- Camping with pets allowed
The best dog-friendly camping near La Mesa
95% (5.6K) • 377 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near La Mesa
Easy RV Vista
1. Easy RV Vista
100%
(12)
36mi from La Mesa · 3 sites
Looking for an easy and convenient place to park your RV or trailer that is close to the beach? Welcome to Easy RV Vista. Water, electric hookups and WiFi included. This lot is in a great central location if you are trying to enjoy all that Southern California has to offer. Ten miles away from Oceanside beaches, 30 minutes to Legoland, 30 minutes to the Safari park, 45 minutes to the San Diego Zoo and Sea world, and 60 miles away from Disneyland.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from
$55
/ night
Starlight Outpost | Stargazing Stay
2. Starlight Outpost | Stargazing Stay
98%
(21)
36mi from La Mesa · 3 sites
Stay under the stars at Starlight Outpost, a retro-futuristic desert dome just outside Jacumba Hot Springs
This peaceful retreat is ideal for travelers looking for:
• Stargazing
• Quiet desert nights
• Romantic getaways
• A calm alternative to crowded Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel
Guests stay in a thoughtfully curated, enclosed structure designed for comfort, privacy, and sleep under dark desert skies.
If you’re searching for a Jacumba Hot Springs alternative that’s quiet, unique, and intentionally hosted — Starlight Outpost offers space to unplug, rest, and reconnect.
WHAT MAKES THIS STAY SPECIAL
• Exceptionally dark skies for stargazing
• Quiet desert location away from crowds
• Thoughtfully styled interior (not rustic camping)
• Private bathroom and kitchen setup
• Designed for couples and intentional travelers
This is not a party spot or campground — it’s a calm desert retreat.
WHAT THIS STAY IS PERFECT FOR
✅ Couples
✅ Solo travelers
✅ Stargazers
✅ Writers, artists, creatives
✅ Guests visiting Jacumba Hot Springs who want privacy
NOT A GOOD FIT IF
❌ You want nightlife or group gatherings
❌ You’re looking for a resort or social hot springs scene
❌ You plan to host parties or events
WHAT’S PROVIDED
Sleep & Comfort
• King-size mattress with memory foam topper
• Heated mattress pad (winter)
• AC available
• Multiple blanket & pillow options
Kitchen
• Refrigerator
• Sink with hot & cold water
• Hot plate + air fryer
• Dishes, glassware, utensils
• Basic spices, oil, pancake mix
• Indoor dining area
Bathroom
• Flushing toilet
• Hot & cold shower
• Towels & robes provided
Outdoor Amenities
• Fire pit for cooking
• Propane BBQ
• Stargazing telescope
Guests only need to bring food and drinks — everything else is provided.
LOCATION and AREA
Starlight Outpost is located in Campo, California, close to:
• Jacumba Hot Springs
• Lake Morena
• Desert hiking trails
• Historic rail sites
This is a peaceful desert area — quiet, dark, and intentionally slow.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$137
/ night
Thundering Hawk Retreat
3. Thundering Hawk Retreat
96%
(149)
36mi from La Mesa · 10 sites
Welcome to our Hipcamp located on a 40-acre flower farm in the heart of Valley Center. As soon as you arrive, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery. The sound of the creek flowing nearby will immediately put you at ease. Our serene setting is the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Our property is bursting with color and nature, thanks to the many types of flowers and plants that we cultivate here. You'll love wandering through the fields and taking in the beauty that surrounds you. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful getaway, our Hipcamp is the perfect place to disconnect and recharge.
At night, the stars shine bright overhead, and the peaceful sounds of the creek and wildlife create a calming atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else. Whether you're camping in a tent, staying in a camper, or enjoying one of our glamping bell tents, you'll be able to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our farm.
We can't wait to share our little slice of paradise with you!
Follow us on Instagram @thunderinghawkretreat
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$112
/ night
Elysian Groves
4. Elysian Groves
96%
(12)
38mi from La Mesa · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Elysian Groves, a stunning property nestled in the rolling hills of Valley Center. With 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, Palomar Mountain, and the ocean, Elysian Groves is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.
Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, Elysian Groves offers ample space for all your camping needs. Our property features flat, grassy areas that are ideal for pitching a tent, as well as spacious parking areas for RVs. And with our commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the land, you can rest assured that you'll be camping in a pristine, unspoiled environment.
But that's not all that Elysian Groves has to offer. As a working avocado and citrus grove, our property is surrounded by acres of lush fruit trees, providing a picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure. And with easy access to nearby hiking trails, beaches, and other outdoor activities, you'll never run out of things to do.
At Elysian Groves, we're committed to providing a peaceful, relaxing, and memorable camping experience. Come experience the beauty of our grove for yourself and create memories that will last a lifetime. We can't wait to welcome you!
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Water hookup
from
$85
/ night
Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch
5. Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch
93%
(1290)
39mi from La Mesa · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This land has been a community gathering space for the Native's Ceremony and Healing Space for over a thousand years. Feast your eyes upon the Matates and traces of the people that once gathered here so long ago.Upon the mid 1800's we had a Settler named Nate Harrison find this to be the ideal space, and he set up homestead here, and lived an amazing full life. He was to become the first African American to aquire land here in San Diego County, and his homestead remains to this day; studied by archaeology students to this day.Sensitive habitat and magic lies within our gates, and we must approach the mountain as we would any sacred space; with RESPECT.We welcome you to enjoy Nate's land and inspire who you are deep inside your heart.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$59
/ night
95% (5.6K) • 377 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near La Mesa
Easy RV Vista
1. Easy RV Vista
100%
(12)
36mi from La Mesa · 3 sites
Looking for an easy and convenient place to park your RV or trailer that is close to the beach? Welcome to Easy RV Vista. Water, electric hookups and WiFi included. This lot is in a great central location if you are trying to enjoy all that Southern California has to offer. Ten miles away from Oceanside beaches, 30 minutes to Legoland, 30 minutes to the Safari park, 45 minutes to the San Diego Zoo and Sea world, and 60 miles away from Disneyland.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from
$55
/ night
Starlight Outpost | Stargazing Stay
2. Starlight Outpost | Stargazing Stay
98%
(21)
36mi from La Mesa · 3 sites
Stay under the stars at Starlight Outpost, a retro-futuristic desert dome just outside Jacumba Hot Springs
This peaceful retreat is ideal for travelers looking for:
• Stargazing
• Quiet desert nights
• Romantic getaways
• A calm alternative to crowded Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel
Guests stay in a thoughtfully curated, enclosed structure designed for comfort, privacy, and sleep under dark desert skies.
If you’re searching for a Jacumba Hot Springs alternative that’s quiet, unique, and intentionally hosted — Starlight Outpost offers space to unplug, rest, and reconnect.
WHAT MAKES THIS STAY SPECIAL
• Exceptionally dark skies for stargazing
• Quiet desert location away from crowds
• Thoughtfully styled interior (not rustic camping)
• Private bathroom and kitchen setup
• Designed for couples and intentional travelers
This is not a party spot or campground — it’s a calm desert retreat.
WHAT THIS STAY IS PERFECT FOR
✅ Couples
✅ Solo travelers
✅ Stargazers
✅ Writers, artists, creatives
✅ Guests visiting Jacumba Hot Springs who want privacy
NOT A GOOD FIT IF
❌ You want nightlife or group gatherings
❌ You’re looking for a resort or social hot springs scene
❌ You plan to host parties or events
WHAT’S PROVIDED
Sleep & Comfort
• King-size mattress with memory foam topper
• Heated mattress pad (winter)
• AC available
• Multiple blanket & pillow options
Kitchen
• Refrigerator
• Sink with hot & cold water
• Hot plate + air fryer
• Dishes, glassware, utensils
• Basic spices, oil, pancake mix
• Indoor dining area
Bathroom
• Flushing toilet
• Hot & cold shower
• Towels & robes provided
Outdoor Amenities
• Fire pit for cooking
• Propane BBQ
• Stargazing telescope
Guests only need to bring food and drinks — everything else is provided.
LOCATION and AREA
Starlight Outpost is located in Campo, California, close to:
• Jacumba Hot Springs
• Lake Morena
• Desert hiking trails
• Historic rail sites
This is a peaceful desert area — quiet, dark, and intentionally slow.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$137
/ night
Thundering Hawk Retreat
3. Thundering Hawk Retreat
96%
(149)
36mi from La Mesa · 10 sites
Welcome to our Hipcamp located on a 40-acre flower farm in the heart of Valley Center. As soon as you arrive, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery. The sound of the creek flowing nearby will immediately put you at ease. Our serene setting is the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Our property is bursting with color and nature, thanks to the many types of flowers and plants that we cultivate here. You'll love wandering through the fields and taking in the beauty that surrounds you. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful getaway, our Hipcamp is the perfect place to disconnect and recharge.
At night, the stars shine bright overhead, and the peaceful sounds of the creek and wildlife create a calming atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else. Whether you're camping in a tent, staying in a camper, or enjoying one of our glamping bell tents, you'll be able to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our farm.
We can't wait to share our little slice of paradise with you!
Follow us on Instagram @thunderinghawkretreat
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$112
/ night
Elysian Groves
4. Elysian Groves
96%
(12)
38mi from La Mesa · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Elysian Groves, a stunning property nestled in the rolling hills of Valley Center. With 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, Palomar Mountain, and the ocean, Elysian Groves is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.
Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, Elysian Groves offers ample space for all your camping needs. Our property features flat, grassy areas that are ideal for pitching a tent, as well as spacious parking areas for RVs. And with our commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the land, you can rest assured that you'll be camping in a pristine, unspoiled environment.
But that's not all that Elysian Groves has to offer. As a working avocado and citrus grove, our property is surrounded by acres of lush fruit trees, providing a picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure. And with easy access to nearby hiking trails, beaches, and other outdoor activities, you'll never run out of things to do.
At Elysian Groves, we're committed to providing a peaceful, relaxing, and memorable camping experience. Come experience the beauty of our grove for yourself and create memories that will last a lifetime. We can't wait to welcome you!
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Water hookup
from
$85
/ night
Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch
5. Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch
93%
(1290)
39mi from La Mesa · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This land has been a community gathering space for the Native's Ceremony and Healing Space for over a thousand years. Feast your eyes upon the Matates and traces of the people that once gathered here so long ago.Upon the mid 1800's we had a Settler named Nate Harrison find this to be the ideal space, and he set up homestead here, and lived an amazing full life. He was to become the first African American to aquire land here in San Diego County, and his homestead remains to this day; studied by archaeology students to this day.Sensitive habitat and magic lies within our gates, and we must approach the mountain as we would any sacred space; with RESPECT.We welcome you to enjoy Nate's land and inspire who you are deep inside your heart.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$59
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
L
Laney
2 weeks ago
47 ft toy hauler
Love camping here! It’s nice to be in a real neighborhood instead of a campground. Very quiet. Great communication.
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Y
Yesi
2 weeks ago
With pets
This was such a cute place to stay at! My partner and I really enjoyed it. The stargazing was incredible!
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Y
YANYUE
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Would absolutely recommend Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch — it truly feels like a hidden paradise.
The views are incredible — during the day you can see all the way across San Diego out to the Pacific Ocean, and at night you get the best of both worlds: the glow of city lights below and a sky full of stars above your head. Whether you love camping or not, this place might just change your mind.
One important thing to keep in mind is the drive up. The off-road section from the bottom to the campsite is no joke and definitely not ideal for a regular city sedan. A 4WD SUV is highly recommended. We even ended up rescuing a truck that was stuck on the side of the cliff — thankfully we had a tow rope with us. The drive is fun and adventurous, but make sure you’re prepared and confident with off-road conditions.
Everyone in our group already agreed we’re coming back again — and next time with a vehicle fully ready for off-roading to make the experience even more fun.
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Alexandria
3 weeks ago
With pets
We loved visiting Vicki's land! The tent was a perfect size for my husband, dog, and I. The grounds had beautiful views, trails, and the other camping sites well spaced out. I would definitely recommend camping here and would love to return again soon!
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Diego
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Thundering Hawk Retreat
Visiting was such a beautiful experience for my girlfriend and I. We went for Valentine’s Day and were greeted by the welcoming committee, the farm dogs on the property. Daniel was extremely helpful. The bell tent included two framed beds and a heater buddy. They picked wildflowers from the property for us. We had a lovely time being around nature.
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Cadrall
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Beautiful land and very kind hosts. Has everything you need and very welcoming.
See moreA
Ashton
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
This place was exactly what it says it is, the views are stunning, and there is lots to explore. Perfect place if you have a doggie who needs to run around as well. Vicki is super welcoming and friendly, and leaves you be while you are camping. Bringing a bundle is a good idea, but you can always find food nearby to keep the fires going. Made it up there in my Corolla which is really low to the ground. Just make sure you are paying attention to the road if you have a low car like mine, because there’s a lot of spots you can bottom out but there is always a way around them. If they are booked up you will see and hear the other campers around you. Overall a really good vibe and would reccomend to anyone. A little cold up there so layer up.
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Sara
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Starlight Outpost | Stargazing Stay
My partner and I really enjoyed our stay. The space was beautiful and had all the right things available to make our stay easy and relaxing. We got lucky with great weather, enjoyed the late night bonfires, and watching the stars.
See moreA
Anthony
3 weeks ago
Tent
The dirt road up to the ranch was slightly narrow at some points but still an easy drive up. Very peaceful and calm once we settled into our campground. Vicki was very welcoming and friendly as well as the other hosts. We will definitely plan a second trip back soon!
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A
Amir
3 weeks ago
With pets
Great place to disconnect, Daniel was super helpful and Lance was super prompt and responsive at every step
See moreH
Hannah
3 weeks ago
Tent
Spent two nights and it was a great time! Perfect spot if you want to go on hikes up Palomar mountain, and staff was great too. 10/10 would recommend.
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E
Estefania
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Camping at Vicki's was a great experience as a first time camper. Got to have see beautiful views, have peace, and a little bit hiking with the dogs alongside. Overall great place for pitching a tent and enjoying the weekend.
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W
Wendi
February 2026
16 ft car
This is our 2nd time here! We have gone at least once a year. We have loved it every time! Vicki is so nice and provided us with a great, private campsite. Plus, her famous greeter, Solo (dog), was friendly! The campsite has portal toilets, trash cans, and showers. The weather was 50-70 degrees and no wind—beautiful views of the mountains and the land. Plus, they allow campfires, which make our cold nights more bearable! We went hiking in Palomar Mountain State Park, which had many trails!
See moreA
Alexis
January 2026
With pets
We enjoyed our time in the Victory tent for my dog's 5th birthday. The hosts Lance and Daniel were attentive, kind, and made sure we had everything we needed. Daniel even stopped by with guava and oranges from their property and gave my dog a ball as a little birthday gift. It was a wonderful weekend. Thank you!
See moreM
Monica
January 2026
25 ft pop-up camper
Our stay at Harrison Serenity Ranch was amazing! Everything was great and Vicki was very nice and helpful. We would love to come back 😊
See moreL
Lisa
January 2026
16 ft car
With pets
This was a really nice getaway with amazing views! Vicki is awesome and so accommodating. She helps you find a good spot when you get there so if you want the most options, get in as close to check in as possible. It is off grid so make sure you’re prepared with gear cuz no electricity. I don’t know if this is normal, but temps changed drastically for us during the day. Dropped probably 30 degrees at night. We camped mid January and were in shorts in the day but would’ve frozen at night if we didn’t bring our own heaters. Cell service works but is a bit weak. Road up the mountain is narrow, bumpy, and sometimes steep. Just to keep in mind if bringing trailers. But great trip if you want beautiful Mountain View’s!
See moreM
Michael
January 2026
With pets
Was a great setup and a great stay! Will definitely book again!
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K
Kate
January 2026
Group trip
We reserved both Breakthrough and Bodhi Tree together due to our group size, and it worked out perfectly. The sites were close enough to feel like we were together and have meals together but separated enough to give a little privacy. The tents were spacious and comfortable, and there was enough open space that those who wanted to cowboy camp under the stars had room to do so. Although people usually complain about port-o-potties, the one shared by these two sites was spotless and well stocked with toilet paper.
The camp host was superb. He came back multiple times to make sure we had everything we needed, to give us a description of where we could walk, to lend us items that we forgot to pack. He even offered to guide in a late-arriving guest so they would not get lost in the dark.
The kids loved the campsite dogs who came to protect us and hang out. They, and the neighboring dogs had much to bark about at night, so pack your earplugs. But we did feel safe with them around.
As far as driving, it can be done with a regular car, though on a rainy day I would only want to try it with an all-wheel-drive with some clearance. We had a dry day. The GPS gets close. The host sent us a message to wait at a particular sign so they could guide us to the site, but we missed that sign and drove in ourselves. The last part was a bit confusing. Most of us made it directly, but a couple guests got lost. If you can, read the signs well and contact the host for help.
It was a great stay!
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K
Kate
January 2026
Group trip
We reserved both Breakthrough and Bodhi Tree together due to our group size, and it worked out perfectly. The sites were close enough to feel like we were together and have meals together but separated enough to give a little privacy. The tents were spacious and comfortable, and there was enough open space that those who wanted to cowboy camp under the stars had room to do so. Although people usually complain about port-o-potties, the one shared by these two sites was spotless and well stocked with toilet paper.
The camp host was superb. He came back multiple times to make sure we had everything we needed, to give us a description of where we could walk, to lend us items that we forgot to pack. He even offered to guide in a late-arriving guest so they would not get lost in the dark.
The kids loved the campsite dogs who came to protect us and hang out. They, and the neighboring dogs had much to bark about at night, so pack your earplugs. But we did feel safe with them around.
As far as driving, it can be done with a regular car, though on a rainy day I would only want to try it with an all-wheel-drive with some clearance. We had a dry day. The GPS gets close. The host sent us a message to wait at a particular sign so they could guide us to the site, but we missed that sign and drove in ourselves. The last part was a bit confusing. Most of us made it directly, but a couple guests got lost. If you can, read the signs well and contact the host for help.
It was a great stay!
See moreF
Farshad
January 2026
Tent
Group trip
Amazing space, with amazing people - I will be there more
See more
