The Oceanside area sits along the Pacific Coast Highway in Northern San Diego County, with camping options ranging from coastal bluffs to inland parks. Most campgrounds in this region experience mild temperatures averaging 60-75°F year-round with coastal fog common in summer mornings. Oceanside's proximity to both beaches and inland hills creates diverse camping environments within a 15-mile radius.
What to do
Surfing at San Elijo State Beach: Just 11 miles north of Oceanside, this campground offers direct access to premier surf spots. "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," notes Jonathan G. in his review of San Elijo State Beach Campground.
Fishing at Dixon Lake: Located 16 miles inland in Escondido, this freshwater lake offers stocked fishing without requiring a California fishing license. "Bonus: No CA fishing license needed! Just the lake permit of $7 per adult. Big fish in this lake," says a reviewer at Dixon Lake Campground. For boating enthusiasts: "You can rent a 'motor' boat (really a trolling motor attached) for all day rate or half day. If it's summer and weekend, you'd have to get down there early to rent though, they'll sell out."
Hiking trails at Guajome Regional Park: Explore the park's nature paths around a small lake. "This is a San Diego County park with nice walking and mountain biking paths. There is also a small lake. The park staff was friendly and helpful," writes Tim J. who stayed at Guajome Regional Park. Another camper adds, "They have some very nice nature trails for walking."
What campers like
Clean facilities at South Carlsbad: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at this oceanfront campground. "Pick a spot - $75 gets you on the bluff with hookups $50 gets you on the bluff but no hookups $35 gets you on the other side. Trash, recycling, and sewage disposal ($10) nearby. Water quality at the hookup sites smell fresh," shares Tom H. from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground.
Beachfront access at San Clemente: The proximity to the ocean makes this campground popular despite its steep trails. "Each campsite has a fire container, barbeque, and a picnic table under trellis type structure. Clean flush toilets. Beautiful location next to the ocean," explains Les S. Another camper adds: "The walk up from the beach is a little tough, but the lifeguards are super nice and helpful if you need assistance. I always come home with a nice tan and great calfs."
Resort amenities at Paradise By The Sea: For those seeking more comfort while camping near Oceanside, this RV resort offers exceptional facilities. "The RV park has its own back gate to the beach. It meanders through a little city park and then you can take the roads to find little beach access or walk through the neighborhood down to the proper beach and Oceanside Pier," notes Julia M. who stayed at Paradise By The Sea RV Resort. The resort includes "indoor rec room with billiards, shuffle board and more" and "outdoor rec area with corn hole, picnic area."
What you should know
Train noise impacts some campgrounds: Several coastal campgrounds sit near active rail lines. At San Elijo, a reviewer warns: "You can hear the train go by too. We are good sleepers so it was fine for us and the price and location can't be beat!" Similarly, Paradise By The Sea campers note: "There is a commuter train that goes by and we were concerned before arriving due to working from home conditions, but we were pleasantly surprised. At our site it wasn't bad at all."
Reservation timing is critical: Most coastal campgrounds book up months in advance, especially for prime sites. At San Mateo Campground, which connects to Trestles Beach via a 1.5-mile trail, reviewers recommend planning ahead: "Clean campground, most of the spots are super private! A fun little hike (1.5 miles) to the walk until tresels beach. I think it's 2 miles all together. The beach is beautiful, great for surfing!"
Wildlife concerns: Several inland campgrounds report wildlife encounters. At Dixon Lake, campers should "Beware the Poison Oak. If you're hitting the trails or fishing the bank, there's a lot of it." Another campground has ant issues: "We made the mistake of not being prepared for the ANTS!!! We learns that comet around all points of contact with the ground keeps them down."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access at Guajome: Families appreciate the recreational facilities at this inland park. "We just spent a weekend getaway and this was a great spot for it! All hookups PLUS dump out in each spot. It's right in the middle of the city but they did a great job making it feel like you were out in nature. Great walking around the trails and lake," shares Heather L. "The camp hosts were friendly and do a great job of keeping the sites and bathrooms super clean!"
Tent sites with direct beach access: While most oceanfront campgrounds cater to RVs, Oceanside RV Resort offers dedicated tent camping areas. "We camped here on a trip up the coast and found this spot at the end of the day. There are 5 spots where you can walk your stuff and camp right on the beach. Each spot was secluded and had a picnic table and a good size area for your tent," notes Alicia F.
Water activities beyond swimming: Since some reservoir lakes prohibit swimming, look for alternative water recreation. One Dixon Lake visitor suggests: "The pedal boats are only $12/hour to rent (plus $12 deposit). Make sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and umbrella with you. Yes, I said UMBRELLA! There is no relief from the sun on the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: When camping at San Clemente State Beach Campground, RVers recommend researching specific sites: "Nice, clean, easy access for trailers/RVs. Not an easy or quick access to the beach from the RV and tent areas, so just plan on spending time there!" Another camper adds: "Campsites offer nice sunset views of the ocean. Sandy spots are covered and include a table and BBQ grill."
Full hookup availability: Some campgrounds offer superior RV amenities. "Nice campground with a short walk to the beach. The spots are a little tight. But, the place is nice and the staff are really friendly," says Robert C. about Paradise By The Sea. For optimal privacy at South Carlsbad: "Pro-Tip #2: The far south end of the camp has the most shade/privacy brush, and only has sites on the ocean side so you'll have far more privacy."
Arrival timing considerations: Some RV parks have specific check-in protocols. At Oceanside RV Resort, a reviewer notes: "They did text to look for the check in with the orange flags. Once there, these flags are very narrow and I hard a hard time spotting them, as they are on a busy sign flooded street." Plan arrivals during daylight hours and confirm specific entrance locations in advance.
