12 Best Private Campsites Near La Jolla, CA, US 2026

For an unforgettable camping trip in southern California, take a drive to La Jolla in San Diego County. Sandy shores and coastal adventures await at La Jolla Underwater Park in its underwater caverns. Or, relax at Silver Strand State Beach, which features beachside RV and tent camping, as well as showers and picnic tables. Surfing and kiteboarding are also popular here. Further inland, ascend the peak of Palomar Mountain State Park, go inner tubing down San Luis Rey River, or take a zipline tour at La Jolla Adventure Park. Then, settle back in at nearby campgrounds that are dog-friendly.

98% (406)

Top-rated campgrounds near La Jolla

For an unforgettable camping trip in southern California, take a drive to La Jolla in San Diego County. Sandy shores and coastal adventures await at La Jolla Underwater Park in its underwater caverns. Or, relax at Silver Strand State Beach, which features beachside RV and tent camping, as well as showers and picnic tables. Surfing and kiteboarding are also popular here. Further inland, ascend the peak of Palomar Mountain State Park, go inner tubing down San Luis Rey River, or take a zipline tour at La Jolla Adventure Park. Then, settle back in at nearby campgrounds that are dog-friendly.

98% (406)

Top-rated campgrounds near La Jolla

1. Thompson Palms Campground

98%

(24)

28mi from La Jolla · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

We are a palm grower on 12 acres with many fruit trees, flowers, gardens, and animals. 45 minutes to the ocean. 1 hour from Mexico, 10 miles to San Diego Zoo Safari Park, 45 minutes to Sea World, 45 minutes to Legoland. We have about 30+ vineyards in our community for wine tasting. Many hiking trails including the MT Woodson trail to the famous Potato Chip Rock. Many other entertainment sites nearby, for info just ask.

2. Rustic Wooded Ranch -Creekside Stay

100%

(9)

46mi from La Jolla · 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.

3. King Creek Campground

98%

(688)

35mi from La Jolla · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Currently we don’t have any creek and pond water on the land. Mild seasonal temperature swings, fresh air, clear evening skies for star gazing, the property is in a valley surrounded by the Cleveland National Forest and it was formally used as a 1950's Boys Scouts of America campsite. Our Mom purchased the family property over 40 years ago, and my siblings and I grew-up with weekend trips exploring and camping on the property. With love and respect that all that Mother Nature designs be left wild and free, the more than 100 acres is dispersed with groves of old oak trees, mountains are covered in chaparral and manzanita shrubbery, and seasonal waterfalls, streams, a lake with a dam, dirt roads, and hiking trails. Our family's wish is to share our little bit of heaven on earth property with others who will love it as we do. We are happy to share more about the history of the more than 100 acres when you come up to the property for your next camping adventure. Our property is located in Descanso, California. Descanso is located east of Alpine and west of Pine Valley. Descanso is a small census-designated place in the Cuyamaca Mountains, within the Mountain Empire area of southeastern San Diego County, California. Elevation: 3,573′ Zip code: 91916

4. A taste of nature/wildlife.

92%

(33)

40mi from La Jolla · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

You will enjoy 6 acres where you'll be able to hang a hammock, read a book, or watch our daily visitors, deer and/or wild turkeys. There's no city noise around here, you'll fall asleep to the sound of crickets and bullfrogs. Lastly, it's a short distance over the hill for you to enjoy the small town of Julian and their famous apple pie. *Please note pond is closed for cleaning *Some areas of the property are used for storage of building materials for active building and improvement of the property. We offer 2 guest at 150.00 a night, each additional guest is 25 nightly. KIDS ARE FREE. Learn more about this land: Hip-campers will enjoy wide open space where they can hang a hammock or feed cat fish in the pond. There are hiking trails and beautiful sunsets. Deer and turkey visit regularly. There are no city sounds, you will fall asleep to crickets and bullfrogs. The old town of Julian is within reach. 150.00 night for 2 people, each addition person is 25 dollars. KIDS UNDER 18 FREE.  Contact Frank  7605808613

5. Old well ranch

99%

(45)

30mi from La Jolla · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

I’m at 2300’ on north side of Lyons peak I have sweet tasting water very quiet and at the end of the road about an 1/8 mi off Lyons valley road there’s is a nice country store since 1940 many people visit store as a destination on any weekends bicycles,Harley’s classic cars I’m a cook I serve bbq Mex food American food or you can cook over open fire store has everything thing you desire there’s Julian for pie , lake cuyamaca , hiking best area for camping or extended stay to see all of San Diego and Mexico Baja theres a shower bath room and very clean area super quiet you will love your stay firewood for campfires is included so you will make great memories of your stay campsites are improving as time goes on to make you camping experience great

6. Manzanita Hill Woodland Camping

93%

(14)

41mi from La Jolla · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

The perfect blend of a relaxing San Diego local mountain getaway with access to nearby local attractions and restaurants! Manzanita Hill offers private camping with proximity to historic Julian, shopping, dining, and recreational opportunities. Located on over 8 acres of mountain woodlands, Manzanita Hill boasts of spectacular views of the Spencer Valley and the hills of nearby Santa Ysabel Preserve East. Bring your own tent, pull in your camper van, or book into our Safari tent, nestled in oak woodlands on a deck, with private compost toilet. Manzanita Hill is just: - a five minute drive to antique shops, Patchwork Market, cideries, farm stands, bakeries, and restaurants at Wynola Junction. - 10 minutes from historic Julian township, an old gold mining town. - A scenic 10 minute drive up Wynola Road to the Volcan Mountain Preserve trailhead, Menghini Winery, and apple orchards. - 15-20 minutes to Santa Ysabel for Julian Pie Company, Dudley's Bakery, Santa Ysabel Art Gallery, access to Santa Ysabel Preserve and Interpretive Center, Cuyamaca Lake, and more! Manzanita Hill Homestead, an early 20th century structure is under going a revival to modern homestead and community space. The surrounding woodlands are receiving some TLC focusing on forest health and wildfire prevention. There is one adventure trail onsite and a community propane fire pit (allowed when extreme heat or high winds are not forecast), because, well... s'mores.

7. Time Traveler Retreat Julian Cabin

100%

(5)

40mi from La Jolla · 3 sites · Lodging

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.

Camper favorites near La Jolla

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

A taste of nature/wildlife.

92%

(33)

40mi from La Jolla · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

You will enjoy 6 acres where you'll be able to hang a hammock, read a book, or watch our daily visitors, deer and/or wild turkeys. There's no city noise around here, you'll fall asleep to the sound of crickets and bullfrogs. Lastly, it's a short distance over the hill for you to enjoy the small town of Julian and their famous apple pie. *Please note pond is closed for cleaning *Some areas of the property are used for storage of building materials for active building and improvement of the property. We offer 2 guest at 150.00 a night, each additional guest is 25 nightly. KIDS ARE FREE. Learn more about this land: Hip-campers will enjoy wide open space where they can hang a hammock or feed cat fish in the pond. There are hiking trails and beautiful sunsets. Deer and turkey visit regularly. There are no city sounds, you will fall asleep to crickets and bullfrogs. The old town of Julian is within reach. 150.00 night for 2 people, each addition person is 25 dollars. KIDS UNDER 18 FREE.  Contact Frank  7605808613

Old well ranch

99%

(45)

30mi from La Jolla · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

I’m at 2300’ on north side of Lyons peak I have sweet tasting water very quiet and at the end of the road about an 1/8 mi off Lyons valley road there’s is a nice country store since 1940 many people visit store as a destination on any weekends bicycles,Harley’s classic cars I’m a cook I serve bbq Mex food American food or you can cook over open fire store has everything thing you desire there’s Julian for pie , lake cuyamaca , hiking best area for camping or extended stay to see all of San Diego and Mexico Baja theres a shower bath room and very clean area super quiet you will love your stay firewood for campfires is included so you will make great memories of your stay campsites are improving as time goes on to make you camping experience great

Manzanita Hill Woodland Camping

93%

(14)

41mi from La Jolla · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

The perfect blend of a relaxing San Diego local mountain getaway with access to nearby local attractions and restaurants! Manzanita Hill offers private camping with proximity to historic Julian, shopping, dining, and recreational opportunities. Located on over 8 acres of mountain woodlands, Manzanita Hill boasts of spectacular views of the Spencer Valley and the hills of nearby Santa Ysabel Preserve East. Bring your own tent, pull in your camper van, or book into our Safari tent, nestled in oak woodlands on a deck, with private compost toilet. Manzanita Hill is just: - a five minute drive to antique shops, Patchwork Market, cideries, farm stands, bakeries, and restaurants at Wynola Junction. - 10 minutes from historic Julian township, an old gold mining town. - A scenic 10 minute drive up Wynola Road to the Volcan Mountain Preserve trailhead, Menghini Winery, and apple orchards. - 15-20 minutes to Santa Ysabel for Julian Pie Company, Dudley's Bakery, Santa Ysabel Art Gallery, access to Santa Ysabel Preserve and Interpretive Center, Cuyamaca Lake, and more! Manzanita Hill Homestead, an early 20th century structure is under going a revival to modern homestead and community space. The surrounding woodlands are receiving some TLC focusing on forest health and wildfire prevention. There is one adventure trail onsite and a community propane fire pit (allowed when extreme heat or high winds are not forecast), because, well... s'mores.

Time Traveler Retreat Julian Cabin

100%

(5)

40mi from La Jolla · 3 sites · Lodging

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.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

E

Emily

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at King Creek Campground

I loved visiting Carlotta’s land! Such a thoughtful and attentive host with a BEAUTIFUL property that felt like home. Very grateful for the experience I had there and looking forward to my next stay already ᵕ̈

M

Michelle

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

Beautiful location and friendly host, we’d definitely stay here again! There were nice trails and it was so quiet and private. The drive on the dirt road to the campsites is a bit steep and uneven in places, which was fine for our SUVs, but we had friends with smaller cars (Prius, Mazda 3) who couldn’t comfortably make it due to their low clearance so we just shuttled them in our SUVs. We’d recommend making sure you bring a car with higher clearance.

Chuck

3 weeks ago

26 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Thompson Palms Campground

If you read any review let it be this one. It was an absolutely gorgeous property very easily marked spots. Awesome hosts very good produce and maintained property. The spot is right in front of a cow enclosure they are very friendly. There is a beautiful koi pond. My only grievence is that we didn't stay longer. 10/10 property.

J

Jessica

3 weeks ago

40 ft Class A

20 nights at Thompson Palms Campground

The property is beautiful. Bernie and Hoa were both super nice and social. Fresh eggs, fruit trees, palm, wild bunnies and cows. We were there for 3 weeks, and had plans been different we would have loved to stay longer. We will be back when we are in the area.

Lisa

3 weeks ago

30 ft travel trailer

9 nights at Thompson Palms Campground

What a slice of paradise Bernard and Hoa share with the campers. They are friendly, generous, and accommodating. Their property is just a few blocks away from the cute town of Ramona, CA! Marinade on Main is a favorite restaurant nearby. Their property is secluded, secure, and peaceful behind a coded gate. There are three camping sites that are quite large, and several tent sites. The grounds are well maintained. We enjoyed the proximity to downtown San Diego, La Mesa, Santee, and our son’s home nearby. We were able to stay at Thompson’s Palm Farm quite a few days as there is water, electric, and septic. We will return again and again!

D

Devon

December 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

The space was peaceful and secluded; exactly what I wanted from an escape from the modern world. Carlotta was very kind and helpful. There is so much land to explore that I will have to return to explore the rest.

T.C.

November 2025

18 ft Class B

1 night at King Creek Campground

Rugged and remote location with lots of space to explore. The old dam is super cool. I spent two nights there and had fun adventures. Hosts are very cool with an interesting backstory. The dirt road is pretty steep in parts, so you gotta know what you're doing with a heavy vehicles.

I

Isaac belmontes

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

Super awesome place. First time camping with kids and it was very nice experience.

S

Sara

November 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rustic Wooded Ranch -Creekside Stay

Gemini Moon Ranch is a wonderfully unique and charming place. We stayed in the Artist Gallery and it was so cute and comfortable. We also did a stained glass class with Tracy which was amazing!! Will definitely be coming back for Soulful Sundays, one of their events and a girls weekend.

Q

Quinn

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

Lovely spot. Perfect for stargazing! Just a tip-if you click on the map it will not take you to the correct place but if you directly plug in a ur coordinates, it’s perfect!

K

Kirby

November 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Thompson Palms Campground

Beautiful property. Host Bernie was very kind and had a pleasant stay.

C

Chris

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Rustic Wooded Ranch -Creekside Stay

Tracy and Peter were great hosts. Upon arriving we were greeted, given a tour of the ranch and ensured that we had everything we needed. The dogs were great company and the scenery was great.

David

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

We loved our night at Carlotta’s place. It all started with a fund ride down off roading (bring a higher car) which the kids loved, then she upgraded us to a bigger site with a decent outhouse. The highlights were definitely the privacy, the swings and the awesome hikes around the property. Would definitely recommend, especially with a nice host like Carlotta!

A

Andrea

October 2025

Group trip

2 nights at Manzanita Hill Woodland Camping

We had a wounderful time. From the very start Diana was very responsive. Upon our arrival she got all checked in a familiar with supplies and amenities. I was very impressed by all the small details such as signage and provided materials. Even more so impressed by how much work Diana takes to make the experience comfortable and environmentally sustainable. We got to see some wild turkeys at night and enjoyed looking at her bee hive boxes. Compost toilet was a new one for me and like she promised it was easy, comfortable, and left no smell. It would be a pleasure to stay again!

Neil

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

Great location - less than an hour from San Diego, but you feel much further. Tons of stars at night and we couldn't hear any noise from the other sites. Road in isn't bad if you have some clearance and AWD/4WD. Would happily stay again.

E

Elizabeth

October 2025

19 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rustic Wooded Ranch -Creekside Stay

Magical, wonderful, historic place! The creativity, respect for nature & resourcefulness make Gemini Moon Ranch a truly energetic & restorative environment. Don’t miss an opportunity to visit, stay, or celebrate an event ~ the positive energy will find you elevated & better for it

M

Mallorie

October 2025

21 ft pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at Thompson Palms Campground

Thank you Bernie and Hoa for the hospitality to our family. We enjoyed the farm and all the animals you showed us. All the recommendations Bernie gave us were very delicious as well. We can’t wait to visit again very soon. Thanks again!

C

Cae

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

Really beautiful spot with friendly, accommodating hosts. We stayed at the Dam site and felt completely secluded. It was a warm day but the site has a big shaded area so we were very comfortable. There was an outhouse as expected and it even had a nice view. The hosts were kind enough to even leave us water for dousing the fire and a trash can. This is not a glamping situation at all, but it's exactly what we were hoping for and expecting when we booked it! There are many historical sites and features that we didn't have time to check out this time but are looking forward to seeing on the next trip. Only word of caution is that the road really is pretty rough to get in. You definitely need reasonably high clearance and we were glad to have 4WD on the way back out, although you could probably get by with FWD. Normally I think people overstate this in reviews but I really don't think you should try to access this site in a sedan or low-ish crossover. Not a complaint, just a heads up.

S

Sophia

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

Loved this spot! We did combo truck/tent camping and enjoyed a lovely weekend hosted by Carlotta and her 2 dogs. Hollow was the dog to stay with us practically the whole weekend and led us around the property while we explored. She also watched over us at night and had our backs throughout our stay. This is a great spot for beginning campers looking for a step up into a more secluded camp, we recommend bringing friends and enjoying this awesome nature rich spot. We definitely plan on coming back! P.S. the drive in is a rocky dirt road, we recommend only bringing higher sitting verticales: trucks, jeeps, SUVs, etc.

J

Jim

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to King Creek Campground

The property is beautiful, natural Southern California foothills with tons of wildlife. All I could hear was the wind and the birds, and lots of them! No noisy neighbors and it was wonderful! Carlotta was a great host, and I’m thankful to her and Richard for making their property available to others to enjoy. They provided well water, privacy and a beautiful landscape with lots of lovely trails to trek. The road in and out is a bit harrowing, and I’m glad I had my AWD Subaru. I want to come back again soon, and hopefully with more time to explore the little town of Descanso down the road. Download your maps before you leave because there is no GPS or cell service. Ahhh…

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Private camping near La Jolla guide

Where to go

Palomar Mountain State Park

Northeast of La Jolla, Palomar Mountain State Park spans over 1,800-acres of pine, fir, and cedar forest. At the southern foothills of Palomar Mountain, La Jolla Indian Campground run by the La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians boasts fun river tubing access and exciting zipline tours through Pauma Valley. Or reserve a dog-friendly campsite with flush toilets and pay showers. It fits motorhomes and trailers up to 24 feet in length. Nearby, Lake Henshaw also offers boating, kayaking, and waterfront camping for fishing and boating enthusiasts, including RV sites with full hookups.

Silver Strand State Beach

On a slim sandbar between San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean, Silver Strand State Beach offers both cooler ocean and warmer bay beaches. Swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing are popular here, as are beach volleyball, surfing, and boogie boarding. The on-site RV campground offers full hookups for motorhomes and travel trailers up to 40 feet in length. Facilities include fire rings for summer cookouts, beach restrooms, and cold showers.

La Jolla Underwater Park

Swimmers, snorkelers, and scuba divers will want to visit La Jolla Underwater Park for day use after they check into a nearby RV park. Swimming through the crystal clear waters, underwater explorers will encounter an abundance of marine life, including leopard sharks and colorful fish among kelp forests. The underwater park extends about three miles up the coast along La Jolla Bay from La Jolla Cove to Scripps Pier.

When to go

With warmer weather up to the mid-80s and longer daylight hours, summertime is popular for camping near La Jolla. Snorkelers and divers who want to swim with leopard sharks may want to visit when the population peaks in July and August. Milder weather in spring and fall can be equally pleasant and less busy for ziplining, tubing, and hiking. Campsites typically offer greater availability during the cooler months as well.