Best Camping near Costa Mesa, CA

Are you in need of a campground near Costa Mesa, CA? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Costa Mesa. Find the best campgrounds near Costa Mesa, CA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Costa Mesa, CA (142)

    Camper-submitted photo from Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park

    1. Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park

    34 Reviews
    89 Photos
    1339 Saves
    Laguna Beach, California

    The Moro campground, which is located on a bluff top with unparalleled ocean views, features 27 hookup sites, 30 non-hookup tent sites, both of which include 3 ADA-accessible sites each. We also feature primitive hike-in camping in our backcountry, which has 32 sites spread out across 3 areas. Although it does require a strenuous hike, it provides a peaceful refuge from the urban surroundings.

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

    $25 - $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Newport Dunes RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Newport Dunes RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Newport Dunes RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Newport Dunes RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Newport Dunes RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Newport Dunes RV Resort

    2. Newport Dunes RV Resort

    26 Reviews
    83 Photos
    373 Saves
    Newport Beach, California

    Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina is located in the heart of Newport Beach CA, along the scenic Back Bay. Our laid-back lux resort offers RV campers access to the same amenities as any hotel guest plus more, including beach access, hydrotherapy pools, beachfront dining, hiking & biking trails, water sports, and one of SoCal’s largest inflatable water park (summer season). We offer planned activities for families to take part in. Allow us to be your basecamp for everything Newport Beach and Orange County has to offer.

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

    $75 - $550 / 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

    3. San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    49 Reviews
    92 Photos
    514 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

    Camper-submitted photo from Doheny State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Doheny State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Doheny State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Doheny State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Doheny State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Doheny State Beach Campground

    4. Doheny State Beach Campground

    34 Reviews
    114 Photos
    15 Saves
    Capistrano Beach, California

    North Loop (sites 1-59, 120, 122)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • Picnic Table
    • Showers

    $50 - $350 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park

    5. O'Neill Regional Park

    28 Reviews
    68 Photos
    427 Saves
    Trabuco Canyon, California

    The Arroyo campground offers 79 campsites varying in size to accommodate RVs or tent camping for up to eight people per site. Reservations for individual sites can be made online, by phone or in person. The park offers eight large group campsites for parties of 17 or more and five equestrian campsites, each equipped with horse corrals, barbeques and fire pits. Reservations for groups of 17 or more can be made by calling the park office at (949) 923-2260.

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

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground

    6. San Clemente State Beach Campground

    35 Reviews
    144 Photos
    737 Saves
    San Clemente, California

    CAMPING 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

    Camper-submitted photo from Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground

    7. Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground

    18 Reviews
    36 Photos
    347 Saves
    Huntington Beach, California

    Campground (sites 32-57)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $60 - $70 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs

    8. Bonelli Bluffs

    37 Reviews
    84 Photos
    322 Saves
    South El Monte, California

    Lakeside camping in LA county is possible at Bonelli Bluffs RV resort and campground in San Dimas, California! Our lush property is much more than a place to pull into and rest your head. It's a community surrounded by majestic mountain views, lush landscapes, and resort-style amenities. Vacations should feel special and revitalizing - at Bonelli Bluffs, it's easy.

    We're located just 45 minutes east of Los Angeles, at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. Here, Bonelli Bluffs offers a peaceful reprieve from city life. Come enjoy nature, relax and explore the nearby attractions in San Dimas, California. Moreover, you don't even need to leave the campgrounds to have a good time. Our amenities include a beach-front park, two sparkling pools, outdoor fire pits, and activities galore.

    While the natural beauty and views bring most visitors to Bonelli Bluffs, the nearby town of San Dimas is also highly appealing. Here, and in the nearby town of Pomona, you'll discover fantastic restaurants, shops and plenty to see and do.

    So, if you're looking for the perfect place to bring your RV or to pitch a tent and camp, you've found it at Bonelli Bluffs. Moreover, we offer hundreds of sites on our 2,000 acres of meticulously preserved campgrounds for RVs and tents. Visit our RV resort in San Dimas, California, to experience the beauty for yourself.

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

    $76 - $88 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park

    9. Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park

    20 Reviews
    86 Photos
    367 Saves
    Coto de Caza, California

    While the park does now have water, the showers remain closed. Water is limited, though, so please plan accordingly.

    Caspers Wilderness Park is an 8,000 acre protected wilderness preserve nestled among the river terraces and sandstone canyons of the western coastal Santa Ana Mountains. The park's many fertile valleys are overtly complemented by specimen groves of native Coastal Live Oak and magnificent stands of California Sycamore. These areas are further accentuated by seasonal wildflower displays and running streams. Wildlife is abundant and can be readily viewed from any of the park's numerous trails.

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

    $20 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Anaheim Harbor RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Anaheim Harbor RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Anaheim Harbor RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Anaheim Harbor RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Anaheim Harbor RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Anaheim Harbor RV Park

    10. Anaheim Harbor RV Park

    11 Reviews
    7 Photos
    140 Saves
    Anaheim, California

    Close to Disney!

    Accommodations for RVs up to 40-feet
    Full hook-ups, plus 30 & 50 AMP service
    Heated swimming pool- open in dry weather, $5.00 cash deposit for the key
    Large laundry room
    Newly remodeled shower facilities (2) located in both Men and Women's Restrooms
    Wheelchair accessible bathrooms
    Free wireless internet access
    Mini Market
    Five hole Putting Green
    Gazebo Area near pool and front office with barbecues and fire pits
    Clubhouse with sitting area, television, and Keurig machine
    Closest RV Park located near Disneyland® Resort
    Great view of Disneyland® Resort fireworks without leaving Anaheim Harbor RV Park
    Tours to the most popular Southern California attractions available in our park office
    Shuttle service to Disneyland® Resort- $6.00 per all day ticket via RideART system - More info
    Conveniently located near local dining and entertainment
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $55 - $70 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 142 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Costa Mesa

Recent Reviews In Costa Mesa

984 Reviews of 142 Costa Mesa Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Vanlife Campground Community In Coastal Mountains
    October 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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Orangeland RV Park
    September 16, 2024

    Orangeland RV Park

    Perfect

    Great little park. Heated pool, spa was hot. Nice little store with everything you need. Staff was very friendly and helpful. Only downside was the sports bar next door was pretty loud at night. And the loud music coming from the industrial building next door at 7am. Also very close to Disney with a free shuttle

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dockweiler Beach RV Park
    September 3, 2024

    Dockweiler Beach RV Park

    beachfront

    Youre packed like sardines but it's beachfront. It's noisy if you have party neighbors but they do turn off the music by 1030 ish so it's enforced. You hear planes flying and tmobile wifi is not great at the campground but good when on the beach front. It's at prime location in LAX so that was nice to go around town. Has full hookups. We would come back again if we need to be near LA area.

  • Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    September 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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    August 30, 2024

    Bonelli Bluffs

    Less crowded ocale while visiting family nearby

    Visiting family in Santa Ana and LA. Not to far for them to come to us and all to go to beach. Park clean and well maintained, personnel very kind and friendly Beautiful view from our site on area B. Crowded on weekend, much less during week Campground is not associated to adjacent Frank Bonelli Regional. Charge $12 to enter with vehicle but no fee to ride in on bikes

  • Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Cove Backcountry — Crystal Cove State Park
    August 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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Buckhorn Campground
    August 20, 2024

    Buckhorn Campground

    Perfect peaceful getaway

    Just stayed 8/15-18/24, although hot during the day, it was the getaway we needed. The Burkhart trail to the waterfall was beautiful. Clean campsites. Some neighboring camps were louder than you'd hope but it is what it is. Our second trip here and will return for sure.

  • Camper-submitted photo from The Secret Place
    August 19, 2024

    The Secret Place

    Peaceful, Private, Beautiful

    Although we booked a campsite, it felt more like we were invited to Mazen's home. He was communicative and responsive, happily answered all of our questions, and was beyond generous. I can't say enough about the beautiful views of Lake Elsinore! We can't wait to visit this campground again!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground
    August 14, 2024

    Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground

    Beach view

    The parking lot is next to the beach on the one side but also next to the highway on the other side. So the view and the breeze is beautiful, but the traffic noise in the evening and morning is not so nice. With earplugs everything is fine! ;) The host Jim is very kind and helpful!

  • Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    August 12, 2024

    San Clemente State Beach Campground

    Camping

    It was overall a nice campsite. Our site seemed to be pretty large it came with a picnic table & fire pit. The walk to the beach was close seemed maybe about 10 minute till we reached the beach from our site. It is on a hill you need to walk down & back up. The only down side was the bathrooms on the same road as our site were pretty dirty did not seem to have any maintenance during our stay.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Olive Avenue RV Resort
    August 10, 2024

    Olive Avenue RV Resort

    Weekend stay

    This place is nice, clean and quiet with newer RVs. It’s only a few miles off 78, about 10-15 miles from Carlsbad beach and the same distance to Escondido. We are long-time San Diego residents living out of state and came home to visit family. This is not a park like private site setting. It’s an RV parking lot with sewer and water hook-ups. If you want a location and North County works for you, this is a good place. There are two mobile homes but the RVs are all newer. Sites are narrow and close together, but this is the city in San Diego, not a spacious national park! Bathrooms in pool area are clean.

  • Camper-submitted photo from The Secret Place
    July 29, 2024

    The Secret Place

    Friendly, knowledgeable and respectful hosts, best views I have ever experienced.

    We couldn't find any campgrounds, after calling multiple places we came across "The Secret Place". They have the best views I have ever experienced! Especially during sunset and as the city lights start to twinkle. Very nice and quiet place. No full hookups, but good bathrooms and showers available. The camp host was knowledgeable about the area and recommended great things to do. Very helpful, very respectful and very friendly. Will definitely stay here again, made our honeymoon trip very memorable! A+ recommend.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Heaton flats
    July 29, 2024

    Heaton flats

    Not always allowed

    Camping outside esablished campgrounds within the Angeles National Forest is sometimes prohibited, you have to be on top of reading recently published orders on https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles. Currently, camping is allowed for 7 days or less, see here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles/alerts-notices/?aid=78080 The people I saw camping here looked to have been set up somewhat permanently though. I wouldn't feel comfortable setting up a tent here, but it could be an okay rest area at the beginning/end of the hike to Bridge to Nowhere.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Oceanside RV Resort
    July 21, 2024

    Oceanside RV Resort

    Solid spot for being near the beach

    Nice little site that is right in the middle of everything.

    It's crowded and you don't have much space, but if your using this instead of a hotel room it works great.

    It had a game room and pool so kids had something to do. There were families all over with kids riding bikes. We had a quick stay over while we were seeing family in the area and it worked great .

    Only issue we had is both entrances have a hell of a dip, we scraped the ass end real good going in and out with our 24ft class c.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Blue Jay Campground
    July 20, 2024

    Blue Jay Campground

    Hidden gem

    Awesome spot, lots of sights and some even have overlooks of the entire park. Can get crowded but no one was there on a Friday night in July. Bathrooms, trash, water and even buckets to fill to put out your fire. Fire pits, benches and grills nothing more you could want.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Olive Dell Ranch
    July 12, 2024

    Olive Dell Ranch

    Olive Dell Resort

    I have been a member of this place for 20+ years.

    Most times if someone has a problem at the front gate. It because of the many background checks and or any one of the Screening Process...

    The previous review does not mention anything about that factor???? I wonder why??

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lupine Campground
    July 6, 2024

    Lupine Campground

    Came across this place on a whim

    After trying to find an escape from the fireworks and trying campgrounds in surrounding areas to this one and all of them being full, we just kept driving (ended up off-roading) and found this hidden jem. Quite, dark, and one dirt road in n out. No amenities besides a picnic table & fire pit. There's an outhouse, but it's pretty gross..

  • Camper-submitted photo from Manker Campground
    July 3, 2024

    Manker Campground

    Mankers campground

    We spent 3days and 2nights here and enjoyed our stay, the caretaker was so nice! Although the restroom are very dirty but overall it was a great stay!

  • Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    June 10, 2024

    San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    Nice spots with shade, clean facilities

    Site had tree cover which had some nice shade to provide relief from the sun. Lots of room for a couple vehicles and tents. Clean bathrooms and showers, but we stayed midweek and the place was very, very minimally occupied. Good access to walking and biking trails.



Guide to Costa Mesa

Camping near Costa Mesa, CA, offers a fantastic mix of beach vibes and nature trails. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options that cater to different camping styles.

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 great bike lanes and trails. A reviewer noted, "Great if you want to ride along PCH. This stretch has good bike lanes that take you into Oceanside or Encinitas."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Malibu Creek State Park Campground. One visitor shared, "Nice, small campground with hiking trails easily accessible."

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Crowded Conditions: Some campgrounds can get packed, especially on weekends. A review for San Elijo State Beach Campground mentioned, "It can get very crowded and packed."
  • Limited Hookups: Many sites, like those at Doheny State Beach Campground, have limited or no hookups. A camper said, "Right on the ocean. No hookups. Kind of crowded!"
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise from nearby roads or other campers. A visitor at Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground shared, "The campground itself is pretty nice... but there was a large group of people blasting their music until 2/3 AM."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A family at Bonelli Bluffs mentioned, "The campground is set up as a bunch of loops with a large common area between the rear of every campsite."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or plan hikes to keep kids entertained. One reviewer at San Mateo Campground said, "Good access to walking and biking trails."
  • Check for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with clean bathrooms and showers. A camper at Malibu Creek State Park Campground noted, "This place is a little expensive... but it’s very clean and well maintained."

Tips from RVers:

Camping near Costa Mesa, CA, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Costa Mesa, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Costa Mesa, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 142 campgrounds and RV parks near Costa Mesa, CA and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Costa Mesa, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Costa Mesa, CA is Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 34 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Costa Mesa, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Costa Mesa, CA.

  • What parks are near Costa Mesa, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Costa Mesa, CA that allow camping, notably Cleveland National Forest and Angeles National Forest.