Best Campgrounds near Dana Point, CA

Are you in need of a campground near Dana Point, CA? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Dana Point, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Dana Point, California (132)

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Showing results 1-10 of 132 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Dana Point, CA

1022 Reviews of 132 Dana Point Campgrounds



Guide to Dana Point

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

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, 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 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."
  • Fishing and Water Sports: Campers can enjoy fishing at places like Lake Hemet Campground. One visitor shared, "The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park are praised for their stunning ocean views. A camper said, "Almost every site has an ocean view of some kind."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One review stated, "The bathrooms are very clean, and the showers are coin-operated but didn't take many coins to get a decent warm shower."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. A visitor at San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach noted, "The staff were also friendly and helpful, adding to the overall positive experience."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Conditions: Some campgrounds can get quite busy, especially on weekends. A reviewer at San Clemente State Beach Campground mentioned, "The only downside was the bathrooms on the same road as our site were pretty dirty."
  • Limited Hookups: Many sites, like those at Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground, may not have full hookups. A camper shared, "If you are in an RV, you will be fine. As a tent camper, the spots are tiny, with zero privacy."
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or train tracks, which can be noisy. A visitor at Doheny State Beach Campground said, "The train is loud, but passes seldom."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities for kids. A reviewer at Bonelli Bluffs mentioned, "The campground itself was well-maintained, and the surrounding natural beauty made for a peaceful retreat."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or plan hikes to keep kids entertained. One camper noted, "Great mountain bike or hiking trail about 5-6mi loop."
  • Pack Snacks: Having food options on hand can help avoid trips to the store. A visitor at Lake Hemet Campground suggested, "Bring your own shade for this campsite, your own water too."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Moro Campground mentioned, "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."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: If you prefer quieter spots, try to book during the week. A reviewer at San Mateo Campground said, "The campground is setup as a bunch of loops with a large common area between the rear of every campsite."
  • Bring Your Own Wi-Fi: Some campgrounds may have limited cell service. A camper at Dogwood Campground noted, "The campgrounds were close to Laguna Beach and Laguna Niguel, it’s about a 30-45 minute drive."

With these insights, you're all set for a great camping experience near Dana Point!

Frequently Asked Questions