The best waterfall campgrounds near Mission Viejo, California

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Mission Viejo, California with a stunning waterfall, we've got you covered. With over 535 options in this area alone, you're sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy nature's beauty. Prices start as low as $5 per night, so camping doesn't have to break the bank. Looking for some top-rated campsites? Check out Diana's Descanso Camp (138 reviews), Bowen Springs Camp Retreat (127 reviews), and Cross Bull Ranch/CBR (96 reviews) for a memorable stay. Popular amenities like campfires, toilets, and cooking equipment are available to make your camping trip even more enjoyable. Plus, if you're feeling adventurous, you can also engage in activities like surfing, snow sports, and paddling. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

96% (136) • 27 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Mission Viejo

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Mission Viejo, California with a stunning waterfall, we've got you covered. With over 535 options in this area alone, you're sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy nature's beauty. Prices start as low as $5 per night, so camping doesn't have to break the bank. Looking for some top-rated campsites? Check out Diana's Descanso Camp (138 reviews), Bowen Springs Camp Retreat (127 reviews), and Cross Bull Ranch/CBR (96 reviews) for a memorable stay. Popular amenities like campfires, toilets, and cooking equipment are available to make your camping trip even more enjoyable. Plus, if you're feeling adventurous, you can also engage in activities like surfing, snow sports, and paddling. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

96% (136) • 27 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Mission Viejo

1. Hidden Falls Preserve

97%

(171)

35mi from Mission Viejo · 16 sites · Tents

This secret off-grid getaway on 80 acres provides stunning views at private tent sites with hiking, bird-watching, and wildflower-spotting. Relax in the shade of a eucalyptus grove, enjoy the sun shining over the sage scrub, enjoy the dark night, and find the hidden seasonal waterfalls. A short drive to Temecula, Diamond Valley Lake, and Lake Skinner, our private, scenic campsites offer both serenity and nearby activities including wine tasting, restaurants, hot air balloons, and paragliding. We are 100% off-grid with no hookups or potable water sources (yet), no showers (yet) in the middle of a conservation area. A significant portion of our proceeds goes directly to a local non-profit for habitat restoration efforts and other bird study projects. We hope to attract campers that want an off-the-beaten-path type experience without having to go to the mountains.

2. Beautiful Altadena

93%

(7)

50mi from Mission Viejo · 3 sites · RVs

Our 2 acre property is on Chiquita Canyon., easy access to hiking, biking and horse back riding trails . County Equestrian center , tennis courts and Free public pool nearby. Great location for Rose Bowl events, Museums, Old Town Pasadena, Rose Bowl Aquatic Center , Arboretum and many more area attractions

3. The Shire

100%

(2)

45mi from Mission Viejo · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to The Shire ! Come and relax in Lytle Creek -Private 5 acre ranch -3 RV sites full hookups and Wi-fi Tent sites with water, electricity and Wi-fi Hiking, waterfalls, creek swimming, shooting ranges, and OHV trails Walking distance to a Melody’s Market, restaurant and bar We are looking forward to seeing you !

4. Cleveland National Forest

93%

(84)

436 sites · Descanso, California

Hike, camp, or gaze up at the Milky Way in California’s southernmost national forest.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. San Bernardino National Forest

94%

(151)

863 sites · La Quinta, California

Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Angeles National Forest

92%

(228)

791 sites · La Crescenta Montrose, California

Experience the beauty of nature without having to stray far from Los Angeles.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Unparalleled sunset views of the west valley of the conservation lands, privacy, private access, and a flat, level tent area.

Aviral

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Hidden Falls Preserve

We had a great time camping here. The host was super helpful and responsive, the directions were clear, and the views were amazing.

Adrian

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Absolutely beautiful property. The scenery was amazing and very quiet. Jordan and Rheanna were very responsive. I plan on coming here again.

Matt

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

It's always peaceful and beautiful, and the whole campground is obviously a labor of love. We love Dragon's Reach for the solitude and the view.

N

Nathan

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Hidden Falls Preserve

Breathtaking view if you camp at JP. The campgrounds below look amazing too. Some trees to offer shade and very clean and safe campground. Will definitely be returning soon!

Ryan

July 2025

Tent

4 nights at Hidden Falls Preserve

I had such a peaceful and relaxing stay on Jordan and Rheanna’s land. It was exactly what I needed for a quick escape from the city. The property was quiet, serene, and best of all — I had the entire place to myself. Everything felt safe and well-kept, and the surroundings were just beautiful. I’ll definitely be coming back again!

S

Scott

July 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Hidden Falls Preserve

Great spot to unwind after a day of motorcycle riding. Beautiful view and sunset! Nice host.

C

Clint

June 2025

Tent

1 night at Hidden Falls Preserve

Great spot! Jensen's Peak had a great view and was nice and quiet. Jordan and Rheanna communicated well. I will be booking again soon.

B

Betty

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

I’m happy I checked out this spot & would def come back. I chose Jensens Peak for the privacy (woman camping solo) & best view. It is also the driest & least shaded so that’s something to keep in mind. All the sites are amply spaced apart & most have a picnic table which is nice. The hosts were helpful and responsive. Probably goes without saying but—it’s tick & foxtail season!

L

Luis

May 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

The site was a perfect, relaxing disconnect for an evening. The sky's were great at night and the view was fantastic. People in other sites but you wouldn't have known.

Joey

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Awesome place! Feels very spread out compared to a state park campsite. Well maintained and hosts were very kind and responsive.

H

Harris

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Awesome place awesome view. Beautiful campground with a lot of wilderness and nature. Unplug from all the city noise and come down here! 10/10 out of recommend!

B

Baraka

April 2025

Tent

1 night at Hidden Falls Preserve

Lovely host and campsite area. I stayed at Jensen Pean and the view was outstanding. Highly recommend staying here.

J

James

March 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

We really enjoyed camping here and want to try out some of the other site next time. Such a beautiful place and so close to home. Incredible view, lovely sunsets and beautiful sunrises from this campsite for sure!

Matt

March 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

Another perfect little retreat in the hills. The hike-in Dragon’s Peak spot is just far enough away from the main camping area to feel alone on top of the world. Plenty of birds and little creatures to keep you company.

B

Bianka

February 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

My boyfriend and I spent Valentines weekend here and we had the BEST time! We are definitely coming back next year — Dragon’s Reach is secluded and the hiking trail to go up was not bad at all. My boyfriend was able to go up with a whole table and chairs at once. Thanks for a wonderful stay!

L

Leonard

February 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Preserve

The land was beautiful! This spot in particular has an amazing view. The sites had plenty of space between them.

M

Mike

February 2025

Tent

2 nights at Hidden Falls Preserve

Jensen’s peak was a perfect get away from the city that I needed. Though I had cloudy days, my dogs loved walking the ranch and getting some rain, Jordan and Rheanna were extremely quick to respond to any questions that I had and were extremely helpful through my stay. Jensens peak will absolutely be on my list for the summer days.