The best camping in Silver Strand State Beach, CA

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Camper favorites near Silver Strand State Beach

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

93%
(1263)
50mi from Silver Strand State Beach · 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

Hideout Mountain Lodge

95%
(352)
46mi from Silver Strand State Beach · 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

Campo Nopalito

99%
(577)
43mi from Silver Strand State Beach · 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

97%
(16)
41mi from Silver Strand State Beach · 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

Loomerland Ranch and Retreat

98%
(247)
50mi from Silver Strand State Beach · 101 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Warner Springs, CA
Secluded Camping for Tents, RV's, Vans with Stunning Scenic Views on a working ranch close to Julian, great hiking on and around ranch, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and camping under the stars! Come out to the San Diego backcountry and experience the beautiful fall season! Description: Welcome to Loomerland, a unique 41-acre retreat nestled in the backcountry of San Diego, California, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Our property offers a serene camping experience with a touch of luxury, and the opportunity to reconnect with nature, yourself, and like-minded individuals. We have 5 friendly livestock guardian dogs that protect you and the property. Accommodation Options: • Camper / RV • Campsite • Yurt / Teepee (currently unvailable while making site improvements) Amenities: • High speed Starlink wifi • Hot Outdoor Showers • Outdoor Kitchen • Flushable and Composting Toilets • Hammocks What We Offer: • Multiple locations on our expansive 41-acre property • Four mild seasons for year-round enjoyment • A variety of outdoor activities, including hiking on property or (10 minutes from the Pacific Crest Trail), meditation, yoga, mountain biking, stargazing, and campfires • Interaction with friendly animals like goats and sheep • Holistic management and permaculture principles to ensure a sustainable experience • Hosts with 25 years of experience in gut health, plant medicine, and entrepreneurship Why Choose Loomerland? Our property offers a unique blend of seclusion and adventure, with breathtaking views, pristine air, and clean water from an underground aquifer. Whether you're seeking relaxation or an adrenaline rush, our land has something for everyone. Spend your days exploring trails, bonding with our resident animals, or finding inner peace through meditation and yoga. In the evenings, gather around the campfire for meaningful conversations, stargaze, or simply unwind with your favorite drink. Book Now: Don't miss the opportunity to experience the hidden gem of San Diego. Book your stay at Loomerland today and start making unforgettable memories under the stars. Your adventure awaits!
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$45
 / night

King Creek Campground

98%
(683)
33mi from Silver Strand State Beach · 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

Apple Blossom Farms

91%
(124)
45mi from Silver Strand State Beach · 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

Banner Ranch Julian

92%
(223)
46mi from Silver Strand State Beach · 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

Other options near Silver Strand State Beach

The best camping in Silver Strand State Beach, CA guide

Overview

About

Occupying a narrow isthmus connecting Coronado Island with Imperial Beach, around a 15-minute drive from downtown San Diego, Silver Strand Beach attracts locals and tourists alike who come here in droves to swim, sunbathe, surf, kiteboard, and even go fishing. It's also home to the Crown Cove Aquatic Center, which offers community water sports lessons, youth camps, and even accredited college courses. Most of the two-mile-long park is designated for day-use only, but an RV campground features 120 sites for self-contained vehicles, a dump station, and a water-filling station.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Sites at Silver Strand State Beach are released six months in advance. You can reserve a spot on the California State Parks website or over the phone.
  2. Sites 101 through 137 are ocean-facing.
  3. No tent sites are available at Silver Strand. If you need a tent site, check the nearby Tijuana River Valley Regional Park or look into booking a Hipcamp in the area.
  4. Trailers and RVs must have built-in sinks and portable toilets with holding tanks to camp here.
  5. You may be able to extend your stay at the campground kiosk, subject to availability.

When to go

The April to May and September to October shoulder seasons are ideal for visiting Silver Strand, when the weather is pleasantly warm and rainfall is rare. June, July, and August offer great weather for swimming and sunbathing, but summer vacation brings plenty of crowds, both on the beach and in the RV camping area. Winters can be a bit too chilly for swimming, but this time of year is also considerably less crowded and offers great swells for surfing.

Know before you go

  • Dogs are only allowed in the parking lots and campgrounds, and must remain on leashes no longer than six feet in length. Dogs are not allowed anywhere on the beach or on the bay side of the park.
  • Park gates are locked every night (timings change seasonally). Vehicles will not be able to enter or leave during this time.
  • Accessible features at the park include restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. The first 0.8 miles of the Crown Cove Trail is wheelchair-friendly, and beach wheelchairs and mats are available from the entry station.
94%
9 ratings · 7 reviews