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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.
$45 / night
$25 - $45 / night
Anza- Borrego Desert State Park’s rugged landscape formed largely by the forces of erosion attacking the uplifted mountains. The higher the mountains rise, the more vigorously they are attacked by rain, snow, ice, and wind, as they yield to the constant pull of gravity. Borrego Palm Canyon Campground visitors will be able to reserve campsites six months in advance from the current date. Bookings may extend from the arrival date to the desired departure date – based on availability and the park’s maximum stay rules. Reservation are available October 1st through April 30th.
$35 - $125 / night
We are San Diego County's ONLY campsite with river and tubing access!
$40 - $120 / night
There are 31 campsites in the Doane Valley Campground, three of which have accessible features. Each site has a table and fire ring, and most have a food locker. Piped drinking water is available. The campground also has restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers which are usable for campers, including those with disabilities.
The beautiful forest and mountain meadows of Palomar Mountain State Park are in northern San Diego County, high atop the west side of Palomar Mountain. Large pine, fir and cedar trees make the park one of the few areas in southern California with a Sierra Nevada-like atmosphere. The park features camping, picnicking, hiking, and fishing (trout) in Doane Pond. Coniferous forests cover much of the 1,862 acres, in contrast to the dry lowlands surrounding the mountain.
Elevation within the park averages 5,000 feet above sea level, making evenings cool even during the summer. A number of vista points offer spectacular panoramic views both westerly toward the ocean and inland toward the desert, particularly from Boucher Hill Summit, which has been listed in the Sierra Club's "Hundred Peaks Section" since first published in 1946. There, you'll also find the historic Boucher Hill Fire Lookout.
The park is open from dawn 'til dusk daily. Reservations are highly recommended for camping during peak season. Day use fees are $10.00 per vehicle, cash or check only. Trails are open to foot traffic only, and dogs and mountain bikes are not allowed on trails. Please note that there are no gas stations on Palomar Mountain.
$40 - $130 / night
$22 - $44 / night
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.
$50 - $650 / night
Fry Creek Campground is situated in the heart of Cleveland National Forest, uniquely located down the road from the world-famous Palomar Observatory. The fresh, clean air of the campground provides a refreshing getaway for visitors from San Diego and Los Angeles. The observatory, atop Palomar Mountain, boasts five high-tech telescopes, among them, the massive 200-inch Hale Telescope, was the world's largest effective telescope for about 45 years. The observatory is owned by the California Institute of Technology and astronomical research includes near-Earth asteroids and the study of distant galaxies.
At Observatory Campground, the site across from Fry Creek, there's a popular astronomy event called Explore the Stars. Amateur astronomers gather here with their telescopes and share views of planets and constellations with visitors. The event takes place one weekend each month, April through October.
Fry Creek is at a 4,900 ft. elevation on Palomar Mountain. The area is dense with evergreen and oak, and is usually cooler than the surrounding area.
The visitor center at Palomar Observatory is 2.2 miles away and can be accessed by road or by hiking trail. A restaurant and gift shop are onsite.
$15 / night
Nestled at an elevation of more than 7,000 feet, Thousand Trails Idyllwild RV Resort grounds is one of the few destinations in Southern California with all four seasons. With close to 300 sites spread over 200 acres, the Idyllwild RV campground in California is a full-service preserve with something for everyone, from basic tent camping to sites for your luxury RV. This tucked away RV campground in the refreshing California pine cove region also has cabins to rent if you prefer not to drive your own rig up the mountain. Idyllwild RV camping resort offers a wide range of activities and amenities during the summer from mid May to mid September. Our staff is always ready to show you around our RV resort in California's mountain country. RV Campground in California Mountains Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Idyllwild RV Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience. OFF SEASON ACTIVITY: We are open year round. However, during our off season from mid September through mid May, the pool area, restaurant, store and fishing are closed. Also, there are no scheduled activities during this time.
Guide
Staying at site #421 which I think is the best one here because none parked to the immediate sides and has a big hill on the side for exercise and adds privacy. Some sites looked uneven but this one was surprisingly even. Bench and charcoal grill for each site. Seasonal market and such open may 1st. Only WiFi in certain sections of the park Some sites seen seemed like they will only fit a smaller size RV Laundry takes quarters. Change machine inside the lodge. $2 a load. Very peaceful and quiet. Bath and laundry rooms always clean. Comfy Lodge area with two rooms with couches, fire place, tv and games.
I recommend coming in and out from Anza passing by lake Hemet, if your towing towards your max capacity. Gradual straight climb through 75% of the way. Takes about 20-30minutes longer then the other ways but work the saving the strain on your truck and drive.
Guide
This campground felt more like I was glamping. Everything was easily accessible and by that I mean; a toilet, running water, and showers. We slept in our tent which felt pretty amazing being that the weather was perfect. I’d highly recommend visiting this camp site in the cooler months.
Scout
Visited the last 2 weeks of August. Great place for family and kids. Affordable. Campsite #295. 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. Different campgrounds for all chosen methods (Tent, RV, Glamping, etc..) There's restrooms you can use. There's showers you can pay per use. The swim zone isn't too far from this campsite, 5-10 min walk w/ no accessories. If you have little ones, you can take them with a wagon but I'd recommend just driving your car with a few items to the zone. Bring your own shade for this campsite, your own water too. The marketplace is near the entrance BUT they only sell individual waters (No 48 pack types). You'll definitely hear your neighbors snore at night after a long day LOL.. quiet hours are from 10pm - 8am. Overall, this is a great spot. If you're lucky to snag other spots with trees covering you then great but this is still a good campsite. Happy camping! ... Oh yeah, T-Mobile no service up there (apparently Verizon, AT&T do)
Traveler
The property was perfect. We had originally booked the electric yurt but we were able to upgrade to the container home upon arrival. The home was perfect for the 2 of us and our 2 dogs. Ryan was very accommodating and friendly. We will definitely be back.
Scout
Hot spring campground in the Anza desert. Such a great place to come and reset from busy day to day hustle. Peaceful and clean, with cabins for those who dont tent or trailer camp.
Legend
We camped here on a trip up the coast and found this spot at the end of the day. There are 5 spots where you can walk your stuff and camp right on the beach. Each spot was secluded and had a picnic table and a good size area for your tent. It’s a newer retro campground with spots for RV’s, tents, cabins and yurts. There are a lot of option and facilities with showers, bathrooms and laundry.
LegendWe enjoyed our quick visit to Anza Borrego state park and were pleased with this campground. The sites we average for a CA state park (smaller sites, close, not very secluded) but with such a great park to check out we were not at our site very much.
Guide
We spent 4 nights here. The park is renovated and clean. Best laundry room I’ve seen in our travels. Sites are gravel with a concrete pad and picnic table. Each corner has a super bright street light. Thank goodness for blackout shades. The lake was closed due to algae bloom. They have a great area of vintage trailers that can be rented, as well as some super nice yurts. The restaurant was only open one of the nights we were there. Not impressive. We were the only diners there. We explored the area. As it was winter, there wasn’t much to do.
Guide
This campground is a primitive one. It’s basically an open lot. There’s a wonderful path call Bill Kenyon Overlook trail that’s trailhead is on the side of the campground. No toilets but campground down the road at the beginning of Yaqui Pass rd does with running water (technically not allowed to use if you didn’t campthere). Stakes are a little hard to get in the ground. Day is really hot and night is cold but Anza-borrego is a beautiful place
Traveler
This is a fairly large campground in the Laguna mountains. 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. Wood is available for purchase on site and kindling is easy to find. This is a nice alpine getaway with pine trees, meadows, a small lake and nearby views of the Anza Borrego desert. Located just off the PCT and other hiking trails.
Traveler
This is a membership campground part of Colorado River Adventures. We stayed for free as part of their marketing program so they can pitch you the membership. The membership is like a timeshare. Not worth it for us (if it is worth it to you, check out Craigslist for people selling theirs). That being said I would love to come back to this campground. We had spot 192, a beautiful view of Anza Borrego Desert, nice and shady, far from amenities so not a lot of people passing by. We had our bikes so we got the amenities fine. They have mini golf, frisbee golf, and a heated pool which are open in 2020. Most other amenities are not open. Took off a star because the power kept going out, water pressure was minimal and the pool closed randomly.
RangerBorrego Palm Canyon in Anza Borrego Desert State Park is good for those who want to be near town because it's right on the edge of the small desert town of Borrego Springs, where there are restaurants, a couple of small convenience stores and services. (Run out of ice? No problem!)
Some sites here have ramadas for shade, a couple of them dating back to the conservation corps time with built-in fire pits. Each site has a picnic table. There are bathrooms with flushing toilets and showers. The Palm Canyon trailhead is at the end of the campground.
Not much shade if you are tenting, but if you luck out, you could get some endangered bighorn sheep coming through the campground.
Sites are paved and great for RV's. There are also sites good for tenting. (Again, no shade. Summer is brutally hot. Spring and fall are the most pleasant.)
GuideVery clean, well-maintained, and nice location. Very strict check-in time. However, you can tell they are cleaning the sites and making sure the sites are in order. They rake around the fire ring, so you know they checked it. Park rangers are driving around. Staff are really nice and helpful. Flush toilets, bathrooms, well lit, and warm showers. I recommend checking out the visitor’s center for free maps and information. There’s a lot to do in the area. Bring your bikes. There’s also a trailhead to the oasis right in the campground. Not too difficult. The main trail is not as difficult as the alternate trail. Theres cool metal art throughout the area. A tiny town with a couple markets and places to eat. I was able to hike The Slot canyon, which was awesome. Just take note, when you enter the canyon from the trailhead, there is a large boulder/outcrop you have crawl over/under. THAT IS YOUR POINT OF ENTRY/EXIT. don’t pass it like I did and and nearly get lost. All the trails start to look the same after a while. All in all, it’s a good hike, maybe not for smaller children or larger people, because some of it I had to remove my backpack in order to fit through. Can’t go wrong with Anza-Borrego.
TravelerWe visited Anza-Borrego State Park for the first time over Christmas weekend, as a group of 3. Decided to camp here due to its proximity to the park sights and ease of getting to it. We stayed at site 117 which was very spacious and fit our large tent no problem. All sites feature a fire pit and picnic table. Depending on which site you choose it can have space for multiple tents (seemed like most of them) or only have space for one. There are a handful of sites that are extra cool - they feature stone ramadas with a built in fireplace and tables (sites 116, 104, and 107). I would opt for one of those sites next time! The campground was pretty quiet at night. We didn't have any neighbors too close to us. The stars at night are gorgeous! You can spend hours just staring up at the sky. The Palm Canyon trail starts from the campground - no need to drive to the trailhead, and it is a hike worth doing. There are several open air toilets around the campground. I expected them to be pit toilets but they flush. There are regular building toilets with sinks as well. The only downsides to camping here are 1) at night you can see the lights of the town (doesn't interfere with stars at least), and 2) the cost. I would try one of the other more remote campgrounds next time or dispersed camping, now that I've been and know the area better.
LegendIt's a fine campground. There is a check-in kiosk that was well run and you can pay for an extra car or an open site with a credit card.* The sites are set up in two main loops. One for big campers and one for the rest of us. There is no real separation between sites.
This is convenience based campground. You're at the jump-off for some challenging yet accessible hikes into the desert. Close enough to town to ride a bike for ice cream. The camp has flush toilets and token based showers.** Each site has a deep fire pit, a picnic table under a shade pergola, and access to a nearby water source. Oh yeah, and it's less than two hours from San Diego.
The outer ring sites look out towards the desert. You'll always know you're in civilization, but they offer the illusion of solitude...if you can tune out the generators. There will be generators, and probably unattended kids riding e-bikes or kicking balls at you as your try to use the bathroom. Site 75 is a great site because in addition to looking out away from inner loop, the fire place is set further away from driveway and picnic table. Site 56 is fine. It's just fine.
Temper your expectations for desert solitude, appreciate the conveniences for what they are, and this becomes a four star site. The site is mostly, always, definitely full, but cancellations offer last chance drive up opportunities. The park rangers said that most sites were booked through the entire season which ends at the end of April, and we couldn't find a site when searching online for a second night (Saturday), but there were at least three open sites whose reservations had been canceled we could have stayed in.
Notes:
Anza is particularly great for star gazing and spring flowers. There are often big horn sheep along the Palm Canyon trail leaving camp. We met one we named Barnabas.
Extra vehicles are an additional $10.
*Pro-tip: Fire wood is cash only. It's not bad 3 bundles for $20. If you don't have cash, you can find wood in town for cheaper without the convenience of it being at camp.
**Pro-tip: Showers require tokens which are purchased from a machine. 2 tokens for $1. 1 token = 2m in the shower.
Ranger
Great place to camp in Southern California. Beautiful beach!
ScoutGorgeous oceanview campground! Clean restrooms and showers. Nearby grocery store. Beautiful visit to California coast!
Scout
Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, within the San Jacinto District, Marion Mt. Campground is one of the best camping sites in Southern California. Located in a beautiful mountain setting this site provides all the peace and tranquility a soul longs for.
Guide
This park is great for all Southern California natives to get away for the weekend. Has clean facilities and the campgrounds have ample space between them. This area has a ton of beautiful landscape, during the fall/winter wonderful foliage appears. Leave no trace & enjoy our lands!
GuideOne of best beach campgrounds in California. Beach is right there next to camping. Restroom and shower are clean even though too many people there
Guide
In the back of a small town 2 miles behind a stater brother's. Most sites are near level on gravel and close together. Laundry uses quarters or a third party app to pay. Geese send birds roam around sites. Menifee is central to the southern California mountains of north south and east in addition to the beaches 1-2hrs west.
Scout
Best place ever!! Tent camping, RV camping, they have a restaurant and bar, best burgers in all of southern California!! They also have a small store, there's showers, restrooms and a swimming pool! Tent camping along Santa Ana River, you can also fish and hike. So amazing and beautiful, awesome memories made!!
Ranger
This is a great family campground right around the corner from Temecula, Murrietta, and Menifee. It has tent, partial, and full hookup sites along with a camp store, fishing, biking, bathrooms, and day use areas. The lake is beautiful and boating is also an option. The fishing costs an extra fee per day on top of your California State License, so it’s a bit pricy. There are also nice hiking trails near the campground.
Ranger
we stayed here because we wanted to do the zipline and they offered a discount to campers. we walked up and got a spot, the campground was very loud and crowded. california is in a drought so the water was very shallow and we couldn't tube in it as planned. we were warned about thefts prior to going so we didnt bring anything of value other than our tents and I'm glad we didnt. we ended up leaving after the zipline adventure because it was just too loud to stay. if you are looking for a party, this is the place but if you want a peaceful adventure in nature, go somewhere else.
RangerIf you’re headed to San Diego, be sure to stop and check out Carlsbad just off of the 5. this awesome beach town is quintessential Southern California beach awesomeness and it is absolutely gorgeous. Camp right off of the beach as well as have access to local shopping and restaurants. While you camp, you’ve got to check out Carlsbad cliffs for some stellar views. There are also loads of beach activities like whale watching, kayaking, surfing, fishing, and paddle boarding! My secret spot for the best fish and chips EVER is close by in Oceanside called “Harbor Fish n’ Chips.” Be sure to check this place out!
ScoutSouth Carlsbad State Beach is extremely crowded (like many coastal campsites in Southern California), but has very easy access to your own space on the beach below the cliffs.
We scored a last minute site because the weather was cold and windy on a Saturday in February, otherwise BOOK IN ADVANCE.
There are lots of RVs, kids riding their bikes, and dogs galore, all of which are fun, but if you’re looking for a private site, look elsewhere!
Fire Pits and a picnic table at each campsite and plenty of area to park your car and set up a table/easy up/etc.
If you book on the West or Ocean side, only a chain link fence separates you from the beautiful sunsets the Pacific Ocean has to offer!
GuideThis was my first California camping experience. South Carlsbad State Beach makes camping easy. The beach is close by and the facilities are clean. It's been a few years since I've been, but I don't remember a lot of trees. It's very convenient and easy to camp with your family, especially if you enjoy the beach. A lot of people around us had campers. We were tent camping, so although it was easy to set up the ground was a little hard when putting in the tent stakes. We were there during the summer, so the day time can get a little hot. But when it gets hot, head to the beach to cool off! Aside from the hard ground and minimal trees, it's still a great place to camp and quite a popular one as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Anza, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Anza, CA is Lake Hemet Campground with a 4-star rating from 38 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Anza, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 49 glamping camping locations near Anza, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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