The best star host campgrounds near Escondido, California

You find an outdoor paradise hidden in the rolling foothills of North County—literally. Escondido (meaning "hidden" in Spanish) is a historic city 30 miles north of San Diego, California. Get ready to explore three lakes, 20 miles of hiking trails at Daley Ranch, and dozens of nearby beaches.

With its historic farmsteads and vast open spaces, camping near Escondido is never an issue. The area hosts a trove of RV parks, many with extra comforts such as pet-friendly areas, free WiFi, hot tubs, and swimming pools.

If you'd rather sleep under the stars, discover Dixon Lake, a charming reservoir in the rocky foothills. The lake-view campground offers RV and tent camping. When the sun rises, rent a boat to enjoy some fishing (no state license needed) or hike the easy shore trail. You might want to leave your bathing suit at home—swimming here is a no-go.

Drive due west from Escondido, and you hit the Pacific Ocean. Beautiful California state beaches line the coast, the perfect place for camping, surfing, or just soaking in that SoCal sun.

A 30-mile drive east brings you to Cleveland National Forest, a sprawling mountain wilderness. Set up camp in the backcountry, or hike a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail. Nearby Palomar Mountain State Park is a local treasure. At a 5,000-foot elevation, this park draws visitors with its fishing pond, hiking trails, and pleasantly cool evenings.

If you don't want to venture too far, there are plenty of things to do right in Escondido. Visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, meander through the historic downtown, or go wine tasting at a local winery. Kit Carson Park is a family favorite in southern Escondido. The 285-acre space features hiking trails, ponds, picnic tables, and a disc golf course.

The area's Mediterranean climate makes for great camping weather year round. For summer travel, don't forget to bring a reusable water bottle—you don't want to get parched on the trails.

99% (3.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

You find an outdoor paradise hidden in the rolling foothills of North County—literally. Escondido (meaning "hidden" in Spanish) is a historic city 30 miles north of San Diego, California. Get ready to explore three lakes, 20 miles of hiking trails at Daley Ranch, and dozens of nearby beaches.

With its historic farmsteads and vast open spaces, camping near Escondido is never an issue. The area hosts a trove of RV parks, many with extra comforts such as pet-friendly areas, free WiFi, hot tubs, and swimming pools.

If you'd rather sleep under the stars, discover Dixon Lake, a charming reservoir in the rocky foothills. The lake-view campground offers RV and tent camping. When the sun rises, rent a boat to enjoy some fishing (no state license needed) or hike the easy shore trail. You might want to leave your bathing suit at home—swimming here is a no-go.

Drive due west from Escondido, and you hit the Pacific Ocean. Beautiful California state beaches line the coast, the perfect place for camping, surfing, or just soaking in that SoCal sun.

A 30-mile drive east brings you to Cleveland National Forest, a sprawling mountain wilderness. Set up camp in the backcountry, or hike a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail. Nearby Palomar Mountain State Park is a local treasure. At a 5,000-foot elevation, this park draws visitors with its fishing pond, hiking trails, and pleasantly cool evenings.

If you don't want to venture too far, there are plenty of things to do right in Escondido. Visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, meander through the historic downtown, or go wine tasting at a local winery. Kit Carson Park is a family favorite in southern Escondido. The 285-acre space features hiking trails, ponds, picnic tables, and a disc golf course.

The area's Mediterranean climate makes for great camping weather year round. For summer travel, don't forget to bring a reusable water bottle—you don't want to get parched on the trails.

99% (3.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Coastal Rancho Soledad

98%

(108)

37mi from Escondido · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Chula Vista, CA

Your perfect base camp to relax, "work" remotely, and explore San Diego from a coastal micro-climate. Designed to welcome RVing guests in a "city-close but just far enough away" ranch-style setting. A must-stop refuge whether returning from your Baja expedition or starting a new one! ******************Conveniently located :-) 3 miles from bay marina/boat ramp 4 miles from Pacific Ocean beaches and State Park 15 miles (30 minutes) from San Diego Zoo 5 miles from US/Mexico border Convenience and grocery stores within walking distance Public transportation and trolley line accessible *******************What to expect: County residential estate at the end of a private gravel road in a tree-lined valley through "rural looking" properties. Ample turn-around on site suitable for trailers and larger vehicles. Neighboring residential subdivision 200 feet away separated by hillside. A screened area with "classic" trucks and "legacy" equipment next to two shipping containers. Pet friendly place where Gwen (canine camp host assistant roaming the property) will announce your arrival. Please let me know if anyone in your group is sensitive to dogs and I can assign her to temporary office duties inside the house. An ambitious landscape design with planting in progress. ******************What we hope you find: A glimpse of the Pacific Ocean and a coastal breeze to greet you on arrival. Spaces for solitude and reflection. Spaces for conversation. Space for celebration. Please note 3D view from space on most mapping services is outdated (zombie-land-like landscape is no longer).

2. Rock & Tree

98%

(91)

47mi from Escondido · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Perris, CA

It's so nice to "meet you" my name is Taryn and my hubby's name is Anson. We are parents to two-year-old twins, so saying we have our hands full is an understatement. Anson is a folk and blues musician and has traveled all around the U.S. playing his music and I work for a children's book company. One day, we decided that we wanted to live the rest of our lives hosting live music, and events and that's how Rock & Tree began. As the idea grew, we wanted to create an Open Canvas so that the guest could dream up what they wanted on our stage. We moved to the Inland Empire from Santa Monica, in 2017 with the dream of building an open canvas event space out of sustainable, re purposed and natural materials. Our mission is help enrich the culture of Perris, CA by providing a unique venue that takes you away from the hustle and bustle and takes you to a wonderland of nature surrounded by rocks and eucalyptus trees. Anson and I continue to build everything ourselves with the help of our friends and family every now and again. Our process is that we source as much lumber using the dead Eucalyptus trees we have here on the 36 acre property and we are constantly trying to come up with innovative ways to use recycled and donated materials in the venue. During the pandemic, we turned our venue into a campground so we could open up the venue to people who needed to get out into nature. We are now open for daily camping and private events. You can follow our journey on our Instagram.

3. Whiteside Mountain

100%

(390)

37mi from Escondido · 1 site · Tent · Jamul, CA

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!"

4. Mountain View Stargazer

35mi from Escondido · 1 site · Tent, RV · Anza, CA

Surround yourself in natures nest. Camp amongst beautiful rock outcroppings. There are trails that go between and around huge boulders. Unplug and plug into nature. This is a new site, and we are excited to share this amazing experience with our guests. There are gorgeous views in all directions including Cahuilla, Thomas, San Jacinto and Mount Palomar mountains. We are off grid with a porta potty. The site is great for tents or trucks with camper shells, high clearance travel trailers up to 28ft, vans and car camping. Peaceful and serene but close to everything Anza has to offer including nearby Cahuilla casino, Temecula Wine Country is 35 min, Palm Desert is 45 min, Temecula Olive Oil company is 15 min and the famous Paradise Cafe 20 minute away. Activities include hiking, mountain biking and fishing at Lake Hemet. RV Dump site and hookup available.

5. Dos Fernandos' Hideaway RV vineyard

100%

(9)

29mi from Escondido · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Temecula, CA

Profile Information - Dos Fernandos' Hideaway is sitting on 18 acres in the heart of Temecula Valley Wine Country with 12 acres planted in vineyards that are harvested for Robert Renzoni Winery. There are five wineries within a mile of our location as well as the entrance to Lake Skinner just a quarter mile away. If the weather permits, you may see and hear the many hot air balloons gliding over our vineyards and gardens. Our family acquired the land in 1990 and have planted every grape vine, flora and tree here since 2000. The grounds now enjoy mature shade trees and cypresses with resident owls, red tailed hawks, road runners and other wildlife.

Stories from the community

D

Dial Of Ruin

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rock & Tree

This site was a dream come true. It was absolutely perfect for our LARP Dial of Ruin. From the gorgeous site to the perfect accommodations for our needs to the amazing and kind owners. You will find Rock and Tree is the perfect site for you

N

NOE

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Whiteside Mountain

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.

B

Brent

3 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Dos Fernandos' Hideaway RV vineyard

Such a great spot! Easy check in and friendly hosts that have done a great job setting up the sites. We will definitely be back.

J

Jeffrey

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at Whiteside Mountain

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.

G

Grace

November 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rock & Tree

Such a great spot!! A gem. The spot was perfect for our kids to play and run around. I would totally rent the space out if I had an event in the area! Communication was great and hosts were extremely helpful and flexible! We added a night on.

B

Brad

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Rock & Tree

Rock & Tree is the best place to host your event! We always have a wonderful time, it’s truly a magical spot.

Ridley

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rock & Tree

Tales from Gloom Hollow just had our second event at Rock and Tree. Absolutely an amazing time. This venue is so pretty and well maintained. Had an incredible night time experience, being able to star gaze late at night when all the activities winded down is a huge bonus for me personally. Our player base is also enjoying this location and love our new home at Rock and Tree!

R

Riley

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Rock & Tree

We hosted our annual campout festival Raise Your Energy at Rock and Tree, and it was nothing short of magical. The property is full of hidden gems — beautiful trees offering plenty of shade, cozy hammocks for lounging, and endless nooks to explore and relax in. The hosts, Taryn and Anson, were incredibly kind and accommodating every step of the way — from the planning phase all the way through the event itself. Their communication and support made everything feel easy and stress-free. And Taylor, the on-site manager, absolutely rules — super helpful, chill, and on top of everything. This place truly captures the spirit of community and connection. We couldn’t have asked for a better spot for our festival, and we can’t wait to come back. Highly recommend Rock and Tree to anyone looking for a special, welcoming space surrounded by nature and good energy! 🌳✨

S

Stephanie

October 2025

20 ft toy hauler

With pets

1 night at Coastal Rancho Soledad

We followed Joel’s directions and easily found where to go. Keep an eye on your upper camper as you travel the long drive. The trees come close in spots. There’s plenty of room. Joel met us when we drove in. He directed us to our spot and gave us information about the area and getting around. It’s right in the middle of town, but you’d never know it. It’s pretty quiet and feels secluded. There are others that live on the property and off the long driveway, but everyone is pleasant and friendly. There’s no street noise. There’s working people around, so you’ll hear neighbors coming and going for work. The ground is all gravel and fairly level. We had water and electric hook-ups. Joel’s dog Gwen patrols the property. She’s friendly, but a little shy. We had our 2 dogs with us and they were allowed to roam the property. We also had our own fencing when we didn’t want them to roam. The property is safe and not gated. Joel warned us about skunks. We smelled them, but never saw them. There are trees around the outside of the property, so not much shade, but the weather is so nice, we didn’t need any. Lots of birds around. There is a bathroom and shower available. We didn’t need them, as we had our camper. Others were using them. We got ants in the camper-not unusually when camping. Joel was friendly and never bothered us. We never felt intruded upon or uncomfortable. Everything is close and lots to do within 25 minutes drive. We’ll come again!

Ridley

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rock & Tree

This was an absolute amazing weekend. I run a Larp (live action role play) with my husband and this was our first weekend running here. this location is amazing solid 10/10. Hosts are so nice! The site is so pretty especially at night. So happy to call Rock and Tree home!

A

Airizon

September 2025

35 ft Class A

4 nights at Coastal Rancho Soledad

Depending on what you're doing in the SD area, it can be a great jumping off spot. 30min to most of the hot spots. Joel was a very personable host. We are in a 35' DP and had no problem getting in/out. I don't know if I would try a 42'. The driveway is pretty tight. For us overall it was a great experience for our 1st Hipcamp adventure. Thanks Joel. Cheers!

D

Dylan

September 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Coastal Rancho Soledad

Joel is great the place is quiet and we enjoyed our stay.

C

Cyndee

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rock & Tree

This place is so unique and fun. Went there to celebrate my birthday and it did not disappoint. My guests loved walking around and finding all the unique and fun things around the property. The owners and groundskeeper are also super nice and friendly.

Jessica

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Whiteside Mountain

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!

A

Anthony

August 2025

50 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Coastal Rancho Soledad

I like Joe’s place. It was very cozy quiet tucked away far deep in his property from the street. It was very nice. The gentleman was very kind to me. When I come back to Chula Vista, I will always get a spot from him. Thank you very much Joe from Tony. I will call you next year reserve. A spot with you again thank you for all your good work. You’ve done on your property next year. It might be better. Have a great one. Say hi to your family for me. Talk to you soon.

A

Adrian

August 2025

29 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Coastal Rancho Soledad

Joel’s place is convienently located and very private, plus Joel is a nice guy. 10/10 would stay again

B

Brian

August 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Whiteside Mountain

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.

G

George

August 2025

13 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Coastal Rancho Soledad

Very friendly Very clean and functional Can’t wait to go back Thanks Joel

Lyndsey

August 2025

22 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Coastal Rancho Soledad

I had a great stay at Joel's property. It had a very EcoVillage feel. The spots were close together with a communal shower area behind me. Everyone was very relaxed and one site had a dog who barked some, but not too bad and was quiet during late and early hours. Joel was very friendly and helpful. He was accommodating amdist my travel mishaps when I arrived and always with a smile for the entirety of my stay. I didn't spend as much time there as I thought I would and was a little sad about that. His directions were helpful as the turn would be easy to miss. I recommend using. Location was extremely convenient to the freeway and to Imperial Beach. I would definitely return.

M

Matthew

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Whiteside Mountain

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.