Best Campgrounds near Alpine, CA

Alpine is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Alpine and user-submitted reviews.

Best Camping Sites Near Alpine, California (178)

    1. Lake Jennings

    32 Reviews
    Lakeside, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 390-1623

    $35 - $140 / night

    "This location is a hidden gem in the outskirts of the city."

    "We had scoped this out as a wintering location for my snowbird dad, and I always remembered how powerfully silence of that hillside had impacted me... finally camped there- it was lovely!"

    2. William Heise County Park

    46 Reviews
    Julian, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 765-0650

    $24 - $34 / night

    "Nice campground away from the main roads. All spots outside of the R.V. loop are spread out and pretty secluded. Very friendly and helpful rangers. About a 10 minute drive from Julian pie co."

    "Lots of flat areas for pitching tents well away from the fire pit."

    3. Dos Picos County Park

    33 Reviews
    Poway, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 789-2220

    $24 - $100 / night

    "The creek eventually flows into a pond located on the other end of the campground. The pond is actually pretty large! Lots of space to walk around and explore."

    "The missus and I decided to do a midweek overnight escape and chose Dos Picos Park due to its close proximity.

    Great little campground with partial (electricity & water) hookups."

    4. Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

    23 Reviews
    Descanso, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 765-3023

    $40 - $250 / night

    "The only downside to this site is that it was very close to the bathrooms. That actually bummed me out a bit when we first arrived, but it ended up not being much of an issue at all."

    "The trash cans were just a few feet from the site and the bathrooms were a short walk just a couple spots away."

    5. Green Valley Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

    16 Reviews
    Descanso, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 465-3020

    $40 / night

    "While both have their positives, I personally love this one for its close proximity to the waterfalls that are a short trail from the campsites."

    "Tucked away from the city lights of San Diego. Very nice camp ground with multiple trails climbing up Mt. Cuyamaca."

    6. Sweetwater Summit Regional Park

    31 Reviews
    Bonita, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 472-7572

    $34 - $38 / night

    "I’m not sure you’ll find a campground like this anywhere else in California for $29/night with partial hookups. It was quiet and peaceful. Bathrooms could have used some attention."

    "The campground also has some nice amenities: good trail system, a splash pad (open in spring and summer months), a playground, some areas to have a group picnic, even a large event room."

    7. Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    19 Reviews
    Santee, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 668-2748

    $24 - $25 / night

    "Campground was close to freeway exit and nearby local neighborhoods. Despite that, it still felt quiet and comfortable. Sites were clean snd a good size. Bathrooms were nice and clean."

    "You are away from the city, but not too far. The facilities were nice and the only scare was the GIGANTIC spider seen outside the bathroom. We'd for sure come pack...the price is right too :$"

    8. El Prado Campground

    22 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 473-2082

    $35 / night

    "We hiked in and got the last walk in spot, so keep in mind that it can be busy on the weekends. The spots are fairly large and include parking, fire pits and picnic tables."

    "This is the closest campground to the lakes. Just a couple steps away from the beautiful meadow it overlooks. Lots of trees for hammocking!!"

    9. Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve

    15 Reviews
    Santee, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 596-3141

    "Being a native San Diegan The east county location allows for easy access to San Diego sites from two freeways."

    "Kids loved the convenient fishing right behind our trailer and the swimming pools a short drive away. Also was able to rent paddle boats to cruise around the lakes."

    10. Burnt Rancheria Campground

    23 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 473-0120

    $35 / night

    "I love this campground because it's woodsy and close to home.  You get that far away feel without being too far away. "

    "We had hosts that were helpful, friendly, the restrooms were stocked/clean, they brought firewood around, and were just good people."

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Showing results 1-10 of 178 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Alpine, CA

1160 Reviews of 178 Alpine Campgrounds



Guide to Alpine

Camping near Alpine, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Borrego Palm Canyon Campground. One camper mentioned, "The Palm Canyon trail starts from the campground—no need to drive to the trailhead, and it is a hike worth doing."
  • Fishing: Head to Lake Jennings for some fishing fun. A visitor shared, "The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time. They stock the lake regularly so you have a good chance of catching trout."
  • Beach Access: If you want to hit the beach, check out San Elijo State Beach Campground. One reviewer said, "Amazing site in a little town with all you need for a weekend getaway… great beach and surfing possibilities for the entire family."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at places like William Heise County Park. A visitor noted, "Campsites were clean, rangers were nice."
  • Privacy: Many enjoy the spacious sites at San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach. One camper said, "There are mature trees between every campsite that provide privacy between sites."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff at Lake Hemet Campground. A reviewer remarked, "The staff were polite and helpful when I arrived."

What you should know:

  • Crowded on Weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground mentioned, "It can get very crowded and packed."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Blair Valley Primitive Campground, don’t have drinking water or electric hookups. A camper noted, "Peaceful dispersed campground. Wide open great views."
  • Check-in Times: Be aware of strict check-in times at places like Borrego Palm Canyon Campground. One camper said, "Very strict check-in time."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like San Diego Metro KOA that offer amenities like a heated pool and bike rentals. A visitor shared, "Great place to relax and enjoy a beautiful campground."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities, like hiking or fishing, to keep the kids entertained. One camper at Lake Jennings mentioned, "There are so many trails to explore."
  • Pack Snacks: Bring plenty of snacks for the kids. A reviewer at Dos Picos County Park said, "It is a mix of RV and tent campsites."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites at campgrounds like Lake Hemet Campground. A visitor noted, "Some of the spots are shaded and summer direct sun, so please look at the pictures."
  • Bring Leveling Gear: Some sites may not be level, so it's good to have leveling blocks. A camper at Dos Picos County Park mentioned, "Our site was not level… just mentioning it so that you know you’re going to have to have things with you to level your rig."
  • Plan for Dump Station Waits: Be prepared for long lines at dump stations, especially on weekends. A visitor at San Mateo Campground said, "The dump site was closed this weekend."

Camping near Alpine, California, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Alpine, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Alpine, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 178 campgrounds and RV parks near Alpine, CA and 19 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Alpine, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Alpine, CA is Lake Jennings with a 4.7-star rating from 32 reviews.

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

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 free dispersed camping spots near Alpine, CA.

What parks are near Alpine, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Alpine, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.