Best Tent Camping near Imperial Beach, CA

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Imperial Beach and then fall asleep in your tent? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Imperial Beach. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of Imperial Beach, California's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Imperial Beach, CA (10)

    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    1. Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    20 Reviews
    45 Photos
    368 Saves
    Santee, California

    The Kumeyaay Lake Campground is open for Friday and Saturday night camping. The 46 campsites are available for reservation on a first-come, first-serve basis and the is $22.66 per night. On the reservation website page, go to the "Location" drop-down menu at the top of the page and select Kumeyaay Lake Campground. All cancellations must be made 14 days in advance.

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Equestrian

    $24 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from GoodVibes Ranch & Farm
    Camper-submitted photo from GoodVibes Ranch & Farm
    Camper-submitted photo from GoodVibes Ranch & Farm
    Camper-submitted photo from GoodVibes Ranch & Farm
    Camper-submitted photo from GoodVibes Ranch & Farm
    Camper-submitted photo from GoodVibes Ranch & Farm

    2. GoodVibes Ranch & Farm

    2 Reviews
    52 Photos
    16 Saves
    Dulzura, California

    “Discover the Joy of Nature at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm: Your Ultimate Mountain Escape!” At GoodVibes Ranch & Farm, we offer a variety of camping options to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer traditional tent camping, glamping units, or eco-friendly trailers, we have something for everyone.

    Our campground is nestled in the breathtaking mountains of Jamul, California, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure.

    In addition to camping accommodations, we offer a range of activities to keep you entertained. Explore the surrounding hiking trails and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Challenge your friends to a game of disc golf or unwind with a friendly game of billiards.

    We pride ourselves on providing an affordable camping experience, making it the perfect choice for families or friends looking to gather and create lasting memories.

    Come and discover the joy of nature at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm, your ultimate mountain escape!

    At GoodVibes Ranch & Farm, we provide a range of amenities to ensure your comfort and convenience during your camping experience. With 74 Acres you have ample space around your individual campsites to enjoy with friends and family. To utilize amenities such as disc golf or billiards check in at front desk to access. Hiking or Disc Golf maps are also at front desk. Our campground offers separate men's and women's bathrooms, as well as a shower area where you can freshen up after a day of outdoor activities.

    For those who prefer to cook their own meals, we have a fully equipped kitchen available for your use. Stay connected with our WiFi access and enjoy the convenience of well water throughout the campground.

    We also prioritize sustainability and have implemented a waste management system. You will find designated bins for garbage, recycling, and compost, allowing you to dispose of your waste responsibly.

    To enhance your camping experience, we have fire pits where you can gather around and enjoy a cozy campfire. Additionally, we provide a BBQ grill and picnic areas for you to enjoy outdoor meals with your loved ones.

    We strive to provide all the necessary amenities to make your stay enjoyable and hassle-free at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Cabins

    $50 - $175 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Corral Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Corral Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Corral Canyon Campground

    3. Corral Canyon Campground

    2 Reviews
    3 Photos
    22 Saves
    Potrero, California

    Corral Canyon CampgroundDistance1.2 miles with connecting optionsCampfiresCampfires are not allowed when elevated fire restrictions are in effect. Please see our current fire restrictions page for more details.FeesAdventure Pass RequiredHike/Ride TimeHalf dayDifficultyEasy to ModerateBest SeasonsSpring, WinterLocationOff the I-8 at Buckman Springs Rd. Turn right on Buckman Springs rd. to Morena Stokes Valley rd, travel 10 miles to reach Four Corners Staging area and continue to the campgroundRanger DistrictDescanso Ranger District - (619) 445-6235 Corral Canyon Campground is located within the Corral Canyon OHV Area and provides a secluded camping opportunity for those using the surrounding trails. Campsites are nestled amongst an Oak grove with views of chaparral and desert for miles. Trails can be accessed from just outside of the campground, linking many to__the greater OHV Area for more options. Each parking sport was designed to accommodate vehicles towing up to 27ft. trailers.20 sites are available and OHV use is allowed with a Green Sticker (required). Please note that there is no potable water in the campground or within the local Corral Canyon and Bear Valley area.

    • Tents
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Corte Madera Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Corte Madera Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Corte Madera Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Corte Madera Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Corte Madera Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Corte Madera Mountain
    • No image available

      5. YMCA Camp Surf

      Be the first to review!
      10 Saves
      Imperial Beach, California

      There's nothing else like it in Southern California - forty-five acres of beautiful campgrounds right on the Pacific Ocean.

      • Fires
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Cabins
      Camper-submitted photo from The Eyrie Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from The Eyrie Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from The Eyrie Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from The Eyrie Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from The Eyrie Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from The Eyrie Farm

      6. The Eyrie Farm

      1 Review
      8 Photos
      47 Saves
      Ramona, California

      We're an organic farm homestead. Springtime sees the field lush and green from the rains. Summer is hot and dry, but the cool evening breeze is nice. We have Red-tailed Hawks at their nest, hummingbirds, songbirds, and our own quail, chickens, turkeys and ducks to mingle with.

      Campsites are in our open back pasture, "Oat Prairie at Eyrie Farm." You'll probably hear coyotes at night.

      It's your responsibility as campers to be aware of our policies, including all rules, cancellation policy and check in/out times (which are local PST). These policies are FIRM.

      Be advised at this time there is no toilet, it is Pack-It-Out. We will be adding a bathroom shed shortly.

      Every person-- adults and kids of ALL ages-- count toward party size. Children are not free.

      No RVs, trailers, or campers. No exceptions. Truck pop-up tents are fine. Additional cars after the first 2 are charged $10 each, cash on site. Carpool when possible!

      NO PETS. Guests with assistance animals must sign our assistance animal contract to stay. Be advised that assistance animal fraud is a crime, and we must protect ourselves and our animals.

      We are strictly unavailable after 9pm. It's best to arrive before nightfall as it's easier to fine. Once you get on our road you must LOOK for our number and signage on the LEFT side of the road (you'll receive address in your booking confirmation). Make sure you go to "Eyrie Farm" and no other place!

      Follow us on FaceBook! Search for "The Eyrie Farm":)

      We also sometimes host on Hipcamp, at the listing here:

      https://theeyriefarm.wordpress.com/

      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Drinking Water

      $30 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Kitchen Creek Road
      Camper-submitted photo from Pine Creek Road Camp
      Camper-submitted photo from Pine Creek Road Camp
      Camper-submitted photo from Julian Hideaway
      Camper-submitted photo from Julian Hideaway
      Camper-submitted photo from Julian Hideaway
      Camper-submitted photo from Julian Hideaway

      9. Julian Hideaway

      Be the first to review!
      4 Photos
      1 Save
      Julian, California

      Tucked away in the mountains of Julian is a peaceful and serene gem. The wild turkeys and deer visit daily. There are many sites to choose from and endless trails to walk and discover the magic that is Julian CA.

      • Tents
      • Trash
      • Drinking Water

      $80 - $50 / night

      • No image available

        10. Horse Heaven Group Campground

        Be the first to review!
        18 Saves
        Mount Laguna, California

        Overview

        Contrary to its name, Horse Heaven Group Campground has no equestrian sites. Instead, this tent-only facility can accommodate gatherings of up to 100 people. It provides a great mountain getaway for city dwellers to relax and enjoy cool summer temperatures, hiking and other outdoor recreation, just one hour east of San Diego.

        Recreation

        The Laguna Mountain region is known for its great horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking trails. Visitors can get their boots dusty on a segment of the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail, which runs from California to the State of Washington, and access other trails within a short drive. Many picnic areas are located nearby.

        Natural Features

        The campground is nestled in the pines at an elevation of 5,600 feet within the Laguna Mountains in the southern portion of Cleveland National Forest. The area is home to many species of birds and wildlife.

        Nearby Attractions

        Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, Big Laguna Trail System, Storm Canyon Overlook

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Reservable
        • Tents
        • Group
        • Equestrian

        $105 / night


      Recent Tent Reviews in Imperial Beach

      697 Reviews of 10 Imperial Beach Campgrounds


      • 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👍😊

      • 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.

      • 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.

      • 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

      • 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.

      • Madisyn L.
        Camper-submitted photo from Woods Valley Kampground
        Jul. 28, 2024

        Woods Valley Kampground

        So beautiful, quiet, and very nice employees !!

        My fiancé and I were last minute camping and this campground was beautiful, quiet, and very aesthetic! There is a lot to do near by, a very convenient store about 5-10 minutes away called valley center foods! Employees were sooo sweet and friendly! DID NOT DISAPPOINT!! Ps isn’t that expensive when tent camping ⛺️ 🙌🏻

      • Bo L.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Oceanside RV Resort
        Jul. 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.

      • anna I.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Kitchen Creek Road
        Jul. 10, 2024

        Kitchen Creek Road

        Decent spot to stop

        Pretty small spot off the road, does get kind of loud from cars but overall a decent and clean spots

      • MThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Silver Strand State Beach
        Jun. 12, 2024

        Silver Strand State Beach

        Could have been 3 stars without road noise

        This is an RV only camp. All units need to be self contained. They lock entrance gate and restrooms around sunset. Sites are about 25 feet wide, mostly level. But no separation between sites. Road noise is high. A pedestrian tunnel under the road leads to San Diego bay and an aquatic center that rents kayaks and paddle boards. Also nice hiking trails overlooking the bay and navy ships. If you ant a beach camp and don’t mind road noise or very close neighbors, this may be just for you.

      • NThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Pine Creek Road Camp
        May. 27, 2024

        Pine Creek Road Camp

        Dispersed Camping

        This was a last minute Memorial Day weekend trip with my boyfriend and 2 dogs. Friday sent an email to SM.FS.DescansoRD@usda.gov requesting the free permit (after doing research and finding out you need one), filled out the form, and got it back in the same day. Easy to get there, easy directions once there just make you pass the sign that says leaving the recreation area after that you can find any spot and camp. It was a little bumpy but nothing too bad. Drove with my jeep renegade that isn’t a 4wheel drive. A little busy due to the holiday but not too bad. Cyclist riding by, vehicles, and hikers. Which was nice saying hi. Hardly any service for my carrier which is T-Mobile. Definitely will camp out here again.

      • A
        Camper-submitted photo from Corral Canyon Campground
        May. 12, 2024

        Corral Canyon Campground

        Incredible Privacy

        Saturday night in May. All other public campgrounds nearby are booked solid, but there are only 3 other groups here beside me. 1 camper told me the CG is always empty. Why? Because it's at the end of a 7.5 mile dead-end road in an OHV area, yet no OHVers here. No piped water, but the creek is flowing in mid-May of a wet winter. So peaceful. Lots of shade.

      • Heather K.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Summit Regional Park
        May. 7, 2024

        Sweetwater Summit Regional Park

        Perfect spot for a night or two

        I’m not sure you’ll find a campground like this anywhere else in California for $29/night with partial hookups. It was quiet and peaceful. Bathrooms could have used some attention. Not a fan of no toilet seats on the toilets.

      • Beth W.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Boulder Oaks Eqst
        May. 7, 2024

        Boulder Oaks Eqst

        Beautiful and quiet

        Super cute area, and much cooler since it’s a little higher altitude. Nice big sites and an entire loop with equestrian sites.

        Pit toilets. One dumpster. Water.

        I was there May 5, 2024 and the fee was $14.

      • kThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Summit Regional Park
        May. 6, 2024

        Sweetwater Summit Regional Park

        Great city park

        Had space 8 south lot.. perfect view stayed for 7 nights, yep had bugs some days lots of people some days none, ya you need tokens for shower but they were clean the water was hot..It was glamping as far as i was concerned , depending on how you wanter to camp.. i have stayed at KOA’s that charge a lot more and quality is a lot less.. Ranger patrols all night’ , helpful and friendly , wish i could park here every night of my trip I loved this place. Oh ya planes fly over this place.. and i am sure dome KOA also

      • MThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
        May. 2, 2024

        South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

        Glamping of Campsites

        PROS:

        This site offers amazing sunsets and ocean breezes. There are plenty of facilities, and the camp store is great. The live music is always good, too. 

        A grocery store is nearby, just over the freeway. 

        CONS:

        It can get very crowded and packed. 

        Hard to get a site

        Many generators are always on.

        If you get a site at the far ends, it's a hike to go in and out. Try to get a site closer to the entrance and the store. But you will get a lot of traffic through your site. 

        Don't try to get there earlier; they usually won't let you in before check-in. 

        Biking and Running:

        Great if you want to ride along PCH. This stretch has good bike lanes that take you into Oceanside or Encinitas. 

        Good running. You can lap the campsite, which is almost 1 mile, end to end. I usually run down towards Encinitas along PCH.

      • MThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Summit Regional Park
        May. 2, 2024

        Sweetwater Summit Regional Park

        Nice site, good views, clean facilities

        SITES:

        The pads with full hookups offer nice city views. The place is very clean and quite. 

        Someone said there are major ant problems, but I didn't experience them. It did rain a bit when I was there. 

        SURROUNDING AREA:

        The nearby reservoir is a good place to hike, bike, or run. The campground is connected directly to it. You are not allowed in the water. 

        There are shopping and restaurants nearby. 

        Is this a campground I would go visit just to go camping...probably not, as it offers nothing spectacular other than a place to park and hang out outdoors. 

        I booked here since we had a soccer game nearby and needed a safe place to park overnight.

      • Samantha M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Laguna Campground
        Apr. 28, 2024

        Laguna Campground

        One of my favorites!

        Very well maintained. I always get site 8. Close to the restroom and the meadow. Vault toilets. Beautiful area all together. Nice quick drive in Southern California.

      • A
        Camper-submitted photo from GoodVibes Ranch & Farm
        Apr. 20, 2024

        GoodVibes Ranch & Farm

        More like Glamping than Camping!

        Let me first off say that the property is beautiful and that my hosts Carolyn and Bernie were very accommodating and had great energy.  Plenty of room for beautiful hikes on their many acres of land packed with some great views a few decks scattered around the property.  I found out they have a full size professional disc golf course here! I don’t bring my discs, but Carolyn and Bernie happily lent me some discs so I could try it out. 

        Now to the Glamping- now I been camping a bunch, the reason I say that this is glamping is that they have actual running water flushable toilets and outdoor hot showers!  I can’t tell you how excited I was lol, it really upleveled the whole camping experience. They also have an industrial kitchen as well as an outdoor bar where they have very fairly priced beer and wine. Did I mention they have a full size professional pool table? Turns out Bernie and Carolyn are professional pool players too! This place is awesome! I will definitely be coming back again again to relax. I live in sd so it’s only about 35-40min drive from my place.  Thank you so much Carolyn and Bernie for such a great experience!!

      • D
        Camper-submitted photo from GoodVibes Ranch & Farm
        Apr. 20, 2024

        GoodVibes Ranch & Farm

        Love This place!

        Beautiful nature getaway! Only 30 mins East of San Diego. 150 acres of beautiful pristine land. Gorgeous oaks shading our camp site. Loved the kitties & the ranch doggies. Went for a hike. Saw lots of flowers, a seasonal creek, sage, views of the valley & nearby mountain. Played some pool. The disk golf course is on the awesome hike I took. They have live music on the weekends. And 3 huge custom stone showers with natural spring water & full bathrooms with sinks & flushing toilets.

      • Eric G.
        Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe Park RV Resort
        Apr. 7, 2024

        Santa Fe Park RV Resort

        First of many

        Quiet most of the time but, can get very noisy with the interstate being so close. Very narrow driveways. Twice in 3 days only did I hear airplanes. Many stray cats!



      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Imperial Beach, CA?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Imperial Beach, CA is Kumeyaay Lake Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 20 reviews.

      • What is the best site to find tent camping near Imperial Beach, CA?

        TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Imperial Beach, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.