Discover the best ranch campgrounds near Vista, California

95% (3682 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Vista

Star Hosts in Vista

100%

(323)

Available this weekend

96%

(236)

Saddle Up Camp

18 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Aguanga, CA

Saddle Up Ranch is a horse rescue that is ever growing. We have over 180 trees on the property (mostly beautiful flowing California Pepper Trees) and have gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains and horse pastures.We offer horseback riding, goat yoga, and goat milking. You can also volunteer and help care for the animals while you are here by feeding, grooming or simply petting them. TJ, our owner, is working her way through the race track. Our campsites are managed by Tony. He works closely with guests to expand our campsites. TJ and many of the guides volunteer hard hours to rehabilitate the horse and give them a good home. You should see how the animals flock to TJ. The ranch also has goats, pigs, chickens, dogs and cats. You can support our mission of rescuing horses by booking one of our horseback riding or other services! Thank you for your support! Guests love staying here: "Second stay and looking forward to returning again! <3 We were the only campers during the weekend, it was so serene. It gets very cold at night but the star filled skies are breathtaking. This time during our stay we had 3 kitty visitors and 3 dogs that rolled up to our camp multiple times, it felt like they were checking up on us. It was so cute. The sweet Aussie poked his head in our tent to say "you good?" haha It was so cute and they were extremely friendly and social! The black kitten stayed at our camp all night and cuddled on our laps by the fire. It was such a lovely experience. TJ and her crew have done an amazing job with this place, I don't have enough words to explain. Just see for yourself! You'll love it!! Can't wait to visit again!"

79%

(12)

Skyrocket Ranch

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Temecula, CA

Welcome to The Skyrocket Ranch, a truly enchanting destination nestled on 20 acres of picturesque land in the hills of Temecula. Our property invites you to experience a harmonious blend of tranquility, natural allure, and convenient access to city amenities and renowned wineries. Set along the serene banks of Sandia Creek, our ranch provides a serene oasis where you can unwind and reconnect with the outdoors. Venture outdoors to explore our expansive grounds, revealing lush orchards and captivating views at every corner. The presence of charming rural luxury homes enhances the appeal and exclusivity of this remarkable location. A highlight of your stay here is the chance to observe wildlife thriving in its natural habitat. Keep an eye out for graceful deer, vibrant birds, and other captivating creatures that make our property their home. Nature enthusiasts and photographers will discover endless inspiration in this environment. While our land offers a peaceful escape, it's also conveniently proximate to the city and renowned wineries. Immerse yourself in Temecula's vibrant Old Towne, where you can indulge in delectable cuisine, explore local boutiques, and immerse yourself in the thriving arts and culture scene. For wine aficionados, a short journey will lead you to world-class wineries, inviting you to relish award-winning vintages amidst breathtaking vineyard vistas. Whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat, an adventure in nature, or a wine-tasting escapade, The Skyrocket Ranch offers an ideal launchpad for your next exploration. Awaken to the soothing sounds of nature, breathe in the invigorating country air, and embark on an unforgettable journey right from our doorstep. Book your stay at The Skyrocket Ranch and discover the magic of this extraordinary destination. We eagerly await the opportunity to welcome you and share the captivating beauty of our land.

99%

(89)

Ability Ranch Camp

3 sites · Lodging7 acres · Ramona, CA

PRIVATE AND UNIQUE Close to so much. Things like the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Julian (think hot apple pie or pies to take with you! Dudley's Bakery for the freshest bread in town! Julian Brewing Co for great Bar-B-Q, Lots of places for hiking Palomar Mountain Observatory. It's just a great get away to slow down and catch your breath . Our property is filled with unusual sculptures and lighting. And I will brag that our sunsets are spectacular!

Down-to-Earth Ecoshire

248 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · CA

Private 35 acre Private Land Restoration Project surrounded by rolling hills, mountain views and open sky. The sunsets and sunrises are spectacular year round. Stars and open skies that you'd be hard pressed to find anywhere else in southern California. Just 15 minutes from Temecula wineries, 40 minutes from the alpine, artsy town of Idyllwild in the San Jacinto Mountains, and just 15 minutes from the 215 in Menifee toward Hemet. Best to visit from early autumn to lush springtime where we have great wildflower blooms. Cooperative managers Jim and Dawn host visitors who want to enjoy nature, participate in regenerative gardening all while off-setting their travel footprint. Fees go to our not for profit land restoration which includes planting trees, improving aquifers and enriching the soil. The property is a owned by a restorative co-op (turning a former illegal dump into an oasis of hope) where we invite you to participate in creative local solutions to our larger global problems. * If your group is larger than six adults, pease visit our group listings page. If your group needs special privacy and sound requirements and you'd like to reserve the entirer property, you will need to contact us directly. * Spaces are available on a first come, first serve basis. * Our visitor support pricing is $20 for the first person and $15 for all additional adults. Kids 6 - 12 are $5 per night. We don't want to charge for kids 6 and under, so do not include them in your booking. Thanks! * Campfire rings are only in common clearing, designated and permitted areas. Please check for seasonal fire restrictions.

98%

(152)

Shadow Hills

3 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Temecula, CA

Minutes from the heart of Temecula Wine Country, Shadow Hills provides beautiful panoramic views in a peaceful setting. Enjoy your morning coffee while watching hot air balloons glide through the morning sky. Then make the short trip to Wine Country for award winning wines, food and events. Shadow Hills is a former eucalyptus farm on 4 acres in Temecula Wine Country. We love our little SoCal ranch and look forward to sharing it with you! The campsites are located near the top of the property and are easily accessed using the paved driveway. The local wildlife includes hawks, bunnies, birds, lizards, coyotes, and, on rare occasions, deer, snakes and bobcats. Shadow Hills provides a quiet and rustic environment within reach of Temecula wines, events, and cuisine.

12 top ranch campgrounds near Vista

94%

(946)

Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents67 acres · Palomar Mountain, CA

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.

Reid Ranch

5 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Vista, CA

Reid Ranch is located in North County less than 10 miles from the beach. You will have your own site with a private fire pit uniquely placed in the natural Granite rocks. Your experience will be one of a kind. So many activities near by. Close to numerous breweries and great wineries. I have lived in San Diego for over 30 years so I can give recommendations to the best of what San Diego has to offer. Downtown is a 45 minute drive or you have access to the train nearby. We have 2 hold tubs that can be added on that over look the coast. Located in the Mar Vista Valley only eight miles from the Pacific Ocean. We enjoy the best weather in the world. The ocean breeze along with gorgeous sunsets adds to the experience. Our private fire pit nestled in the granite boulders is truly one of a kind. We hope you come experience our slice of heaven for yourself soon.

Bonsall Hills

1 site · RV, Tent6 acres · Bonsall, CA

Located in the peaceful hills of the North County San Diego town of Bonsall, this 6-acre ranch is surrounded by vineyards, horse training estates, and wild California canyons. Conveniently situated near the I-15, Highway 76, and Highway 78, we're just 20 minutes away from both the beach and the mountains. Bring your RV to access through a private back gate, or set up your tent near a hilltop for a serene camping experience.

94%

(81)

Thundering Hawk Retreat

10 sites · Lodging50 acres · Valley Center, CA

Welcome to our Hipcamp located on a 50-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

96%

(41)

Black Canyon Family Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents53 acres · Ramona, CA

A few acres of natural land. There is a seasonal creek running through the area. It's a very quiet area. It's primitive, natural and we love it that way. The creek runs into the Cleveland national forest and down to the Mesa Grande Indian reservation. There is hiking and exploring! Come throw a tent up in one of the two camp sites or a hammock in the trees.. Hike the nature preserves in Santa Ysabel. Go to Wynola enjoy craft beverages, Josie's live music off the 76. Or just enjoy the peacefulness of the forest here and hike and reset your mind. The top 13 are residential, the bottom 40 will be open for exploring, camping, hiking and gardening! We are new homesteaders trying to do things more organically and real free range for our animals. We have a farm on the top 13 acres with cows, pigs, goats, sheep and chickens. More animals will come soon. We will eventually like to offer food from our farm to our guests. That way they can actually see where the food comes from and how ours raised!

Horsetel River Retreat

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Fallbrook, CA

Settle in and saddle up for an unforgettable experience that combines the freedom of the road with the serenity of the ranch. We can't wait to welcome you to a piece of paradise! Whether you're seeking relaxation or an adventure, our place offers the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway. Explore the local charm of arts, wineries, festivals, and nearby trails off the beaten path. Bring your horses and have a peaceful place to stay while attending equine events in San Diego County and Temecula. Our ranch provides the perfect base for discovering the unique offerings of this quaint town and rugged terrain. We have direct access to the Santa Margarita River Trails, a three minute drive; which are famous for world-class hiking, mountain biking and horse riding along the last free-flowing river in Southern California. We are also a 20-minute drive to Old Town Temecula, 30-minute drive to the beach in Oceanside and 15-minute drive to the east gate of Camp Pendleton. In 1-2 hours, you can also get to Mount Palomar, Julian, Idyllwild, San Diego, Orange County and other destinations. We offer a camping spot large enough for your own trailer, RV or tents next to our barn. You can also select the add-on for our trailer to be set up and ready for your arrival (this option will appear at checkout). There is an outdoor shower and rustic water closet, as well as water and electric hookups. Please see the site descriptions or inquire for any additional details. Traveling with horses? They have room to stay in our Horsetel too! We have up to 5 stalls available in a covered barn, complete with automatic waterers, feeding mats, wash rack, round pen and fenced pasture. Any horses staying must be in good health and up to date on all vaccines. We can arrange for a trail guide to take you and your horses on the local trails, as well (trails are advanced terrain). **When reserving stalls for your horses, select only one guest for the sites to show as available. Horse stalls may not be booked without owners booking the campsite for the same duration. Boarding is not available.

Villa Bonsall

5 sites · Lodging4 acres · Bonsall, CA

25%

(4)

DeerSprings Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · San Marcos, CA

This campsite has stunning mountain vistas and offers convenient accessibility from the 15 Freeway, a mere three-minute drive away. Its forested ambiance exudes an abundance of joy and happiness, and it is situated in close proximity to San Diego's beaches, wineries, horseback riding, yoga, trekking, cycling, zoos, and other attractions. Highly secure and safe, ensuring round-the-clock access. The serene experience of driving along Deer Springs Road, nestled between two mountains, is a truly relaxing experience, with easy access to a variety of culinary and other amenities.

99%

(74)

Eco Glamping Tent

3 sites · Lodging3 acres · Vista, CA

After relocating from South Africa to Southern California we searched to find the perfect property to enjoy endless mountain, ocean and sunset views and a property that was fertile enough to be able to grow our own organic food. Now that we've found and enjoy our dream property we wanted to share it in a unique and exciting way by incorporating our African background and created this Safari Eco Tent so that passionate eco minded campers can also experience this stunning property. Unplug, Relax and Unwind in this Luxury African Safari Eco tent complete with solar hot water shower, rain water catchment, state of the art compost toilet, solar electric, full bathroom kitchen & Eco Heater. Experience a bit of Africa on this 2½ acre organic property surrounded by South African Protea flowers, native sages and fruit trees. Fall asleep in your luxury queen size bed with beautiful linens and awaken to the sounds of nature, enjoy nearby beaches, Temecula wineries, Safari Park & outstanding local Vista micro breweries.

Down-to-Earth Ecoshire

248 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · CA

Private 35 acre Private Land Restoration Project surrounded by rolling hills, mountain views and open sky. The sunsets and sunrises are spectacular year round. Stars and open skies that you'd be hard pressed to find anywhere else in southern California. Just 15 minutes from Temecula wineries, 40 minutes from the alpine, artsy town of Idyllwild in the San Jacinto Mountains, and just 15 minutes from the 215 in Menifee toward Hemet. Best to visit from early autumn to lush springtime where we have great wildflower blooms. Cooperative managers Jim and Dawn host visitors who want to enjoy nature, participate in regenerative gardening all while off-setting their travel footprint. Fees go to our not for profit land restoration which includes planting trees, improving aquifers and enriching the soil. The property is a owned by a restorative co-op (turning a former illegal dump into an oasis of hope) where we invite you to participate in creative local solutions to our larger global problems. * If your group is larger than six adults, pease visit our group listings page. If your group needs special privacy and sound requirements and you'd like to reserve the entirer property, you will need to contact us directly. * Spaces are available on a first come, first serve basis. * Our visitor support pricing is $20 for the first person and $15 for all additional adults. Kids 6 - 12 are $5 per night. We don't want to charge for kids 6 and under, so do not include them in your booking. Thanks! * Campfire rings are only in common clearing, designated and permitted areas. Please check for seasonal fire restrictions.

Skyrocket Ranch

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Temecula, CA

Welcome to The Skyrocket Ranch, a truly enchanting destination nestled on 20 acres of picturesque land in the hills of Temecula. Our property invites you to experience a harmonious blend of tranquility, natural allure, and convenient access to city amenities and renowned wineries. Set along the serene banks of Sandia Creek, our ranch provides a serene oasis where you can unwind and reconnect with the outdoors. Venture outdoors to explore our expansive grounds, revealing lush orchards and captivating views at every corner. The presence of charming rural luxury homes enhances the appeal and exclusivity of this remarkable location. A highlight of your stay here is the chance to observe wildlife thriving in its natural habitat. Keep an eye out for graceful deer, vibrant birds, and other captivating creatures that make our property their home. Nature enthusiasts and photographers will discover endless inspiration in this environment. While our land offers a peaceful escape, it's also conveniently proximate to the city and renowned wineries. Immerse yourself in Temecula's vibrant Old Towne, where you can indulge in delectable cuisine, explore local boutiques, and immerse yourself in the thriving arts and culture scene. For wine aficionados, a short journey will lead you to world-class wineries, inviting you to relish award-winning vintages amidst breathtaking vineyard vistas. Whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat, an adventure in nature, or a wine-tasting escapade, The Skyrocket Ranch offers an ideal launchpad for your next exploration. Awaken to the soothing sounds of nature, breathe in the invigorating country air, and embark on an unforgettable journey right from our doorstep. Book your stay at The Skyrocket Ranch and discover the magic of this extraordinary destination. We eagerly await the opportunity to welcome you and share the captivating beauty of our land.

92%

(135)

Ohana Goat Ranch and Campsite

1 site · RV, Tent41 acres · Fallbrook, CA

Learn more about this land:Shaded and private camping with the most affectionate and friendly goats you will ever meet! Enjoy the mindfulness and peace of just sitting and watching these sweet creatures graze, ruminate and snuggle. You can hike and have a picnic anywhere on our 41 acres of rock gardens and oaks in the hills of Fallbrook. Our resident pack goats Segovia and Lassen will bring your gear!!! There are caves in the rocks and when the spring is flowing there is an underground waterfall! In the evenings you'll be transported to what sounds like a rainforest as the peacocks and toucans of our neighbor Emerald Forest Bird Gardens start singing.Santa Margarita Preserve is just a few miles away. You can go for a hike and dip your feet in the water.Bring your bikes-Road or Gravel. There are greats roads in the area and miles of easements for gravel bikes. Check out @ohana_goat_ranch for more photos and updates to the space.

Under $50

25%

(4)

DeerSprings Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · San Marcos, CA

This campsite has stunning mountain vistas and offers convenient accessibility from the 15 Freeway, a mere three-minute drive away. Its forested ambiance exudes an abundance of joy and happiness, and it is situated in close proximity to San Diego's beaches, wineries, horseback riding, yoga, trekking, cycling, zoos, and other attractions. Highly secure and safe, ensuring round-the-clock access. The serene experience of driving along Deer Springs Road, nestled between two mountains, is a truly relaxing experience, with easy access to a variety of culinary and other amenities.

Horsetel River Retreat

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Fallbrook, CA

Settle in and saddle up for an unforgettable experience that combines the freedom of the road with the serenity of the ranch. We can't wait to welcome you to a piece of paradise! Whether you're seeking relaxation or an adventure, our place offers the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway. Explore the local charm of arts, wineries, festivals, and nearby trails off the beaten path. Bring your horses and have a peaceful place to stay while attending equine events in San Diego County and Temecula. Our ranch provides the perfect base for discovering the unique offerings of this quaint town and rugged terrain. We have direct access to the Santa Margarita River Trails, a three minute drive; which are famous for world-class hiking, mountain biking and horse riding along the last free-flowing river in Southern California. We are also a 20-minute drive to Old Town Temecula, 30-minute drive to the beach in Oceanside and 15-minute drive to the east gate of Camp Pendleton. In 1-2 hours, you can also get to Mount Palomar, Julian, Idyllwild, San Diego, Orange County and other destinations. We offer a camping spot large enough for your own trailer, RV or tents next to our barn. You can also select the add-on for our trailer to be set up and ready for your arrival (this option will appear at checkout). There is an outdoor shower and rustic water closet, as well as water and electric hookups. Please see the site descriptions or inquire for any additional details. Traveling with horses? They have room to stay in our Horsetel too! We have up to 5 stalls available in a covered barn, complete with automatic waterers, feeding mats, wash rack, round pen and fenced pasture. Any horses staying must be in good health and up to date on all vaccines. We can arrange for a trail guide to take you and your horses on the local trails, as well (trails are advanced terrain). **When reserving stalls for your horses, select only one guest for the sites to show as available. Horse stalls may not be booked without owners booking the campsite for the same duration. Boarding is not available.

Bonsall Hills

1 site · RV, Tent6 acres · Bonsall, CA

Located in the peaceful hills of the North County San Diego town of Bonsall, this 6-acre ranch is surrounded by vineyards, horse training estates, and wild California canyons. Conveniently situated near the I-15, Highway 76, and Highway 78, we're just 20 minutes away from both the beach and the mountains. Bring your RV to access through a private back gate, or set up your tent near a hilltop for a serene camping experience.

Black Canyon Family Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents53 acres · Ramona, CA

A few acres of natural land. There is a seasonal creek running through the area. It's a very quiet area. It's primitive, natural and we love it that way. The creek runs into the Cleveland national forest and down to the Mesa Grande Indian reservation. There is hiking and exploring! Come throw a tent up in one of the two camp sites or a hammock in the trees.. Hike the nature preserves in Santa Ysabel. Go to Wynola enjoy craft beverages, Josie's live music off the 76. Or just enjoy the peacefulness of the forest here and hike and reset your mind. The top 13 are residential, the bottom 40 will be open for exploring, camping, hiking and gardening! We are new homesteaders trying to do things more organically and real free range for our animals. We have a farm on the top 13 acres with cows, pigs, goats, sheep and chickens. More animals will come soon. We will eventually like to offer food from our farm to our guests. That way they can actually see where the food comes from and how ours raised!

Down-to-Earth Ecoshire

248 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · CA

Private 35 acre Private Land Restoration Project surrounded by rolling hills, mountain views and open sky. The sunsets and sunrises are spectacular year round. Stars and open skies that you'd be hard pressed to find anywhere else in southern California. Just 15 minutes from Temecula wineries, 40 minutes from the alpine, artsy town of Idyllwild in the San Jacinto Mountains, and just 15 minutes from the 215 in Menifee toward Hemet. Best to visit from early autumn to lush springtime where we have great wildflower blooms. Cooperative managers Jim and Dawn host visitors who want to enjoy nature, participate in regenerative gardening all while off-setting their travel footprint. Fees go to our not for profit land restoration which includes planting trees, improving aquifers and enriching the soil. The property is a owned by a restorative co-op (turning a former illegal dump into an oasis of hope) where we invite you to participate in creative local solutions to our larger global problems. * If your group is larger than six adults, pease visit our group listings page. If your group needs special privacy and sound requirements and you'd like to reserve the entirer property, you will need to contact us directly. * Spaces are available on a first come, first serve basis. * Our visitor support pricing is $20 for the first person and $15 for all additional adults. Kids 6 - 12 are $5 per night. We don't want to charge for kids 6 and under, so do not include them in your booking. Thanks! * Campfire rings are only in common clearing, designated and permitted areas. Please check for seasonal fire restrictions.

Dog-friendly getaways

96%

(41)

Black Canyon Family Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents53 acres · Ramona, CA

A few acres of natural land. There is a seasonal creek running through the area. It's a very quiet area. It's primitive, natural and we love it that way. The creek runs into the Cleveland national forest and down to the Mesa Grande Indian reservation. There is hiking and exploring! Come throw a tent up in one of the two camp sites or a hammock in the trees.. Hike the nature preserves in Santa Ysabel. Go to Wynola enjoy craft beverages, Josie's live music off the 76. Or just enjoy the peacefulness of the forest here and hike and reset your mind. The top 13 are residential, the bottom 40 will be open for exploring, camping, hiking and gardening! We are new homesteaders trying to do things more organically and real free range for our animals. We have a farm on the top 13 acres with cows, pigs, goats, sheep and chickens. More animals will come soon. We will eventually like to offer food from our farm to our guests. That way they can actually see where the food comes from and how ours raised!

Bonsall Hills

1 site · RV, Tent6 acres · Bonsall, CA

Located in the peaceful hills of the North County San Diego town of Bonsall, this 6-acre ranch is surrounded by vineyards, horse training estates, and wild California canyons. Conveniently situated near the I-15, Highway 76, and Highway 78, we're just 20 minutes away from both the beach and the mountains. Bring your RV to access through a private back gate, or set up your tent near a hilltop for a serene camping experience.

Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents67 acres · Palomar Mountain, CA

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.

Reid Ranch

5 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Vista, CA

Reid Ranch is located in North County less than 10 miles from the beach. You will have your own site with a private fire pit uniquely placed in the natural Granite rocks. Your experience will be one of a kind. So many activities near by. Close to numerous breweries and great wineries. I have lived in San Diego for over 30 years so I can give recommendations to the best of what San Diego has to offer. Downtown is a 45 minute drive or you have access to the train nearby. We have 2 hold tubs that can be added on that over look the coast. Located in the Mar Vista Valley only eight miles from the Pacific Ocean. We enjoy the best weather in the world. The ocean breeze along with gorgeous sunsets adds to the experience. Our private fire pit nestled in the granite boulders is truly one of a kind. We hope you come experience our slice of heaven for yourself soon.

Thundering Hawk Retreat

10 sites · Lodging50 acres · Valley Center, CA

Welcome to our Hipcamp located on a 50-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

Ranch camping near Vista guide

Overview

In northern San Diego County, Vista is a peaceful agricultural hub with rolling hills, wineries, and the gorgeous Alta Vista Botanical Gardens. Vista’s parks and preserves offer trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding through oak groves and chaparral, while the town also sits just 15 minutes from Pacific Coast beaches with swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. (San Diego highlights like Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and Mission Beach aren’t too far either.) To the east of Vista rise the Peninsular Range mountains, where cooler temperatures, forested trails, and swimming holes offer reprieves from the summer heat for Vista campers in tents and RVs.

Where to go

Vista Surrounds

One of Vista’s most popular attractions is the Alta Vista Botanical Gardens, which features native California plants, a butterfly habitat, and nature paths. RV travelers will find a good selection of private campsites and RV parks with full hookups around Vista and nearby Encinitas. The closest beach park to Vista is Cardiff State Beach, a classic SoCal surf spot with swimming areas.

South Carlsbad State Beach

For the closest beach camping, head to South Carlsbad State Beach. The blufftop campground has tent and RV sites with picnic tables and fire rings, plus access to restrooms, showers, and a dump station.

San Elijo State Beach

San Elijo State Beach is another great beach camping option south of Vista in Encinitas. This 2-mile-long section of Pacific Ocean beach has a large campground and quick access to stores and restaurants in Cardiff.

Palomar Mountain State Park

For a break from the beach, head inland to Palomar Mountain State Park. This Peninsular Range park has multiple campgrounds and an average elevation of 5,000 feet, allowing for cooler weather and unique flora like cedar and Doug fir trees. Miles of hiking and mountain biking trails traverse the park, and the nearby Palomar Mountain Observatory offers public tours. Keep an eye out for mule deer, coyotes, and red-shouldered hawks when visiting.

When to go

Vista’s temperate climate makes it a good camping choice year-round. Beach campgrounds tend to book out well in advance during the summer season, so plan ahead. It’s also a good idea to monitor weather for summer heat waves around Vista and winter freezes in the mountains just outside of town. Whale watching season runs from late winter to early spring when gray whales pass through the area. Spring visitors may also witness wildflower blooms.