95% (6.7K) • 490 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Escondido
Whiteside Mountain
1. Whiteside Mountain
100%
(391)
37mi from Escondido · 1 site
160 acres of wild and private land at the top of a mountain. Bouldering, exploring, outdoor cold water shower, well drinking water, and pergola! 45 minutes from downtown San Diego and beaches but a whole different world!A single camp spot on the top of a mountain surrounded by 160 acres of no one else! Requires 4WD/high clearance AWD road to camp spot. Plenty of shade at spot with picnic area that is covered. Drinking water, sink and outdoor cold water shower. Bouldering (climbing), fire pit (seasonal), covered deck, hiking and VIEWS! Plenty of room and separate camp spots- lock the gate and you will have no visitors or onlookers. Single outdoor flush toilet with sink. We provide a Propane stove - 2 burner, propane, toilet paper, dish soap and hand soap. No COTS.Guests love it here "This was finally checked off of my saved list—my partner and I rented a 4x4 to get up there since our 2WD car wouldn't have made it in one piece. It was only a short drive from downtown San Diego and was super easy to navigate.
Once we arrived the experience was TRULY MAGICAL. We had such an awesome experience exploring the property, birdwatching, hiking and some light climbing. Don't forget to check out the cave!
The facilities were beyond expectations and we had a seamless experience. Steve was super accommodating and was great at communicating—he even gave us a small tour of the property!
The sunsets and sunrises here were something out of a dream, we wish we could wake up every morning here.
We will definitely be coming back soon!"
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from
$98
/ night
Mystic Canyon Inn
2. Mystic Canyon Inn
96%
(80)
26mi from Escondido · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
Our home is eclectic, country, relaxed and homey.
We are conveniently located just 30 minutes from downtown San Diego and popular tourist attractions like Comic-Con, Balboa Park, the beautiful beaches and the world famous San Diego Zoo. 35 minutes east you will find beautiful Mount Laguna, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Pacific Crest Trail access and the town of Julian. About an hour east brings you to the desert, where natural beauty and recreation abound. 13 miles away, Viejas Casino boasts a beautiful outlet center. 4 miles away, Sycuan has a casino with entertainment and the golf resort of Singing Hills. Come enjoy the slower pace of the San Diego backcountry.
So, hike, bike or drive yourself to our little haven and say goodbye to the hustle and bustle!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$50
/ night
SoCal Campground
3. SoCal Campground
95%
(72)
27mi from Escondido · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our serene getaway in the heart of Fallbrook, CA, where the rustic charm of farm country meets the tranquility of nature. Situated just 30 minutes from the historic allure of Old Town Temecula, our 15-acre campground offers a haven for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Immerse yourself in the lush surroundings of our property, adorned with mature pomegranate groves (November/December Bloom), fragrant orange trees, and a variety of other fruit trees. Wake up to the sweet melodies of birdsong and the scent of fresh citrus wafting through the air, as you breathe in the crisp, clean country air. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath the starlit sky or parking your RV amidst the sprawling landscape, camping at our site offers an unparalleled connection to the great outdoors. Spend your days exploring the scenic hiking trails that wind through the surrounding mountains, or simply relax and unwind amidst the natural beauty that surrounds you. For those craving adventure, nearby attractions such as Old Town Temecula beckon with their rich history, charming boutiques, and renowned wineries. But with the serene beauty of our campground at your doorstep, you may find that the greatest adventures lie right here, amidst the rolling hills and fruit-laden trees of Fallbrook. The bathroom building with hot showers is freshly renovated and campsites are clean and nestled nature. Escape the ordinary and discover the magic of camping in the country at our picturesque retreat. Book your stay today and experience the beauty of Fallbrook, CA, where every moment is an opportunity to reconnect with nature and rejuvenate your soul. SPECIAL NOTE: Please be aware the property is in the countryside and there are wild animals that can roam through the property including coyotes, wild dogs, snakes, mountain lions, etc. Please do not approach any wild animals. We look forward to hosting you as our guests!
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
$46
/ night
Pendy Farms
4. Pendy Farms
100%
(1)
16mi from Escondido · 1 site
Nestled in the rolling hills of Fallbrook, CA with beautiful views of Camp Pendleton.
This luxury site is complete with outdoor space (fire pit, eating area, cornhole, and horseshoes). Visitors can feed the farm, hike endless trails including Sleeping Indian Hill for ranch to sea views.
A quick drive will deliver you to Oceanside Harbor, Legoland, or local wineries in Fallbrook and Temecula, while golfers will enjoy the nearby courses. Or take a day trip to visit San Diego Safari Park, San Diego Zoo, or Balboa Park, all within an hours drive, along with the airport.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$120
/ night
Detour n De Luz Fallbrook San Diego
5. Detour n De Luz Fallbrook San Diego
90%
(15)
22mi from Escondido · 13 sites
Adults only. A natural hideaway for You and Your's. No curfews or quiet hours.. Check in at noon. Extended check out, automatically granted until 4:00pm, so relax and enjoy.
Detour N De Luz, offers camping experiences that are unique and outside the status quo. Campers are given freedom of choice. Within a 10 acre range of sloping hillside, majestic rock formations and lush exotic landscape, you can find your own ideal camp spot or choose one of our leveled spots, already cleared of dry brush and ready for above ground standard tent camping. Dogs allowed on leash only and be familiar with Southern California's indigenous wildlife proper protocol, when accompanied by your canine.
The camping area resides on the North side of the Via Cordoniz access road, starting at Deadwood Dome site and the Detour N De Luz sign at top of staircase, ranging North West 3/4 of the mountain up, and 10 acres left. Please be mindful of the property markers, and respect our neighboring property lines. You are responsible for your own fitness in hiking the inclining trails and staircases. Hiking or walking sticks are highly recommended.
A shared cooking area, has been cleared, a small fire extinguisher provided, burn kit, and carved crater seating. Nearby, a shared pit toilet pallet stall with a small 5 gallon solar shower bag, shower
and pouring bottle-for minor freshening, vanity mirror and 5 gallon water jug, refilled as needed.
Two small sleeping tents are available for rent. Cost is an additional $5 per night, per sleeping tent. If you would like the tent set up and taken down for you, we charge a $5 flat, per tent, set up/breakdown fee. One single person, military style, fold out, sleeping cot, is also available for rent, at $5 per night. Please message us in advance to reserve sleeping amenities, as they are available first come, first serve.
A welcome fruit tray of chiramoyas, guava or avacado, or bouquet of fresh cut Protea or leucidendrom flower bouquet, (all grown on property), is available, upon request, for special occasions. Please message us in your reservation, with advanced notice.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$15
/ night
95% (6.7K) • 490 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Escondido
Whiteside Mountain
1. Whiteside Mountain
100%
(391)
37mi from Escondido · 1 site
160 acres of wild and private land at the top of a mountain. Bouldering, exploring, outdoor cold water shower, well drinking water, and pergola! 45 minutes from downtown San Diego and beaches but a whole different world!A single camp spot on the top of a mountain surrounded by 160 acres of no one else! Requires 4WD/high clearance AWD road to camp spot. Plenty of shade at spot with picnic area that is covered. Drinking water, sink and outdoor cold water shower. Bouldering (climbing), fire pit (seasonal), covered deck, hiking and VIEWS! Plenty of room and separate camp spots- lock the gate and you will have no visitors or onlookers. Single outdoor flush toilet with sink. We provide a Propane stove - 2 burner, propane, toilet paper, dish soap and hand soap. No COTS.Guests love it here "This was finally checked off of my saved list—my partner and I rented a 4x4 to get up there since our 2WD car wouldn't have made it in one piece. It was only a short drive from downtown San Diego and was super easy to navigate.
Once we arrived the experience was TRULY MAGICAL. We had such an awesome experience exploring the property, birdwatching, hiking and some light climbing. Don't forget to check out the cave!
The facilities were beyond expectations and we had a seamless experience. Steve was super accommodating and was great at communicating—he even gave us a small tour of the property!
The sunsets and sunrises here were something out of a dream, we wish we could wake up every morning here.
We will definitely be coming back soon!"
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from
$98
/ night
Mystic Canyon Inn
2. Mystic Canyon Inn
96%
(80)
26mi from Escondido · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
Our home is eclectic, country, relaxed and homey.
We are conveniently located just 30 minutes from downtown San Diego and popular tourist attractions like Comic-Con, Balboa Park, the beautiful beaches and the world famous San Diego Zoo. 35 minutes east you will find beautiful Mount Laguna, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Pacific Crest Trail access and the town of Julian. About an hour east brings you to the desert, where natural beauty and recreation abound. 13 miles away, Viejas Casino boasts a beautiful outlet center. 4 miles away, Sycuan has a casino with entertainment and the golf resort of Singing Hills. Come enjoy the slower pace of the San Diego backcountry.
So, hike, bike or drive yourself to our little haven and say goodbye to the hustle and bustle!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$50
/ night
SoCal Campground
3. SoCal Campground
95%
(72)
27mi from Escondido · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our serene getaway in the heart of Fallbrook, CA, where the rustic charm of farm country meets the tranquility of nature. Situated just 30 minutes from the historic allure of Old Town Temecula, our 15-acre campground offers a haven for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Immerse yourself in the lush surroundings of our property, adorned with mature pomegranate groves (November/December Bloom), fragrant orange trees, and a variety of other fruit trees. Wake up to the sweet melodies of birdsong and the scent of fresh citrus wafting through the air, as you breathe in the crisp, clean country air. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath the starlit sky or parking your RV amidst the sprawling landscape, camping at our site offers an unparalleled connection to the great outdoors. Spend your days exploring the scenic hiking trails that wind through the surrounding mountains, or simply relax and unwind amidst the natural beauty that surrounds you. For those craving adventure, nearby attractions such as Old Town Temecula beckon with their rich history, charming boutiques, and renowned wineries. But with the serene beauty of our campground at your doorstep, you may find that the greatest adventures lie right here, amidst the rolling hills and fruit-laden trees of Fallbrook. The bathroom building with hot showers is freshly renovated and campsites are clean and nestled nature. Escape the ordinary and discover the magic of camping in the country at our picturesque retreat. Book your stay today and experience the beauty of Fallbrook, CA, where every moment is an opportunity to reconnect with nature and rejuvenate your soul. SPECIAL NOTE: Please be aware the property is in the countryside and there are wild animals that can roam through the property including coyotes, wild dogs, snakes, mountain lions, etc. Please do not approach any wild animals. We look forward to hosting you as our guests!
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
$46
/ night
Pendy Farms
4. Pendy Farms
100%
(1)
16mi from Escondido · 1 site
Nestled in the rolling hills of Fallbrook, CA with beautiful views of Camp Pendleton.
This luxury site is complete with outdoor space (fire pit, eating area, cornhole, and horseshoes). Visitors can feed the farm, hike endless trails including Sleeping Indian Hill for ranch to sea views.
A quick drive will deliver you to Oceanside Harbor, Legoland, or local wineries in Fallbrook and Temecula, while golfers will enjoy the nearby courses. Or take a day trip to visit San Diego Safari Park, San Diego Zoo, or Balboa Park, all within an hours drive, along with the airport.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$120
/ night
Detour n De Luz Fallbrook San Diego
5. Detour n De Luz Fallbrook San Diego
90%
(15)
22mi from Escondido · 13 sites
Adults only. A natural hideaway for You and Your's. No curfews or quiet hours.. Check in at noon. Extended check out, automatically granted until 4:00pm, so relax and enjoy.
Detour N De Luz, offers camping experiences that are unique and outside the status quo. Campers are given freedom of choice. Within a 10 acre range of sloping hillside, majestic rock formations and lush exotic landscape, you can find your own ideal camp spot or choose one of our leveled spots, already cleared of dry brush and ready for above ground standard tent camping. Dogs allowed on leash only and be familiar with Southern California's indigenous wildlife proper protocol, when accompanied by your canine.
The camping area resides on the North side of the Via Cordoniz access road, starting at Deadwood Dome site and the Detour N De Luz sign at top of staircase, ranging North West 3/4 of the mountain up, and 10 acres left. Please be mindful of the property markers, and respect our neighboring property lines. You are responsible for your own fitness in hiking the inclining trails and staircases. Hiking or walking sticks are highly recommended.
A shared cooking area, has been cleared, a small fire extinguisher provided, burn kit, and carved crater seating. Nearby, a shared pit toilet pallet stall with a small 5 gallon solar shower bag, shower
and pouring bottle-for minor freshening, vanity mirror and 5 gallon water jug, refilled as needed.
Two small sleeping tents are available for rent. Cost is an additional $5 per night, per sleeping tent. If you would like the tent set up and taken down for you, we charge a $5 flat, per tent, set up/breakdown fee. One single person, military style, fold out, sleeping cot, is also available for rent, at $5 per night. Please message us in advance to reserve sleeping amenities, as they are available first come, first serve.
A welcome fruit tray of chiramoyas, guava or avacado, or bouquet of fresh cut Protea or leucidendrom flower bouquet, (all grown on property), is available, upon request, for special occasions. Please message us in your reservation, with advanced notice.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$15
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Benjamin
December 2025
Tent
With pets
Our second time around, first time during the winter, just as great as we remember it with some new additions!
Noticed there are some new homes/camps on nearby mountains in the area since our last time around but still very safe, cozy and private. The mountain is essentially double gated and one side has unobstructed views of the lake. The road up has definitely seen better days, at least 3 tricky spots, 4WD recommended, we've driven up to camp with AWD but we are definitely getting 4WD for next time. The last thing you want is to have to carry all your supplies up the mountain, a 15 minute drive can become a 1-2 hour steep hike up to camp. The weather was very comfortable, we brought a lot of winter camping supplies that we ended up not using as temps barely went under 55 degrees.
Having running water, electricity and a toilet up here is a blessing. We plugged in a 12V car fridge for a few days and grilled/cooked comfortably while keeping everything clean and organized.
Not too far from SD or Anza-Borrego for a day trip, we spent most of our days just hiking the mountain with my dog. Make sure to visit the bridge and cave during your stay. Might be nice to bring a mountain bike if you have one.
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M
Martinis
December 2025
Tent
I’m sure it was as quiet as it was due to I was there by myself.. easy to get to and leaving was jnv CC
See moreR
Ruth
December 2025
Tent
So Cal Campground was perfect for us! We were lucky to be the only campers there in early December 2025. The facilities were perfect since we were from out of state, and needed a clean facility to get ready for a wedding we were attending several miles away. It was much more memorable than a hotel room. Thank you.
See moreR
Rob
December 2025
20 ft campervan
Nice, remote area that provided us with the spot we needed on our trip. Good bathrooms and a quiet night.
See moreN
NOE
November 2025
Tent
With pets
Absolutely beautiful, Very private and quiet. Expect to see wildlife, deer, coyotes, rabbits, etc. The cave is located in the other side of the hill top behind the water tank (go right). The road is a bit rough to get there so 4x4 or AWD definitely required. Other than that, you will love the landscape. If you want to escape to town its just a quick drive for decent dining options, we went to Hooleys. Would definitely come back.
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A
Andrew
November 2025
With kids
We've had a great time there with my three sons. The RV offered comfortable stay for 4 people. The place is very cozy and has everything you'd need for a relaxing staycation out of town: bathrooms with running water, kitchen, fridge, master bed and two bunk beds. Everything is clean and in good order. Jason, the host, was very accommodating and helped us set up a wood fire pit, where we enjoyed our little BBQ and marshmallows under the star-lit sky. We were pleasantly surpsised by the welcome basket full of goodies left by the host for our enjoyment. Dont forget to take off the shoes before going inside to keep the place clean and grab your trash bags on the way out.
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K
Kylah
November 2025
Tent
Allison - thank you for being such an awesome host. I appreciate the hospitality and enjoyed my 3 night stay with you guys🫶🏽
See moreM
Mareon
November 2025
Tent
Purposefully came out during the rain expecting a complete disaster and was happy that it wasn't. Moving around was actually pretty hard so as stated in the description bring hiking poles is recommended. Ideally a backpacking set up would be great as moving up and down the hill is hard and hence why they offer porter services. I would have liked to explore the property more, but due to the rains I hesistated since I did not want to contribute to erosion of the land. Overall it was great despite the once a year rains that CA gets and I would like to come again when it is dry.
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J
Jeffrey
November 2025
Tent
A very unique and beautiful spot to pitch your tent. The quiet was deafening, the views amazing. You can watch both the sunrise and sunset from the mountain top. The huge pergola provided space for a large picnic table with benches, a counter with sink and food prep areas plus a stove and propane. Two Adirondack chairs provide front row seats to the surrounding hills and rock formations, with the view extending all the way to the Pacific Ocean. The flush toilet perched on the side of a huge boulder was certainly one, of many elements, that made this spot so unique. Having this mountain top camp spot all to ourselves made this a most memorable experience. One more item, take seriously the 4WD, high clearance vehicle requirement. Thanks Steve for sharing Whiteside Mountain.
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B
Brianna
November 2025
Tent
With kids
Great spot for first time family camping. Don't forget to bring your own drinking water.
See moreJ
Jessica
October 2025
Tent
Absolutely beautiful campgrounds with great accommodations, clean facilities with water and fire pits at most sites. Very private
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T
Tammy
September 2025
Tent
With pets
The campground was very clean and the bathrooms are spotless. We camped in spot 17 which was up higher so had wonderful views.
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T
Todd
September 2025
Tent
With kids
We loved camping here! We backed into lot 16 and had a great view of the grounds and mountains around us. The site was clean and spacious. The bathroom facility is wonderful! It was generally a very very quiet location with the exception of occasional noise from neighboring private properties, but that is no fault of the owners of SoCal Campground. We are excited to come back again!
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Ben
September 2025
Tent
With kids
The spots had plenty of space and running water to wash dishes or put out the fire. The bathroom + showers were a favorite of the kids. They are in the early stages but it’s shaping up to be a great place.
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Jessica
September 2025
Tent
What a truly incredible place! I feel so grateful to Steve for making this spot available and for all the awesome work he's done making it feel so comfortable. While we visited during a heatwave it was actually cool and breezy from our perch on the covered platform. The kitchen was perfect for making even fairly elaborate camp-style meals. Whiteside Mountain is also the scene of a first for me - sleeping out completely under the stars with no tent! Truly magical. We were two women out there and we felt comfortable and secure the whole time. Steve was very communicative and helpful - 10/10 host! His stewardship of the land is really inspiring. It was really amazing to be able to roll in and be settled so quickly - the perfect balance between nature and man-made structure has been found here. Come for the unparalleled toilet view, stay for the total package!
See moreR
Richard
August 2025
Tent
With kids
My daughter and I went camping for the night last Saturday. The bathroom was nice and the campsite (#16) was big and private. Overall, our stay was good and we will be going back.
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Colleen
August 2025
16 ft car
Nice communication prior to arrival and once on the grounds. Very peaceful and bathroom amenities were a great bonus!
I’ll return for sure! It’s a nice place to camp with a group of friends,
The ‘bumpy’ road is CA style and no problem :)
If going in hot season, bring a pop-up umbrella or tent as many of the sites don’t have shade, but they are all great.
See moreB
Brian
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Steve's land was an amazing location for my girlfriend, me, and our dog. The outdoor kitchen was super clean, and the camp stove worked perfectly for our cooked meals. The bathroom was also very clean, and I'd rank it #1 in terms of bathroom locations. There was a ton of space to explore, and our dog enjoyed being able to roam around the site. We brought a hammock to set up on the deck, and the breeze at the top of the mountain was perfect for it. Stars, sunsets, waking up above the clouds - the views were fantastic. There were lots of ants (we witnessed a colony migrating?), but we were prepared and kept our tent and the kitchen area pretty ant free. Overall, I would 100% recommend this place to those looking for a remote camp spot great for unwinding.
See moreM
Matthew
August 2025
Tent
This is one of the best camp sites I've been to for a long time. Love that we had 160acres of land all to ourselves. The platform and covered area for hanging out, food prep and views is perfect. Steve is a super host and extremely responsive even when in a totally different time zone 12 hours ahead. Steve has added so many fun features like the cave platform, the bunker, an awesome additional flat camping area with really fun table balancing on a rock. The scenery is truly spectacular. Would absolutely recommend this site and we will return for sure.
I would highly recommend a 4x4 and not an AWD. We did manage to make it up in a Nissan Outlander but it was not easy and had to make more than one attempt in some sections of the road.
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K
Kristen
August 2025
Tent
With pets
This is a great campsite. Very clean with bathrooms and showers available. Alyssa and John were very helpful. We would completely go back.
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