Best Tent Camping near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA

Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near Cardiff-by-the-Sea? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. Search nearby tent campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California (14)

    Mateo J.'s photo of tent camping at Kumeyaay Lake Campground near Santee, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Kumeyaay Lake Campground near Santee, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Kumeyaay Lake Campground near Santee, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Kumeyaay Lake Campground near Santee, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Kumeyaay Lake Campground near Santee, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Kumeyaay Lake Campground near Santee, CA

    1. Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    20 Reviews
    45 Photos
    374 Saves
    Santee, California

    The Kumeyaay Lake Campground is open for Friday and Saturday night camping. The 46 campsites are available for reservation on a first-come, first-serve basis and the is $22.66 per night. On the reservation website page, go to the "Location" drop-down menu at the top of the page and select Kumeyaay Lake Campground. All cancellations must be made 14 days in advance.

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Equestrian

    $24 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at The Eyrie Farm near Ramona, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at The Eyrie Farm near Ramona, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at The Eyrie Farm near Ramona, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at The Eyrie Farm near Ramona, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at The Eyrie Farm near Ramona, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at The Eyrie Farm near Ramona, CA

    2. The Eyrie Farm

    1 Review
    8 Photos
    49 Saves
    Ramona, California

    We're an organic farm homestead. Springtime sees the field lush and green from the rains. Summer is hot and dry, but the cool evening breeze is nice. We have Red-tailed Hawks at their nest, hummingbirds, songbirds, and our own quail, chickens, turkeys and ducks to mingle with.

    Campsites are in our open back pasture, "Oat Prairie at Eyrie Farm." You'll probably hear coyotes at night.

    It's your responsibility as campers to be aware of our policies, including all rules, cancellation policy and check in/out times (which are local PST). These policies are FIRM.

    Be advised at this time there is no toilet, it is Pack-It-Out. We will be adding a bathroom shed shortly.

    Every person-- adults and kids of ALL ages-- count toward party size. Children are not free.

    No RVs, trailers, or campers. No exceptions. Truck pop-up tents are fine. Additional cars after the first 2 are charged $10 each, cash on site. Carpool when possible!

    NO PETS. Guests with assistance animals must sign our assistance animal contract to stay. Be advised that assistance animal fraud is a crime, and we must protect ourselves and our animals.

    We are strictly unavailable after 9pm. It's best to arrive before nightfall as it's easier to fine. Once you get on our road you must LOOK for our number and signage on the LEFT side of the road (you'll receive address in your booking confirmation). Make sure you go to "Eyrie Farm" and no other place!

    Follow us on FaceBook! Search for "The Eyrie Farm":)

    We also sometimes host on Hipcamp, at the listing here:

    https://theeyriefarm.wordpress.com/

    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Drinking Water

    $30 / night

    GoodVibes Ranch & Farm M.'s photo of tent camping at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm near Dulzura, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm near Dulzura, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm near Dulzura, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm near Dulzura, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm near Dulzura, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm near Dulzura, CA

    3. GoodVibes Ranch & Farm

    2 Reviews
    52 Photos
    18 Saves
    Dulzura, California

    “Discover the Joy of Nature at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm: Your Ultimate Mountain Escape!” At GoodVibes Ranch & Farm, we offer a variety of camping options to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer traditional tent camping, glamping units, or eco-friendly trailers, we have something for everyone.

    Our campground is nestled in the breathtaking mountains of Jamul, California, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure.

    In addition to camping accommodations, we offer a range of activities to keep you entertained. Explore the surrounding hiking trails and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Challenge your friends to a game of disc golf or unwind with a friendly game of billiards.

    We pride ourselves on providing an affordable camping experience, making it the perfect choice for families or friends looking to gather and create lasting memories.

    Come and discover the joy of nature at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm, your ultimate mountain escape!

    At GoodVibes Ranch & Farm, we provide a range of amenities to ensure your comfort and convenience during your camping experience. With 74 Acres you have ample space around your individual campsites to enjoy with friends and family. To utilize amenities such as disc golf or billiards check in at front desk to access. Hiking or Disc Golf maps are also at front desk. Our campground offers separate men's and women's bathrooms, as well as a shower area where you can freshen up after a day of outdoor activities.

    For those who prefer to cook their own meals, we have a fully equipped kitchen available for your use. Stay connected with our WiFi access and enjoy the convenience of well water throughout the campground.

    We also prioritize sustainability and have implemented a waste management system. You will find designated bins for garbage, recycling, and compost, allowing you to dispose of your waste responsibly.

    To enhance your camping experience, we have fire pits where you can gather around and enjoy a cozy campfire. Additionally, we provide a BBQ grill and picnic areas for you to enjoy outdoor meals with your loved ones.

    We strive to provide all the necessary amenities to make your stay enjoyable and hassle-free at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Cabins

    $50 - $175 / night

    Elsye W.'s photo of tent camping at Corte Madera Mountain near Guatay, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Corte Madera Mountain near Guatay, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Corte Madera Mountain near Guatay, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Corte Madera Mountain near Guatay, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Corte Madera Mountain near Guatay, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Corte Madera Mountain near Guatay, CA

    4. Corte Madera Mountain

    2 Reviews
    6 Photos
    115 Saves
    Guatay, California
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    david's photo of tent camping at Pine Creek Road Camp near Mount Laguna, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Pine Creek Road Camp near Mount Laguna, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Pine Creek Road Camp near Mount Laguna, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Pine Creek Road Camp near Mount Laguna, CA

    5. Pine Creek Road Camp

    3 Reviews
    3 Photos
    78 Saves
    Mount Laguna, California
    • Pets
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Andrew C.'s photo of tent camping at Corral Canyon Campground near Potrero, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Corral Canyon Campground near Potrero, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Corral Canyon Campground near Potrero, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Corral Canyon Campground near Potrero, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Corral Canyon Campground near Potrero, CA

    6. Corral Canyon Campground

    2 Reviews
    3 Photos
    24 Saves
    Potrero, California

    Corral Canyon CampgroundDistance1.2 miles with connecting optionsCampfiresCampfires are not allowed when elevated fire restrictions are in effect. Please see our current fire restrictions page for more details.FeesAdventure Pass RequiredHike/Ride TimeHalf dayDifficultyEasy to ModerateBest SeasonsSpring, WinterLocationOff the I-8 at Buckman Springs Rd. Turn right on Buckman Springs rd. to Morena Stokes Valley rd, travel 10 miles to reach Four Corners Staging area and continue to the campgroundRanger DistrictDescanso Ranger District - (619) 445-6235 Corral Canyon Campground is located within the Corral Canyon OHV Area and provides a secluded camping opportunity for those using the surrounding trails. Campsites are nestled amongst an Oak grove with views of chaparral and desert for miles. Trails can be accessed from just outside of the campground, linking many to__the greater OHV Area for more options. Each parking sport was designed to accommodate vehicles towing up to 27ft. trailers.20 sites are available and OHV use is allowed with a Green Sticker (required). Please note that there is no potable water in the campground or within the local Corral Canyon and Bear Valley area.

    • Tents
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo at Kitchen Creek Road near Mount Laguna, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Kitchen Creek Road near Mount Laguna, CA

    7. Kitchen Creek Road

    4 Reviews
    2 Photos
    126 Saves
    Mount Laguna, California
    • Pets
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo at Los Coyotes Camp Cahuilla Reservation near San Ysidro, CA
    Jessica C.'s photo of tent camping at Falcon Group Campground near Trabuco Canyon, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Falcon Group Campground near Trabuco Canyon, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Falcon Group Campground near Trabuco Canyon, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Falcon Group Campground near Trabuco Canyon, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Falcon Group Campground near Trabuco Canyon, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Falcon Group Campground near Trabuco Canyon, CA

    9. Falcon Group Campground

    1 Review
    6 Photos
    30 Saves
    Trabuco Canyon, California

    Overview

    Falcon Group Campground has three individual group campsites just off the scenic Ortega Highway in Southern California, which connects San Juan Capistrano and Temecula Valley Highway. The pleasant climate, scenery, trail system and convenient location, make this a popular destination for groups from Los Angeles and San Diego. Hiking is especially popular among campers.

    Recreation

    Hikers of any level can find trails that challenge and accommodate their recreational goals around the campground. Among them are the Falcon Trail, a 1.4-mile easy trail that connects to the campground, and Trabuco Canyon Trail, which provides scenic 6.8-mile hike into the backcountry. The San Juan Trial, which is popular with mountain bikers, has a trailhead at Blue Jay campground, adjacent from Falcon Group Campground. The trail climbs a very steep set of stacked switchbacks from the floor of Hot Springs Canyon and traverses briefly before steeply ascending a ridge toward Sugarloaf Mountain. There are also many ideal picnic spots and scenic overlooks along Ortega Highway.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits at an elevation of 3,300 ft. off the Ortega Highway scenic drive in the Santa Ana Mountains, a route that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, valleys and forest. The area lies in a mixed forest and chaparral ecosystem and is inhabited by a variety of birds, plants and wildlife.

    Nearby Attractions

    The closest town is Lake Elsinore, which has various shops, restaurants and recreation opportunities.

    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $60 - $120 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at YMCA Camp Surf near Imperial Beach, CA

    10. YMCA Camp Surf

    Be the first to review!
    10 Saves
    Imperial Beach, California

    There's nothing else like it in Southern California - forty-five acres of beautiful campgrounds right on the Pacific Ocean.

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
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Showing results 1-10 of 14 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California

1196 Reviews of 14 Cardiff-by-the-Sea Campgrounds


  • Gary R.
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Mar. 14, 2022

    San Clemente State Beach Campground

    Great weekend spot

    Campground is separated by large parking spots (class A/C or travel trailers) and the other is geared towards smaller setups (smaller trailers and tents). Some spots have great shade over the picnic table (we hung our hammock on ours), and all of the tent sites have fire pits. Some units are on a slope so keep an eye out for that if you are tent camping. Bathrooms were clean and showers have token dispensers right by the showers. Got pretty cold at night.

  • Jason L.
    Camper-submitted photo from San Elijo State Beach Campground
    Nov. 15, 2022

    San Elijo State Beach Campground

    Great beach camping!

    Fun beachside campground in Cardiff by the Sea, California. Not quiet or remote at all. Nice local market and lots of restaurants nearby. Great surf spot. I’ve dry camped here many times and have always enjoyed it. Dog friendly beach! *on leash

  • MomentoMori C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweet Oaks Winery - Temporarily Closed
    Nov. 30, 2020

    Sweet Oaks Winery - Temporarily Closed

    Great camping for newbies

    Sweet Oaks winery campgrounds has 16 sites available for both tent camping and RV’s (no hook-ups). It’s pretty close to grocery stores and big box stores just in case you forgot some gear/supplies. They have a beautiful well-kept property with super-clean restrooms (no showers). They do have a water hose for you to fill up your tanks or Jerry cans. They didn’t allow campfires due to high fire danger though. You’ll have to bring your own fire pit setup if they ever allow them in the future. It was a beautiful walk around the vineyards but there are also hiking trails nearby. It’s off a road suitable for road bikes but there are also mountain bike trails nearby. They have equestrian activities also available for guests. We were able to get our tin top Eurovan to fit on one of their tent sites which offered a beautiful view of Temecula valley. The wine tasting room was closed due to the pandemic but you can order wine online and they will deliver to your site. One more thing, we counted about 8 hot air balloons as we had breakfast!

  • Prisc M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Jennings
    Sep. 16, 2017

    Lake Jennings

    lake jennings was a dream. local fun, good vibes, and a blast with good friends!

    Tent camping overnight!

  • Shainna M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Mar. 3, 2023

    Dos Picos County Park

    Gorgeous!

    Great county park. Quiet and well maintained. Pay showers. $29/ night. Pets welcome. Fire pits and picnic tables at each site. Tent camping available as well.

  • Paula A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Grove Campground
    May. 10, 2022

    Oak Grove Campground

    Great place

    This is totally a great place to go tent camping it's peaceful and quiet during the week. It's clean and just a fun place to camp.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Ramona Oaks RV Resort
    Aug. 19, 2020

    Ramona Oaks RV Resort

    Close by get away

    Went camping in August, during a heatwave, and had Covid restrictions. Even with all of that, we had a good time! We were in spot 21 right by the pond. Camped in a tent trailer and had plenty of room to set up an outdoor sitting and cooking areas. The only issue was “meat bees” that came around when we were trying to eat. Bathrooms were clean and stocked with supplies. Pool was nice and refreshing but had little shaded areas. We definitely would camp there again when it isn’t so hot!

  • Sade H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Observatory Campground
    Nov. 29, 2024

    Observatory Campground

    Love this place!

    I brought my family with our 2 dogs for Thanksgiving and unfortunately we left early because it was a major danger for our dogs with the very bold and brave coyotes.

    We tent camped but I feel like if we had an RV it would have been safer for the dogs.. for us alone with out the dogs, tent camping would have been fine!

    Other than that. BEAUTIFUL!!! We loved every single moment from the colorful drive up to the stars and checking out the observatory which was also pet friendly. It’s SO FUN to see all the different color leaves and the sunsets, the sunrises, the crisp air, the views on the way up….all of it was so beautiful.

  • Renee C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Strand State Beach
    Jan. 19, 2022

    Silver Strand State Beach

    No Tent Camping

    There has never been tent camping allowed here. There is RV or trailer camping but no tent and no bathrooms here.   Make sure you check the water quality since it can be an issue at times since it is near the Mexico border.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Nov. 8, 2018

    Dos Picos County Park

    Great for Kids & Adults

    I have only tent camped here and enjoyed the quite and clean site. I like that it is not far from civilization but feels very remote. My kids caught their first fish in the little pond.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Nov. 8, 2018

    Dos Picos County Park

    Great for Kids and Adults

    I have only tent camped here and really enjoyed the clean and quiet spot not too far from civilization but feels like in the middle of nowhere. My kids caught their first fish in the little pond :)

  • Jose J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fiddlers Cove RV Park
    Feb. 27, 2024

    Fiddlers Cove RV Park

    Great Military Base Park

    Can’t say enough about this park. 56 full hook up spaces and two tent camping spots. Very clean and very friendly staff. Definitely recommend and will go back again soon. Has on site shower and laundry facilities.

  • Jonathan G.
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Oct. 27, 2020

    South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    Good surf, close to town

    We had a group of five here for a weekend of tent camping, and it was great. The campground is small which means everyone is fairly close together but everything is nearby. Head down to the water for surf!

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Jul. 28, 2018

    San Clemente State Beach Campground

    Great Beach Camp

    We tent camped here. The campground is large, so most spaces have a lot of room. Lots of amenities for those that need them. Short walk to the beach. Some seasons, the beach is very rocky and difficult to swim.

  • Care B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Sep. 24, 2022

    Dixon Lake Campground

    Spot #45

    Spot #45 is very private, I highly suggest this spot!! I don’t tent camp, and there is a spot to pull my van up which was perfect! Dogs are only $1 a night & they have a small snack stand during the day

  • Jill F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park
    Aug. 31, 2018

    William Heise County Park

    Tame camping

    Cabins are fun and shelter you from the occasional strong gusty winds.

    Tent camping in the rain is also do-able here due to the temperate climate. There are a couple playgrounds, so a very kid-friendly environment as well.

  • Leslie M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Del Mar Beach Cottages
    Jul. 15, 2018

    Del Mar Beach Cottages

    Oceanfront

    Campsites are fairly tight together. Our tent site was second row, intermixed with rvs. But being that close to the ocean was wonderful! You just can’t beat falling asleep to ocean waves!

  • Mei S.
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Aug. 9, 2017

    South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    Great site

    Super beautiful area (obviously), with a tent site overlooking the beach (but fenced in). Wish we could camp on the actul beach but that is rare. There was privacy and it wasnt overcrowded.

  • Leslie M.
    Camper-submitted photo from San Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping
    Jul. 15, 2018

    San Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping

    Beachfront

    We tent camped here. The sites are TIGHT sand the campground crowded. BUT, the tent spots are ocean front. It was wonderful! so for that I could overlook the crowded sites. It is more for surfing than playing in the waves on the beach, there are rocks spread out making it less enjoyable for kids, but our crew were happy there.

  • V
    Camper-submitted photo from Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
    Jul. 10, 2018

    Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

    Tent camping and must-do hike

    have only tent camped so not sure about hook ups. hike across the road is great but do it early before it gets hot. bathrooms get a little trashed by Sunday morning. crew doesn’t keep up. spots nice size for three tents, group of 8. bring ant spray. hard to get reservations. stop for breakfast at the lake while you’re in the area.

  • Jesse C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ramona Oaks RV Resort
    Jul. 6, 2020

    Ramona Oaks RV Resort

    Ramona Oaks

    Ramona Oaks is exactly what it says RV Resort, they do have 4 tent sites available which are ok just very rocky. One thing i didn’t like was the tent sites being so close to the main road that all night long you hear semi trucks and rice burners with their load exhaust driving down the windy road. A lot of the RV spots look to be permanent or semi permanent residence and nobody really comes out to socialize. There wasn’t a lot of kids out like i thought there would be like when i used to go camping as a kid. They do have a small lake that is catch and release only, don’t know exactly what fish are in there but i did catch a few sun fish. They do have a nice playground for the kids.

  • John B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Cuyamaca Recreation and Park District
    Jun. 5, 2023

    Lake Cuyamaca Recreation and Park District

    Great Time Nice Facility

    Friendly staff kept everything clean and gave great advice. Some in our party tent camped and had the best space, view, shade trees. We had a trailer as well, nice and level with water and power. Both had aluminum picnic tables and iron grills. Propane fire pits we allowed but no wood fires.

  • Scott N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluffs Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Jun. 21, 2022

    Bluffs Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    Fun but loud

    If you want tent camping on the coast, this is one of the few SoCal offerings that provides. The shortcoming is the proximity to the railroad, especially that 4am freight line which I’d be shocked didn’t wake everyone up who was tented. Other than that, the wave is worthwhile, but will require a lil hoofing to get ya there. Amenities were better then anticipated

  • Madisyn L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Woods Valley Kampground
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Woods Valley Kampground

    So beautiful, quiet, and very nice employees !!

    My fiancé and I were last minute camping and this campground was beautiful, quiet, and very aesthetic! There is a lot to do near by, a very convenient store about 5-10 minutes away called valley center foods! Employees were sooo sweet and friendly! DID NOT DISAPPOINT!! Ps isn’t that expensive when tent camping ⛺️ 🙌🏻


Guide to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Tent camping near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with a variety of well-reviewed campgrounds that cater to outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic hikes to serene lakes, there’s something for everyone.

Explore Scenic Hiking and Biking Trails

  • Experience the stunning trails at Kumeyaay Lake Campground, where you can enjoy amazing hiking and mountain biking opportunities in Mission Trails Regional Park.
  • The GoodVibes Ranch & Farm features beautiful hiking paths across its 150 acres, perfect for exploring the natural beauty of the area.
  • For a more secluded experience, Corte Madera Mountain offers a 7.5-mile out-and-back trail with breathtaking views, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.

Affordable Tent Camping Options

  • Tent camping at Kumeyaay Lake Campground is budget-friendly, with prices around $22 per night, making it a great choice for weekend getaways.
  • At The Eyrie Farm, you can camp for just $15, providing a unique experience on an organic farm with plenty of animals around.
  • For a more rustic experience, Pine Creek Road Camp offers free dispersed camping, allowing you to enjoy nature without the cost.

Unique Features and Amenities

  • GoodVibes Ranch & Farm provides outdoor hot showers and flushable toilets, elevating your camping experience to a glamping level.
  • At YMCA Camp Surf, you’ll find amenities like picnic tables and trash disposal, ensuring a comfortable stay.
  • Corral Canyon Campground is known for its incredible privacy, with only a few other campers around, making it a peaceful retreat in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA is Kumeyaay Lake Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 20 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 14 tent camping locations near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.