The best lakeside camping near Encinitas

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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!

95% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Hideout Mountain Lodge

1. Hideout Mountain Lodge

95%
(353)
32mi from Encinitas · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Santa Ysabel, CA
Hideout Mountain Lodge is a peaceful retreat tucked away in the hills of Santa Ysabel, just over an hour from San Diego and a couple of hours from Los Angeles. Spread across 40 acres, the property offers a variety of places to stay — from remodeled cabins with fireplaces and private decks, to vintage trailers, campsites, and RV spots with full hookups and views of Lake Henshaw. This is the kind of place where you slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the landscape. Guests gather around the community firepit, take walks through the oaks, or just relax on a porch and listen to the birds. On weekends, you can wander over to Josie’s Hideout Saloon, our on-site bar and restaurant, known for its live music and western character. We’re just a few minutes from the towns of Santa Ysabel and Julian, easy to get to but far enough away to feel like an escape.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
Villa Macala

3. Villa Macala

100%
(367)
45mi from Encinitas · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hemet, CA
Villa Macala is a 20-acre oasis of detailed landscape, orchards and Southern CA native planting while complimenting the natural rocks and gorgeous views. Enjoy the many hiking trails and rest in the peace, quiet and beauty. 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. 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. We have 2 full outdoor bathrooms, one was most recently added at our Elderberry Camp Site (site 1), and is also close to site 4 our Oaks Campsite as well. (Please note our 2nd bathroom is a good walk uphill from the campsites). Our larger bathroom 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 NOTE: Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance. 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. 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 if we have the proper staff during your visit. Our products are available for purchase, with or without a tasting. We recommend you bring cash if you are interested. We also take Venmo!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Time Traveler Retreat Julian Cabin

6. Time Traveler Retreat Julian Cabin

100%
(5)
37mi from Encinitas · 3 sites · Lodging · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$140
 / night
Getthing things prepped for dinner. There a picnic tables near the yurts that you can use.

7. Stallion Oaks Ranch (Retreat)

96%
(227)
38mi from Encinitas · 18 sites · Tents, Lodging · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$35
 / night
Bierbaum Pepper Farm w/Goats!

9. Bierbaum Pepper Farm w/Goats!

98%
(536)
40mi from Encinitas · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Hemet, CA
We are a small homestead/farm just outside Temecula Valley Wine Country in California. Primarily we raise our mini dairy goats and host BYO Tent or RV camping.In October of 2016 we began our journey to create our small farm/homestead. With absolutely no experience and coming from a tiny condo in the city we decided to leave that life behind and buy 11 acres in the middle of no where!We weren't sure what to do with 11 acres. We don't come from a farming family but we had the drive to learn. With the help of YouTube, books, blogs, vlogs and friendly neighbors we began to teach ourselves how to run a small farm, inching into the lifestyle a little at a time.We started off with 15 chickens, many failed gardens and then fell in love with Nigerian Dwarf Goats!We found Hipcamp over a year later and in April 2018 opened up our home to strangers wanting to camp on private property.Since we are in the middle of Temecula Wine Country we figure that our farm is the perfect family friendly environment to relax in nature but still be close to some great attractions. Play with baby goats, chickens and rabbits. Explore the property and star gaze at night without light pollution from the city!This was an empty lot that was first purchased in 2014. We are the second owners of the property and want to be as self sustaining as possible. We are on a well and have converted to solar power. We will be building up the camp sites as well, gradually adding more amenities as we go to create a unique experience for our guests.More about me:I had a great and successful career at a very large CPA firm in San Diego but with city living comes pressure and stress. Due to deadlines and even more stress created by the partners of the firm, I ignored what my body was telling me. I put off going to the doctor for months telling myself I didn't have time and, after this next deadline I'll get a check up.I knew that I needed to change my lifestyle but I wasn't doing it fast enough. We closed escrow on the property in October of 2016 and that November I was in the ER. I almost died. Spent my birthday and Thanksgiving in the hospital.Soon after that I quit my job at the CPA firm and started working from home. Still suffering from complications, that summer in June/July I ended up in the ER again. Even closer to death this time. Since then I've turned around my health. Focused on life on the farm. Raising my animals, my garden and creating a unique experience with the campers. I enjoy sharing this life and my home with like-minded people who want to escape the city and feel a little closer to nature. 
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry

10. Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry

99%
(141)
49mi from Encinitas · 6 sites · Lodging · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$113
 / night
Guardian Ranch

11. Guardian Ranch

20mi from Encinitas · 2 sites · Lodging · Escondido, CA
Escape to Guardian Ranch, a stunning 40-acre private estate in Escondido overlooking serene Lake Wohlford. This unparalleled sanctuary offers unique Airbnb lodging perfect for large groups, family reunions, or a tranquil luxury escape. What makes us the ultimate Southern California getaway? Our uniqueness lies in our scale and amenities. Choose from seven distinct vacation rental properties, including the spacious Casa Grande, charming cottages, and unique tiny homes with canyon views. We accommodate every traveler — from couples to large parties. Guests can expect a five-star stay with: • Private Pool Access: Sparkling pool amenity • Estate-Sized Group Stays: Accommodations for large parties On-Site Activities: Pickleball courts, scenic hiking trails, indoor games, and fire pit gatherings • Event Hosting: Ideal for intimate weddings, corporate retreats, and large family gatherings (capacity up to 200) • Stunning Views: Rolling hills, lush meadows, and breathtaking night skies for a true nature retreat Book your San Diego vacation rental or luxury event venue today for an unforgettable experience.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$149
 / night

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!

95% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Hideout Mountain Lodge

1. Hideout Mountain Lodge

95%
(353)
32mi from Encinitas · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Santa Ysabel, CA
Hideout Mountain Lodge is a peaceful retreat tucked away in the hills of Santa Ysabel, just over an hour from San Diego and a couple of hours from Los Angeles. Spread across 40 acres, the property offers a variety of places to stay — from remodeled cabins with fireplaces and private decks, to vintage trailers, campsites, and RV spots with full hookups and views of Lake Henshaw. This is the kind of place where you slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the landscape. Guests gather around the community firepit, take walks through the oaks, or just relax on a porch and listen to the birds. On weekends, you can wander over to Josie’s Hideout Saloon, our on-site bar and restaurant, known for its live music and western character. We’re just a few minutes from the towns of Santa Ysabel and Julian, easy to get to but far enough away to feel like an escape.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
Villa Macala

3. Villa Macala

100%
(367)
45mi from Encinitas · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hemet, CA
Villa Macala is a 20-acre oasis of detailed landscape, orchards and Southern CA native planting while complimenting the natural rocks and gorgeous views. Enjoy the many hiking trails and rest in the peace, quiet and beauty. 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. 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. We have 2 full outdoor bathrooms, one was most recently added at our Elderberry Camp Site (site 1), and is also close to site 4 our Oaks Campsite as well. (Please note our 2nd bathroom is a good walk uphill from the campsites). Our larger bathroom 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 NOTE: Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance. 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. 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 if we have the proper staff during your visit. Our products are available for purchase, with or without a tasting. We recommend you bring cash if you are interested. We also take Venmo!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Time Traveler Retreat Julian Cabin

6. Time Traveler Retreat Julian Cabin

100%
(5)
37mi from Encinitas · 3 sites · Lodging · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$140
 / night
Getthing things prepped for dinner. There a picnic tables near the yurts that you can use.

7. Stallion Oaks Ranch (Retreat)

96%
(227)
38mi from Encinitas · 18 sites · Tents, Lodging · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$35
 / night
Bierbaum Pepper Farm w/Goats!

9. Bierbaum Pepper Farm w/Goats!

98%
(536)
40mi from Encinitas · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Hemet, CA
We are a small homestead/farm just outside Temecula Valley Wine Country in California. Primarily we raise our mini dairy goats and host BYO Tent or RV camping.In October of 2016 we began our journey to create our small farm/homestead. With absolutely no experience and coming from a tiny condo in the city we decided to leave that life behind and buy 11 acres in the middle of no where!We weren't sure what to do with 11 acres. We don't come from a farming family but we had the drive to learn. With the help of YouTube, books, blogs, vlogs and friendly neighbors we began to teach ourselves how to run a small farm, inching into the lifestyle a little at a time.We started off with 15 chickens, many failed gardens and then fell in love with Nigerian Dwarf Goats!We found Hipcamp over a year later and in April 2018 opened up our home to strangers wanting to camp on private property.Since we are in the middle of Temecula Wine Country we figure that our farm is the perfect family friendly environment to relax in nature but still be close to some great attractions. Play with baby goats, chickens and rabbits. Explore the property and star gaze at night without light pollution from the city!This was an empty lot that was first purchased in 2014. We are the second owners of the property and want to be as self sustaining as possible. We are on a well and have converted to solar power. We will be building up the camp sites as well, gradually adding more amenities as we go to create a unique experience for our guests.More about me:I had a great and successful career at a very large CPA firm in San Diego but with city living comes pressure and stress. Due to deadlines and even more stress created by the partners of the firm, I ignored what my body was telling me. I put off going to the doctor for months telling myself I didn't have time and, after this next deadline I'll get a check up.I knew that I needed to change my lifestyle but I wasn't doing it fast enough. We closed escrow on the property in October of 2016 and that November I was in the ER. I almost died. Spent my birthday and Thanksgiving in the hospital.Soon after that I quit my job at the CPA firm and started working from home. Still suffering from complications, that summer in June/July I ended up in the ER again. Even closer to death this time. Since then I've turned around my health. Focused on life on the farm. Raising my animals, my garden and creating a unique experience with the campers. I enjoy sharing this life and my home with like-minded people who want to escape the city and feel a little closer to nature. 
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry

10. Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry

99%
(141)
49mi from Encinitas · 6 sites · Lodging · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$113
 / night
Guardian Ranch

11. Guardian Ranch

20mi from Encinitas · 2 sites · Lodging · Escondido, CA
Escape to Guardian Ranch, a stunning 40-acre private estate in Escondido overlooking serene Lake Wohlford. This unparalleled sanctuary offers unique Airbnb lodging perfect for large groups, family reunions, or a tranquil luxury escape. What makes us the ultimate Southern California getaway? Our uniqueness lies in our scale and amenities. Choose from seven distinct vacation rental properties, including the spacious Casa Grande, charming cottages, and unique tiny homes with canyon views. We accommodate every traveler — from couples to large parties. Guests can expect a five-star stay with: • Private Pool Access: Sparkling pool amenity • Estate-Sized Group Stays: Accommodations for large parties On-Site Activities: Pickleball courts, scenic hiking trails, indoor games, and fire pit gatherings • Event Hosting: Ideal for intimate weddings, corporate retreats, and large family gatherings (capacity up to 200) • Stunning Views: Rolling hills, lush meadows, and breathtaking night skies for a true nature retreat Book your San Diego vacation rental or luxury event venue today for an unforgettable experience.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$149
 / night

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Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field