The best camping near Point Loma Tide Pools

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Point Loma Tide Pools adventure.

Discover the enchanting Point Loma Tide Pools, a marine wonderland.

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Community favorites near Point Loma Tide Pools

Top-rated campgrounds near Point Loma Tide Pools

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Campo Nopalito

7 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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San Diego Canyon Creek

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · El Cajon, CA

Try out camping without having to rough-it! You can rent the Honeycomb Cabin! Or swing through for a safe place to spend the night in your van, or tent, while taking advantage of San Diego and all it has to offer! So much to be seen or done within 30 miles! You can plan a visit to the World Famous San Diego Zoo, Museums, Sea World, Birch Aquarium, Safari Park, Lego Land and more! San Diego county has wine tasting, breweries, theaters and eateries of all kinds. There are several beaches, mountain lakes, and even the deserts! You can skydive, or scuba dive, go deep sea fishing, or lake fishing, mountain biking, hiking, climbing, or walking the boardwalk! SAN DIEGO CANYON CREEK is a SMALL PATCH of WOODS, NEAR a ROAD, in a NEIGHBORHOOD. In the midst of the trees we have a great view of the stars at night. Harbison Canyon is surrounded by rocky peaks, with a creek! We have multiple species of song birds, owls, hawks, and other wildlife that live in this Riparian Habitat. There is a chorus of frogs throughout the spring nights, and crickets year round! It's a very short walk to the neighborhood park- equipped with several types of playground equipment and public creek access, or a five minute drive to a Crestridge Ecological Reserve containing multiple trails. We have three campsites and a cabin on about an acre of land. If you'd like to hang out on the property, we offer a table and chairs with each campsite to lounge in while enjoying the fresh air and nature. There are also a couple of hammocks available. In addition, our SHARED amenities include an outdoor kitchen that includes a sink with hot water, 2 mini fridges,(full at times, extra coolers available) coffee maker, a two burner stove, a griddle, a toaster oven, blender, tea kettle, and a few pans, plates, bowls, cups, and utensils. Also here to SHARE is a Propane fire pit and BBQ area. The bathroom now includes a flush toilet, sink and shower. We are continuously making improvements. Fun Fact: Harbison Canyon was named after John Stewart Harbison - aka the King of the Bee Keepers. He arrived with over one hundred colonies of bees in 1874 and within 7 years he became the world's largest honey producer! Today there are just a few bees in the area.

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San Diego Mountain Lodge

48 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Santa Ysabel, CA

San Diego Mountain Lodge is a beautiful escape to nature sprawled out over about 40 acres on a breathtaking spot that we call Hideout Mountain in Santa Ysabel, CA. Multiple experiences are offered: -- glamping in our vintage camper trailers, -- RV sites with full hookups and incredible views of Lake Henshaw -- campsites, -- luxury camping in our remodeled cabins (studio, 1br, and 2br cabins) each with different amenities ranging from full kitchens, wood burning fireplaces, large outdoor decks and private fire pits. Gather and share ideas with fellow guests at our community firepit and picnic tables. What makes Hideout Mountain a magical place? #1 on the list are the stunning views as far as the eye can see of Lake Henshaw and the valley and surrounding mountains. We also have a one-of-a-kind, world renowned restaurant and bar on the property: Josie's Hideout Saloon, open on weekends with live music. We are located just a few minutes drive away from downtown Santa Ysabel and Julian, with easy access off Hwy 76.

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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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Rogue Farm

1 site · RV6 acres · Ramona, CA

Hi there, Welcome to Rogue Farm. We have 1 RV spot available on a small, quiet organic vegetable farm in Ramona, CA. Ramona is located in San Diego County. The property is 30-45 min from the center of San Diego and is 5 min from shopping/grocery stores in town. The property is located near the mountains, there are hiking trails, loads of wineries and farms. We have a small farmstand on the property (we sell our produce from it) as well as farm animals (horses, cows, goats, pigs, poultry). The site has electrical and water hookups. There is no septic available. We love visitors and are happy to share our farm. For those with animals: All dogs must be kept in a leash when outside on the farm. We have livestock that not all dogs have been around and are used to interacting with them. Please be respectful of our farm animals, this is their home.

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Wild Seeds Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Dulzura, CA

Wild Seeds is a sustainable conscious coliving community and live-work space in nature. We have created a platform for creative professionals, ecopreneurs, social impact artists, and spiritual activists to connect and create. We've made a slice of paradise that we hope you enjoy during your stay 🫶🌵🌞 Our community is inclusive, period. We embrace and celebrate people of all backgrounds, body types, and nonviolent self-expression.

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(25)

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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Mystic Canyon Inn

4 sites · Lodging1 acre · El Cajon, CA

Our home is eclectic, country, relaxed and homey. We are conveniently located just 30 minutes from downtown San Diego and popular tourist attractions like Comic-Con, Balboa Park, the beautiful beaches and the world famous San Diego Zoo. 35 minutes east you will find beautiful Mount Laguna, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Pacific Crest Trail access and the town of Julian. About an hour east brings you to the desert, where natural beauty and recreation abound. 13 miles away, Viejas Casino boasts a beautiful outlet center. 4 miles away, Sycuan has a casino with entertainment and the golf resort of Singing Hills. Come enjoy the slower pace of the San Diego backcountry. If you are in the mood for a massage, Barbara is a therapist with amazing healing hands. (Please arrange in advance of your visit to ensure availability.) If you are a hiker and need a guide, Randy is an experienced Pacific Crest Trail hiker, who will be happy to assist with drop-off and pick-up in the local mountains, or whatever your hiking/backpacking needs are. Bikers of all kinds, frequently go by on Harbison Canyon Road, which is part of a larger biking loop. So, hike, bike or drive yourself to our little haven and say goodbye to the hustle and bustle! We enjoy talking to our guests, finding out about where they live and providing information on the local area. We do work during the week, but are usually around on the weekends.

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Unique City Escapes

2 sites · Lodging2 acres · Escondido, CA

Indulge in an enchanting glamping experience, perfectly situated in the heart of the city, where you're greeted by breathtaking views and a warm, bohemian ambiance. Whether you're planning a peaceful retreat or a special celebration, this stunning site offers all the modern amenities to make your stay unforgettable. Nestled just minutes away from local wineries, craft breweries, serene beaches, lush parks, scenic nature trails, majestic forests, tranquil lakes, and the famous Wild Animal Park, this unique getaway provides the ideal blend of nature and convenience. Experience the perfect blend of bohemian charm and rustic elegance at this stunning site nestled in the heart of the city. Spanning 2.5 acres, this serene escape offers breathtaking views, abundant wildlife, and all the modern amenities you need for a relaxing stay. Located just 5 minutes from Freeways 78 & 15, you're only moments away from Elfin Forest, scenic hiking trails, pristine lakes, beaches, wineries, breweries, and the Wild Animal Park. This centrally located retreat features everything to make your stay cozy and memorable, including a fire pit, a designated coffee and tea area, outdoor heaters, blankets, and soft seating areas for ultimate comfort. Enjoy games, or request a unique event celebration for a truly personalized experience. Guests have access to a full bathroom just 50 yards from the tent, and a convenient camping toilet is available for night use. Parking is simple, with space for any vehicle just steps away from your tent. Let us make your visit unforgettable with full access to all the amenities you need for a rejuvenating getaway.

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Cashews Garden

5 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · El Cajon, CA

Fully gated and secure. This is our home. I personally lived in my RV and struggled, so now I offer our place for a cheap place to park .We have 2 parking spaces for your off grid fully independent max 24 foot van or small RV . We also have a cabover camper set up if you need a roof over your head with a bathroom and shower. Full equipped kitchen area. Not fancy but does the job! Coming soon is our 5th wheel. Available starting Mid November Has heat and air conditioning. Has a shower and bathroom. Full kitchen and bedroom. Pull out couch bed. Table and chairs. We just scored a free outdoor fireplace!!!! Woooohoooo!!! I will add pictures soon so you are welcome to sit by the fire! We have starter logs and firewood. We do not have hookups for your van or RV. We can offer an extension cord and shop vac for cleaning but cannot hook you up to full time power. We have a hose to fill your tanks. No dumping station here. No bathroom or shower —-however, if no one has rented the campers you can use those! Usually both are not booked at the same time but we prefer you have a toilet on your rig. We have donkeys and a horse that you can feed watermelon or carrots to provided by us. We have a hang out area without air conditioning, with a refrigerator, sink, tables and a camping stove. Some dishes and we got a large TV and DVD player donated to us! So, we added some old DVDs you can enjoy! BBQ grill We are right by the highway so it’s not quiet like in the country. However, at night I feel it’s quiet! And maybe I’m just used to it but I don’t notice the highway noise unless it’s a motorcycle. We have a fenced in place for your dog but you need to walk through where the donkeys and horse are to get there. Tiny dogs can escape under the gate . Animal manure around the field and pin. And to clarify due to someone asking! We don’t want people inside the animals pins just hanging out. We just don’t want anyone to get hurt but if you have a dog, you will pass through the donkey pin to the dog pin. The gate closes and separates the dog area from the donkeys and horse. It need to be open when your down because they sleep in there. They are sweet and have never kicked or bit anyone and if you have a dog you get a full tour. All of our guests with dogs have had no issues at all! If your dogs are large animal friendly then we are good with them being off leash!! We love dogs! Just know that the entrance gate opens and closes as we and our guests come and go at our home. We have a trampoline Basketball goal Outdoor Fireplace Above ground saltwater pool that you are welcome to use. We will be here when you check in to show you around. You will receive a gate code on arrival so you can come and go. We are family friendly No drugs or heavy drinking No leaving children unattended No entering into animals pins. No guests outside of you and whoever is in your van/rv We are just starting to set things up. We are working on a garden. We have avocados and oranges.

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Kayhill Farm

1 site · RV2 acres · Spring Valley, CA

Learn more about this land: Urban camping spot with incredible views. Perfect for stealth vans and other smaller vehicles. Unfortunately we cannot accommodate travel trailers or Rvs at this time. Water, power, and sewer available. Property is close to freeways and stores. Also adjacent to nature preserve with moderate hiking trails, wildlife watching, and panoramic views. Site is at the top of a STEEP hill. Some maneuvering on your end will be required to get a vehicle in, but site is level once parked. Hookups are included but cannot be connected continuously. This is an URBAN camp spot meaning there will be some noise from the freeways and the city that's off in the distance. We live in a neighborhood so our neighbors sometimes make noise or have cars coming in and out.

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Stallion Oaks Ranch (Retreat)

18 sites · Lodging, Tents243 acres · Descanso, CA

In 2003, the Grosvenor Family Foundation donated the 238-acre retreat property located in Descanso to The Unity Center. Much of the land, including more than 12 structures were destroyed during the Cedar Fires in October of 2003. In the years since the fire, members of our community have lovingly tended to the land and slowly nurtured the trees and flowers. The result is acres of pristine wilderness, with hiking trails, a small lake and even a hill of daffodils that bloom every Spring.Our vision is to create a world-class retreat center and campground that promotes spiritual renewal and personal growth in a natural setting, by providing a location for education, inner reflection, positive recreation and acceptance. The Ranch is owned by The Unity Center, a progressive spiritual community that emphasizes living consciously and making a positive difference in the world. This is a sacred and special place . So whether you're planning a retreat, a wedding or a special event, we hope you'll come away from the Ranch feeling renewed.

The best camping near Point Loma Tide Pools guide

Overview

About

The Point Loma Tide Pools found at the Cabrillo National Monument are found at the tip of the Point Loma peninsula that guards the San Diego Bay. Whether you are looking for an educational experience or simply want to crawl around with the wildlife hiding in the nooks and crannies of these extensive tide pools, there is something for everyone at this scenic point. It is best to visit in the Spring or Fall seasons as this is when low-tides and the parks operating hours overlap giving you the best experience possible.

When to go

The prime time to visit the Point Loma Tide Pools is during late fall and winter, when low tides reveal the pools' hidden wonders during daylight hours. Summer visitors may find the tidepools submerged, as low tides occur at night. Plan your visit around the tide schedules for an optimal experience.

Know before you go

Cell phone service is unavailable at the tidepools, so plan your transportation accordingly.
Access to the tidepools may be temporarily closed when capacity is reached to ensure social distancing.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for safety on slippery rocks.
Keep children close to prevent accidents in this natural environment.
Groups of 10 or more require a tidepool permit during low tides of 0.7' and lower.