Camping in Southern California with swimming

"Heaven on Earth" really exists in Southern California camping.

97% (1376 reviews)
97% (1376 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Southern California

Star Hosts in Southern California

Under $50

12 top campgrounds in Southern California with swimming

99%
(1797)

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.
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$10
 / night
91%
(23)

Bowen Ranch Hot Spring Camp Retreat

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents180 acres · Lake Arrowhead, CA
Relax and recharge at this 160 acre off the grid campground surrounded by beautiful natural desert scenery and mountain views, and located just a short hike away from Deep Creek Hot Springs. Set up your own tent and campsite or rent one of our furnished glamping tents to stay while on the property. Events welcome! Check out our private hot spring pool sites and private cold spring pool sites we have available. Property hosts up to 300 guests.
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$22.99
 / night
97%
(68)

Lakeshore Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lake Elsinore, CA
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🌴
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$80
 / night
99%
(340)

Bailes Farm

5 sites · Lodging80 acres · Fallbrook, CA
One of the last remaining undeveloped parts of Southern California, De Luz Heights is located adjacent to the Cleveland National Forest, and the Santa Margarita River (just a few miles from the campsite). This 12-month flowing river is the only one in Southern California that has never been altered or dammed by humans, and features a state-managed hiking trail with many water holes along the way with clear, clean water to dip into. On my 80 acres, there are no major roads going through or next to the property. My land is 13 miles from the Pacific ocean and enjoys a relatively mild yearly climate. Giant boulders provide topographical relief and offer platforms from which to enjoy the view of the nearby Santa Margarita Mountains. The valley views are filled with olive and avocado groves, vineyards, and horse ranches. The Camp Pendleton Marine Corps base is nearby, so you might hear some artillery in the distance on some occasions. The campsite embraces all the comforts of "glamping": a hot shower, composting toilet, beds with sheets provided, gas grill with a stovetop, pots and pans, kitchenware, a sink, picnic table, shaded deck, sofa, lounge chairs, and propane fire pit. The basics are provided: toilet paper, paper towels, purified drinking water, towels, sheets, cooking oil, etc. Campers need to bring their own blankets. I've created a network of hiking trails for especially fit hikers looking for a more rigorous hike than the nearby Santa Margarita River Trail. My trails lead through creek beds, over boulders, through rocky crags, with views of the Pacific ocean on a clear day. Hikers on my trails need to wear proper hiking boots with good traction. Sections of my trails will require bouldering with hands and feet. Expect to have fatigued quadriceps, some scrapes, and a sweaty hat brim. The campsite is accessible with a two-wheel drive vehicle; I drive a Kia Forte out there regularly. However, some tips when driving a two-wheel drive car: when going uphill on a dirt road, try to keep some momentum of about 12-15 MPH. If you stop and try to start again, your tires will spin out. If that happens, just reverse down the hill, and try it again with more momentum.
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$129
 / night
94%
(18)

Dead End Campgrounds RV Sites

5 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Wrightwood, CA
Sitting one mile high exactly on the side of the mountain, with views of the desert, mountains, and city lights below! . I have 2 other short-term rentals on the same 5 acres and the reviews have been so amazing I decided to expand to camping, RVs, etc. A large flat lot (50' x100') could host up to about 3 RVs (depending on the size) and tents. There is water, good WiFi, septic hook-up, and electricity in a limited capacity (solar and wind-powered). There are generators available. The property sits up against The Transitionary Habitat nature preserve and there are 350 acres of hiking in the Puma Canyon. You are literally surrounded by nature, a true escape but with the city lights in the backdrop! There are tables, chairs, tiki torches, bean bag toss, horseshoes, and a gas fire pit. The road to the property is narrow and steep, so please consider this when booking. We've had hundreds of groups navigate the roads with no problem, including 48 foot RVs. If you have concerns about whether or not your vehicle can make it, please don't hesitate to message me.
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$49
 / night
100%
(26)

Farm Stay with Calf Cuddling

3 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Wildomar, CA
At Howe Ranch, we provide more than just a farm stay; we offer a healing, transformative experience that teaches relaxation and rejuvenation through profound connections with our gentle, trained farm animals. Baby animal alert! Our precious little Scottish Highland calf Petunia is one month old and loves cow cuddles and bottle feeding from visitors. She has already learned to give cow kisses! Buttercup, our Scottish long-haired mini cow, along with his calf friend Flint, is known to provide comfort to visitors dealing with anxiety and stress. Whether it’s hugging or grooming them, meditating with our mini goats or flock, every interaction is designed to soothe and inspire. Proceeds from HipCamp directly support the feed and care for our farm animals, of which many are rescues (501c and private). INCLUDED IN YOUR FARM STAY: 1. A personalized farm animal encounter after your arrival and participation in the morning animal care routine 2. Unique learning experiences and opportunities to relax with the gentle barn animals 3. Organic chicken and duck eggs for breakfast 4. Clean restroom with dish washing capabilities 5. Opportunity to get a 2-hour pool Access Pass (Extra): Pool venue with 40 ft. pool, cabanas, hot shower and panoramic views, can be used when not rented for an event 6. Free use of the outdoor camp kitchen with 2 propane stoves 7. Free use of the BBQ with utensils (BYO charcoal) 8. Free optional use of camping equipment (chairs, canopy, mats) and entertainment for the whole family 9. A large safe space for children to play in with toys and games in the 80 ft. x 40 ft. sand camp 10. Access to "Extras" such as electric and water hookups, pool and hot tub, and extra parking The overnight farm stay experience is generally available from Friday 2:00 p.m. until Saturday 1:00 p.m. on limited weekends of the year. We offer the overnight camp on June 1 and 8 (Saturdays), as well! If you would like to visit with us for longer or during the week, please inquire first if we have the capacity to accommodate (no instant booking, please). ABOUT THE AREA: Nestled on just under 4 foothill acres backing against the wilderness of the Santa Rosa Plateau, but only 2 minutes from shopping, coffee, and dining, our small, veteran owned ranch with a private petting zoo opportunity provides a charming and picturesque setting that encompasses the essence of rustic hospitality. There are lots of fun things to do in the area. Please reference our VISITOR GUIDE on thehoweranch.com and linked to in the photo section here.
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$115
 / night
93%
(141)

Get Lost Inn - Cabin Rentals

36 sites · Lodging1 acre · Running Springs, CA
Escape to the San Bernardino mountains and experience the ultimate mountain retreat! Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin for a romantic getaway, or a spacious lodge for a family vacation, we've got you covered. With a dozen stunning cabins to choose from, we offer the perfect accommodation for all seasons and activities. Embrace the winter wonderland with skiing and snowboarding, or explore the great outdoors with hiking, rock climbing, and fishing. Or simply unwind and relax in the serene mountain surroundings. Our cabins are conveniently located in Green Valley Lake, Big Bear, Running Springs, and Lake Arrowhead, each offering its own unique charm and adventure. Let us be your host and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Book your stay with us today and discover the magic of the San Bernardino mountains!
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$160
 / night
92%
(19)

Mountain View RV

45 sites · Lodging16 acres · Banning, CA
Learn more about this land:The entire estate is enclosed with a chain link fence, as the perimeter of the Northern and southern parcels not so much for security but for animal control in, or out. deer, coyotes, rabbits, and wild life. There could be emergency access to the main house land which has showers, and bathrooms, community kitchen, community Olympic swimming pool Tennis, curt basketball court and much more. 14 miles from Morongo Casino, 35 miles for Cochlea Events, Historical area of Banning. downtown.
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$25
 / night
50%
(3)

Nalas Lake Play

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lake Elsinore, CA
Welcome to Lake Elsinore!! Im excited to be your host and help you make some great memories! This land does have a slope. But it also has a flap spot ontop perfect for camping with some amazing lake views and some gorgeous night skys. The stars feel so close to you that you think you can just reach out and grab them! There is a paved road that leads to the top of the street which is the most recommended way to get to this property since the road that google maps gives you is not paved and its too narrow for some cars. You are close to homes and stores. But your also secluded away to give you some privacy. Making you feel at one with nature. This small town is sourrended by loving people making it a jewel not just for the views and lake. This land is perfect for camping tents, Glamping tents, 4x4 Car Campers, and even small RVs(There is a small slope to get up into the property so make sure your RV is capable). The Property is just 3 minutes away from Lake Elsinore, here you can fish, swim, BBq, and many more activity that the lake offers. Being so close to it makes you want to be out there all day and come back at night to enjoy your night shows on the property with the stars. The property seize is 0.11 acres which is 4,791sq Feet. Only about 800sq Feet has a slope the rest is just flat land ontop. That gives you 3,800+ sq feet of land to just enjoy and have fun on!
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$25.99
 / night
100%
(1)

Snow Bunny Cottage

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Green Valley Lake, CA
Relax at this newly listed cottage cabin. Our mountain retreat getaway, playfully nicknamed "Snow Bunny Cottage", sits on a hill at a quiet cul-de-sac. A cozy yet fully furnished cabin, nestled under tall gorgeous trees and includes private parking for 2-vehicles. The cabin is a few minutes walking distance to the private Lake in addition to the San Bernardino National Forest. A few miles further out is the Snow Valley Ski resort. Snow Bunny Cottage is a perfect hidden gem.A large deck under string lights greets you as you enter the property. A BBQ grill is available for use. Enjoy a BBQ experience with your loved ones and relax and take in the beautiful moon lit evenings.Green Valley Lake offers seasonal fishing, heavy snow during the winter and a picturesque forest, with the charm of a close knit mountain community. Both Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead are only a few minutes away and in between an abundance of trails for adventure seekers and off road enthusiasts.We offer high-speed internet for those wishing to work from the comfort of the cabin! A large 55" TV is situated above the fireplace with cable television, for those Netflix and chill nights. The fireplace is available for our guests use, however guests must supply their own firewood. We gladly welcome pet companions, however they must be approved prior to arrival.This wonderful little cabin is not just a vacation rental property, it is also our personal home during the offseason. We kindly request and insist that you are respectful of our neighbors, our cabin and household items. Please kindly read and agree with our house rules prior to booking. Kindly let us know what we can do to make your stay as enjoyable as possible!
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$95
 / night
95%
(32)

Temecula Bullfrog Pond

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Temecula, CA
Our ranch is 20 acres in the hills above Temecula covered with old oak trees and a year round stream. Camping is next to a large pond teaming with wildlife like bullfrogs, blue gill, ducks and other waterfowl.Learn more about this land:Get the Bohemian Glamping experience in the hills above Temecula. The camp is set next to a pond alive with bullfrogs, turtles, bluegills and other wildlife on our 20 acre ranch. Sleep in comfort on a queen bed with fine linens, pillows and blankets. Unplug and enjoy romantic tranquility in a large tent illuminated by candlelight.
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$195
 / night
95%
(33)

Skyline Mountain

2 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · CA
This little farm is being brought back to life! Once part of an 160 acre avocado farm now it is a 15 acre little slice of heaven purchased in 2019. Previously the farm had been let go and now our duty is to get it back in shape. We are making steady progress and fall in love with the land more everyday. Currently we are also planting about an acre of lavender which should be a beautiful backdrop come 2024. Time up here gives you a chance to unwind, unplug, and explore some remaining wildlife in southern California. Come and join us!
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$150
 / night

Dog-friendly getaways

Available this weekend

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Exploring the beautiful vast landscapes with friends, family, or a solo adventure will be an experience you won’t soon forget.

Camping in Southern California with swimming guide

Overview

Looking for the perfect camping experience in Southern California? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 1153 options in Southern California, you'll find the ideal spot to satisfy your swimming cravings. Whether you prefer a scenic lake, a tranquil river, or a refreshing ocean, there's a campsite waiting just for you. And with an average price per night of $46 and options as low as $20, there's something to fit every budget. Check out the top-rated campsites like The Lovelight Ranch (532 reviews), Private Beach Farm (382 reviews), and Ballard Walnut Grove (291 reviews) to see why they're so popular. Plus, you'll have access to amenities like pets, trash disposal, and potable water, and you can enjoy activities such as wildlife watching, exploring historic sites, and even catching some waves while surfing. So pack up your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure in Southern California with Hipcamp!

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