Campgrounds near Capistrano Beach, California range from ocean-adjacent sites to inland wilderness settings across the Santa Ana Mountains. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F at coastal sites, while inland campgrounds can be 5-10 degrees warmer. The region's Mediterranean climate supports year-round camping with peak visitation from May through September when weekend reservations become essential.
What to do
Biking to Trestles Beach: From San Mateo Campground, take the 1.5-mile trail to Trestles Beach for surfing. "I suggest to follow their lead. Bring a bike to explore the loops and trail to beach. Walking the one mile each way to the beach was nice with our dog on leash because the terrain has snake potential," notes Jeannie B.
Hiking in wilderness parks: The oak-studded canyons at Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park offer trails ranging from 1 to 12 miles. "There are a number of hiking trails around that range from a 1 to 12 miles. On Saturdays there's a nature walk," shares Berton M.
Beach activities beyond swimming: The rocky shores at San Onofre Bluffs provide unique coastal exploration. "The beach has less crowds/tourists/homeless compared to other beaches. It's really quite and peaceful," reports a visitor. At low tide, you can observe marine creatures in tide pools along several beaches in the area.
What campers like
Privacy at inland sites: O'Neill Regional Park offers a secluded feel despite being near urban areas. "ONeil is a great little park that's tucked away among the urban sprawl of Orange County. Once in the park you feel like you're far out in the wilderness," states Berton M.
Beachfront camping options: At Doheny State Beach Campground, you can camp steps from the sand. "Beautiful beachfront camping steps from the sand. Dry camping with a dump station available. Great sunsets and beautiful sand," shares Paul N.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers report seeing diverse wildlife across local campgrounds. "Lots of little animals hanging out (rabbits, birds, chipmunks). Those chipmunks will definitely go for your stuff if you don't pack it away," warns a camper at Blue Jay Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most coastal sites fill 3-6 months in advance, especially during summer weekends. For San Clemente State Beach, a camper notes: "Paved spots. Full hook ups. Short walk to the beach!"
Ant problems: Several campgrounds in the area report ant issues. "We made the mistake of not being prepared for the ANTS!!! Campground looked pretty cool, so close to the beach, some trails nearby... but we picked up about a gazillion ants," warns C M. from San Mateo Campground.
Shower facilities: Most state beaches require tokens for showers, costing $0.50-$1.00 per use. "They have a nice day area and trails within walking distance. The showers are coin operated but it didn't take many coins to get a decent warm shower," reports Amy H.
Noise considerations: Train tracks and highways run near several coastal campgrounds. "Growing up in SoCal, I had thought this would be a lousy place to go camping when I would drive by on the 5 Freeway. But after I had gone with a group of friends for a weekend trip, I totally changed my mind... You can't hear the freeway traffic," explains Terree R.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Moro Campground at Crystal Cove offers family-oriented amenities. "My family camps here often, it's one of the closest beach campgrounds to us and the views are amazing. The sites are terraced, so no matter which site you get you'll have a view of the ocean," shares Elly A.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Each campsite has a fire container, barbeque, and a picnic table under trellis type structure. Clean flush toilets. Beautiful location next to the ocean," explains Les S.
Safety considerations: Watch for wildlife and hazards on trails. "We did see that someone had to be rescued from the riverbed while we were there, so be careful if you plan to climb down into it," warns a visitor at Caspers Wilderness Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: At coastal campgrounds, request sites away from restrooms for more privacy. "The middle sites are small and tight, offering little privacy. You will be right next to your neighbor. The outside sites along the edge of the campground are much more spacious."
Dump station information: Most state parks charge $10-15 for dump station use. "Dump site: When we first arrive it was out of order with a 'clogged signed'. It was fixed the following day. There is a $10 fee, they have a convenient credit card machine," reports Manuel P.
Water fill access: Bring a splitter for shared water spigots at campgrounds without full hookups. "Very well maintained campgrounds with quality facilities located throughout. $20 a night, they have water spigots shared between campsites (if you bring a 'y' you can stay connected, otherwise fill tanks and disconnect)," advises James.
