Desert camping near Imperial Beach

Discover and reserve the best campgrounds, cabins, RV parks, and more.

74% (336 reviews)

United States
—
California
—
Imperial Beach

74% (336 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Imperial Beach

Available this weekend

Big Sky Eco Resort Ranch

5 sites · Lodging170 acres · Potrero, CA

170 acre eco/hotel ranch on sacred Indian Land a great place to get away from the city and hike, star gaze, write or do some art . Plenty of open space to do something or nothing Beautiful views and Sunsets. Tecate Mexico is 7 min away so bring your passport or Birth certificate for a fun day in Mexico or hike on our local trails, visit local Vineyards,Go to local Casinos BBQ, relax and read a book, (only 40 min from San Diego 3 hours from Los Angeles)Learn more about this land:1970's trailer on a 170 acre eco/hotel ranch on sacred Indian Land a great place to get away from the city and hike, star gaze, write or do some art . Plenty of open space to do something or nothing Beautiful views and Sunsets. Tecate Mexico is 7 min away so bring your passport or Birth certificate for a fun day in Mexico or hike on our local trails, visit local Vineyards,Go to local Casinos BBQ, relax and read a book, (only 40 min from San Diego 3 hours from Los Angeles)

JP Longstock Ranch

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Campo, CA

This is a historical property in campo California. A great old west town with an interesting history behind it. This particular property was where the Buffalo soldiers kept their working horses close to 100 years ago in what is now the last standing original buffalo soldier barn. Old artifacts and handmade tack can still be found in the giant rustic barn. The barn is now used to breed unique crossbred horses that have gained Note-oriety, and have been featured on the cover of magazines, including the Boot Barn campaign (who intend to use the barn in in future photo shoots) as well as use famous spotted horse, Confettis American Warrior in the next ad campaign being shot in Hollywood next month. We tried to keep the barn with its original charm and added some world class beautiful horses that are available for riding around the property and/or photoshoots during your stay for an additional cost. We have extra stalls available for people who would like to bring their own horses for a unique camping experience including riding your horse in Camp Locket and along the USA/America border wall. Lots of space for trailer and very secure stalls in the barn. We are just starting out doing this, but have the options of staying in a brand new shed yet to be converted, in the barn inside an old stall to have a real authentic experience where the soldiers used to rest or a tent overlooking the old historical barn and the fabulous horses (right now we have babies!). We have multiple cross fences fenced areas including stalls and areas for your dog but will need to discuss details beforehand. We are very pet and people friendly.

El Valle RV Park

1 site · Tent5 acres

El Valle de Guadalupe is a quaint, majestic place now world famous for its wineries and culinary masterpieces. El Valle RV Park offers you the opportunity of exploring Valle de Guadalupe at your leisure: by hosting your adventure vehicle , camping at our campsites, sleeping inside our cozy wine barrel pods or spend the night inside our magnificent giant silver wine bottle.

La Mirada Ranch

1 site · RV1 acre

A natural setting, rustic-fashion area at the Hacienda Santa Veronica a unique choice in Tecate, Baja California. With a privileged location in El Hongo town, nearby the famous Baja 1000 racecourse, away from the city hustle and surrounded by mountains that help relax and rejuvenate the body.If you need more to relax, enjoy a spa at the Hacienda entrance or a traditional Temazcal, an ancient ceremony that diverse indigenous tribes used to practice to help regulate the digestive system, lung cleaning regulating fertility, getting rid of stress, insomnia. Enjoy an authentic spiritual experience.

Manzanita Trails

19 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Boulevard, CA

This property sits on the original interstate route which took you into San Diego by wagon. Learn more about this land: If you just want to lounge out, look at the stars and enjoy nature then this is the place for you. The surrounding area includes: an 8 minute drive to casinos, 15 minutes from Jacumba Hot Springs, and 1 hour drive to the sand dunes. Tons of hiking and biking trails scattered throughout the area within a 15-30 minute drive.

8 top desert campgrounds near Imperial Beach

Whiteside Mountain

1 site · Tent160 acres · 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!"

Mystic Canyon Inn

4 sites · Lodging1 acre · El Cajon, CA

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. If you are in the mood for a massage, Barbara is a therapist with amazing healing hands. (Please arrange in advance of your visit to ensure availability.) If you are a hiker and need a guide, Randy is an experienced Pacific Crest Trail hiker, who will be happy to assist with drop-off and pick-up in the local mountains, or whatever your hiking/backpacking needs are. Bikers of all kinds, frequently go by on Harbison Canyon Road, which is part of a larger biking loop. So, hike, bike or drive yourself to our little haven and say goodbye to the hustle and bustle! We enjoy talking to our guests, finding out about where they live and providing information on the local area. We do work during the week, but are usually around on the weekends.

Cooking equipment

Manzanita Trails

19 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Boulevard, CA

This property sits on the original interstate route which took you into San Diego by wagon. Learn more about this land: If you just want to lounge out, look at the stars and enjoy nature then this is the place for you. The surrounding area includes: an 8 minute drive to casinos, 15 minutes from Jacumba Hot Springs, and 1 hour drive to the sand dunes. Tons of hiking and biking trails scattered throughout the area within a 15-30 minute drive.

Cooking equipment

Big Sky Eco Resort Ranch

5 sites · Lodging170 acres · Potrero, CA

170 acre eco/hotel ranch on sacred Indian Land a great place to get away from the city and hike, star gaze, write or do some art . Plenty of open space to do something or nothing Beautiful views and Sunsets. Tecate Mexico is 7 min away so bring your passport or Birth certificate for a fun day in Mexico or hike on our local trails, visit local Vineyards,Go to local Casinos BBQ, relax and read a book, (only 40 min from San Diego 3 hours from Los Angeles)Learn more about this land:1970's trailer on a 170 acre eco/hotel ranch on sacred Indian Land a great place to get away from the city and hike, star gaze, write or do some art . Plenty of open space to do something or nothing Beautiful views and Sunsets. Tecate Mexico is 7 min away so bring your passport or Birth certificate for a fun day in Mexico or hike on our local trails, visit local Vineyards,Go to local Casinos BBQ, relax and read a book, (only 40 min from San Diego 3 hours from Los Angeles)

Sage Haven Ranch

4 sites · Lodging, Tents48 acres · Valley Center, CA

Nestled withing the picturesque landscapes of San Diego County, the Sage Haven Ranch offers a unique retreat for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The expansive grounds are bordered by a pristine nature preserve, creating a serene haven for those seeking a harmonious blend of tranquility and adventure. As you enter the campground, you are greeted by the warm embrace of the oak trees and the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. The ranch, with it's rustic charm, provides a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The accommodation options range from traditional campsites to furnished tents, allowing guests to tailor their experience to their level of comfort. The highlight of this campground is its adjacency to a nature preserve, presenting a haven for local flora and fauna. Hiking trails accessible from the campground wind their way through the preserve, inviting guests to explore the ecosystems that call this area home. The trails vary in difficulty, accommodating both a casual stroll or an avid hike, with each path revealing breathtaking views.

JP Longstock Ranch

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Campo, CA

This is a historical property in campo California. A great old west town with an interesting history behind it. This particular property was where the Buffalo soldiers kept their working horses close to 100 years ago in what is now the last standing original buffalo soldier barn. Old artifacts and handmade tack can still be found in the giant rustic barn. The barn is now used to breed unique crossbred horses that have gained Note-oriety, and have been featured on the cover of magazines, including the Boot Barn campaign (who intend to use the barn in in future photo shoots) as well as use famous spotted horse, Confettis American Warrior in the next ad campaign being shot in Hollywood next month. We tried to keep the barn with its original charm and added some world class beautiful horses that are available for riding around the property and/or photoshoots during your stay for an additional cost. We have extra stalls available for people who would like to bring their own horses for a unique camping experience including riding your horse in Camp Locket and along the USA/America border wall. Lots of space for trailer and very secure stalls in the barn. We are just starting out doing this, but have the options of staying in a brand new shed yet to be converted, in the barn inside an old stall to have a real authentic experience where the soldiers used to rest or a tent overlooking the old historical barn and the fabulous horses (right now we have babies!). We have multiple cross fences fenced areas including stalls and areas for your dog but will need to discuss details beforehand. We are very pet and people friendly.

El Valle RV Park

1 site · Tent5 acres

El Valle de Guadalupe is a quaint, majestic place now world famous for its wineries and culinary masterpieces. El Valle RV Park offers you the opportunity of exploring Valle de Guadalupe at your leisure: by hosting your adventure vehicle , camping at our campsites, sleeping inside our cozy wine barrel pods or spend the night inside our magnificent giant silver wine bottle.

La Mirada Ranch

1 site · RV1 acre

A natural setting, rustic-fashion area at the Hacienda Santa Veronica a unique choice in Tecate, Baja California. With a privileged location in El Hongo town, nearby the famous Baja 1000 racecourse, away from the city hustle and surrounded by mountains that help relax and rejuvenate the body.If you need more to relax, enjoy a spa at the Hacienda entrance or a traditional Temazcal, an ancient ceremony that diverse indigenous tribes used to practice to help regulate the digestive system, lung cleaning regulating fertility, getting rid of stress, insomnia. Enjoy an authentic spiritual experience.

Under $50

La Mirada Ranch

1 site · RV1 acre

A natural setting, rustic-fashion area at the Hacienda Santa Veronica a unique choice in Tecate, Baja California. With a privileged location in El Hongo town, nearby the famous Baja 1000 racecourse, away from the city hustle and surrounded by mountains that help relax and rejuvenate the body.If you need more to relax, enjoy a spa at the Hacienda entrance or a traditional Temazcal, an ancient ceremony that diverse indigenous tribes used to practice to help regulate the digestive system, lung cleaning regulating fertility, getting rid of stress, insomnia. Enjoy an authentic spiritual experience.

Sage Haven Ranch

4 sites · Lodging, Tents48 acres · Valley Center, CA

Nestled withing the picturesque landscapes of San Diego County, the Sage Haven Ranch offers a unique retreat for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The expansive grounds are bordered by a pristine nature preserve, creating a serene haven for those seeking a harmonious blend of tranquility and adventure. As you enter the campground, you are greeted by the warm embrace of the oak trees and the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. The ranch, with it's rustic charm, provides a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The accommodation options range from traditional campsites to furnished tents, allowing guests to tailor their experience to their level of comfort. The highlight of this campground is its adjacency to a nature preserve, presenting a haven for local flora and fauna. Hiking trails accessible from the campground wind their way through the preserve, inviting guests to explore the ecosystems that call this area home. The trails vary in difficulty, accommodating both a casual stroll or an avid hike, with each path revealing breathtaking views.

Manzanita Trails

19 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Boulevard, CA

This property sits on the original interstate route which took you into San Diego by wagon. Learn more about this land: If you just want to lounge out, look at the stars and enjoy nature then this is the place for you. The surrounding area includes: an 8 minute drive to casinos, 15 minutes from Jacumba Hot Springs, and 1 hour drive to the sand dunes. Tons of hiking and biking trails scattered throughout the area within a 15-30 minute drive.

Dog-friendly getaways

Big Sky Eco Resort Ranch

5 sites · Lodging170 acres · Potrero, CA

170 acre eco/hotel ranch on sacred Indian Land a great place to get away from the city and hike, star gaze, write or do some art . Plenty of open space to do something or nothing Beautiful views and Sunsets. Tecate Mexico is 7 min away so bring your passport or Birth certificate for a fun day in Mexico or hike on our local trails, visit local Vineyards,Go to local Casinos BBQ, relax and read a book, (only 40 min from San Diego 3 hours from Los Angeles)Learn more about this land:1970's trailer on a 170 acre eco/hotel ranch on sacred Indian Land a great place to get away from the city and hike, star gaze, write or do some art . Plenty of open space to do something or nothing Beautiful views and Sunsets. Tecate Mexico is 7 min away so bring your passport or Birth certificate for a fun day in Mexico or hike on our local trails, visit local Vineyards,Go to local Casinos BBQ, relax and read a book, (only 40 min from San Diego 3 hours from Los Angeles)

Sage Haven Ranch

4 sites · Lodging, Tents48 acres · Valley Center, CA

Nestled withing the picturesque landscapes of San Diego County, the Sage Haven Ranch offers a unique retreat for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The expansive grounds are bordered by a pristine nature preserve, creating a serene haven for those seeking a harmonious blend of tranquility and adventure. As you enter the campground, you are greeted by the warm embrace of the oak trees and the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. The ranch, with it's rustic charm, provides a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The accommodation options range from traditional campsites to furnished tents, allowing guests to tailor their experience to their level of comfort. The highlight of this campground is its adjacency to a nature preserve, presenting a haven for local flora and fauna. Hiking trails accessible from the campground wind their way through the preserve, inviting guests to explore the ecosystems that call this area home. The trails vary in difficulty, accommodating both a casual stroll or an avid hike, with each path revealing breathtaking views.

Whiteside Mountain

1 site · Tent160 acres · 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!"

JP Longstock Ranch

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Campo, CA

This is a historical property in campo California. A great old west town with an interesting history behind it. This particular property was where the Buffalo soldiers kept their working horses close to 100 years ago in what is now the last standing original buffalo soldier barn. Old artifacts and handmade tack can still be found in the giant rustic barn. The barn is now used to breed unique crossbred horses that have gained Note-oriety, and have been featured on the cover of magazines, including the Boot Barn campaign (who intend to use the barn in in future photo shoots) as well as use famous spotted horse, Confettis American Warrior in the next ad campaign being shot in Hollywood next month. We tried to keep the barn with its original charm and added some world class beautiful horses that are available for riding around the property and/or photoshoots during your stay for an additional cost. We have extra stalls available for people who would like to bring their own horses for a unique camping experience including riding your horse in Camp Locket and along the USA/America border wall. Lots of space for trailer and very secure stalls in the barn. We are just starting out doing this, but have the options of staying in a brand new shed yet to be converted, in the barn inside an old stall to have a real authentic experience where the soldiers used to rest or a tent overlooking the old historical barn and the fabulous horses (right now we have babies!). We have multiple cross fences fenced areas including stalls and areas for your dog but will need to discuss details beforehand. We are very pet and people friendly.

Manzanita Trails

19 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Boulevard, CA

This property sits on the original interstate route which took you into San Diego by wagon. Learn more about this land: If you just want to lounge out, look at the stars and enjoy nature then this is the place for you. The surrounding area includes: an 8 minute drive to casinos, 15 minutes from Jacumba Hot Springs, and 1 hour drive to the sand dunes. Tons of hiking and biking trails scattered throughout the area within a 15-30 minute drive.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Cleveland National Forest

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Value Prop

Desert camping near Imperial Beach guide

Overview

Looking to experience the desert terrain near Imperial Beach, California? Hipcamp has over 960 camping options in this area that cater to your preference. From sandy dunes to rugged landscapes, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Check out top campsites like Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), THE PRESERVE (274 reviews), and Whiteside Mountain (248 reviews). With popular amenities like trash disposal, pet-friendly areas, and showers, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, you can enjoy activities like off-roading, swimming, and biking. Prices start as low as $5 per night, with an average price of $59. Start planning your desert camping adventure today!

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