The best star host camping near Irvine

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Wedged between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ana Mountains, Irvine is something special. Gaping canyons and wild beaches create an outdoor hub that draws campers from across Orange County. Thanks to the trove of state and regional parks, you have plenty of ways to soak in that California sun.

Want to sleep to the sound of crashing waves? Head to Bolsa Chica State Beach. Enviable surf fishing, ocean-front RV camping, and coastal hiking trails make this a popular spot.

To see the Pacific in its rugged beauty, check out Crystal Cove State Park. Coastal cliff hikes, backpack camping, and scuba diving are right at your fingertips. Just a few miles away, Bommer Canyon is a step back in time. Here, you can explore multi-use trails or stay overnight in an old cattle ranch camp.

More camping options await at O'Neil Regional Park, a 4,500-acre paradise in the Trabuco Canyon wilderness. The park also offers group camping and horse camping. If you're just spending the day, pack some sandwiches to enjoy at the family picnic area.

Are you looking for some large-scale California adventure? Limestone Canyon Regional Park boasts some of the best mountain biking in Irvine. Meanwhile, Caspers Wilderness Park is a favorite for hiking and horseback riding through sandstone canyons.

Beyond the parks, you also find a host of seaside cottages and RV parks. They're great for those who prefer to camp in comfort with picnic tables, WiFi—the works.

Like the rest of sunny Southern California, Irvine boasts fair weather and great temps year round. As a result, most parks and campgrounds are open in all seasons. Just be sure to book early if you're camping in the summer.

99% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Irvine

2. Villa Macala

100%
(370)
47mi from Irvine · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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! GETTING TO VILLA MACALA: The road up to Villa Macala is a dirt road uphill, all vehicles fair well, we attempt to keep the road maintained as well as possible, after heavy rains it is a bit more bumpy but safe. Drive slow!
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$32
 / night

3. 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

97%
(79)
41mi from Irvine · 3 sites · Lodging
Unique Glamping Escape Ocean breezes and mountain views in historic Plumosa Heights, Oceanside's oldest neighborhood! Minimize your footprint, while maximizing your visit to Oceanside! Our entire property is solar-powered. Our property is nestled in a private cul de sac on the edge of a canyon. Site 1. Our meticulously restored 1967 Boles Aero Trailer Paz located in a private, gated space with eastern corridor views. Enjoy the full size organic futon, there is a refrigerator, coffee maker, basic cookware and glassware. Its equipped with a water-less, composting toilet, standing shower, towels, beach chairs & umbrella. This unique space is perfect for a romantic getaway for two or a solo adventure. There is space outside to relax with a fire pit and lights. Site 2. Consider our Cielo Loft if more space is what you need. Unwind in our cozy, vintage 2-bedroom, 2-bath loft with garden and eastern corridor views. A larger space with 1 queen size futon and 1 full size bed, full bathrooms, towels, a fully equipped kitchen, coffee maker and a t.v. in the living room. Hangout on the upper landing in the morning with a hot cup of coffee. From our spot, you can walk through the tree lined neighborhoods to charming cafes, vintage stores, a variety of restaurants and the iconic Oceanside pier, all within a mile! If its good food you enjoy, our local breweries and restaurants satisfy every appetite. Every Thursday morning brings the charming downtown Farmers Market with art, locally grown fresh fruits and veggies as well as delicious prepared food. Thursday evenings come alive with the bustling Sunset Market's local artists, music, and a variety of delectable food vendors. These are both located in downtown Oceanside. Its easy to explore beyond Oceanside too! Our location between San Diego and Los Angeles makes day trips a breeze with the train station just a half-mile away. Easily venture to cities to the south, north and even east for the day via the train. Or for those who prefer to explore by bike, we have hybrid bicycles to rent at a flat rate; explore the beach and neighborhoods on two wheels. Ridecircuit.com/oceanside offers local transportation services within Oceanside if needed. The fares are moderate and the service picks you up at your location.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$119
 / night

5. Rustic Wooded Ranch -Creekside Stay

100%
(9)
33mi from Irvine · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to **Gemini Moon Ranch**, a hidden gem nestled in the rolling hills of De Luz just outside Temecula, CA. This 5-acre historic ranch offers guests a unique chance to reconnect—with nature, with history, and with themselves. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling into one of our rustic rooms, you’ll be surrounded by oak groves, native plants, and the peaceful soundtrack of birdsong and rustling leaves. The ranch is part of a living preservation project dedicated to honoring the legacy of California ranch life and the art of master craftsman Robert Morris, whose handmade metalwork still adorns parts of the property. During your stay, you’ll notice thoughtful details that blend history with charm, from vintage touches to handmade features. **Campers** will enjoy shaded spots beneath the trees, a year round creek, access to a communal outdoor kitchen and deck, and the serenity of being completely immersed in nature. Fall asleep to the sound of the breeze through the oaks and wake up with deer passing by your tent. **Room guests** stay in one of our lovingly restored farmhouse suites—each with its own story, private entrance, and access to modern comforts while maintaining rustic authenticity. **What to Expect:** 🌿 Creek access for seasonal dips or quiet meditation 🔥 Fire pit and outdoor gathering space 🌌 Unbelievable stargazing on clear nights 🛏 Cozy rooms with character and comfort 🌸 Native gardens, fruit trees, and visiting pollinators 🚿 Outdoor shower and rustic bathroom access for campers 🎨 Optional add-ons: private chef meals, yoga, massage, or stained glass classes We’re a quiet, soulful space—perfect for couples, artists, writers, nature lovers, or anyone needing a pause from the rush. Whether you come for a night or a weekend, you’ll leave with your feet a little dirtier, your heart a little fuller, and maybe even a few stories to tell.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$113
 / night

Wedged between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ana Mountains, Irvine is something special. Gaping canyons and wild beaches create an outdoor hub that draws campers from across Orange County. Thanks to the trove of state and regional parks, you have plenty of ways to soak in that California sun.

Want to sleep to the sound of crashing waves? Head to Bolsa Chica State Beach. Enviable surf fishing, ocean-front RV camping, and coastal hiking trails make this a popular spot.

To see the Pacific in its rugged beauty, check out Crystal Cove State Park. Coastal cliff hikes, backpack camping, and scuba diving are right at your fingertips. Just a few miles away, Bommer Canyon is a step back in time. Here, you can explore multi-use trails or stay overnight in an old cattle ranch camp.

More camping options await at O'Neil Regional Park, a 4,500-acre paradise in the Trabuco Canyon wilderness. The park also offers group camping and horse camping. If you're just spending the day, pack some sandwiches to enjoy at the family picnic area.

Are you looking for some large-scale California adventure? Limestone Canyon Regional Park boasts some of the best mountain biking in Irvine. Meanwhile, Caspers Wilderness Park is a favorite for hiking and horseback riding through sandstone canyons.

Beyond the parks, you also find a host of seaside cottages and RV parks. They're great for those who prefer to camp in comfort with picnic tables, WiFi—the works.

Like the rest of sunny Southern California, Irvine boasts fair weather and great temps year round. As a result, most parks and campgrounds are open in all seasons. Just be sure to book early if you're camping in the summer.

99% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Irvine

2. Villa Macala

100%
(370)
47mi from Irvine · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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! GETTING TO VILLA MACALA: The road up to Villa Macala is a dirt road uphill, all vehicles fair well, we attempt to keep the road maintained as well as possible, after heavy rains it is a bit more bumpy but safe. Drive slow!
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$32
 / night

3. 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

97%
(79)
41mi from Irvine · 3 sites · Lodging
Unique Glamping Escape Ocean breezes and mountain views in historic Plumosa Heights, Oceanside's oldest neighborhood! Minimize your footprint, while maximizing your visit to Oceanside! Our entire property is solar-powered. Our property is nestled in a private cul de sac on the edge of a canyon. Site 1. Our meticulously restored 1967 Boles Aero Trailer Paz located in a private, gated space with eastern corridor views. Enjoy the full size organic futon, there is a refrigerator, coffee maker, basic cookware and glassware. Its equipped with a water-less, composting toilet, standing shower, towels, beach chairs & umbrella. This unique space is perfect for a romantic getaway for two or a solo adventure. There is space outside to relax with a fire pit and lights. Site 2. Consider our Cielo Loft if more space is what you need. Unwind in our cozy, vintage 2-bedroom, 2-bath loft with garden and eastern corridor views. A larger space with 1 queen size futon and 1 full size bed, full bathrooms, towels, a fully equipped kitchen, coffee maker and a t.v. in the living room. Hangout on the upper landing in the morning with a hot cup of coffee. From our spot, you can walk through the tree lined neighborhoods to charming cafes, vintage stores, a variety of restaurants and the iconic Oceanside pier, all within a mile! If its good food you enjoy, our local breweries and restaurants satisfy every appetite. Every Thursday morning brings the charming downtown Farmers Market with art, locally grown fresh fruits and veggies as well as delicious prepared food. Thursday evenings come alive with the bustling Sunset Market's local artists, music, and a variety of delectable food vendors. These are both located in downtown Oceanside. Its easy to explore beyond Oceanside too! Our location between San Diego and Los Angeles makes day trips a breeze with the train station just a half-mile away. Easily venture to cities to the south, north and even east for the day via the train. Or for those who prefer to explore by bike, we have hybrid bicycles to rent at a flat rate; explore the beach and neighborhoods on two wheels. Ridecircuit.com/oceanside offers local transportation services within Oceanside if needed. The fares are moderate and the service picks you up at your location.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$119
 / night

5. Rustic Wooded Ranch -Creekside Stay

100%
(9)
33mi from Irvine · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to **Gemini Moon Ranch**, a hidden gem nestled in the rolling hills of De Luz just outside Temecula, CA. This 5-acre historic ranch offers guests a unique chance to reconnect—with nature, with history, and with themselves. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling into one of our rustic rooms, you’ll be surrounded by oak groves, native plants, and the peaceful soundtrack of birdsong and rustling leaves. The ranch is part of a living preservation project dedicated to honoring the legacy of California ranch life and the art of master craftsman Robert Morris, whose handmade metalwork still adorns parts of the property. During your stay, you’ll notice thoughtful details that blend history with charm, from vintage touches to handmade features. **Campers** will enjoy shaded spots beneath the trees, a year round creek, access to a communal outdoor kitchen and deck, and the serenity of being completely immersed in nature. Fall asleep to the sound of the breeze through the oaks and wake up with deer passing by your tent. **Room guests** stay in one of our lovingly restored farmhouse suites—each with its own story, private entrance, and access to modern comforts while maintaining rustic authenticity. **What to Expect:** 🌿 Creek access for seasonal dips or quiet meditation 🔥 Fire pit and outdoor gathering space 🌌 Unbelievable stargazing on clear nights 🛏 Cozy rooms with character and comfort 🌸 Native gardens, fruit trees, and visiting pollinators 🚿 Outdoor shower and rustic bathroom access for campers 🎨 Optional add-ons: private chef meals, yoga, massage, or stained glass classes We’re a quiet, soulful space—perfect for couples, artists, writers, nature lovers, or anyone needing a pause from the rush. Whether you come for a night or a weekend, you’ll leave with your feet a little dirtier, your heart a little fuller, and maybe even a few stories to tell.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$113
 / night

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