is the most recommended way to get to this property since the road that google maps gives you is not paved and its too narrow for some cars. You are close to homes and stores. But your also secluded away to give you some privacy. Making you feel at one with nature. This small town is sourrended by loving people making it a jewel not just for the views and lake. This land is perfect for camping tents, Glamping tents, 4x4 Car Campers, and even small RVs(There is a small slope to get up into the property so make sure your RV is capable). The Property is just 3 minutes away from Lake Elsinore, here you can fish, swim, BBq, and many more activity that the lake offers. Being so close to it makes you want to be out there all day and come back at night to enjoy your night shows on the property with the stars. The property seize is 0.11 acres which is 4,791sq Feet. Only about 800sq Feet has a slope the rest is just flat land ontop. That gives you 3,800+ sq feet of land to just enjoy and have fun on!

100%

(312)

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.

Villa Sans Souci

2 sites · RVs5 acres · Temecula, CA

Beautiful location on 5 acres at 2200ft, overlooking Temecula Valley wine and horse country with 50-mile panoramic lake, mountain and vineyard views. Vineyard right next door. Close to DePortola Wine Trail wineries and Horseman's Row, just 20 min from Old Town Temecula. Wine tours, hot air ballon rides, horseback riding. Miles of dirt roads to explore. Stunning sunrises, sunsets, scenic views and dark nights for serious astronomy or just stargazing. Two great locations for RV/motorhome (max 37ft) with wifi, water and 30A electric hookups.

Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry

6 sites · Lodging1 acre · Mount Laguna, CA

Alter Experiences LLC is a glamping & nature travel company based out of San Diego, CA. We're dedicated to creating meaningful experiences in nature & getting people outdoors. Our glamping sites are located in the Cleveland National Forest - Mount Laguna, CA. Our plush tents are nestled in the high mountain forests of San Diego's backcountry - sky islands where pristine nature & wild-life thrives. These are some of the most remote & biologically diverse habitats in all of Southern California. Our sites are handpicked to offer you a truly nature immersive experience. We strive to create the most comfortable outdoor experiences, even at our most remote locations. We take all that's fun about traditional camping & combine it with modern comfort & state of the art equipment. We offer various accommodation styles depending on location. Our Tentsile tree tents are definitely the most popular - a lightweight tree house that uses 3 anchor points to create a "living space" suspended between trees. Our elevated tree tents bring a whole new dimension to camping. Our plush & cozy bell tent was designed with the ultimate comfort in mind! It feature all the amenities you can expect at a hotel - therapeutic mattress, buddy heater, quality linens and more. The provided kitchen comes fully outfitted with everything you need including; hot chocolate, tea, spices and multiple cooking tops. All you need to bring is your cooler and food! Open fires are allowed (weather permitting) and bundles of wood are sold at $8. There are a network of trails to explore nearby, as well as Lake Cuyamaca and the historic town of Julian. You can choose from various restaurants, breweries wineries and we also have two hard cider locations, as well as various other attractions and activities. We also offer mountain bike rentals right from the campsite. Glamp with us and discover all the beautiful and natural wonders of our San Diego Backcountry.

Hogan House

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Wildomar, CA

We live in a mobile home on my property with a travel trailer that is off to the side. I would love to have people stay so that they can enjoy what our location has to offer and give you a comfortable stay! Bring your toys the property is gated. The travel trailer fits about 4 comfortably and we have boat parking or two car parking that’s in a gated property!

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Time Traveler Retreat Julian Cabin

3 sites · Lodging1 acre · Julian, CA

Built in the 50’s it is sitting on 2 parcels and is over ½ acre in size. We also have 2 other cabins for rent in Julian for larger groups. The outhouse that you see was used when it was first built and now is for storage. The original owner built the house himself and it was originally on piers alone with no other foundation! There is a folder in the bedroom closet of the house over the years. The decorations were here when we bought it so we kept them to preserve the house’s uniqueness. We treasure this house which is nestled amongst the trees and has so many beautiful birds that visit. Many turkeys love to stop by too! If you hear the deep cooing from the monster doves (who are very shy) you can try to spot one. They are amazing. We really hope you love it as much as we do.

100%

(1)

Mountain Retreat

1 site · Lodging8 acres · Ramona, CA

Situated on 8 acres and next to an 80 acre park and camp ground as well as a 400 acre preserve that leads to Iron Mountain and Mountain Woodson. Things to do in the area: The property is nestled among the ever growing wine region on Ramona, CA. Rashelica Winery, Schwaesdall Winery, and Mahogany Mountain Vineyards are the closest, with another dozen or so wineries within a 5 mile radius. Additionally, you will find local farm stands, seasonal u-pick fruit orchards and farm animals. The home is right next to Dos Picos Park which has a lovely play ground, fishing pond, hiking trails for bike rides, and outdoor exploring. The Mt. Woodson Golf course is in the neighborhood and offers a lovely course and fantastic views.Ramona is also only a short jump from all of the other activities that the greater San Diego Region has to offer. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a short 25 minute drive and Sea World, Lego Land, Downtown, The San Diego Zoo, Gaslamp District and the beaches are all within a 45 minute drive. Learn more about this land:Get away from it all and enjoy this 8 acre Mountain Retreat in the Wine Country of Ramona, CA. This home is nestled among majestic oaks and pines and is a magical space where individuals, couples, families and friends can gather together to re-connect with nature, each other, and themselves. The breathtaking mountain top views, hot-tub, fire pit, horse shoe pit, disc golf, GAME ROOM and the open concept living space are unbeatable for the perfect getaway.Things to do in the area:The property is nestled among the ever growing wine region on Ramona, CA. Rashelica Winery, Schwaesdall Winery, and Mahogany Mountain Vineyards are the closest, with another dozen or so wineries within a 5 mile radius. Additionally, you will find local farm stands, seasonal u-pick fruit orchards and farm animals. The home is right next to Dos Picos Park which has a lovely play ground, fishing pond, hiking trails for bike rides, and outdoor exploring. The Mt. Woodson Golf course is in the neighborhood and offers a lovely course and fantastic views.Ramona is also only a short jump from all of the other activities that the greater San Diego Region has to offer. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a short 25 minute drive and Sea World, Lego Land, Downtown, The San Diego Zoo, Gaslamp District and the beaches are all within a 45 minute drive. *Our private chef can be available for a one of a kind dining experience. Please inquire for details. Reservations are required**Our private massage therapist can be available. Please inquire for details. Reservations are required**Group yoga sessions and sound baths can be available. Please inquire for details. Reservations are required**Our beautiful mountain home is valued for it peace and serenity in the evenings. WE STRICTLY ENFORCE SAN DIEGOS 10PM NOISE ORDINANCE The property is located next to a campground and our quite times mirror the campgrounds rules regarding quite times being between 10pm and 6am. We do not allow music or loud conversations outside during these times.** If you or some members in your group would also like to enjoy outdoor camping on site, we can accommodate. Please inquire for details.

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(7)

Deer Valley Alpaca Farm Glamping

5 sites · Lodging9 acres · CA

Our working alpaca farm is the perfect place for a retreat from the city and some serenity. Our goal is to provide our guests with privacy and comfort to rejuvenate their souls. Spend your days relaxing, wandering through the gardens, meeting our farm animals, and visiting one of the many nearby locations to hike, bike, eat or shop! We have 3 experiences to choose from for your stay: #1 Bell Tent- Stay in our 16.5' Canvas Bell Tent complete with an outdoor bathroom, kitchen, and shaded dining area. #2 Cottage- Sleeping cottage with an outdoor (detached) bathroom, kitchen and shaded dining area. #3 Group Camp = bring your friends and rent out both camping areas to have the whole area to yourselves!

Available this weekend

95%

(115)

San Diego Mountain Lodge

40 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Julian, CA

San Diego Mountain Lodge is a beautiful escape to nature sprawled out over 40 acres of land on Hideout Mountain, a breathtaking spot in Santa Ysabel, CA. With a combination of offerings ranging from glamping in our vintage camper trailers, RV sites with full hookups, and campsites, to a luxury experience in our remodeled cabins each with a fireplace. Gather and share ideas with fellow guests at our community firepit and picnic tables. What makes Hideout Mountain a magical place? The stunning views of Lake Henshaw and the valley and surrounding mountains, stretching as far as the eye can see. We also have a one-of-a-kind restaurant and bar on the property, Josie's Hideout Saloon. We are located just a few minutes drive away from downtown Santa Ysabel and Julian, with easy access off Hwy 76.

Villa Sans Souci

2 sites · RVs5 acres · Temecula, CA

Beautiful location on 5 acres at 2200ft, overlooking Temecula Valley wine and horse country with 50-mile panoramic lake, mountain and vineyard views. Vineyard right next door. Close to DePortola Wine Trail wineries and Horseman's Row, just 20 min from Old Town Temecula. Wine tours, hot air ballon rides, horseback riding. Miles of dirt roads to explore. Stunning sunrises, sunsets, scenic views and dark nights for serious astronomy or just stargazing. Two great locations for RV/motorhome (max 37ft) with wifi, water and 30A electric hookups.

Nalas Lake Play

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

Welcome to Lake Elsinore!! Im excited to be your host and help you make some great memories! This land does have a slope. But it also has a flap spot ontop perfect for camping with some amazing lake views and some gorgeous night skys. The stars feel so close to you that you think you can just reach out and grab them! There is a paved road that leads to the top of the street which is the most recommended way to get to this property since the road that google maps gives you is not paved and its too narrow for some cars. You are close to homes and stores. But your also secluded away to give you some privacy. Making you feel at one with nature. This small town is sourrended by loving people making it a jewel not just for the views and lake. This land is perfect for camping tents, Glamping tents, 4x4 Car Campers, and even small RVs(There is a small slope to get up into the property so make sure your RV is capable). The Property is just 3 minutes away from Lake Elsinore, here you can fish, swim, BBq, and many more activity that the lake offers. Being so close to it makes you want to be out there all day and come back at night to enjoy your night shows on the property with the stars. The property seize is 0.11 acres which is 4,791sq Feet. Only about 800sq Feet has a slope the rest is just flat land ontop. That gives you 3,800+ sq feet of land to just enjoy and have fun on!

Hogan House

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Wildomar, CA

We live in a mobile home on my property with a travel trailer that is off to the side. I would love to have people stay so that they can enjoy what our location has to offer and give you a comfortable stay! Bring your toys the property is gated. The travel trailer fits about 4 comfortably and we have boat parking or two car parking that’s in a gated property!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

90%

(53)

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Descanso, California

95%

(76)

Cleveland National Forest

Descanso, California

Lakeside camping near Encinitas guide

Overview

Looking to go camping near Encinitas, California and enjoy a beautiful lake? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 240 options available in the area, you're sure to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. One top campsite option is DESERT DAISY - Joshua Tree rural which has received 295 reviews. Another highly rated option is Owlbee Farm with 175 reviews. If you're looking for a more secluded experience, consider Diana's Descanso Camp which has 138 reviews. These campsites offer popular amenities such as cooking equipment, pet-friendly spaces, and the opportunity to have campfires. Additionally, you can enjoy activities like exploring historic sites, whitewater paddling, and off-roading (OHV). The average price per night is $40, but you can find options as low as $15 per night. Start planning your lake camping adventure today!