Places to Camp near Temecula, CA

Camping near Temecula, California

Camping near Temecula, California, offers a diverse range of experiences, from serene lakeside retreats to bustling family-friendly campgrounds. Whether you're looking to escape into nature, enjoy some outdoor activities, or simply relax under the stars, the campgrounds around Temecula have something for everyone. With options for tent camping, RVs, and even glamping, there's a perfect spot for every type of camper.

In this guide, we'll explore what makes camping near Temecula special, what campers love and dislike, and provide some helpful tips for families and RVers. We'll also highlight specific campgrounds and share insights from fellow campers to give you a well-rounded view of what to expect.

What to do

Camping near Temecula offers a variety of activities to keep you entertained. From hiking and fishing to exploring local attractions, there's no shortage of things to do.

  • Hiking and Nature Trails: Many campgrounds, like Lake Skinner Recreation Area, offer beautiful trails for hiking and nature walks. "There are several hiking trails nearby," says Makenna A. in her review of Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park.
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Lake Skinner Recreation Area and Dixon Lake Campground are great spots. Joe A. mentions, "There are fish in it. $10 per day to fish," in his review of Lake Skinner.
  • Local Attractions: Temecula is known for its wineries, and many campgrounds are just a short drive away from wine tasting and vineyard tours. "Next to wineries, trails, Palomar Mountain and observatory, Julian, a huge nature preserve and more!" says MilkMan in his review of Oak Grove Campground.

What campers like

Campers have shared many positive experiences about camping near Temecula. Here are some highlights:

  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many campgrounds are great for families. "Clean, pet friendly and good for kids," says Mr B. about Lake Skinner Recreation Area.
  • Beautiful Scenery: The natural beauty of the area is a big draw. "It's gorgeous and filled with trees," says Makenna A. about Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park.
  • Convenient Amenities: Campers appreciate the amenities available at many campgrounds. "The camp store has everything you need in case you forgot something," says Challen in his review of Lake Skinner Recreation Area.

What you should know

While there are many positives, there are also some things campers should be aware of:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially during peak times. "If you don't like sharing the site with your neighbor, kids, and partying until the wee hours, this place may not be for you," says Joe A. about Lake Skinner Recreation Area.
  • Privacy: Privacy can be limited at some campgrounds. "The sites face each other and are very small. Privacy isn't an option," says Joe A. about Lake Skinner.
  • Bugs: Bugs can be an issue in some areas. "The only complaint I have is the flies are crazy and does not make being outside enjoyable," says Robert M. about Oak Grove Campground.

Tips for camping with families

Camping with family can be a wonderful experience, especially with a little preparation. Here are some tips to make your trip enjoyable:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for kids. "Splash pad, park for kids, fishing, open space for kites, cornhole," says Randall G. about Lake Skinner Recreation Area.
  • Bring Entertainment: Keep kids entertained with games and activities. "Lots of space, not very busy during weekdays but the manager said it gets full on weekends," says MilkMan about Oak Grove Campground.
  • Plan for Convenience: Choose sites close to amenities like bathrooms and playgrounds. "The bathrooms/showers were clean and didn’t stink. Always had toilet paper," says Stephanie W. about Guajome Regional Park.

Tips from RVers

RVers have specific needs and preferences when it comes to camping. Here are some tips from experienced RVers:

  • Check for Hookups: Make sure the campground offers the hookups you need. "Sites are full hookup (even though the brochure says e+w only, I think the sewer connections are new)," says Laura M. about Guajome Regional Park.
  • Consider Site Size: Look for campgrounds with spacious sites. "Spots are easy to get into and spacious," says Lisa E. about Temecula-Vail Lake KOA.
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some RV parks can be busy and noisy. "If you're going there to get away, this is the wrong park very busy and noisy all hours," says Time4Dirt about Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.

Camping near Temecula, California, offers a variety of experiences for all types of campers. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a family-friendly adventure, the campgrounds in this area have something to offer. With beautiful scenery, convenient amenities, and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable camping trip.

Best Camping Sites Near Temecula, CA (301)

    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    1.

    South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    72 Reviews
    162 Photos
    958 Saves
    Carlsbad, California

    For many, once the sun comes out and summer rolls around, it can be hard to resist the urge to get outside and soak up some fun. If you relate, and you just need to unplug for a minute, Carlsbad camping offers some of the state’s best camping sites around. When your work has stacked up and you’re overloaded, it’s time to gather your camping gear, and head to Carlsbad State Beach camping for solitude and relaxation.

    This San Diego beach and campground feature camping, swimming, surfing, skin diving, fishing and picnicking. The campground is especially popular in the summer, thanks to its scenic location which overlooks the picturesque Carlsbad Beach below. Even better, the campground offers direct access to the beach via a set of well-kept stairs. As a result of the popularity, the campground is reservation only, so don’t show up without one or you’ll likely be unable to stay.

    When you’re done with the beach, check out the nearby California geography and some of the trails within the park. If the ocean isn’t your thing, a number of Campfire Programs, Junior Ranger Programs, and Nature Walks may be offered. That said, program availability changes with the season, so be sure to check signs posted on the restrooms and at the entrance station regarding park information during your visit.

    At night, campers are gently caressed to sleep by the nearby ocean tide, lapping upon its secluded shoreline. There is plenty of privacy throughout, thanks to the large selection of flora and fauna throughout the campground. The campsites themselves are also spacious, with roughly half of them featuring electric hookups. Additionally, All restrooms and shower buildings have accessible facilities. Prior to arrival, visitors with disabilities who need assistance should contact the unit Supervising Ranger.

    South Carlsbad State Beach Campground is perfect for campers and individuals who love the ocean and the outdoors. Whether you’re looking surf the rolling waves, or paddle board out and take part in all that the north county coastline has to offer, you’re sure to have fun here.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $650 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    2.

    San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    49 Reviews
    92 Photos
    505 Saves
    San Clemente, California

    Details here: https://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/647/files/SanMateo082609.pdf

    San Mateo Campground lies a short distance inland from the 3.5-miles of sandy beaches within San Onofre State Beach A 1.5-mile Nature Trail connects the campground to Trestles Beach, a world class surfing site. San Mateo Creek flows just east of the campground outward towards the ocean creating key riparian and wetland habitats which host some rare and even endangered species. All campsites include a fire pit and picnic table. Hookup sites are available with electricity and water. Other amenities include an RV sanitation station, hot, coin-operated indoor showers, and flush toilets. Below are listed a few park rules that will assist you in having a fun and save visit.

    San Onofre - San Mateo Campground is at 830 Cristianitos, San Clemente, CA, 92672 a short distance inland from the 3.5-miles of sandy beaches within San Onofre State Beach. A 1.5-mile Nature Trail connects the San Mateo camping site to “Trestles Beach,” the world class surfing site. Surfers using redwood boards have visited San Onofre since at least the 1940s; San Mateo Creek flows just east of the campground outward towards the ocean creating key riparian and wetland habitats which host some rare and even endangered species. All campsites include a fire pit and picnic table. RV Hookup sites are available with electricity and water. Other amenities includes a dump-station, hot indoor showers, and flush toilets. Camping is available year-round.

    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $250 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Skinner Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Skinner Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Skinner Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Skinner Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Skinner Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Skinner Recreation Area

    3.

    Lake Skinner Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    47 Photos
    342 Saves
    Temecula, California

    Lake Skinner Recreation Area, located near Temecula, CA, is a popular spot for family camping. This campground offers a variety of accommodations, including tent sites, RV spots, and even glamping options. It's open year-round, so you can enjoy the great outdoors whenever the mood strikes.

    One of the standout features here is the full hookups available for RVs, making it a convenient choice for those who prefer a bit more comfort. The campground is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. For families, there's a splash pad and playground to keep the kids entertained, and plenty of open space for activities like kite flying and cornhole.

    Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the lake, which is actually a reservoir. While swimming isn't allowed, you can fish for a $10 daily fee. The camp store is well-stocked, so if you forget any essentials, you won't have to go far to find what you need.

    The sites are a bit close together, so don't expect a lot of privacy. However, the friendly atmosphere and the range of amenities more than make up for it. The bathrooms and showers are generally clean, though it's always a good idea to bring your own toilet paper just in case.

    Overall, Lake Skinner Recreation Area is a great spot for a family getaway, offering plenty of activities and conveniences to make your stay enjoyable. Whether you're there for the fishing, the open spaces, or just a relaxing weekend away, you'll find something to love about this campground.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA

    4.

    Temecula-Vail Lake KOA

    20 Reviews
    48 Photos
    194 Saves
    Cleveland National Forest, California

    Welcome to your ideal Vail Lake camping escape to nature with wide-open spaces to explore. Temecula/Vail Lake KOA sits on 385 acres of recreation space, featuring 467 campsites and more than 200 acres of world-class hiking and mountain bike trails. This KOA specializes in recreation from little ones up through the teenage and adult years with three sparkling swimming pools: a 25-meter lap pool, a kids' wading pool, and a full sized leisure swimming pool. We offer a variety of outdoor activity options on site including horseshoe pits, disc golf, pickleball courts, newly refinished basketball courts, and a very popular 18 hole mini golf course. Families love our summer staffed recreation and Halloween celebrations. Groups love our facilities for hosting small festivals, mountain bike races, and family reunions. Guests enjoy gathering in the campground's Vail Lake Village for meals and entertainment at the seasonal Cafe and Bar. Restock your supplies in the Village's newly remodeled store and gift shop. Relax in your campsite under our large, mature Oak trees that beautifully shade your campsites or try a new hotel-style Deluxe Cabin or Eco Tent accommodation coming late fall 2019. Just 15-minutes to Temecula Valley Wineries and local area Casinos.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Hemet Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Hemet Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Hemet Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Hemet Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Hemet Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Hemet Campground

    5.

    Lake Hemet Campground

    38 Reviews
    125 Photos
    298 Saves
    Mountain Center, California

    Lake Hemet is surrounded by the majestic beauty of the San Jacinto Mountains, in Mountain Center, near the charming town of Idyllwild. The scenery is splendid no matter which direction you look. Tall pines, manzanitas, sage, and giant oaks abound!

    Lake Hemet is one of the most popular spots in Southern California for camping and fishing. The recent additions of the Soaring Pines Cafe serving delicious food and Splashing Eagle Swim Zone have made Lake Hemet the vacation spot to be during the spring and summer months.

    Remember to pack a camera and binoculars, and keep a watchful eye as majestic eagles, hawks, and other wildlife are often seen soaring throughout the forest and campground. Come and enjoy camping, fishing, boating and the breathtaking scenery all year round.

    DAY USE: In addition to camping, Lake Hemet offers public access to the campground for day use guests daily (hours vary by season). Day use is $25 per vehicle and affords guests with the opportunity to picnic, shoreline fish, launch personal boats or kayaks (additional fees apply) and rent boats or kayaks from our marina. If you are visiting other guests who are overnight camping with us, the $25 fee still applies. NOTE: DAY USE WILL BE CLOSED FOR ALL SUMMER HOLIDAY WEEKENDS FROM FRIDAY TO SUNDAY for Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day weekends. Only guests with previously purchased annual day use or launch passes will be allowed as our campground will be fully booked and activities are planned for our guests.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground

    6.

    San Clemente State Beach Campground

    34 Reviews
    138 Photos
    708 Saves
    San Clemente, California

    CAMPING AND PICNICKING The family campground sits high atop the bluffs. Each of 160 sites has a fire ring and picnic table. Water faucets are nearby. The family campground has 72 RV spots, with electric and water hookups.

    ACCESSIBLE FEATURES • Restrooms, showers, seven campsites, the visitor center, the Butterfly and Multi-Use Trails, and picnic sites near parking are accessible. Assistance may be needed on the steep trails to the beach. • Accessibility in state parks is continually improving. For recent updates, visit

    Two group-camping areas can each hold 50 people. Each campground has hot showers, flush toilets, and sinks. Group camp #1 holds up to 20 RVs; Group camp #2 takes tent-only campers with a maximum of 10 vehicles. A picnic area displays sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean from bluffs 150 feet above the beach. Two group picnic areas are also available. The visitor center adjoins the 200-space parking area.

    San Clemente State Beach camping is located at the south end of the city of San Clemente, California. The area around San Clemente is known for its ocean, hill, and mountain views, a pleasant climate and its Spanish Colonial style architecture. The city slogan is "Spanish Village by the Sea." Visitors are attracted to the San Clemente area for its intense winds and dramatic location.

    San Clemente has been a California state beach since 1937 and is popular among water sport enthusiasts, and anyone who wishes to escape from inland heat and nearby metropolitan areas for the day. The beautiful mile long beach stretches between the curling ocean surf and the foot of a steep bluff.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $250 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    7.

    Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    32 Reviews
    56 Photos
    Moreno Valley, California

    Owl Loop (sites 203-220, 283-317)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Picnic Table
    • WiFi
    • Showers

    $300 / night

  1. 8.

    Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort

    17 Reviews
    63 Photos
    116 Saves
    Menifee, California

    Wilderness Lakes RV Resort is a flat, 80-acre RV Resort in California with fishing canals that weave throughout the park. As a centrally-located RV camp, it is close to shopping, hospitals and freeways in California's Los Angeles region. The surrounding area has been changing quite dramatically with housing projects on two sides and dairy farms on the other. The temperatures are mild in the winter and warm to hot in the summer, making Wilderness Lakes a perfect RV campground no matter what time of year. At Wilderness Lakes RV Resort , our 523 sites include RV sites, rental cottages and cabins. The general store is open five days a week for all of your convenience needs. Plus, our on-site package delivery lockers allow guest to vacation with the assurance of receiving packages and deliveries in safety and ease. Locally, there are numerous golf courses within a 15-mile radius of Wilderness Lakes with one only two miles from the campground. Old Town Temecula is only 17 miles to the south of our RV campground and offers great dining and shopping in true California style. The Pechanga Resort and Casino is about 20 miles south of the resort and is the largest gambling casino in the state. It has weekend entertainment, seven restaurants and a non-smoking section for gambling. Diamond Valley Lakes is just 5 miles to the east of the resort and has boat rentals and fishing. Most of the major theme parks, such as Disneyland, Sea World, the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Wild Animal Park are all about 1 hours away. Los Angeles Area RV Camp in California At Wilderness Lakes, we offer plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay. With so much to choose from, there is bound to be a special activity for everyone. Be sure to check out the events and activities page to find out what activities are being offered during your visit.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground

    9.

    Dixon Lake Campground

    23 Reviews
    70 Photos
    383 Saves
    Escondido, California

    Welcome to Dixon Lake Campground, a fantastic spot near Escondido, CA. This place has a lot to offer, whether you're into tent camping, RVing, or even glamping. The campground is open all year, so you can enjoy it no matter the season.

    One of the standout features here is the view. Many campers rave about the spectacular night lights and the beautiful lake views. If you're lucky enough to snag a spot on the ridge line, you'll get a great mix of city and lake scenery. It's a unique experience to feel so close to nature while still being near the conveniences of the city.

    For those who like to stay active, there's plenty to do. Fishing is a big draw, and you can rent boats if you want to get out on the water. Hiking around the area is also a popular activity. If you're bringing kids, they'll love the climbing rocks at site #23.

    Amenities are solid here. The campground has coin-operated showers, which are a lifesaver after a long day. There's also a small market and a snack stand, so you won't go hungry. Pets are welcome, and it's only a buck a night for your furry friends.

    A few tips from fellow campers: Spot #45 is highly recommended for its privacy, and if you're tent camping, site #6 offers a secluded feel with a great view. Just be prepared for some steep driveways.

    Overall, Dixon Lake Campground is a great place to relax, enjoy nature, and maybe even catch a fish or two. Happy camping!

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $39 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dripping Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dripping Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dripping Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dripping Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dripping Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dripping Springs Campground

    10.

    Dripping Springs Campground

    14 Reviews
    42 Photos
    150 Saves
    Aguanga, California

    Overview

    Dripping Springs campground is a wonderful campground adjacent to the Agua Tibia Wilderness.

    Recreation

    Recreation in the area includes hiking, trail running, and backpacking.

    Facilities

    Recreation in the area includes hiking, trail running, and backpacking.

    Natural Features

    The campground is adjacent to sensitive riparian habitat which is home to the endangered Arroyo Toad. The hills surrounding the campground are covered in southern California chaparral which is host to a diverse population of flora and fauna. The mountain tops above the campground are lined with coniferous forest.

    Nearby Attractions

    The campground is directly adjacent to Agua Tibia Wilderness. This wilderness area includes a 20-mile hiking loop. The campground is also near Temecula, California, and the Temecula Wine Country.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $15 / night

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Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Temecula, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Temecula, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 301 campgrounds and RV parks near Temecula, CA and 10 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Temecula, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Temecula, CA is South Carlsbad State Beach Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 72 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Temecula, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Temecula, CA.

What parks are near Temecula, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Temecula, CA that allow camping, notably Cleveland National Forest and San Bernardino National Forest.