98% (728) • 42 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near San Diego
Summit Trail Hilltop Retreat
1. Summit Trail Hilltop Retreat
100%
(14)
22mi from San Diego · 5 sites
☀ Welcome to La Selva
La Selva means “the jungle” in Spanish. Our 11-acre hilltop homestead sits in the chaparral-covered hills east of San Diego, with views of Lawson Peak, dark skies and a PRIVATE hiking trail to a summit with sweeping 360-degree mountain and valley views.
⛺ Choose your stay
Reserve Meadow or Ridge as a private bell-tent site, our cozy Mountain View Cabin, both tents together, or the whole-property retreat. Each tent accommodates up to three guests. The cabin (10' x 12', 120 sq ft) has a full-size bed for two and a provided air mattress for a third guest. Check the capacity and access details of the specific option you book; a single-site reservation does not include the other guest sites.
✓ Bedding included — no linen add-on fee
We provide bedding, linens and bath towels for every tent and cabin stay at no extra charge and handle the laundering. Please bring food, personal items, a cooler with ice and sturdy trail shoes.
☀ Amenities and outdoor cooking
• Shared enclosed HOT WATER shower and potable well-water sink.
• Clean composting toilet for tent guests; the cabin has its own flushing toilet.
• Provided camp stoves, cookware, dishes, seating, lighting and picnic/prep space at the tents; the cabin has heating/AC and a double cooktop for outdoor cooking.
• Wi-Fi (50 Mbps download, consistent), a shared basketball hoop and our PRIVATE summit trail.
• Mountain views, golden-hour skies, stargazing and abundant chaparral wildlife.
⚠ No fires / no hot tub / no pool access
No campfires, wood fires, propane fire pits or chimineas anywhere on the property. Outdoor cooking only, using the stoves/cooktop and equipment we provide. The jacuzzi is CLOSED and unavailable; no listing includes hot-tub access. No smoking inside the tents or cabin. Bring your own portable ashtray, fully extinguish cigarettes and never discard them on the ground. The swimming pool and the owners’ house on the property are PRIVATE and are NOT included with any stay.
✓ Pets and guest expectations
One well-behaved DOG per booking is welcome for $50 per stay. Sorry, NO CATS on Hipcamp bookings. Add the Pet Fee Extra when booking. Keep dogs leashed, attended and off beds/bedding; bring a pet bed and clean up after them. Only guests included in the booked guest count may visit. Quiet hours are 10 PM–8 AM. Check-in starts at 5 PM; checkout is 10 AM, unless you already have a separately agreed exception.
⛰ A real rural glamping stay
Ridge involves an uphill walk with steps from parking. The tents can occasionally receive a slight horse smell from the neighboring ranch; the cabin can have a new-construction smell. Uneven ground, rattlesnakes and other wildlife are part of this natural setting. Supervise children, keep pets close, stay on designated trails and give wildlife space. Coyotes live in the area, so we recommend keeping pets inside at night.
Explore Engelmann and coast live oaks, manzanita, toyon, white and black sage, laurel sumac, lemonade berry, California buckwheat and yucca. Listen for coyotes and birdsong and watch for deer, rabbits, quail, roadrunners, hawks, owls and lizards.
☀ Explore nearby
Horseback riding at the neighboring ranch, local hiking, wineries, farm stands and Jamul Casino are within reach. Downtown San Diego is approximately 35–40 minutes away; beach travel varies with destination and traffic. Enjoy a nature getaway without being truly remote.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Old well ranch
2. Old well ranch
98%
(29)
23mi from San Diego · 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
King Creek Campground
3. King Creek Campground
97%
(429)
28mi from San Diego · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Currently we don’t have any creek and pond water on the land. Our Family land,
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.
The Foothills as we Call it.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Taste of Nature and Wildlife
4. Taste of Nature and Wildlife
90%
(42)
33mi from San Diego · 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.
*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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Manzanita Hill Woodland Camping
5. Manzanita Hill Woodland Camping
93%
(23)
35mi from San Diego · 3 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.
Toilets
Showers
Secluded De Luz Ranch
6. Secluded De Luz Ranch
99%
(46)
42mi from San Diego · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled beneath majestic oak trees on a secluded 40+ acres ranch. This fabulous site combines the beauty of a North County San Diego picturesque park like setting with the convenience of nearby downtown Fallbrook, approximate 5 miles away. This ranch is private and serene with a roaming heard of goats of varying breeds and ages. Come hang out with the goats! We only have 3 sites, and they are all spread apart to offer you privacy. What a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking for peace and quiet!
Local near by attractions include Monserate Winery, Grand Tradition Estate and Gardens, Kenny's Strawberry Farm, Fallbrook Winery, Fallbrook Gem and Mineral Museum, Los Jilgueros Preserve, and Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Time Traveler Retreat Julian Cabin
7. Time Traveler Retreat Julian Cabin
100%
(6)
34mi from San Diego · 3 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Harrison Serenity Ranch
8. Harrison Serenity Ranch
71%
(7)
38mi from San Diego · 6 sites
Harrison Serenity Ranch is a 67-acre, off-grid mountain retreat on Palomar Mountain, surrounded by the Cleveland National Forest. Powered by solar and supplied by artesian well water, the ranch offers sweeping views, abundant wildlife, hiking trails, a yoga deck, and historic sites.
Just 10 miles from Palomar Observatory, it’s the perfect place to unplug, reconnect with nature, and experience peace and serenity.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
La Salvaje
9. La Salvaje
93%
(7)
45mi from San Diego · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Set on 30 private acres in the high desert of Ranchita, this off-grid campsite overlooks the vast expanse of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, with sweeping views stretching all the way to the mountains along the Mexico border.
The land is defined by rolling hills, massive granite boulders, and native desert vegetation—creating a landscape that feels both rugged and quietly expansive. With no nearby city lights, the property offers exceptional stargazing and a true sense of stillness.
Guests can explore the terrain, relax in thoughtfully placed seating areas perched on boulders, or gather around the fire under string lights as the sun drops behind layered mountain ridgelines. A circular plunge pool provides a unique place to cool off while taking in panoramic desert views.
This is a dry camping experience designed for those seeking solitude, open space, and a deeper connection to the desert—whether you’re here to reset, create, or simply take in the silence.
Pets
Water hookup
Potable water
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Margarita
2 weeks ago
With pets
Fabulous trip! Excellent mini adventure. Spectacular views & accommodating host! Check it out!
See more
Renita
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Manzanita Hill Woodland Camping
Clear signs, a wagon was left waiting for us with lanterns ad we arrived late and after dark, everything was so clean. Diana was so wonderful.
See more
Bea
3 weeks ago
Tent
Loved it! Unfortunately didn’t get the see the goats (no signal and it was too hot too walk around for long) ~ but we LOVED the views and sunset/sunrise views here! So much privacy for us to cook our meals and vibe ~ nice for little night hikes too. Site 3 was a bit of a walk to the porto potty so much sure to bring a headlamp.
See more
Lu
October 2026
With kids
We stayed for two nights in the Safari tent and loved the entire experience. Diana was extremely communicative from the start. Due to high heat warnings, she even offered to reschedule our trip. Luckily, it was very nice and breezy when we arrived. Most of the property is shady so we rarely felt hot. Diana also put out an umbrella for us at the picnic table. It was very nice to eat dinner and watch sunset each day. We didn’t have a food storage bin so Diana lent us one.
The Safari tent itself was very spacious. The bed was so comfortable and fit two adults and one toddler easily. There were many thoughtful touches that made the stay really easy. The private toilet was very clean and right next to the tent. The booking includes a clean bottom sheet. We brought our own blankets and pillows. At night, the temperature was perfect and didn’t feel cold. I’m very happy that I added the propane showers. Water pressure and temperature was just right. Highly recommend bringing a bathrobe since there is a short walk from the shower back to the tent.
The location was closer to Santa Ysabel so we were able to enjoy all the famous pie places without the long lines.
What made the stay really special was Diana’s hospitality. She was very patient and answered all of our questions since it was our first time camping with a toddler. We loved learning about the land and the habitat. Will definitely be back!
See more
jason
September 2026
20 ft truck camper
With pets
Nice views! Had a peaceful night. Don’t follow coordinates from Hipcamp, take a right at steampunk and follow down until a left. Host was responsive and helpful!
See more
Scott
September 2026
With pets
Frank had a serene and welcoming vibe to his camp. We stayed at the little cabin. If you’re looking for some quiet time away from city life, this place offers it. Frank and Tabitha were very hospitable hosts that genuinely want their guests to have a good time and highly communicative.
See moreMadi
September 2026
Tent
With pets
Frank was a great host and super communicative/helpful. The space was lovely and had a great view. Clean, flat site - great for a tent. Well marked and well lit! Awesome all around
See more
Stephie
September 2026
16 ft car
I enjoyed my stay on Diana’s land. Perfect for the occasion! A quick trip to Julian to escape my busy work schedule. A nice relaxing, quiet sleep under the stars! ✨
See more
Michelle
September 2026
Tent
With kids
The place was much cleaner than it was a few years ago when we went. Much less goat poop everywhere! We didn’t bring night water and the host graciously offered to take our water bottles up to the house and film them. The kids loved the goats!
See more
Akash
September 2026
Tent
It’s a beautiful place. And host is responsible as well,
Anyone who’s visiting please plan for a mini suv or anything that has decent ground clearance to reach the location.
Once reached it’s an amazing spot to camp..
We really enjoyed the stay here.
See more
Jonathan
August 2026
15 ft rooftop tent
Group trip
This campsite is covered with trees and shade. It’s really good for hot summer day. I had about 7 people in my group and we all had roof top tents. Frank is awesome and a great host!! Need more people like him in this world.
See more
Yvonne
August 2026
Tent
With kids
We had a really nice stay at Frank's place. Super friendly and accommodating with a gift of hot coffee and pastries first thing in the morning. We stayed there only one night, even though his house was nearby and other campers were above us, it felt very private. It's peaceful and our campsite was surrounded by trees so we had a nice shade.
See more
Richard
August 2026
30 ft truck camper
With pets
Very peaceful and quiet. We have a wonderful time
See more
Alyssa
August 2026
With pets
Heidi’s glamping sites were absolutely great! Such great views and she had the tent stocked with everything you’d need like coffee and tea, and best of all a ‘cool-off kit’ with battery powered handheld fans and a tabletop fan which those toasty east county summer afternoons call for. There’s such a difference between quiet and natural peace and as I sat in the door of my tent watching the clouds drift by and a quick thunderstorm roll through, listening to the breeze, the cry of a hawk, sparrows fluttering about, nearby horses neighing, a cow lowing in the distance, and all the lovable goats and fowl gave it such a comforting rustic ambiance. The bell tents with full sized beds that were so comfy, clean sheets, soft pillows, and plenty of lighting made this feel like such a curated slice of heaven. I’m also so thankful that they also stocked the site with two 3 gallon tanks of potable water and if more was needed you could fill up at the water station. I booked the ridge site and boy did I get my stair hiking steps in. The view and peace were worth it though. Did I mention the goats? Oh I did? Ok, well more: just the joyous bleating when it was obvious their favorite person had arrived with breakfast will make anyone’s morning within hearing distance. So cute; Very memorable. These are sites I’d totally share with a loved one on a romantic getaway, but I also really enjoyed resetting and relaxing by myself on this solo trip with my loyal canine. 10/10 recommend.
See more
Jenn
August 2026
10 ft campervan
Group trip
This is my second time booking King Creek Campground, and we cannot wait to return next year. It is spacious, plenty of trees offer shade, and just remote enough to unplug and catch some great starry skies. Would absolutely recommend, especially for groups.
See moreThomas
August 2026
Tent
King Creek is 150 acre campground completely surrounded by Cleveland National Forest wilderness and virtually untouched by humans: no houses, power-lines, streetlights, or traffic are anywhere in sight. It is a marvel of endless beauty, with absolute quiet that sweetens the birds' songs and amplifies the crickets' nightly operas—perfect for reconnecting with primal consciousness: calm, relaxed, content. I am a “year-round tenter,” minimalist, transported by bicycle, with a global carbon footprint of 0.9 earths, i.e., sustainable, with solar panels that have allowed me to work effectively here for the last two-and-one-half months, greatly assisted by Carlotta and Richard's generous help. King creek is a few ponds at this time, but when the rains return, so will the flow of the creek. Come join me and immerse yourself in these abundant treasures. You won't want to leave, but if you do you will remember them forever.
See more
Banana
July 2026
16 ft car
We had a wedding nearby and wanted to make the most of the road trip to explore the scenic area. This campsite was such a great value with all the amenities we needed tucked into a little getaway... while also being just minutes away from Julian! Diana was so accommodating and communicative with our late check-in, we had no issues finding our way there. The cherry on the top was waking up to a flock of cute little turkeys outside our car 🥹✨
See moreLucas
July 2026
16 ft car
Great spot! Quiet, clean, and easy to find. We had a wonderful weekend and would definitely come back. Highly recommend
See more
Mario
July 2026
10 ft truck camper
With pets
Private , nice place to relax. A lil tricky to get to.
See more
Steve
July 2026
Tent
Quick overnight trip with the kiddo. Was a blast. Road getting in is no joke. Host was very kind. Will be coming back.
See more
