The best camping in Cabrillo National Monument, CA

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97% (17)

The best camping near Cabrillo National Monument, CA

No matching sites in the park — explore these options nearby.
Hideout Mountain Lodge

1. Hideout Mountain Lodge

95%
(353)
47mi from Cabrillo National Monument · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Santa Ysabel, CA
Hideout Mountain Lodge is a peaceful retreat tucked away in the hills of Santa Ysabel, just over an hour from San Diego and a couple of hours from Los Angeles. Spread across 40 acres, the property offers a variety of places to stay — from remodeled cabins with fireplaces and private decks, to vintage trailers, campsites, and RV spots with full hookups and views of Lake Henshaw. This is the kind of place where you slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the landscape. Guests gather around the community firepit, take walks through the oaks, or just relax on a porch and listen to the birds. On weekends, you can wander over to Josie’s Hideout Saloon, our on-site bar and restaurant, known for its live music and western character. We’re just a few minutes from the towns of Santa Ysabel and Julian, easy to get to but far enough away to feel like an escape.
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$24
 / night
Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

2. Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

93%
(1263)
49mi from Cabrillo National Monument · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.
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$59
 / night
Campo Nopalito

3. Campo Nopalito

99%
(577)
41mi from Cabrillo National Monument · 7 sites · Lodging · Valley Center, CA
Welcome to Nopalito Farm! We’re so happy you’ve decided to spend some time on this beautiful property! In case you’re interested, here are a few interesting things about our farm. Nopalito Farm has been in operation since late 2014, but the property itself has been a working farm for over 50 years. Lemons and avocados were the primary crops from the 70’s through the 00’s, and are still prominent throughout our 15 acres. Our predecessors then diversified the growing operation by planting a wide range of fruit trees ranging from guavas and passion fruit to peaches and figs. For a decade, hops were grown on 2 acres and were sold to breweries throughout southern California. We’ve since replaced the hop yard with perennial flowers, but continue to cultivate a wide variety of delicious fruits.
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$87
 / night
Starlight Outpost

4. Starlight Outpost

97%
(16)
47mi from Cabrillo National Monument · 3 sites · Lodging · Campo, CA
🌠 PROPERTY DESCRIPTION — THE STARLIGHT OUTPOST “A relic from another world, reborn in the desert.” Welcome to The Starlight Outpost, where myth and comfort meet under an endless desert sky. Tucked into the quiet landscape of Campo, California, about an hour east of San Diego, this glowing dome — known as The Relic — hums with a warmth all its own. Once rumored to be the site of mysterious lights and cow abductions, it’s now a serene escape for travelers, dreamers, and stargazers seeking beauty in the stillness. ⸻ 🪩 ON THE PROPERTY You don’t have to leave the Outpost to feel transported. Inside the geodesic dome, you’ll find retro-futurist décor, soft lighting, and cozy bedding — designed to make the space feel both nostalgic and otherworldly. The entire property is set to a curated soundtrack — ambient desert tunes and ethereal music that fill the space with atmosphere. When the stars rise, you can cue up a movie playlist that matches the mood — classic sci-fi, cosmic documentaries, or desert-inspired films. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows by the firepit or curled up inside, the experience feels cinematic — like you’ve stepped into your own story. It’s part art installation, part stargazing sanctuary. ⸻ 🌌 WHAT TO EXPECT • A glowing dome (The Relic) under pristine dark skies 🌙 • Ambient soundscapes and movie nights under the stars 🎬 • Private firepit + desert seating for reflection or conversation 🔥 • Retro-futuristic interiors filled with cosmic décor 🪐 • Peaceful, off-grid calm with nearby modern comforts Bring your own groceries and drinks, as the nearest markets are a short drive away — once you arrive, you’ll want to stay awhile. ⸻ 🌵 NEARBY ADVENTURES If you decide to venture beyond the Relic, you’ll find Campo is full of hidden treasures and history: 🚂 Pacific Southwest Railway Museum A must-see piece of history right in Campo — explore vintage locomotives, train cars, and local exhibits. During the holidays, don’t miss the North Pole Limited: festive trains complete with lights, cocoa, and Christmas spirit for all ages. 💦 Hacumba (Jacumba) Hot Springs Just down the road, you can soak in natural mineral hot springs pools at the newly remodeled Jacumba Hotel— a timeless way to relax and recharge.
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$144
 / night
King Creek Campground

7. King Creek Campground

98%
(683)
37mi from Cabrillo National Monument · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Descanso, CA
Currently we don’t have any creek and pond water on the land. Mild seasonal temperature swings, fresh air, clear evening skies for star gazing, the property is in a valley surrounded by the Cleveland National Forest and it was 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. Elevation: 3,573′ Zip code: 91916
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$28
 / night
basecamp, full with running water and sink

8. Whiteside Mountain

100%
(389)
28mi from Cabrillo National Monument · 1 site · Tent · Jamul, CA
160 acres of wild and private land at the top of a mountain. Bouldering, exploring, outdoor cold water shower, well drinking water, and pergola! 45 minutes from downtown San Diego and beaches but a whole different world!A single camp spot on the top of a mountain surrounded by 160 acres of no one else! Requires 4WD/high clearance AWD road to camp spot. Plenty of shade at spot with picnic area that is covered. Drinking water, sink and outdoor cold water shower. Bouldering (climbing), fire pit (seasonal), covered deck, hiking and VIEWS! Plenty of room and separate camp spots- lock the gate and you will have no visitors or onlookers. Single outdoor flush toilet with sink.  We provide a Propane stove - 2 burner, propane, toilet paper, dish soap and hand soap.  No COTS.Guests love it here "This was finally checked off of my saved list—my partner and I rented a 4x4 to get up there since our 2WD car wouldn't have made it in one piece. It was only a short drive from downtown San Diego and was super easy to navigate. Once we arrived the experience was TRULY MAGICAL. We had such an awesome experience exploring the property, birdwatching, hiking and some light climbing. Don't forget to check out the cave! The facilities were beyond expectations and we had a seamless experience. Steve was super accommodating and was great at communicating—he even gave us a small tour of the property! The sunsets and sunrises here were something out of a dream, we wish we could wake up every morning here. We will definitely be coming back soon!"
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$98
 / night
Banner Ranch Julian

10. Banner Ranch Julian

92%
(223)
49mi from Cabrillo National Monument · 17 sites · Tents · Julian, CA
The ultimate way to experience the outdoors! We cannot wait for you to indulge in Banner Ranch. Nestled in the meadow you will find tent campsites underneath the cover of breathtaking trees. A creek flows through the valley, turkey and deer roam, and wildlife flourishes where the apple orchards once stood. During exploration of the sixty-two acres you will stumble upon many of the ranch nature trails. A spacious layout, perfect outdoor climate, and the company of family and friends is the recipe for a soulful stay in Banner Ranch! From Banner Ranch there is immediate walking access to the California Riding and Hiking Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and the charming town of Julian is a ten-minute drive. Banner Ranch is anchored by a historic General Store soon to offer an array of local handicrafts and refreshments. A stay includes complimentary car parking, restrooms, and is pet friendly. Please feel free to reach out if you would like to book Banner Ranch for a special occasion. Also, let us know if you are interested in booking a tiny house or covered wagon on the ranch for a glamping experience. Kindly pack in and pack out, always remember to leave the land better than you found it. Cell service can be spotty at best, Verizon has the strongest signal on the property. Tents are not provided.
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$43
 / night
Apple Blossom Farms

12. Apple Blossom Farms

91%
(124)
42mi from Cabrillo National Monument · 2 sites · RVs · Bonsall, CA
Our farm is quiet and private but still central to all the fun of Southern California. It is a simple spot to crash for the night or the week! We are 15-20 minutes to the beach (13 miles) Disneyland: 68 miles San Diego Zoo Safari park: 29 miles Legoland: 18 miles Sea World: 47 miles We are fun, friendly farmers who are looking for friends who can support us in our journey to revitalize the trees on this amazing property. Apple Blossom Farms recently got our certification as CCOF Organic but it has been organically growing with different owners for 20+ years. If you like the movie, Biggest Little Farm, you will love what we are doing with restoring this regenerative farm to its former glory before fires and aging owners.  If you like the movie, Biggest Little Farm, you will love what we are doing with restoring this regenerative farm to its former glory before fires and aging owners. We wanted a place for our sons to learn how food was grown, hard work, and to appreciate nature. It felt like a miracle when our offer was accepted to buy it. We are learning so much and have more to learn but we can see how God has led us here and is sending lots of amazing people to help us overcome the obstacles and succeed! Thanks for being a part of our dream.
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$34
 / night
GoodVibes Ranch Disc Golf & Camping

13. GoodVibes Ranch Disc Golf & Camping

92%
(91)
29mi from Cabrillo National Monument · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · Jamul, CA
Stay. Play. Unwind. 🌿🏕️ GoodVibes Ranch & Farm is your ultimate mountain escape, blending an 19-hole disc golf course, camping, community, music, art, fitness & horticulture clubs just 30 minutes from San Diego. Check-in With Host Upon Arrival! 🏞️ 74 scenic acres provide space to relax, connect, and explore. Choose from: 🏕️ Private Tent camping, glamping units, or eco-friendly trailers 🚐 Amenities: Clubhouse Stargazing deck, picnic areas, fire pits, bathrooms, showers camping; a commercial kitchen Activities: 19-hole disc golf course, hiking trails, billiards, and horticulture, music & art clubs Sustainability matters here—recycle, compost, and enjoy the land responsibly. Whether you're gathering with friends, family, or flying solo, this is where nature meets community. Come stay, play, and experience the GoodVibes! Your stay supports our mission! As a 509(a)2 nonprofit, all proceeds fund GoodVibesWorldWideNetwork & Sage Sanctuaries, dedicated to holistic wellness, sustainable living education, and community empowerment.
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$35
 / night
Dreams VIP Glamping

14. Dreams VIP Glamping

100%
(2)
40mi from Cabrillo National Monument · 3 sites · RVs · Vista, CA
Rv trailer camping in a private and gated quiet space. Easy convenient place to park your rv or trailer. Water electric hook ups included 30amp. No septic tank. Great central location off the 76 between the 5 and 15 freeways, if you’re trying to enjoy all Southern California to offer. 10 miles away from Oceanside beaches 30 minutes to Legoland 30 minutes to Safari park 45 minutes to San Diego zoo and SeaWorld and 60 miles away from Disneyland. 25 minute to Temecula Valley’s famous old town shopping Temecula wineries. View‘s overlooking to Oceanside quiet for connecting with nature and rejuvenating your spirit NO fireworks, no smoking, or loud music. respectful, clean, no drug tolerance, loud noise or parties - this is a quiet community. There is no sewer septic available. All RV campers need to be self-contained and include any needed amenities such as bathrooms or showers as we do not have these available on our facility. Do not dump your grey water or septic anywhere on the property. We allow dogs but they must be picked up after and leashed at all times. Please keep noice level down with dogs. We prefer you walk them off the property for them use the bathroom. This is an excellent location to watch the local sunset. Our house is at the top of the hill.
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$41
 / night
BaseCamp at Palomar

18. BaseCamp at Palomar

89%
(44)
47mi from Cabrillo National Monument · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pauma Valley, CA
Experience excellence at BASE CAMP PALOMAR Campground. Whether you seek a cozy campsite or desire to rent our cabins, retro airstreams, or glamping tents, we have precisely what you're looking for. Our amenities include a newly retrofitted game room, a playground for the little ones, a WIFI Hot Spot, and well-stocked vending machines for ice and firewood. Choose to relax in one of our rental cabins, enjoy a spacious RV site, or pitch your tent amidst our Oak Groves. Our campground offers a fantastic opportunity to view the Milky Way or keep an eye out for UFOs. In fact, our location is world-famous for being the site of the first documented UFO encounter, Check out the George Adamski Foundation. This Campground was first opened in the early 1930"s as the Base Camp for the Contruction crew to build Route S6 "Road to the Stars" top of Palomar Mountain. The Road needed to be built wide and smooth in order to transport the Hale Telescope. The construction had to stop due to the start of WW2. Once WW2 had ended the work was completed 1948. The Base Camp first name was Palamar Gardens, Then Oak Knoll Camp and is now being rebranded back to its Original Name Base Camp Palamar. The property is rustic, a little dusty and very old school. If you're looking for a new type of camping with 5-star amenities we recommend Pala or Pechanga Resort RV Park Casino RV Park. We are just plain and simple. Note: the property has two sections one is for Kamping / RVing and the other is Seasonal / fulltime RVers
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$25
 / night
2 The Rescue Animal Sanctuary

19. 2 The Rescue Animal Sanctuary

99%
(354)
33mi from Cabrillo National Monument · 5 sites · Lodging · Ramona, CA
We are a registered 501 (c)(3) non profit animal rescue/sanctuary! On our 5 acres, we currently house horses, mini donkeys, a mule, goats, sheep, pot bellied pigs, chickens, ducks, a turkey and a huge African Tortoise.Pitch a tent on our 5-acre property and spend some quality time with our menagerie of rescued animals. We are within a few miles of many hiking trails, as well as horse riding trails. If you prefer to stay in a camper rather than pitching a tent please look at our camper for rent listing.Guests love staying here "Oh my goodness!!! What a wonderful experience from the time we stepped out of the car to when we left. The place is kept immaculate. They feed these beautiful creatures the best food, they all have names, and are loved. ❤️ Camping was fun for the (4) of us, myself, 60 yrs. my son, his girlfriend and their 2 1/2 yr. old son. We enjoyed roaming the campus spending as much time as we could with the animals. The owners are there for your questions, (right away), and they leave you alone to enjoy your time. I would recommend this camp to anyone who loves animals and camping."
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$131
 / night
Thundering Hawk Retreat

20. Thundering Hawk Retreat

96%
(143)
44mi from Cabrillo National Monument · 10 sites · Lodging · Valley Center, CA
Welcome to our Hipcamp located on a 40-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
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$108
 / night
97% (17)

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The best camping in Cabrillo National Monument, CA guide

Overview

About

View the vast Pacific Ocean just as explorer Juan Cabrillo saw it. This monument commemorates his arrival to the west coast in 1542. Expansive views of all of San Diego make this spot a worthy photo op. On a clear, sunny day, you can see all the way to Mexico. Watch for Navy vessels and cruise ships coming and going.

Costumed tour guides will help explain the significance of this spot and the history of west coast exploration by Europeans. You can also climb the Point Loma Lighthouse and learn about its importance in protecting the area. The monument boasts some excellent tidepools if you visit at low tide, so bring footwear that you can get wet. The hike alongside San Diego Bay is gorgeous and not difficult. On the ocean side, if you're visiting between December and April, keep your eyes open for whales heading south.

You pay per car when you enter (and you can come back for a week on that one entry fee). You have to go a bit inland to find any camping ops in San Diego. Get on Hipcamp to get settled in a glamped-out yurt or a cozy trailer, or pitch your tent at a farm or winery.

Nearby attractions

Escape to Guajome Regional Park for a delightful camping adventure. Set up camp amidst picturesque landscapes, hike scenic trails, and enjoy peaceful moments by the lake. Engage in birdwatching, explore historic sites, and create lasting memories in this serene park.

97%
17 ratings · 7 reviews