Best Camping near Cleveland National Forest

Cleveland National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Cleveland National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Cleveland National Forest, CA (328)

    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    1. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    73 Reviews
    162 Photos
    1005 Saves
    Carlsbad, California

    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
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $50 - $650 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Skinner Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Skinner Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Skinner Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Skinner Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Skinner Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Skinner Recreation Area

    2. Lake Skinner Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    47 Photos
    362 Saves
    Temecula, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Hemet Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Hemet Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Hemet Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Hemet Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Hemet Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Hemet Campground

    3. Lake Hemet Campground

    38 Reviews
    125 Photos
    310 Saves
    Mountain Center, California

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA

    4. Temecula-Vail Lake KOA

    20 Reviews
    48 Photos
    200 Saves
    Cleveland National Forest, California

    Welcome to your ideal Vail Lake camping escape to nature with wide-open spaces to explore. Temecula/Vail Lake KOA sits on 385 acres of recreation space, featuring 467 campsites and more than 200 acres of world-class hiking and mountain bike trails. This KOA specializes in recreation from little ones up through the teenage and adult years with three sparkling swimming pools: a 25-meter lap pool, a kids' wading pool, and a full sized leisure swimming pool. We offer a variety of outdoor activity options on site including horseshoe pits, disc golf, pickleball courts, newly refinished basketball courts, and a very popular 18 hole mini golf course. Families love our summer staffed recreation and Halloween celebrations. Groups love our facilities for hosting small festivals, mountain bike races, and family reunions. Guests enjoy gathering in the campground's Vail Lake Village for meals and entertainment at the seasonal Cafe and Bar. Restock your supplies in the Village's newly remodeled store and gift shop. Relax in your campsite under our large, mature Oak trees that beautifully shade your campsites or try a new hotel-style Deluxe Cabin or Eco Tent accommodation coming late fall 2019. Just 15-minutes to Temecula Valley Wineries and local area Casinos.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Grove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Grove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Grove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Grove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Grove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Grove Campground

    5. Oak Grove Campground

    19 Reviews
    69 Photos
    201 Saves
    Aguanga, California

    Overview

    Located on the Cleveland National Forest, Oak Grove Campground is nestled in a valley of large oak groves and manzanita.

    Recreation

    Oak Grove Trail is a short walk of 1.5 miles and is located across Rt. 79, behind the Ranger Station. Oak Grove Trail is the oldest established trail on the Palomar Ranger District. Although a steep trail, it offers great views of the San Jacinto and San Gorgonio Mountains and the Oak Grove Valley as you gain elevation. The trail connects with the Oak Grove Truck Trail offering access to High Point Lookout (an additional 5 miles one way). Be prepared with plenty of drinking water. Hikers interested in exploring will find nearby Agua Tibia Wilderness worth the drive as well.

    Natural Features

    The attractive campground is comprised of chaparral vegetation such as canyon live oaks, ribbonwood and chamise and offers open, but secluded sites. The area offers stargazers an opportunity to view the clear night skies. Birders will be pleased with the variety of wildlife and opportunities for viewing. The Cleveland National Forest also boasts such species as mountain lion, bobcat, mule deer, coyote, gray fox, ringtail cat, long tail weasel, opossum, jackrabbits, desert cottontails, and California ground squirrel among many others.

    Nearby Attractions

    Palomar State Park and Palomar Observatory are located on county Rt. S6, where an active telescope is available for viewing by the public. Temecula Wine Country is also within driving distance. The closest town is Warner Springs

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Idyllwild Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Idyllwild Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Idyllwild Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Idyllwild Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Idyllwild Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Idyllwild Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    6. Idyllwild Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    29 Reviews
    129 Photos
    475 Saves
    Idyllwild, California

    Idyllwild Campground

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $25 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground

    7. Dixon Lake Campground

    25 Reviews
    70 Photos
    393 Saves
    Escondido, California
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $39 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from La Jolla Indian Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from La Jolla Indian Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from La Jolla Indian Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from La Jolla Indian Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from La Jolla Indian Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from La Jolla Indian Campground

    8. La Jolla Indian Campground

    20 Reviews
    10 Photos
    206 Saves
    Palomar Mountain, California

    We are San Diego County's ONLY campsite with river and tubing access!

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $40 - $120 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground

    9. Palomar Mountain State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    51 Photos
    527 Saves
    Palomar Mountain, California

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $40 - $130 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    10. San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    50 Reviews
    92 Photos
    519 Saves
    San Clemente, California

    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
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $45 - $250 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 328 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Cleveland National Forest

Recent Reviews in Cleveland National Forest

1783 Reviews of 328 Cleveland National Forest Campgrounds


  • Amanda B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Native Falls Campground
    Nov. 17, 2024

    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.

  • Suzanne W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina Spa and RV Resort
    Nov. 3, 2024

    Catalina Spa and RV Resort

    Catalina Spa RV Resort

    Growing up my family went on a few camping trips; mostly to Arizona to visit the ghost towns but when we wanted to go take a weekend trip and didn't want to leave state we would stay at the Catalina Spa Rv Resort in town. I remember my brother and I having so much fun running around or riding our bikes through the many turnaround streets at this park. They have an awesome pool and jacuzzis to use and a very large pond that all year round has ducks, birds, frogs, fish and turtles to look at. They have a friendly staff and the travelers were always very sweet and kind. The only town fall was that usually there isn't very many kids there, mostly older people come here to stay. They have. Gym and a game room. Lots of shade in rv parking areas and small bbq and tables to enjoy. Definitely worth checking it out !

  • Jeff T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Oct. 21, 2024

    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👍😊

  • Brittany W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Valley Lakes
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Cherry Valley Lakes

    Convenient Location for Seeing Family

    Staff all friendly and facilities while dated are kept very clean. Campers are respectful and quit at night but it’s a very noisy location right next to the freeway which took some getting used to the first few days.

  • Karen D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Happy Traveler RV Park
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Happy Traveler RV Park

    Run down, and expensive

    The place felt very tired, and lacking in any atmosphere. There is a pool, which was nice. There just wasn't anything else there to justify the steep price of $100 a night. Though I'd award 5 stars to the lovely German lady who checked us in and was very friendly.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Vanlife Campground Community In Coastal Mountains
    Oct. 4, 2024

    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.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Ridge Yellow Post Sites
    Sep. 27, 2024

    South Ridge Yellow Post Sites

    Awesome dispersed site with amazing views

    Very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California elevation is high enough that temperatures were very enjoyable (mid 80's)

  • Osborn T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Los Coches RV Park
    Sep. 25, 2024

    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.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Sep. 22, 2024

    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

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Provisions Farm
    Sep. 22, 2024

    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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fry Creek Campground
    Sep. 18, 2024

    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

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
    Sep. 18, 2024

    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.
    Camper-submitted photo from Champagne Lakes RV Resort
    Sep. 17, 2024

    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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Creek Road Camp
    Sep. 15, 2024

    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.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Coachella Lakes RV Resort
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Coachella Lakes RV Resort

    Fabulous!

    This is quite a resort! It’s huge! When we stayed here in late December they had just been open for about 2 months or so, and most of the spots weren’t even open for use yet. There was construction going on when we were there, so I’m sure they’re fully open by now. 

    This place has everything you could want in an RV park. Everything was new and sleek and modern and well designed. The price was average, I guess, though still much too expensive for us. Luckily they participate in Passport America and we got the 50% discount, so our FHU pull through site came to $52 with taxes and fees, so roughly double that for the full price. I believe the spots that will be opening up that are further away from all the amenities will be cheaper. Their laundry room uses an app payment system only, which is nice in that you don’t need quarters, but you need to download the app and then load money on to your account in set amounts, so we were left with an unused $1.50 after our 2 loads. Dryers work great. Dogs get a cute little goodie bag with a little bandana, poop bags and a bag holder for the leash, and a tennis ball. Eventually the dog park will have its own section of RV spots called K9 Corner. So cute! 

    There’s a nice shop at the front desk where you check in, and staff is super friendly. There is onsite propane fill as well. Their club house has a nice pool, 2 hot tubs, a nice gym, and really nice and open hangout area and work area, a little kitchen area, and a game room. Everything is really nice and artfully decorated. They also have activities on weekends so you get a real community feel if you stay here for a long time. We were definitely in the lower tier of RVs in our humble scratched up class C, surrounded by really nice expensive class As, but we still felt comfortable and welcomed. Highly recommend this place- as long as they stay in the Passport America program we’ll go back when we’re in the area.

  • Lisa D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mission Bay RV Resort
    Sep. 11, 2024

    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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Vacationer RV Park
    Sep. 6, 2024

    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.

  • jennifer G.
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Sep. 1, 2024

    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.

  • dThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Creek Road Camp
    Aug. 30, 2024

    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

  • Glen C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Laguna Campground
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Laguna Campground

    Wonderful for dry RV or tent camping

    The scenery is incredible and varied from deeply forested to open meadow.  There are miles of hiking trails.  The campground layout is nice and for many of the loops it is possible to find a site that feels separated from your fellow campers.  This place fills up during the weekends in the spring through fall seasons, so book sites early on recreation.gov.  As implied by my title, there are no hookups here so any RV camping is dry camping.  For RVs with a good solar array, it is possible to find open spots that keep the energy flowing throughout the day.  There is one loop dedicated to longer RVs.  As a personal note, I don't recommend Site 62 for RV camping - it is angled and has some erosion issues coming off of the asphalt pad.  I have been to this campground several times as both a tent camper and an RV camper and have not had any problems with cleanliness of the facilities or excessively noisy neighbors.

  • Kim N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Cove Backcountry — Crystal Cove State Park
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Crystal Cove Backcountry — Crystal Cove State Park

    beautiful beach

    Clean dump station, beautiful sites, very strict on rules. We came 10 minutes early before check in time, they made us wait. Campsite comes with wifi but very weak. We have t mobile and had bad reception. Would come back again for beautiful views, small hike, sandy beaches with lots of sand crabs.



Guide to Cleveland National Forest

Camping near Cleveland National Forest, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful landscapes and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes that start right from their campsites. One reviewer from William Heise County Park mentioned, "The hiking trails were great for exploring and getting some exercise."
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Lake Hemet is a great spot. A visitor shared, "The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time. They stock the lake regularly so you have a good chance of catching trout."
  • Beach Access: For those who want to hit the beach, San Elijo State Beach Campground is right by the ocean. A camper noted, "Amazing site in a little town with all you need for a weekend getaway… great beach and surfing possibilities for the entire family."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at San Mateo Campground said, "Clean bathrooms and showers, but we stayed midweek and the place was very, very minimally occupied."
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer good spacing between sites. A reviewer at Dos Picos County Park mentioned, "This park seemed to attract family groups… it was great to see so many kids around the campground not on their devices!"
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One camper at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground stated, "The stars at night are gorgeous! You can spend hours just staring up at the sky."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some sites can get busy, especially on weekends. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground noted, "It can get a little loud on the weekends with drunk party-goers."
  • Check-in Times: Many campgrounds have strict check-in times. A visitor at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground advised, "Don't try to get there earlier; they usually won't let you in before check-in."
  • Limited Cell Service: Depending on where you camp, cell service can be spotty. A reviewer at San Mateo Campground mentioned, "Verizon is basically a dead zone in that area."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites that have amenities for kids. A parent at Lake Hemet Campground said, "Great place for family and kids. Affordable."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of fun activities. A camper at William Heise County Park suggested, "Bring your bikes. There’s also a trailhead to the oasis right in the campground."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep the kids happy with snacks. A visitor at San Elijo State Beach Campground mentioned, "There’s a mixed recycling bin here as well as a bin for food compost."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at San Clemente State Beach Campground noted, "We camped here no problem in our sprinter van."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground details. A visitor at Lake Hemet Campground mentioned, "Full hookups are available too."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Lake Perris State Recreational Area shared, "There was a large group of people blasting their music until 2/3 AM."

Camping near Cleveland National Forest, California, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Cleveland National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Cleveland National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 328 campgrounds and RV parks near Cleveland National Forest and 19 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Cleveland National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cleveland National Forest is South Carlsbad State Beach Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 73 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cleveland National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 free dispersed camping spots near Cleveland National Forest.

  • What parks are near Cleveland National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Cleveland National Forest that allow camping, notably San Bernardino National Forest and Mojave River Dam.