The best dog-friendly RV sites in Southern California

The Pacific shoreline, vast deserts, snow-capped mountains—Southern California has it all. Whether you're looking to hike or surf, the state parks, and beaches are a great starting point for your SoCal adventure.

If you want to hear the waves from your tent, stake your claim at a beach campground with epic ocean views. There are tons of state beaches in Santa Barbara and San Diego Counties. One local favorite is Carpinteria State Beach. Windsurfing, fishing, and surfing are a few ways to enjoy this sandy stretch of the ocean shore.

If you're looking for adventure, Joshua Tree National Park may be calling your name. The rocky desert landscape is a hot spot for hiking and rock climbing. For those who want to escape the crowds, there are plenty of remote places to pitch a tent across the Mojave Desert.

For spectacular mountain views, venture into San Bernardino National Forest, just outside of Los Angeles. In this sprawling wilderness, you find tons of cabins and camping spots, especially near Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake.

If you're looking for something just outside Malibu, you can't beat Malibu Creek State Park. The 8,000-acre rocky wilderness hosts 15 miles of hiking trails and a volcanic swimming hole.

While the rugged landscape lends itself to tent camping, Glamping is also a big deal in SoCal. Keep an eye out for decked-out yurts, cabins, and cottages with spectacular views.

Southern California is known for its fair weather year round. That said, it can get chilly in the winter. Remember to bring a jacket (and a wet suit if you plan on surfing). To beat the summer rush, try to plan your camping trip for late spring or early fall.

94% (3K) • 233 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Southern California

Lakeshore Retreat

1. Lakeshore Retreat

95%

(170)

Lake Elsinore, CA · 1 site · Tent, RV

Enjoy a private lakefront camping area on Lake Elsinore. You will never get tired of the beautiful sunsets, night sky, or all the water-sports on the lake. Historic downtown is just minutes away where you will find restaurants, and stores all within walking distance. Perfect place for a basecamp for nearby hiking, biking, off-roading. Amenities include private dock, potable water, deluxe porta-potty, fire ring, 2 picnic tables(under a 10' x 10' canopy with water mister), and some shady trees🌴

Toilets

Campfires

Water hookup

from

$72

/ night

BASECAMP Joshua Tree

2. BASECAMP Joshua Tree

95%

(400)

Joshua Tree, CA · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

Joshua Tree RV Campground is your basecamp for adventure. A place to refresh and recharge for another day of exploring the great outdoors. The perfect homebase for all of your Joshua Tree area adventures. Imagine camping in complete comfort while located near the rugged rock formations and vast desert landscapes filled with the famous bristled tree forests of Joshua Tree California. Joshua Tree RV & Campground is the perfect home base for exploring the spectacular Mojave and Colorado deserts. Whether you’re a tent or RV camper, Joshua Tree RV & Campground is the perfect choice for a great location and great rates. FHU & PHU Sites Spacious Tent Sites Complimentary WiFi Self Service Laundry Facilities Community BBQ Area

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Full hookups

from

$33

/ night

SoCal Campground

3. SoCal Campground

94%

(73)

Fallbrook, CA · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to our serene getaway in the heart of Fallbrook, CA, where the rustic charm of farm country meets the tranquility of nature. Situated just 30 minutes from the historic allure of Old Town Temecula, our 15-acre campground offers a haven for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Immerse yourself in the lush surroundings of our property, adorned with mature pomegranate groves (November/December Bloom), fragrant orange trees, and a variety of other fruit trees. Wake up to the sweet melodies of birdsong and the scent of fresh citrus wafting through the air, as you breathe in the crisp, clean country air. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath the starlit sky or parking your RV amidst the sprawling landscape, camping at our site offers an unparalleled connection to the great outdoors. Spend your days exploring the scenic hiking trails that wind through the surrounding mountains, or simply relax and unwind amidst the natural beauty that surrounds you. For those craving adventure, nearby attractions such as Old Town Temecula beckon with their rich history, charming boutiques, and renowned wineries. But with the serene beauty of our campground at your doorstep, you may find that the greatest adventures lie right here, amidst the rolling hills and fruit-laden trees of Fallbrook. The bathroom building with hot showers is freshly renovated and campsites are clean and nestled nature. Escape the ordinary and discover the magic of camping in the country at our picturesque retreat. Book your stay today and experience the beauty of Fallbrook, CA, where every moment is an opportunity to reconnect with nature and rejuvenate your soul. SPECIAL NOTE: Please be aware the property is in the countryside and there are wild animals that can roam through the property including coyotes, wild dogs, snakes, mountain lions, etc. Please do not approach any wild animals. We look forward to hosting you as our guests!

Electrical hookup

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from

$46

/ night

Zaromel Ranch

4. Zaromel Ranch

Agua Dulce, CA · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging

Escape to Zaromel Ranch, a sprawling creative sanctuary nestled in scenic hills. We offer a unique blend of rustic glamping and classic camping for your next outdoor adventure. 1 – Remodeled Airstream Camper: Experience retro-chic comfort in our recently remodeled and clean Airstream. This stylish camper offers a unique and memorable stay. 2 – Cozy Glamping Cabins: We offer several rustic cabins perfect for a glamping getaway. The Main Cabin features two beds and a private covered porch with a grill. The Arena Cabin is located next to a one-acre horse riding arena and includes an outdoor deck with shade. 3 – Unique Deck Camping: For an elevated camping experience, you can pitch your tent on one of our dedicated wooden decks, such as the Sunset Deck, Sunrise Deck, Flow Deck, or Stage Deck. Ranch Amenities: We make camping comfortable. Our property has multiple WC/shower facilities, including a modern block with two hot showers and a washing station. All guests are welcome to use our incredible Outdoor Kitchen, which includes a large grill and dining space. The Experience: Zaromel Ranch is more than just a place to sleep. Unwind with amazing views from the Sunset Deck, find your zen on the Flow Deck, or greet the morning from the Sunrise Deck. The unique backdrop of our massive Acre Arena and Stables makes for an unforgettable stay. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a unique base for adventure, we welcome you to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with nature at Zaromel Ranch!

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Showers

from

$28

/ night

Pool Ranch

5. Pool Ranch

100%

(3)

Ranchita, CA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

🌌 Pool Ranch: Your 30-Acre Dark Sky Gateway to Anza-Borrego Escape to true high-desert solitude at Pool Ranch, a 30-acre private property in the unique mountain community of Ranchita, CA. Our property offers almost complete isolation, making it the perfect sanctuary to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. We share a direct border with the vast, untouched wilderness of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, putting millions of acres of adventure right at your doorstep. ✨ Experience the Magic of the High Desert Pool Ranch is not just a place to camp; it's a place to experience the raw, dramatic beauty of the Colorado Desert in all its forms. Our elevation provides a stunning four-season climate. 🌌 World-Class Stargazing: As part of an official Dark Sky Community, our skies are free of light pollution. On a clear night, the Milky Way is breathtakingly bright. 🌸 Spring Wildflowers: Witness the desert floor explode in a riot of color during the annual superbloom. ❄️ Winter Snow: Experience the rare and magical sight of snow blanketing the desert landscape. 🏜️ Direct Park Access: Forget driving to a trailhead. Our property line directly borders Anza-Borrego State Park. Step off our land and directly into the wilderness for hiking, exploring, and mountain biking. Your Private Wilderness Sanctuary This 30-acre property is your playground. Find your perfect spot, set up camp, and enjoy the silence, the expansive views, and the feeling of having the wilderness all to yourself. If you are seeking profound quiet, unparalleled starry nights, and a direct gateway to one of California's largest state parks, Pool Ranch is waiting for you.

Toilets

Campfires

Picnic table

from

$36

Ranchita, CA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

🌌 Pool Ranch: Your 30-Acre Dark Sky Gateway to Anza-Borrego Escape to true high-desert solitude at Pool Ranch, a 30-acre private property in the unique mountain community of Ranchita, CA. Our property offers almost complete isolation, making it the perfect sanctuary to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. We share a direct border with the vast, untouched wilderness of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, putting millions of acres of adventure right at your doorstep. ✨ Experience the Magic of the High Desert Pool Ranch is not just a place to camp; it's a place to experience the raw, dramatic beauty of the Colorado Desert in all its forms. Our elevation provides a stunning four-season climate. 🌌 World-Class Stargazing: As part of an official Dark Sky Community, our skies are free of light pollution. On a clear night, the Milky Way is breathtakingly bright. 🌸 Spring Wildflowers: Witness the desert floor explode in a riot of color during the annual superbloom. ❄️ Winter Snow: Experience the rare and magical sight of snow blanketing the desert landscape. 🏜️ Direct Park Access: Forget driving to a trailhead. Our property line directly borders Anza-Borrego State Park. Step off our land and directly into the wilderness for hiking, exploring, and mountain biking. Your Private Wilderness Sanctuary This 30-acre property is your playground. Find your perfect spot, set up camp, and enjoy the silence, the expansive views, and the feeling of having the wilderness all to yourself. If you are seeking profound quiet, unparalleled starry nights, and a direct gateway to one of California's largest state parks, Pool Ranch is waiting for you.

Toilets

Campfires

Picnic table

from

$36

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Shelly

3 weeks ago

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at BASECAMP Joshua Tree

The place was clean and host was awesome. Great location for dog walks and park exploration.

Clarissa

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pool Ranch

Gorgeous spot!! Will definitely return. Temperature and weather was absolutely perfect in early Feb.

Jemma May

3 weeks ago

16 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeshore Retreat

We loved car camping with our RTT at Ed's land! We decided to camp on the spacious area above the shoreline but it was nice being able to wake up and take a stroll down to the lake. We were aware of the spot being close to the street but didn't realize how close it ended up being. As avid boondockers, we were surprised by how close the street was to the site; however, the traffic noises ultimately became white noise throughout the weekend. It definitely didn't affect my sleep (and I'm absolutely a light sleeper) and putting on earplugs had me sleeping like a baby. It was especially nice being able to wake up so early and walk out onto the shore with a nice cup of coffee. It's also always nice knowing you're just a few minutes away from the city if you've forgotten anything for camp. I highly recommend this spot to first-timers or just anyone looking to get away from city chaos!

P

Paige

January 2026

36 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at BASECAMP Joshua Tree

This place had everything we needed. Hook ups worked. Was open and smaller(which we prefer), playground, skate park and basketball court right next door. National park up the road. Would definitely stay again!

A

Alynne

January 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeshore Retreat

Was amazing get away! Ed had amazing communication. Will book again.

E

Elizabeth

January 2026

10 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to BASECAMP Joshua Tree

Wonderful base camp location for your visit to JTNP! It had all the amenities one could need, and Bri was so warm and welcoming, a wonderful host

A

Alex

January 2026

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Lakeshore Retreat

Lake was nice porta potty was clean was a great spot to camp

Debora

January 2026

25 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to BASECAMP Joshua Tree

This campground is in a convenient location, right in town but just off the main drag. There is shopping nearby and easy access to Joshua Tree National Park. We are traveling during the winter so stayed 3 nights in January 2026. We were fortunate that the weather was not too chilly but did get down to about 39 most nights and bright, beautiful, sunny days around 60 for daytime exploring. The sites were pretty level which is always nice with hookups conveniently located for water, sewer and 30 amp electrical. There was room for our Jeep Wagoneer L to park as well as plenty of room to use the portable wood fire place that they provided. It was quiet with great views right from the campsite! We would definitely come back and stay again if our travels bring us back to this location. While we are set up for boon docking with ample batteries and solar, we are finding it much more enjoyable i.e. quiet to be in campgrounds with electricity so people are not running generators all night long. Too funny really. We're traveling from ME to FL to CA and this was one of many spectacular stops along the way.

l

lin

December 2025

13 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeshore Retreat

Beautiful views, had a great time camping on Ed's land. Private dock was a plus

M

Martinis

December 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to SoCal Campground

I’m sure it was as quiet as it was due to I was there by myself.. easy to get to and leaving was jnv CC

C

Christian

December 2025

16 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pool Ranch

Great place to car camp, definitely needed a rugged vehicle to get us there. Level ground with a great view, perfect for a rooftop tent or ground tent. Easy access to the state park for day hikes.

R

Ruth

December 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to SoCal Campground

So Cal Campground was perfect for us! We were lucky to be the only campers there in early December 2025. The facilities were perfect since we were from out of state, and needed a clean facility to get ready for a wedding we were attending several miles away. It was much more memorable than a hotel room. Thank you.

R

Rob

December 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at SoCal Campground

Nice, remote area that provided us with the spot we needed on our trip. Good bathrooms and a quiet night.

C

Christian

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeshore Retreat

Once again, we had an awesome stay. Thanks again for everything Ed.

supernovala@yahoo.com

November 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Pool Ranch

We had a great stay! It was wide open, dark skies and impossibly quiet. Andy was SO kind and very helpful. He even met us out at the spot and helped us arrange our tiny camper perfectly with his 4x4 ranger. We would highly recommend this spot to anyone who loves desert camping 🩵

E

Elaine

November 2025

45 ft toy hauler

2 nights at BASECAMP Joshua Tree

Great place! Close to Joshua Tree National Park, clean bathrooms, Josh was an excellent host. Highly recommend staying here

J

Jeanette

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Lakeshore Retreat

Stayed here during Thanksgiving and truly had the most relaxing time. We loved it so much we booked for the spring. Thanks Ed!

B

Berkay

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Lakeshore Retreat

We had an amazing time camping at Ed’s place near Lake Elsinore! The site was clean, peaceful, and easy to find. The sunset view over the lake was absolutely beautiful, and the stars at night were incredible. Ed was a great host—he gave clear directions and even checked in to make sure we had everything we needed. Highly recommend this spot for families or anyone who wants a quiet getaway close to nature.

A

Ariel

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Lakeshore Retreat

Nice property near the lake clean porta potty. Ed is very responsive and a good host.