Dispersed camping options near Encinitas are limited due to the dense coastal development and protected wilderness areas. Most campers stay at established campgrounds within San Diego County parks and California State Beaches. Winter temperatures average 50-65°F, making year-round camping possible without extreme seasonal concerns. Summer fog often rolls in during early mornings, particularly at oceanfront sites.
What to do
Beach access from camp: South Carlsbad State Beach Campground offers direct beach access via stairs from clifftop sites. "Beautiful ocean views! Next to Coast Hwy which is busy but not totally annoying. Stores down the road for any necessities. Beach is accessible by stairs--nothing at beach level," notes camper Cynthia S.
Fishing opportunities: Dixon Lake Campground provides freshwater fishing with no California fishing license required. "Bonus: No CA fishing license needed! Just the lake permit of $7 per adult. Big fish in this lake," shares a camper who goes by "Dad & B R." The small pond at Dos Picos County Park serves as a memorable spot for young anglers, with one reviewer mentioning, "My kids caught their first fish in the little pond."
Hiking trails: Guajome Regional Park combines camping with extensive trail networks. "They have some very nice nature trails for walking. Would definitely return," writes Julie T. Numerous trails connect to larger regional systems, though hikers should watch for poison oak along trail edges during summer months.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campsites at Dixon Lake Campground provide unexpected seclusion despite suburban proximity. "Nice, well maintained sites. Very well taken care of. They clean the fire pits out etc. Some of the 40 series sites are very secluded and have excellent lake views," notes Steve. Sites vary significantly in privacy, with hillside locations offering more separation than lower spots.
Clean facilities: Paradise By The Sea RV Resort maintains spotless facilities. "Nice spots, clean bathrooms, good amenities," reports Don M. The resort includes indoor and outdoor recreation areas with activities like ping-pong, bean bag toss, shuffleboard and billiards.
Good for beginners: San Elijo State Beach Campground works well for first-time campers due to nearby conveniences. "It's classic California beach camping. Spots are fairly close together, and it's more like a parking lot than a campground. That said, the beach is great, and the river mouth is great for surfing. Walk across the street for groceries, food, etc," explains Jonathan G.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Most coastal sites require booking 6+ months in advance for summer stays. "The worst part is trying to get a spot secured," mentions one San Elijo camper. Winter visits offer more flexibility with last-minute availability.
Site exposure: Many campgrounds have limited shade or privacy between sites. "You are there to surf. From Swamis to the north and Cardiff Reef at the south end this is my favorite surf campground in Cali. Not a quiet serene spot, it is packed and near the busy highway and a train track," explains Rick O. at San Elijo State Beach Campground.
Traffic noise: Highway proximity affects multiple campgrounds. At South Carlsbad, "Campsites are right on top of each other. Highway is breathing down your neck. Beach is nice though," shares Frances L. Train tracks parallel many coastal campgrounds, with nighttime trains running until 10 pm and resuming around 5 am.
Security concerns: Theft can occur at popular sites. "High theft area!!! Even if you lock your generators up, securing with cable and locks and securing in the back of a covered pickup there are thieves cutting through truck covers, cutting locks and stealing generators…. Be WARNED!!!" warns Mark M. about South Carlsbad.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Guajome Regional Park offers an exceptional playground area. "And don't forget about the huge awesome playground! The kids loved it!" writes Ashley C. The playground includes covered sections for shade during hot days.
Kid-friendly fishing: Dos Picos County Park provides an easy introduction to fishing with simple shoreline access for beginners. Family areas include dedicated picnic sections and an event pavilion for larger gatherings.
Beach proximity: Paradise By The Sea RV Resort offers a family-friendly environment with beach access. "Love how there was so much to do on the grounds and around. They had an indoor rec room with billiards, shuffle board and more," shares David T. Their back gate provides direct access to beach trails.
Tent camping considerations: At South Carlsbad, "I and my family are more tent campers vs RV and we were the only site with tents, so I wouldn't go there without wheels lol. Other than that- INCREDIBLE spot, literally steps from the beach," cautions Jamie S.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Encinitas provide dump services, though not all at individual sites. "This park is County operated. You have to drive to the RV dump to dump. It's close but you don't have the convenience to dump at your site," notes Linda R. about Dos Picos County Park.
Site positioning: Oceanside RV Resort provides concrete pads that stay clean in wet weather. "Oceanside RV Park, SoCal is an awesome destination for everyone. Especially, camping beginners, family camping with kids, and surfers of all levels," shares Sam O. Sites include full hookups but campers note spots "have full hook ups but can be difficult to find. Concrete and fairly level, no grass or trees."
Age restrictions: Some RV parks enforce vehicle age policies. At Escondido RV Resort, one camper reports: "Full hook ups, pool, dog walk. Little pricey and has RV age restrictions but I sent pics and was allowed even though I was outside the age."
