Best Campgrounds near Capistrano Beach, CA

Capistrano Beach, CA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Capistrano Beach is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Capistrano Beach, CA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Capistrano Beach, California (133)

    1. San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    52 Reviews
    San Clemente, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (949) 492-4872

    $250 / night

    "San Mateo is one of the better beach campgrounds in California, some sites have some great privacy."

    "Another beautiful gem along the California Coast. Although not on or too near the beach, this campground is truly a lovely spot. All or most of the campsites boast a bit of privacy."

    2. San Clemente State Beach Campground

    37 Reviews
    San Clemente, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (949) 492-3156

    $45 - $300 / night

    "California beach camping can be very hard to come by. Unlike some other campgrounds in Southern California this one gives you ample room to move around and set up camp."

    "The hardcore surfing nomads stealth camp in their bubble-top vans outside of the park on the streets. Walking distance to Cottons point for surfing and to hangout among the beach huts."

    3. Doheny State Beach Campground

    35 Reviews
    Capistrano Beach, CA
    1 mile

    $50 - $350 / night

    "I frequently stay at this site since it's close to my house and on the beach. 

    THE SITES:

    The middle sites are small and tight, offering little privacy."

    "This campground is at the edge of the Dana Point Harbor.  The sites are small, but many of them are right on the beach.  All sites have easy access to the beach.  "

    4. Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park

    35 Reviews
    Laguna Beach, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 444-7275

    $75 / night

    "Luckily Booked last minute on reserve California (the worst web thing ever) on site 49. Looks like there is a oven view from every site. Close to beach and shopping."

    "There is an elementary school adjacent to the campground so you get a few PA announcements to start your day.

    There is a small visitor's center on site."

    5. Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park

    22 Reviews
    Coto de Caza, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (949) 923-2210

    $20 - $25 / night

    "Tucked on the outskirts of Mission Viejo is an oasis of green grass and groves of the twisting and searching limbs of Coastal Live Oak trees.  "

    "Rangers at entrance to check for pets (not allowed) and where you can buy bundles of wood for $5 if you want. Technically not allowed to bring in outside wood."

    6. San Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping

    20 Reviews
    San Clemente, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 763-7263

    $45 / night

    "The campground is on the bluffs, and nearby Old Man's beach has some of the best beginner's surfing waves in Southern California."

    "This military campground is located within walking distance of two world class surfing breaks; Old Man's and Tressels. This campground has a variety of camp spots from tent, RV to cabins."

    7. Bluffs Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    20 Reviews
    San Clemente, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (949) 492-4872

    $250 / night

    "Camping cliff side along the beach in Southern California. The camp grounds are a little cramped. Seem more designed for RV’s and trailers but we don’t mind."

    "During the open season on weekends it fills up quickly, during the weekdays it is kind of busy as well but there are still some walk up spaces available."

    8. O'Neill Regional Park

    29 Reviews
    Trabuco Canyon, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (949) 923-2260

    $20 / night

    "It's tucked back in the canyon, but you will still hear all the traffic from the road. Since it is a canyon, many loud cars and motorcycles zoom past at high speeds. 

    Free dump station.  "

    "Behind my Camp site was a few different hiking paths. Restroom buildings have water, toilets, and showers. It says to bring quarters for the showers but they were free. Each site is typical..."

    9. Newport Dunes RV Resort

    26 Reviews
    Newport Beach, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 765-7661

    $75 - $550 / night

    "As we expected, the sites are stacked up next to each other like dominoes with minimal foliage/fencing to separate the sites."

    "There's a nice bike trail that circles around the bay, which is great for kids. Also, lots of amenities for families, including playgrounds, water toys, movie nights and fire pits."

    10. Blue Jay Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    21 Reviews
    Trabuco Canyon, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (858) 673-6180

    $20 / night

    "We were able to find a spot tucked away off one of the loops to the left after a small hill. Neighbors played loud music but we didn’t mind at all."

    "clean restrooms and sites. large campground with paved roads was nice for strolling through. pretty far off the beaten path above lake elsinore. the views near by were fantastic. the staff was fairly friendly"

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Recent Reviews near Capistrano Beach, CA

1056 Reviews of 133 Capistrano Beach Campgrounds



Guide to Capistrano Beach

Camping near Capistrano Beach, California, offers a fantastic mix of ocean views, outdoor activities, and family-friendly environments. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds are just a short walk from the beach. For instance, at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground, you can enjoy direct beach access and even watch dolphins and seals playing in the waves.
  • Hiking and Biking: Trails abound in the area. Campers at San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach appreciate the nearby bike lanes that lead into Oceanside and Encinitas, making it perfect for biking or running.
  • Fishing and Water Sports: Many campgrounds, like Doheny State Beach Campground, are close to fishing spots and offer opportunities for paddleboarding and kayaking.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning sunsets and ocean breezes at San Clemente State Beach Campground. One reviewer noted, "Believe it or not, this was the first camp spot we stayed at with my family and it was my wife's first time ever camping since!"
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, such as Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park, are praised for their cleanliness. A visitor mentioned, "The bathrooms were spotless and being cleaned frequently."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Newport Dunes RV Resort are great for families. One camper said, "Wonderful spot for families looking for a place with lots to do."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Conditions: Some campgrounds can get quite busy, especially on weekends. A reviewer at San Mateo Campground mentioned, "It can get very crowded and packed."
  • Limited Hookups: Not all sites offer full hookups. For example, at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground, most sites have no hookups, but there are clean bathrooms and fresh water available.
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise, especially if you're near busy roads. A camper at Doheny State Beach Campground noted, "There is a ton of road noise coming off of the highway even late at night."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Site: Look for sites that offer more space and privacy. At San Mateo Campground, one reviewer highlighted, "The campground is set up as a bunch of loops with a large common area between the rear of every campsite."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or scooters for kids to enjoy the nearby trails. Campers at Moro Campground enjoyed biking along the coast.
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy during outdoor adventures. A visitor at Newport Dunes RV Resort mentioned, "There are many activities and amenities offered including a water park."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Doheny State Beach Campground noted, "If you are in an RV, you will be fine."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some RV sites can be close together, so be considerate of your neighbors. A camper at Newport Dunes RV Resort said, "It’s a huge campground... Sites are very tight."
  • Plan for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with good facilities. Campers at San Clemente State Beach Campground appreciated the clean bathrooms and showers.

Camping near Capistrano Beach, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful beaches, scenic views, and plenty of activities, it's a perfect getaway spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Capistrano Beach, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Capistrano Beach, CA is San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach with a 4.2-star rating from 52 reviews.

What parks are near Capistrano Beach, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Capistrano Beach, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.