Campgrounds in Carlsbad, CA
Carlsbad is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Carlsbad. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Carlsbad camping trip.
Best Camping Sites Near Carlsbad, CA (173)
1. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
Carlsbad, California74 Reviews•164 Photos•1011 SavesFor 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.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$50 - $650 / night
2. San Elijo State Beach Campground
Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California36 Reviews•75 Photos•1120 SavesLocated on the San Diego Coast, San Elijo Campground offers camping, swimming, surfing, showers and picnicking. The narrow, bluff-backed stretch of sand has a nearby reef popular with snorkelers and divers. A camp store and snack bar located near the campground entrance operates March through December and provides all the amenities a camper may need including some RV supplies, boogie boards, and firewood. This San Elijo camping destination requires reservations for its 171 campsites.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$50 - $520 / night
3. San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
San Clemente, California50 Reviews•92 Photos•521 SavesDetails here: https://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/647/files/SanMateo082609.pdf San Mateo Campground lies a short distance inland from the 3.5-miles of sandy beaches within San Onofre State Beach A 1.5-mile Nature Trail connects the campground to Trestles Beach, a world class surfing site. San Mateo Creek flows just east of the campground outward towards the ocean creating key riparian and wetland habitats which host some rare and even endangered species. All campsites include a fire pit and picnic table. Hookup sites are available with electricity and water. Other amenities include an RV sanitation station, hot, coin-operated indoor showers, and flush toilets. Below are listed a few park rules that will assist you in having a fun and save visit. San Onofre - San Mateo Campground is at 830 Cristianitos, San Clemente, CA, 92672 a short distance inland from the 3.5-miles of sandy beaches within San Onofre State Beach. A 1.5-mile Nature Trail connects the San Mateo camping site to “Trestles Beach,” the world class surfing site. Surfers using redwood boards have visited San Onofre since at least the 1940s; San Mateo Creek flows just east of the campground outward towards the ocean creating key riparian and wetland habitats which host some rare and even endangered species. All campsites include a fire pit and picnic table. RV Hookup sites are available with electricity and water. Other amenities includes a dump-station, hot indoor showers, and flush toilets. Camping is available year-round.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$250 / night
4. Dos Picos County Park
Poway, California32 Reviews•87 Photos•267 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$24 - $100 / night
5. Dixon Lake Campground
Escondido, California25 Reviews•70 Photos•397 Saves- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$39 - $50 / night
6. San Clemente State Beach Campground
San Clemente, California36 Reviews•146 Photos•755 SavesCAMPING AND PICNICKING The family campground sits high atop the bluffs. Each of 160 sites has a fire ring and picnic table. Water faucets are nearby. The family campground has 72 RV spots, with electric and water hookups.
ACCESSIBLE FEATURES • Restrooms, showers, seven campsites, the visitor center, the Butterfly and Multi-Use Trails, and picnic sites near parking are accessible. Assistance may be needed on the steep trails to the beach. • Accessibility in state parks is continually improving. For recent updates, visit
Two group-camping areas can each hold 50 people. Each campground has hot showers, flush toilets, and sinks. Group camp #1 holds up to 20 RVs; Group camp #2 takes tent-only campers with a maximum of 10 vehicles. A picnic area displays sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean from bluffs 150 feet above the beach. Two group picnic areas are also available. The visitor center adjoins the 200-space parking area.
San Clemente State Beach camping is located at the south end of the city of San Clemente, California. The area around San Clemente is known for its ocean, hill, and mountain views, a pleasant climate and its Spanish Colonial style architecture. The city slogan is "Spanish Village by the Sea." Visitors are attracted to the San Clemente area for its intense winds and dramatic location.
San Clemente has been a California state beach since 1937 and is popular among water sport enthusiasts, and anyone who wishes to escape from inland heat and nearby metropolitan areas for the day. The beautiful mile long beach stretches between the curling ocean surf and the foot of a steep bluff.
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
$45 - $300 / night
7. Guajome Regional Park
Oceanside, California18 Reviews•132 Photos•192 SavesGuajome Regional Park is located in the coastal community of Oceanside and has a little bit of everything that San Diego County offers. Just 8 miles from the Pacific Ocean, the park is a great place to visit year-round, and is close to many natural and historic points of interest.
Some 4.5 miles of multi-use, non-motorized trails meander through diverse Southern California habitats such as woodlands, chaparral, wetlands and mixed grasslands. Two ponds attract a migratory birds and serve as home to a variety of fish that will test the skills of any angler.
Guajome also has two day-use areas with new playgrounds, a basketball court, restrooms and lots of green lawn space make this park ideal for picnicking – along with 33 tent and RV campsites, a caravan pavilion and a rustic cabin for those wishing to extend their stay overnight.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$29 - $35 / night
8. Lake Jennings
Lakeside, California31 Reviews•46 Photos•839 SavesLake Jennings is known for being one of the most scenic parks in all of San Diego County. It is a welcoming recreation destination located in Lakeside, California offering fishing, camping, hiking, and picnicking activities. The lake is a drinking water reservoir owned and operated by Helix Water District. The scenic views of the lake and the wooded surroundings make it feel as if you are in the middle of the wilderness, right outside of town.
Lake Jennings hosts a 97-space campground that is open seven days a week year-round. It’s located on the north side of Lake Jennings, with a variety of spaces available for RVs, Trailers, Campers and Tents. Come on out, take a paddleboat, rowboat or motorboat for the day, and enjoy the beautiful weather! Cozy coves make great picnic spots, so don’t forget your picnic basket.
Lake Jennings offers a great escape for novice or avid fishermen, and is open for shore fishing from the shoreline below the campground. Boat rentals, private boat launching, and fishing from our floating fishing dock is available Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. For your convenience, we have an on-site Bait and Tackle Shop open Friday through Sunday, offering a wide selection of bait, tackle, camping supplies, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Lake Jennings is a great destination for the serious and casual wildlife viewer and photographer. The rolling hills, the endless lake, the coastal sage, and the riparian areas provide a diverse habitat in a small area. Common sightings include deer, fox, and osprey. Bird watchers are equally drawn to Lake Jennings for its rich variety of bird species.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$35 - $140 / night
9. Oceanside RV Resort
Oceanside, California14 Reviews•57 Photos•117 SavesEager to camp near the beach? Oceanside RV Resort will overwhelm your senses with its perfect year-round climate and proximity to the Pacific Ocean.
Oceanside RV Resort offers beautiful accommodations with idyllic hillside sunrises and dramatic sunsets over the ocean. Enjoy a variety of full-hookup sites, free Wi-Fi and cable, game room, pool with spa, general store, bike rentals, and on-site laundry to make your stay ever so convenient.
The Resort is improving landscaping and site partitions to create a more tranquil stay. The Welcome Center was recently remodeled, which included the game room, laundry, and restrooms. We also converted to solar-powered as our contribution to the environment!
San Diego’s North County, Oceanside, is a classic California beach community. It boasts warm sandy beaches, a historic wooden pier, and a harbor village filled with surfing, fishing, and other activities. Oceanside is also central to Southern California’s famous attractions, including Legoland, SeaWorld, Disneyland, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. With its year-round sunny climate and average temperatures of 70 degrees, Oceanside’s weather has been rated by USA Today as the second-most ideal climate in the United States and the fifth-most ideal weather in the world.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
10. Doheny State Beach Campground
Capistrano Beach, California35 Reviews•118 Photos•22 SavesNorth Loop (sites 1-59, 120, 122)
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
$50 - $350 / night
Pet-friendly camping near Carlsbad
South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
1011 Saves
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.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
$50 - $650 / night
San Elijo State Beach Campground
1120 Saves
Located on the San Diego Coast, San Elijo Campground offers camping, swimming, surfing, showers and picnicking. The narrow, bluff-backed stretch of sand has a nearby reef popular with snorkelers and divers. A camp store and snack bar located near the campground entrance operates March through December and provides all the amenities a camper may need including some RV supplies, boogie boards, and firewood. This San Elijo camping destination requires reservations for its 171 campsites.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
$50 - $520 / night
San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
521 Saves
Details here: https://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/647/files/SanMateo082609.pdf San Mateo Campground lies a short distance inland from the 3.5-miles of sandy beaches within San Onofre State Beach A 1.5-mile Nature Trail connects the campground to Trestles Beach, a world class surfing site. San Mateo Creek flows just east of the campground outward towards the ocean creating key riparian and wetland habitats which host some rare and even endangered species. All campsites include a fire pit and picnic table. Hookup sites are available with electricity and water. Other amenities include an RV sanitation station, hot, coin-operated indoor showers, and flush toilets. Below are listed a few park rules that will assist you in having a fun and save visit. San Onofre - San Mateo Campground is at 830 Cristianitos, San Clemente, CA, 92672 a short distance inland from the 3.5-miles of sandy beaches within San Onofre State Beach. A 1.5-mile Nature Trail connects the San Mateo camping site to “Trestles Beach,” the world class surfing site. Surfers using redwood boards have visited San Onofre since at least the 1940s; San Mateo Creek flows just east of the campground outward towards the ocean creating key riparian and wetland habitats which host some rare and even endangered species. All campsites include a fire pit and picnic table. RV Hookup sites are available with electricity and water. Other amenities includes a dump-station, hot indoor showers, and flush toilets. Camping is available year-round.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
$250 / night
Dos Picos County Park
267 Saves
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
$24 - $100 / night
Dixon Lake Campground
397 Saves
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
$39 - $50 / night
Guajome Regional Park
192 Saves
Guajome Regional Park is located in the coastal community of Oceanside and has a little bit of everything that San Diego County offers. Just 8 miles from the Pacific Ocean, the park is a great place to visit year-round, and is close to many natural and historic points of interest.
Some 4.5 miles of multi-use, non-motorized trails meander through diverse Southern California habitats such as woodlands, chaparral, wetlands and mixed grasslands. Two ponds attract a migratory birds and serve as home to a variety of fish that will test the skills of any angler.
Guajome also has two day-use areas with new playgrounds, a basketball court, restrooms and lots of green lawn space make this park ideal for picnicking – along with 33 tent and RV campsites, a caravan pavilion and a rustic cabin for those wishing to extend their stay overnight.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
$29 - $35 / night
Recent Reviews in Carlsbad
1295 Reviews of 173 Carlsbad Campgrounds
- J
Jay S.
Scout
San Diego RV Resort
Expensive and extremely noisy
Stayed there for one month. Used generator intermittently during the non-quiet hours and neighbors were complaining. Instead of talking to us they when straight to the office like 12 year old tattletales to complain. Manager asked to come by and talk with her but was unable to come that day due to work schedule so I intended to talk with her the following day except when I got home they had left a letter on our RV telling us to leave at the end of our stay and never come back. Mind you this RV park is right next to I-8 and is extremely noisy throughout most of the day and night but an onboard generator during the daytime hours were just to much to bear…got it!
The laundry mat is $5 per load and several people have had their belongings stolen; at one time it was their own security guard who doing the stealing - you can’t make this stuff up. On the elite side there is a creek that runs through and is eroding the ground at the edge of the road and almost floods the park during rainy season. There’s too many reasons to NOT recommend this place. Take your hard earned money elsewhere.
- WWes L.Scout
Dos Picos County Park
Great Setting, Peaceful, and CLOSE to home!
This place is a jewel, and if you live in San Diego, right in your backyard! Rangers are super helpful and friendly, the campground is clean and quiet, and the setting is beautiful. There’s a tranquil pond, nice hiking trails, places for kids to play…. Just a fantastic option close to home for locals and well worth consideration for visitors to the area.
- FFrances L.
Guide
South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
Too close to highway
Campsites are right on top of each other. Highway is breathing down your neck. Beach is nice though.
- FFrances L.Guide
San Clemente State Beach Campground
One of the nicer of californias state beaches
Be mindful of their shower token system. Otherwise, a nice spot. Not too close to the highway. We saw a coyote, so watch your dogs.
Sade H.
Traveler
William Heise County Park
Fun but Dusty
We went in October with our AHG group. It was great and super dog friendly but WOW so much dirt created so much dust in the air and it got on everyone and everything. With that being said… TONS to do! Such beautiful sights to see! The drive up was amazing. They had plenty of water to wash and drink with a lot of bathrooms as well.
You can walk trails, stargaze, take your bikes around and so much more!
- Sade H.Traveler
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.
patty W.Guide
Paradise By The Sea RV Resort
Location Location Location
Just spent two weeks here including thanksgiving holiday. we watched this park fill to capacity the day before the holiday. We liked it better when there were a few empty spaces. It’s just how it is at RV parks like this-not much room. BUT- go out the locked gate at the back of the grounds, walk thru a park and across a (not too busy) street and there is the Pacific Ocean. The beach was hit hard by storms over the past year apparently and much sand has washed away. Leaving most of the beach covered in a thick layer of smooth river stones. Not easy to keep your balance on but doesnt hinder your walk to the surf too badly. We have loved our time here walking on the beach with our dog. This RV park is clean, has amenities like community room pool hot tub outdoor gathering area with tables with propane fireplace built in. It is also pretty expensive.
- KKolten J.Traveler
Wildomar Campground
Decent space.
Roads were bumpy but made it in a super low clearance rv (21ft). Had the place all to ourselves. A bit close to the other sites. Not bad
- Amanda B.Traveler
Native Falls Campground
Fun quick family stay
Very cute set up tent sites are right next to road but it’s not to busy of a road. They have a basketball court one, lake for fishing or swimming and paddle boats to go out on the lake. There are tv hook ups and cabins. I did not see any fire pits on sites. Bathrooms are ok and have locks which you need code for.
- RRich J.Guide
Doheny State Beach Campground
Beach Camp
Sweet campsite at Dana point surf break. Had a big crew along for spring break. Super nice but book early!
Jeff T.Traveler
Dixon Lake Campground
Great forestry feel. And good price ($30)
We stayed here multiple times to car camp and have stayed in sites 3, 6, and 28. We really enjoyed site 28 due to the spectacular views of Escondido. The reason I gave it 4 stars is because their can be some creepy people occasionally like some old guy was following my son in his car. But other than that we had a good stay. If you are in a camper I would recommend Escondido RV resort instead due to the more inviting feel (we stayed there in our Coleman travel trailer). But if you car camp a lot like myself I would recommend staying here at Dixon lake. Great stay overall👍😊
- AAna B.Scout
San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
Comfortable- Yes…but not jaw dropping.
I can’t say that it was awesome but it wasn’t jaw dropping. Nothing to write home about but not uninviting.
- AAidan P.Scout
Vanlife Campground Community In Coastal Mountains
Perfect homebase for life on the road!
One of the most beautiful properties I've ever stayed on. Part of the Van Life Campgrounds network of community oriented homebases for vanlifers and nomads on wheels. Met some cool people, worked, hung out with goats, had a few communal dinners. What else could you ask for.
- TTony B.Traveler
Olive Avenue RV Resort
Great North County location
Great North County location... Close to Legoland and the beach.
Osborn T.Scout
Rancho Los Coches RV Park
Natural Language Processing
I would like to emphasize that the implementation of natural language processing(NLP) technologies https://lightpointglobal.com/services/data-analytics/data-science/nlp-services can significantly improve customer interactions. With the help of solutions such as chatbots and virtual assistants, you can automate answers to frequently asked questions and provide round-the-clock support, which will increase customer satisfaction. NLP also allows you to analyze guest reviews, determine their mood and extract valuable insights from open data, which will help in further development and adaptation of services. Language translation capabilities expand accessibility to an international audience. Thus, integrating NLP into software allows you to improve user experience and increase the efficiency of business processes.
- WWendy R.Scout
Dos Picos County Park
Harassing Ranger
I have never had a bad experience at a camp ground with any ranger. They have all been wonderful. Not at this park. My registration tags went to my home so I did not have current tags. I had to have a family member collect my mail and forward to me on my travels so it was delayed. I did have a receipt which I was required to provide. However, the ranger barged into my campsite in a huff, treated me as if I were vomiting a crime and demanded my receipt on the spot in front of all. It was quite over the top. Later the same man barged back into my campsite throwing accusations at me that I hadn’t paid my measly $4.00 parking fee and breaking the rules of the park. He had the nerve to argue with me after I explained that in fact I had paid. He backed down after realizing I had. He then returned to harass us for the kids using chalk. There were kids from several campsites using chalk. We apologized and made them clean it up, no big deal. But the ranger was didn’t simply ask for it to be cleaned. He was threatening and confrontational. I dealt with one other ranger here who was quite nice and helpful but this other was awful. I discovered I was not the only one to have this experience here. I would recommend Sweetwater or Lake Jennings in San Diego area or Aqua Caliente where they are quite friendly. Yikes this was horrible
- CCharlie W.Scout
Provisions Farm
Delightful Area, Delightful Hosts
Wow, Highland Valley is beautiful! This is a great place to camp your RV - especially if you love the farm vibe. We stayed in the front spot, up against the property line, which felt private.
Annie G.Traveler
Fry Creek Campground
Very beautiful
This is a very nice and quiet campground and everyone there was very respectful of quite hours. The place was very clean and very beautiful. The only con was that there are way too many insects everywhere, My base camp got bombarded with a swarm of wasps, And I was forced to leave a day early, and had to leave my cooking pot behind because of the swarm of wasps... I wish there were some kind of rangers or someone there that I could have asked for help about this, or I wish someone would do something about this issue but I guess it is what it is at this location lol 😆 Other than not being able to cook and eat without wasps in your face and In your food, it was really nice
- MMolly A.Guide
Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
Canpsites a plenty
There’s a few designated camp areas up this way. Went out in early Sept 2024 and the road was fine. I drive a lifted AWD overloaded Honda Element and I had no issue. There were two sections on the final ascent loop to the top of Thomas Mountain that were a little scratchy. You do not need to complete the final ascent to the top to enjoy the camping areas. Although if your car is capable there’s an excellent spot at the very end of the loop.
Kyle F.Scout
Champagne Lakes RV Resort
REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS!
Let's start off with the fact that this"resort" has REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS living there and TWEAKERS SELLING DRUGS. When I mentioned it to the management they could care less, didn't say a word and walked away laughing. They DO NOT perform ANY BACKGROUND CHECKS and especially with children in the park I find that very disturbing. They nickel and dime you for every little thing and the rent has gone up 3x in one year. The water supply smells like sewage when you take a shower. Because they do pump outs the resort smells like human excrement most of the time. The lakes are polluted as well and completely full of cyanobacteria AKA green algae which is a respiratory hazard. POTENTIAL BEWARE.
Gabriel S.Scout
Pine Creek Road Camp
Nice quick and easy getaway
Quite easy to get to. I drive an Acura RDX and had no problems (I actually had a lot of fun driving the road).
There were way more flies than we were expecting. Prepare to get swarmed. Luckily just gnats and no mosquitoes from what we experienced.
We applied for a permit on Friday and did not get it by Saturday when we departed. Luckily, no rangers patrolled during our stay.
Some spots with good shade.
Lisa D.Traveler
Mission Bay RV Resort
Wasn't Thrilled
Overpriced for a dirt spot, no ocean view at all. Ocean view sites full of expensive RVs that can afford the price. No market or cantina, for those you have to walk to Campland, not a short walk. Should've just stayed at Campland
- Lisa D.Traveler
Vacationer RV Park
Not All That
This RV park has huge potential but they need to get rid of permanent dwellers that have let their property decay. Junk cars, nobody seems to follow the rules, and rat problem.
Ben M.Scout
The Secret Place
Incredible view
Well secluded sites each with an incredible view!
Rhyn E.GuideTool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
Oasis of calm
Labor Day weekend. We occupied the only spot out of five. Lots of wildlife. Raccoons in the night, gray squirrel, other squirrels, many birds. So much
jennifer G.Traveler
O'Neill Regional Park
Great little campground in south OC!
Clean, quiet campground located in one of the OC Parks, with plenty of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian use. I stayed here on a weekday, and there were a few couple of vacant campsites in my area, so it was an extremely quiet visit. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked for my stay. I didn’t use the showers since I was only staying one night, but I heard they were free!
Rangers were very friendly and firewood was only $5 for a decent bundle that lasted me over 2 hours.
The city of Rancho Santa Margarita is right up the hill, so you can grab food and any necessities if needed.
My site backed to the creek, so I never had people walking through my campsite.
My dog & I slept in my van, but there was room for multiple tents, and a decent amount of shade in my spot.
My spot didn’t have its own water spigot, but there was one at a site across from me.
I was fortunate that all of the campers around me were quiet and considerate. I know that it doesn’t always work out that way, and having obnoxious neighbors can really ruin your experience.
- ddavidTraveler
Pine Creek Road Camp
Peaceful and secluded
A great spot if you want to get away and enjoy some alone time. It’s a little warm in the day in august this time of year so you can’t hike around or explore too much. My girlfriend and I stopped in Julian on our way out to get a late lunch and then head to the campsite. The road is paved until you turn off Lone Creek Road and then it is a dirt road. I have a stock Rav4 and it was able to drive on it although there are a few spots you need to be careful at so you don’t scrape the bottom of your car. We only spent one night but we never saw another person during our stay
Guide to Carlsbad
Camping near Carlsbad, California, offers a fantastic mix of beachside fun and nature adventures. With several campgrounds in the area, you can enjoy the ocean breeze while soaking up the sun or exploring scenic trails.
What to do:
- Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like South Carlsbad State Beach Campground, provide direct access to the beach. One camper mentioned, "Great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks overlooking the ocean. Beach access. Lots of sites."
- Biking and Running: The area has excellent bike lanes. A reviewer noted, "Great if you want to ride along PCH. This stretch has good bike lanes that take you into Oceanside or Encinitas."
- Fishing and Hiking: Nearby parks offer trails and fishing spots. A camper at William Heise County Park said, "The hiking trails were great for exploring and getting some exercise."
What campers like:
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views. One said, "Couldn’t have better views. We watched dolphins and seals playing in the waves" at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground.
- Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A visitor at San Mateo Campground remarked, "Clean bathrooms and showers, but we stayed midweek and the place was very, very minimally occupied."
- Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate helpful staff. A reviewer at Lake Jennings mentioned, "The ladies at the front are always so incredibly sweet!"
What you should know:
- Crowded Conditions: Some campgrounds can get busy. A camper at San Mateo Campground noted, "It can get very crowded and packed. Hard to get a site."
- Noise Levels: Expect some noise from nearby roads or other campers. A visitor at Doheny State Beach Campground said, "Caught a few people walking through my site and around my van."
- Limited Hookups: Not all sites have full hookups. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground mentioned, "Toilets and shower were not very nice, you do not get much privacy as the sites are quite close to each other."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities like playgrounds. A camper at Lake Jennings said, "There was a play area that had ladder golf, tetherball, and ping pong."
- Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or sports equipment for family fun. One reviewer at William Heise County Park noted, "We enjoyed fishing in the creek, which was well-stocked with trout and bluegill."
- Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy. A camper at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground mentioned the camp store, "The camp store is great."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Moro Campground said, "The roads that lead to the sites is a bit narrow, so if your towable is on the long side, you might have to work a bit to back it in."
- Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds have limited stores. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground noted, "The marketplace is near the entrance BUT they only sell individual waters."
- Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be loud. A visitor at Doheny State Beach Campground mentioned, "People up till 2 am with car lights on and speakers going."
With these insights, you can make the most of your camping experience near Carlsbad, CA. Whether you're looking for beach access, family-friendly activities, or a peaceful retreat, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Carlsbad, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Carlsbad, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 173 campgrounds and RV parks near Carlsbad, CA and 5 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Carlsbad, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Carlsbad, CA is South Carlsbad State Beach Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 74 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Carlsbad, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Carlsbad, CA.
What parks are near Carlsbad, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Carlsbad, CA that allow camping, notably Cleveland National Forest and San Bernardino National Forest.