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) • 234 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

Lisa S.’s Land

2. Lisa S.’s Land

89%

(306)

Solvang, CA · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging

This is Glamping at its best! We have two cabins that have kitchens with mini frig, microwaves and sinks. Complimentary coffee and tea as well. Very comfortable queen beds. Each cabin has a living room and table area along with gas fireplaces inside and A/C. Outdoor courtyard area with firepit, picnic tables and string lights to enjoy the days or evenings.  Each cabin sleeps two but both can be rented to sleep four. Both cabins are historic to the area.   All of this is in the center of the Santa Ynez valley close to Los Olivos , Santa Ynez and Solvang. Wine tasting, bike riding and hiking. Great restaurants and wineries within walking distance.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

from

$85

/ 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

Toilets

Campfires

from

$46

/ night

Action Camp LA RV Resort

4. Action Camp LA RV Resort

100%

(10)

Agua Dulce, CA · 244 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

✨ Stay, Explore & Unwind at Action Camp ✨ Adventure meets comfort in a one-of-a-kind outdoor destination Located right along the iconic Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), Action Camp is the perfect home base for hikers, travelers, families, and outdoor lovers looking for both adventure and relaxation. 🏕 RV Sites Spacious, comfortable RV sites designed for easy access and longer stays surrounded by open skies and peaceful nature. 🏡 Cabin Rentals Fully equipped cabins offering multiple beds, private bathrooms, personal showers, WiFi, TVs, and kitchen appliances. (Select cabins include stoves.) Enjoy the comforts of home while immersed in the outdoors. ⛺ Tent Sites Traditional camping with plenty of room to relax and reconnect ideal for individuals, families, and group campers seeking a true outdoor experience. 🛖 Teepee Rentals A unique and unforgettable stay. Our teepees blend adventure with comfort for a magical night under the stars. 🌲 Woody Rustic Lodge Rentals Perfect for group stays, retreats, or special gatherings. The Woody Rustic Lodge delivers spacious accommodations with authentic camp charm. 🌟 Camp Experiences & Activities (available on selected nights) 🎬 Movies Under the Stars – Family-friendly outdoor movie nights 🎲 Family Game Tournaments Fun for all ages 🚜 Hayrides A classic camp experience everyone loves ✨ Why Guests Love Action Camp • Direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) • Unique lodging options for every type of guest • Family-friendly activities and special event nights • Rustic charm with modern comforts • Perfect for getaways, long stays, and group experiences 📍 Book your stay at Action Camp and experience a destination where adventure, community, and comfort come together.

Toilets

Campfires

Full hookups

from

$70

/ night

The Lodge at Deer Creek

5. The Lodge at Deer Creek

90%

(124)

Malibu, CA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

At The Lodge at Deer Creek you'll be nestled between the majestic Santa Monica Mountains and the beautiful Pacific Ocean. Enjoy sunsets and stargazing from this 25 acre ocean view property. During the day you can swim or surf the famous Malibu waves, hike or bike in the mountains, or enjoy shopping at Pt. Dume or Cross Creek. Grocery, restaurants, and retail are just 15 minutes away along the beautiful coast.

from

$75

90%

(124)

Malibu, CA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

At The Lodge at Deer Creek you'll be nestled between the majestic Santa Monica Mountains and the beautiful Pacific Ocean. Enjoy sunsets and stargazing from this 25 acre ocean view property. During the day you can swim or surf the famous Malibu waves, hike or bike in the mountains, or enjoy shopping at Pt. Dume or Cross Creek. Grocery, restaurants, and retail are just 15 minutes away along the beautiful coast.

from

$75

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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!

Bill

January 2026

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Lisa S.’s Land

Great communication from Lisa. Her property is very well-kept. We stayed the night n our adventure van. Very comfortable. And don’t miss the opportunity to visit the bakery, Bob’s Well Bread. A short walk from the property.

G

Greg

January 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Lodge at Deer Creek

Tent camping with a fabulous view! Large pad all to myself !

Leah

January 2026

19 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Lodge at Deer Creek

Nice out of the way spot but close enough to the coast.

A

Alynne

January 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeshore Retreat

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

s

steven

January 2026

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at The Lodge at Deer Creek

Amazing spot! Great location, clean, insane views, and lots to explore

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

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

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.

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.

B

Brianna

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to SoCal Campground

Great spot for first time family camping. Don't forget to bring your own drinking water.

M

Michael

November 2025

20 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeshore Retreat

Great spot lake front. The view is fantastic. Like other reviews, it is close to the road. The lights on pergola was a nice touch. I would stay again.

S

Saud

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Lakeshore Retreat

The Place is absolutely gorgeous. Very clean and private with great parking spots for non 4X4 vehicles. Port potty was clean. You can park your vehicle on the shore although I wouldn’t advise it for non 4X4 vehicles. The only con I would say is that it’s so close to the street that you can hear the cars go by but it was okay. There is everything you need in 5 minute drive radius, so don’t worry if you forget anything. The host is super friendly and responsive. Definitely coming back again.

M

Mark

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Lodge at Deer Creek

My spot was lovely and quiet. Watching the cloud/fog layer creep over the mountain tops in view during sunrises and sunsets was wonderful. Chris' knowledge of the human and natural history of the area was profound. If you need a getaway from the city that is close by, this is the place.

J

Jessica

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to SoCal Campground

Absolutely beautiful campgrounds with great accommodations, clean facilities with water and fire pits at most sites. Very private