Camping near San Clemente State Beach

94% (80 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next San Clemente State Beach adventure.

Swim, snorkel, or just take in Pacific Ocean views at this Southern California camping beach.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near San Clemente State Beach

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in San Clemente State Beach

Vintage Trailer

In San Clemente State Beach

Classic view from San Clemente Campground.

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San Clemente Campground

144 sites · RVs, Tents In San Clemente State Beach

Top-rated campgrounds near San Clemente State Beach

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Splitrock Farm and Retreat

47 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents101 acres · Fallbrook, CA

About Splitrock Farm and Retreat Far Away, Close to Home For more information... Visit our website www.splitrock.camp Instagram page @splitrockfarmandretreat. Tag your photos #splitrockfarmandretreat #SplitrockFAR #farawayclosetohome Or, contact the Camp Host through Hipcamp direct message or the direct line 760-645-5431. Splitrock Farm and Retreat started in January 2021 after a global search of a place to set roots, live off the land, and create an amazing place for recreation, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Splitrock Farm Splitrock was part of a 160-acre avocado farm that prospered from 1970 to 2017, generating over 1million pounds of avocados per year until the previous owners switched off the water in 2017. Ben purchased 101 acres in 2021 with plans to harvest the dead avocado trees for firewood and replant with organic, sustainable crops such as grapes, citrus trees, and flowers. Splitrock's attraction comes from its unique groves, magnificent granite boulders, and sweeping vistas. Mixed within the avocado groves are several ancient groves and solitary trees that include 200 foot tall pines, hundreds of old oaks, and soaring palms. Freckled throughout the hillsides are thousands of humongous granite boulders, offering a prehistoric feel to the landscape. Above all, Splitrock offers unrivaled views. Over 40 miles of coastline includes views to Point Loma, the Carlsbad power station, and the Pendleton Hospital. To the northeast are views of near 11K foot snowy peaks of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio, with rolling hills of De Luz and Fallbrook in the foreground.

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Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

22 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.

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Native Falls Campground

63 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents25 acres · Temecula, CA

The reimagined Native Falls Campground is conveniently located only minutes from Temecula Valley wine country, yet offers a totally unique and serene lodging experience unlike anything in the area! Our hours are from 9am to 6pm everyday. Check in time starts at noon. Accommodations include fully furnished cabins, RV sites, and tent camping. The campground includes a lake with a waterfall, a sandy beach, lake toys, and catch & release fishing. Additional amenities include a Pickleball Court, shuffleboard, Pool Table, fire pits, picnic tables, hiking trails, and more!

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Campo Nopalito

6 sites · Lodging15 acres · 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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Hidden Falls Preserve

16 sites · Tents56 acres · Winchester, CA

This secret off-grid getaway on 56 acres gives stunning views at private tent sites with hiking, bird-watching, and wildflower-spotting. Relax in the shade of a eucalyptus grove, enjoy the sun shining over the sage scrub, enjoy the dark night, and find the hidden waterfalls. A short drive to Temecula, Diamond Valley Lake, and Lake Skinner, our private, scenic campsites offer both serenity and nearby activities including wine tasting, restaurants, hot air balloons, and paragliding. We are 100% off-grid with no hookups or water sources (yet), no showers (yet) in the middle of a conservation area. A significant portion of our proceeds goes directly to a local non-profit for habitat restoration efforts within the Conservation Area, and other bird study projects. We hope to attract campers that want an off-the-beaten-path type experience without having to go to the mountains.

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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.

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Temecula Campground Retreat

11 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Fallbrook, CA

Opening Special! Join us in the month of June for a heavily discounted rate, as we softly open to work out all the kinks that go along with opening as a new campground. The bathroom building with hot showers is freshly renovated and campsites are freshly raked. We really look forward to hosting you as our guests! Welcome to our serene getaway nestled 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, 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. 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.

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BaseCamp at Palomar

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents26 acres · 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.

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Cottonwood Creek Camp

7 sites · Lodging, RVs2 acres · Temecula, CA

For more than a decade, John and Kim looked for a place within Temecula Wine Country that could be their forever home. When they saw this lush, hilltop property with they knew it was right. But what to do with the separate lower area, bordered by a seasonal stream lined by cottonwoods and big leaf maples? Cottonwood Creek Camp was the answer. Located in the heart of Temecula Valley Wine Country, you'll be minutes away from 50 wineries. Situated down a quiet rural lane, and secluded by lush California pepper trees, your glamping spot is an ideal getaway for wine lovers who prefer to get away from the city hustle. The camp area has seven spots that can be occupied by other glampers, and has a common use firepit with Adirondack chairs for those who want to compare notes about their wine tasting adventures. Plenty of onsite parking. In the morning, grab your coffee and step outside to watch the hot air balloons drift overhead. During the day, sample local vino from the 50 nearby wineries. In the evening, nosh at one of the great restaurants in Old Town Temecula, and then return to camp for sunset views and fireside relaxation. You should know that there are two free-roaming Blue Heelers who live on the 5-acre property and make regular visits to the camp area. Visiting dogs that socialize well with other dogs are welcome by us and by Molly and Taz as well, but please be honest with yourself and us about your dog's temperament, and book elsewhere if there is ANY chance of canine conflict with our very energetic pups. Also, Molly does not trust very small children (we think there was an incident), so if you have small children, we ask that you keep them from interacting with our Heelers.

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Coastal Vintage Glamping

3 sites · Lodging1 acre · Oceanside, CA

Unique Glamping Escape Ocean breezes and mountain views in historic Plumosa Heights, Oceanside's oldest neighborhood! Choose from two sites: Our property is nestled in a private cul de sac on the edge of a canyon. 1. Our meticulously restored 1967 Boles Aero vintage trailer offers a one-of-a-kind glamping experience. 2. For a bit more space, unwind in our cozy 2-bedroom, 2-bath loft with stunning eastern corridor views. From our spot, you can walk to charming cafes, vintage stores, restaurants and the iconic Oceanside pier, all within a mile! For foodies, you'll enjoy our local breweries and restaurants to satisfy every appetite. Every Thursday morning brings the charming downtown Farmers Market if you'd like to cook a special meal from local ingredients; while evenings come alive with the bustling Sunset Market's with local artists, music, and a variety of delectable food vendors. You can explore beyond Oceanside, too! Our location between San Diego and Los Angeles makes day trips a breeze with the train station just a half-mile away. Or for those who prefer to explore by bike, rent our beach cruisers at a flat rate, and enjoy the many bike trails our coast offers. Minimize your footprint, while maximizing your visit to Oceanside! Our entire property is solar-powered, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. Consider Site Paz to relax in your private, gated space with eastern corridor views. Our vintage trailer with organic futons, linens and basic cookware. We utilize a water-less composting toilet, and encourage responsible waste disposal through large recycling bins for food scraps, glass, and aluminum cans. This unique space is perfect for a romantic getaway for two or a solo adventure. Consider Site Cielo for a bit more space. Unwind in our cozy, vintage 2-bedroom, 2-bath loft with hillside garden views. This is more space with queen size and full size beds, full bathrooms, a full kitchen and a t.v. in the living room. Hangout on the upper landing with a cup of coffee with the garden view.

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Horsetel River Retreat

8 sites · 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 are next to the Santa Margarita River Trails, 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 large camping spot for your own trailer, RV or tents next to our barn. There is an outdoor shower and rustic water closet, as well as water and electric hookups. Please see more information below 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, as well as a fenced pasture. Whether you are in town for an equestrian event or to ride the trails, our barn has great access to both and comfort for your horse(s). You can ride direct to the river trails from the campsite, or trailer your horses for 3 minutes to the trailhead. Select the add-on option at checkout to book this and please send a message to the host with details on your horses. No horses but interested in riding the trails? We can arrange for a guided trail ride. Please inquire in advance for availability, as this will be booked separately and direct with the guide. Trails are advanced and not recommended for beginners.

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Desert Dreamland

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Aguanga, CA

Our family has owned this property for nearly fifty years. We currently have one site available - “Desert Mountain Scenic Overlook” - at this time. More sites coming soon! Learn more about this site: This campsite is extremely private and serene with beautiful epic views and a wide open feel. The site is located most of the way up a small mountain but at the base of a larger one if you want to hike up to the top for even better views. You can also hike down and around to explore more of the surrounding nature preserve (over 3,000 acres completely engulfing our 20 acre property), which includes a seasonal creek, granite boulders, and miles of hiking trails. You will find wild sage and buckwheat shrubs growing all over the property, as well as vibrant seasonal wildflowers. The campsite is set far back from roads so it is very peaceful and quiet and allows you to feel free to enjoy yourselves without worrying much about noise. The large flat pad is spacious and should be able to accommodate any sized camper/trailer/RV. There is fresh potable mountain spring water and a septic hookup available at the site. There is currently no water hookup for RV’s and there is no restroom facility (we are planning to install a composting or pit toilet soon). Please come fully equipped with a Luggable Loo or something similar. Access to the site is on a maintained dirt road with cutouts for water run off. 4WD is not necessary. Please be prepared though, the road in has some narrow, hilly, curvy stretches. It could appear challenging or intimidating to people with larger rigs. If you have a class A motorhome and are hoping to visit, please message me first and let me know and we can discuss whether the road in will work for you. We are currently in the process of beautifying the area and will post more updated photos soon of the actual site. *Note: Our solar pump went out so the outdoor shower is not currently functional. Also, the site is still a work in progress so there may be some lumber and areas of the site still in the process of being completed.

The best camping near San Clemente State Beach guide

Overview

About

Midway between Los Angeles and San Diego in Orange County, the mile-long San Clemente State Beach is a popular spot for snorkeling, swimming, water sports, and camping. The San Clemente State Beach Campground has 141 sites split into two sections, one with RV sites with full hookups and another offering tent sites with fire pits, shade ramadas, and picnic tables. Other campground features include flush toilets, hot showers, and a dump station. There's also a day-use area with picnic areas along with a couple of group camps.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Campsites can be reserved up to six months in advance on the California State Parks website or over the phone.
Campgrounds tend to fill up fast, particularly on weekends and during the summer, so it's wise to book as early as possible.
Each of the two group campsites can accommodate up to 50 campers.
The maximum permitted length for motorhomes and trailers at the RV campground is 30 feet.
If you can’t secure a campsite at San Clemente State Beach, you may have better luck at San Onofre State Beach just a few minutes' drive down the coast.

When to go

While San Clemente State Beach is a year-round destination, summers are the best time to visit when temperatures are hot and days are long, and there are plenty of lifeguards on duty. However, this season is also the most crowded, and the campground is highly likely to be at full capacity, so if you want a quieter experience, consider the autumn shoulder season. Whale-watching season runs from winter until early spring.

Know before you go

You can pick up groceries and supplies in the city of San Clemente, just inland from the beach.
The entrance to San Clemente State Beach is locked from 10pm to 6am. If you need to check in during this time, make prior arrangements.
Dogs are allowed at the campground, but not on trails or on the beach.
San Clemente State Beach offers accessible tent sites and RV sites, accessible restrooms and showers, and accessible parking. The Multi-Use Access Trail and Butterfly Trail are also accessible, as is the visitor center. Beach wheelchairs are available to borrow on request.