w
william B.
Scout
ScoutBanning Stagecoach KOA
Fun at Jumble rocks
I went there with my daughter her husband and our dogs.We camped for the weekend and had a great time !!
Best Campgrounds near Aguanga, CA
Campgrounds near Aguanga, California range from developed facilities to basic sites set among oak trees and mountain landscapes. Oak Grove Campground provides spacious sites with shade from mature oak trees, while Dripping Springs Campground offers proximity to hiking trails. Most locations accommodate tent camping, with several also supporting RVs. Lake Hemet Campground and Temecula-Vail Lake KOA expand options for visitors seeking cabin accommodations. The area's campgrounds typically feature basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and vault or flush toilets, with some locations offering drinking water access.
Camping is available year-round at many Aguanga area campgrounds, though seasonal considerations affect the experience. Spring brings wildflowers and milder temperatures, while summer months can be extremely hot with significant insect activity. One camper noted, "We went the first weekend of August...don't EVER do that. It was soooo effing hot and there were red ants all over our campsite." Many campgrounds require reservations through Recreation.gov, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Facilities vary from primitive to more developed sites with electrical hookups at locations like Lake Skinner Recreation Area and Temecula-Vail Lake KOA. The region's proximity to Temecula's wineries makes it a convenient base for wine country exploration.
The campground landscape offers varied experiences across different elevations and ecosystems. Several visitors mention wildlife sightings as highlights of their stays. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, one camper at Oak Grove observed "bats and a huge owl" during their visit. Another reviewer noted hearing "coyotes howling like crazy" at night. Most campgrounds provide adequate spacing between sites, with some offering more privacy than others. Hikers appreciate campgrounds like Dripping Springs for trail access, though reviews indicate it can get crowded with day hikers on weekends. Campers seeking quiet experiences might prefer weekday visits when occupancy is typically lower. The region's diverse terrain provides opportunities for exploring nearby attractions including Palomar Mountain State Park, the Pacific Crest Trail, and numerous wineries.
Best Camping Sites Near Aguanga, California (363)
1. Oak Grove Campground
21 ReviewsAguanga, CA6 milesWebsite+1 (760) 788-0250$15 - $30 / night
"We were there for the full moon last month and even though it rained in the morning as we packed up me and my motorcycle camping friends had a blast sitting around the campfire and enjoying peace and the"
"This campsite is located just a short drive from Temecula, campsites are well cared for, clean bathrooms, and some sites have great California oak tree cover."
2. Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
20 ReviewsCleveland National Forest, CA8 milesWebsite+1 (951) 303-0173"Bike trails are right next to the park. Fun trails watch out for rattle snakes. Only downside is the kids racing around in golf carts at night."
"She told me that it had been around for decades under a different name, Buttercup I think. It has an established rotation of regular guests that come for access to wine country."
3. Lake Skinner Recreation Area
27 ReviewsTemecula, CA14 milesWebsite+1 (951) 926-1541$25 - $45 / night
"This is a great family campground right around the corner from Temecula, Murrietta, and Menifee."
"The charge $10 per person per day to fish in their Lake. And you can’t swim or let the kids play in the lake because it’s a reservoir."
4. Observatory Campground
17 ReviewsPalomar Mountain, CA8 milesWebsite+1 (760) 788-0250$20 - $40 / night
"Palomar Mountain Observatory Campground is one of the prettiest spots I've seen to camp close to San Diego in Southern California."
"Very pretty setting in forested valley below the famous telescope (now closed to all visitors - even to walk around outside). 30 or so sites, nice variety, some cater to astronomers, handicapped, doubles"
5. Dripping Springs Campground
15 ReviewsAguanga, CA6 milesWebsite+1 (760) 788-0250$25 - $50 / night
"One of the water faucets with potable water was on the outskirts of our space, not at all bothersome. The toilets and dumpster were conveniently close, but not too close to be noticed."
"It's close proximity to Temecula makes it easy to get to. Also, because it is small there were no issues with noise or traffic."
6. Palomar Mountain State Park Campground
15 ReviewsPalomar Mountain, CA8 milesWebsite+1 (760) 742-3462$40 - $130 / night
"Most of the sites are on slopes, or require walking up/down a series of steps to access."
"We drove up for an impromptu camp trip, it was only about an hour drive. I've never been up to Palomar Mountain although I've lived here for 30 years!"
7. Lake Hemet Campground
40 ReviewsMountain Center, CA18 milesWebsite+1 (951) 659-2680$45 / night
"You can fit two 10' x10' canopies to cover the bench table, and fit 2 individual tents (4-6 person) OR a bigger 12p tent however you decide to position it. It has its own Fire pit."
"I've been camping at Lake Hemet since I was a kid, and absolutely love it there."
8. Fry Creek Campground
12 ReviewsPalomar Mountain, CA8 milesWebsite+1 (760) 788-0250$15 / night
"It was a nice large site next to the bathrooms (which were very clean and well maintained) and close to a water spigot and trash can. This campground is definitely a birder’s paradise."
"Just south of Palomar Mountain Observatory (a must visit) Fry Creek is a heavily wooded (oak, fir, pine) campground in a narrow valley surrounded by steep forested banks."
9. La Jolla Indian Campground
20 ReviewsPalomar Mountain, CA12 milesWebsite+1 (760) 742-1297$40 - $120 / night
"You can camp next to it as well and get in! It’s $35 per car they do have military discount. The total of $32 with discount. They also have porta potties every few 500 feet."
"The spot we initially reserved was located on the little river, but once we got there, we realized we were a little too packed in with the rest of the visitors, so we requested to move to a more open spot"
10. Hurkey Creek Park
21 ReviewsMountain Center, CA18 milesWebsite+1 (951) 659-2050$30 - $35 / night
"This is one of our family's favorite campgrounds because it's a quick drive from San Diego (and OC) and it gives us our "mountain fix" when we don't have time to drive to the Sierra Mountains."
"It's a lovely campground, and our spot wasn't too far away from the restrooms or the creek. Once Friday afternoon hit though, it did fill up to what felt like near full capacity. "
Recent Camping Photos near Aguanga, CA
639 Photos of 363 Aguanga Campgrounds
Michael K.
Aguanga Property
Nicole W.
Ranch Life Getaway
Byron A.
Oak Grove Campground
Tyler B.
Dripping Springs Campground
James
Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
Annie G.
Fry Creek Campground
JOSE V.
Observatory Campground
Matty F.
Palomar Mountain State Park Campground
Chanel C.
Bierbaum Pepper Farm
The Dyrt
Baileys on Palomar
Justin B.
La Jolla Indian Campground
Randall G.
Lake Skinner Recreation Area
Recent Reviews near Aguanga, CA
1970 Reviews of 363 Aguanga Campgrounds
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MATTHEW R.
GuideSan Clemente State Beach Campground
Map and Suggestions
First night in 103 - no shade and bright light outside bathroom all night. Was able to move to 144 for the rest of the stay. More foliage and privacy back there.
Put the exact address into GPS; otherwise “get directions” brings you to a locked gate. Beach is amazing. Band of stones when you first go in the water so old sneaks or water shoes recommended.
Close to town; walking distance to Pedro’s Tacos and Vons is about 2 miles. 
accalia F.GuideSan Clemente State Beach Campground
Camp Review: San Clemente State Beach Campground
If you’re looking for classic Southern California beach camping with stunning ocean views, this spot is such a good choice. The campground sits on a bluff overlooking the Pacific, so you wake up to the sound of waves and end the night with the prettiest sunsets. 🌊🌅
The campsites are spacious and come with picnic tables and fire rings, which makes evenings super cozy. It’s also close enough to town if you need food or coffee, but still feels peaceful.
One of my favorite parts — I did a 3.7-mile walk from the campsite to the San Clemente Pier. It was such a beautiful coastal walk. If you walk directly on the sand, it’s definitely longer and way more of a workout (great leg day 😂). On the way back, we took the sidewalk/railroad path instead, which made it feel way faster and less intense. Highly recommend mixing it up like that.
Beach access from camp is down the bluff, so just be ready for a little climb back up.
🚿 Showers were being worked on during our visit, so plan ahead just in case they’re still under maintenance.
You might hear a little freeway or train noise depending on your site, but overall it’s such a beautiful coastal camping experience and totally worth it.
Edward S.ScoutFish Creek Wash Primitive Campsite
Sweet Primitive Campground
Just happened on this campground and had it to ourselves. Only 1.5 miles from the end of pavement beyond Ocotillo Wells up the wash. Washboard but easy slow drive. Didn’t even air down tires because it was only a short drive. We towed in a 16 ft MDC trailer with no problem. Unfortunately we only have one night. Will be back.
Dze1ScoutDesert Oasis Mobile Home & RV Resort
55+ campers / snow birds
The site is a good price for 55+ and is reasonable. Nice year-round people as well.
Fa B.GuideLake Jennings
Quiet, clean, and nice camp hosts
This campsite is pretty quiet off-season and perched up so the location makes for scenic views as well.
The hosts are kind and helpful and maintain a very nice and clean property.
Matthew W.
TravelerSan Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping
Beautiful Campground located directly adjacent to San onofre Beach.
Great Campground located immediately adjacent to a beautiful Sandy beach. San onofre State Beach Park a joints it on both North and South ends. There is a great surf break and it is popular with locals. All Sites have full hookups and can accommodate tents as well as large RVs. Showers and laundry are available. Dogs are not allowed on the beach but are welcome in the campground.
Jim G.GuideSan Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping
One of our favorite weekend destinations!
We LOVE the San Onofre beach on Camp Pendleton!
Use used to camp on the beachfront spots, right across the street from the water, but we've come to appreciate the sites on the bluffs more now-a-days.
The view out the back from our bed is the gorgeous Pacific ocean, unmolested by anything in the line of site. And it's a little further back (maybe 100 yards) from the surf, so the sound is more soothing and less intrusive.
Susan D.GuideGalleta Meadows, Borrego Springs
Great spot
Arrived here yesterday. One long road with "sites" along it. The land is part of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, but there is no fee and no permit required to stay here. And you can stay, free, for up to 30 days. We tow a 33' 5th wheel and got in with no problem. The mountains are beautiful!
Guide to Aguanga
Camping sites near Aguanga, California offer diverse terrain across several elevation zones, with camping areas spanning from 2,000 to over 5,000 feet. This creates distinct microclimates throughout the year, with higher elevation camps like Observatory Campground providing relief from summer heat. Weekday visits typically offer significantly quieter experiences with improved site selection across most Aguanga area campgrounds.
What to do
Stargazing at night: Observatory Campground provides prime conditions for night sky viewing near the famous Palomar Observatory. "The observatory is about 2 miles away but it was closed, so we just explored around the campsite. One evening we took about a 15 minute walk to Observatory Campground down the road to enjoy the stars more since there is more of an open area there to do so," explains one camper.
Hiking on designated trails: Many campgrounds offer trail access directly from camping areas, especially for early morning hikes. At Dripping Springs Campground, "There is a popular trailhead inside the campground" with "a big loop (10 miles) that connects to another loop and another. Almost 20 miles of hiking if you want it."
Wildlife observation: Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities across most campgrounds. "We had a magical weekend... There were a fair amount of bugs. We had bats and during the day we saw beautiful Pine and Cedar trees everywhere," reports a camper at Fry Creek Campground.
What campers like
Natural water features: Despite seasonal fluctuations, several campgrounds offer water access. At La Jolla Indian Campground, "The river (creek) does have beautiful shade trees and lots of rock formations and places to put a chair and read, which was lovely. The kids liked it."
Spacious sites with shade: Many campers prioritize shaded sites during summer months. At Oak Grove Campground, "We were in the oak loop site at site 15 which was a huge space that could've easily fit 3 medium sized tents! Super close to the water source and bathrooms."
Wildlife encounters: The diverse ecosystems support varied wildlife viewing opportunities. At Palomar Mountain State Park Campground, one visitor noted: "The birds are loud, but if you don't care about that they're very fun to watch! The largest critter we saw was a wild turkey."
What you should know
Insect preparation: Bug activity varies significantly by season and location. At Fry Creek Campground, "While it was pretty hot, it was only about 1/3 of the way full and still very quiet. The only issue we had was the BUGS. Definitely prepare for mosquitos and other bloodsuckers while you are here."
Site selection strategies: Research individual sites before booking as quality varies widely. One camper at Dripping Springs Campground explains: "The front (closest to entry road) kinda sucks. Lots of noise. Sites are small, open and up against an industrial fence. Everything to the back (after site 7 on the right and 18 on the left) is great. Sites with trees, road noise is blocked, closer to the trailhead and just generally nicer."
Water availability concerns: Even campgrounds with "creek" in their name may have seasonal water flow. A Hurkey Creek Park visitor noted: "The creek is dry, but Lake Hemet is a quick walk down the way. The campground is large, with 130 campsites and several group camp areas."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Aguanga, CA?
What camping is available near Aguanga, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Aguanga, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 363 campgrounds and RV parks near Aguanga, CA and 33 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Aguanga, CA?
Which is the most popular campground near Aguanga, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Aguanga, CA is Oak Grove Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 21 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Aguanga, CA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Aguanga, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 33 free dispersed camping spots near Aguanga, CA.
What parks are near Aguanga, CA?
What parks are near Aguanga, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Aguanga, CA that allow camping, notably Cleveland National Forest and San Bernardino National Forest.
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