Searching for the best camping near Oceanside, CA? Oceanside is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Oceanside, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
For many, once the sun comes out and summer rolls around, it can be hard to resist the urge to get outside and soak up some fun. If you relate, and you just need to unplug for a minute, Carlsbad camping offers some of the state’s best camping sites around. When your work has stacked up and you’re overloaded, it’s time to gather your camping gear, and head to Carlsbad State Beach camping for solitude and relaxation.
This San Diego beach and campground feature camping, swimming, surfing, skin diving, fishing and picnicking. The campground is especially popular in the summer, thanks to its scenic location which overlooks the picturesque Carlsbad Beach below. Even better, the campground offers direct access to the beach via a set of well-kept stairs. As a result of the popularity, the campground is reservation only, so don’t show up without one or you’ll likely be unable to stay.
When you’re done with the beach, check out the nearby California geography and some of the trails within the park. If the ocean isn’t your thing, a number of Campfire Programs, Junior Ranger Programs, and Nature Walks may be offered. That said, program availability changes with the season, so be sure to check signs posted on the restrooms and at the entrance station regarding park information during your visit.
At night, campers are gently caressed to sleep by the nearby ocean tide, lapping upon its secluded shoreline. There is plenty of privacy throughout, thanks to the large selection of flora and fauna throughout the campground. The campsites themselves are also spacious, with roughly half of them featuring electric hookups. Additionally, All restrooms and shower buildings have accessible facilities. Prior to arrival, visitors with disabilities who need assistance should contact the unit Supervising Ranger.
South Carlsbad State Beach Campground is perfect for campers and individuals who love the ocean and the outdoors. Whether you’re looking surf the rolling waves, or paddle board out and take part in all that the north county coastline has to offer, you’re sure to have fun here.
$650 / night
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.
$250 / night
Located on the San Diego Coast, San Elijo Campground offers camping, swimming, surfing, showers and picnicking. The narrow, bluff-backed stretch of sand has a nearby reef popular with snorkelers and divers.
A camp store and snack bar located near the campground entrance operates March through December and provides all the amenities a camper may need including some RV supplies, boogie boards, and firewood.
This San Elijo camping destination requires reservations for its 171 campsites.
$50 - $520 / night
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.
$250 / night
Guajome Regional Park is located in the coastal community of Oceanside and has a little bit of everything that San Diego County offers. Just 8 miles from the Pacific Ocean, the park is a great place to visit year-round, and is close to many natural and historic points of interest.
Some 4.5 miles of multi-use, non-motorized trails meander through diverse Southern California habitats such as woodlands, chaparral, wetlands and mixed grasslands. Two ponds attract a migratory birds and serve as home to a variety of fish that will test the skills of any angler.
Guajome also has two day-use areas with new playgrounds, a basketball court, restrooms and lots of green lawn space make this park ideal for picnicking – along with 33 tent and RV campsites, a caravan pavilion and a rustic cabin for those wishing to extend their stay overnight.
$29 - $35 / night
Welcome to Dixon Lake Campground, a fantastic spot near Escondido, CA. This place has a lot to offer, whether you're into tent camping, RVing, or even glamping. The campground is open all year, so you can enjoy it no matter the season.
One of the standout features here is the view. Many campers rave about the spectacular night lights and the beautiful lake views. If you're lucky enough to snag a spot on the ridge line, you'll get a great mix of city and lake scenery. It's a unique experience to feel so close to nature while still being near the conveniences of the city.
For those who like to stay active, there's plenty to do. Fishing is a big draw, and you can rent boats if you want to get out on the water. Hiking around the area is also a popular activity. If you're bringing kids, they'll love the climbing rocks at site #23.
Amenities are solid here. The campground has coin-operated showers, which are a lifesaver after a long day. There's also a small market and a snack stand, so you won't go hungry. Pets are welcome, and it's only a buck a night for your furry friends.
A few tips from fellow campers: Spot #45 is highly recommended for its privacy, and if you're tent camping, site #6 offers a secluded feel with a great view. Just be prepared for some steep driveways.
Overall, Dixon Lake Campground is a great place to relax, enjoy nature, and maybe even catch a fish or two. Happy camping!
$39 - $50 / night
North Loop (sites 1-59, 120, 122)
$350 / night
Welcome to Dos Picos County Park, a fantastic spot for camping near Ramona, CA. This place is a hit with families and groups, especially on weekends. The park offers a mix of tent sites, RV spots, and even cabins, so there's something for everyone.
One of the standout features here is the abundance of amenities. You’ll find electric hookups, drinking water, and showers, making it a comfortable stay. Pets are welcome, and there are fire pits and picnic tables at each site, perfect for those evening campfires and outdoor meals. The park also has a sanitary dump station and a recycling area, including a bin for empty propane bottles.
The campground is well-maintained with paved pads at most sites, though some have gravel pads and curbs that might be tricky for RVs. There’s a creek running through the park, adding a nice touch of nature, though it can flood some sites after heavy rain. The bathhouses are basic but clean, and there’s a handicap-accessible bathroom available.
For activities, there’s a short nature trail, a horseshoe pit, and a large picnic pavilion. Kids will love the playground and the chance to see local wildlife like squirrels, bunnies, and hawks. The park is also close to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, making it a convenient base for day trips.
Visitors have praised the quiet, peaceful atmosphere, especially during the week. The park’s dark skies are great for stargazing, and the surrounding oak trees provide plenty of shade. Whether you’re here for a quick overnight stay or a longer getaway, Dos Picos County Park offers a relaxing and enjoyable camping experience.
$24 - $100 / night
Located at the north end of Camp Pendleton, the San Onofre Beach Campgrounds are one of three areas aboard the base that patrons can utilize year round.
$45 / night
San Onofre Campground and day-use parking along Old Highway 101 adjacent to the beautiful sandstone bluffs. This beach below is popular with swimmers and surfers with six rugged dirt access trails cut into the bluff above. All campsites include a fire pit and picnic table. The campground offers cold outdoor showers and chemical toilets. No RV hookups are available, however, there is a RV dump-station.
$45 - $250 / night
For many, once the sun comes out and summer rolls around, it can be hard to resist the urge to get outside and soak up some fun. If you relate, and you just need to unplug for a minute, Carlsbad camping offers some of the state’s best camping sites around. When your work has stacked up and you’re overloaded, it’s time to gather your camping gear, and head to Carlsbad State Beach camping for solitude and relaxation.
This San Diego beach and campground feature camping, swimming, surfing, skin diving, fishing and picnicking. The campground is especially popular in the summer, thanks to its scenic location which overlooks the picturesque Carlsbad Beach below. Even better, the campground offers direct access to the beach via a set of well-kept stairs. As a result of the popularity, the campground is reservation only, so don’t show up without one or you’ll likely be unable to stay.
When you’re done with the beach, check out the nearby California geography and some of the trails within the park. If the ocean isn’t your thing, a number of Campfire Programs, Junior Ranger Programs, and Nature Walks may be offered. That said, program availability changes with the season, so be sure to check signs posted on the restrooms and at the entrance station regarding park information during your visit.
At night, campers are gently caressed to sleep by the nearby ocean tide, lapping upon its secluded shoreline. There is plenty of privacy throughout, thanks to the large selection of flora and fauna throughout the campground. The campsites themselves are also spacious, with roughly half of them featuring electric hookups. Additionally, All restrooms and shower buildings have accessible facilities. Prior to arrival, visitors with disabilities who need assistance should contact the unit Supervising Ranger.
South Carlsbad State Beach Campground is perfect for campers and individuals who love the ocean and the outdoors. Whether you’re looking surf the rolling waves, or paddle board out and take part in all that the north county coastline has to offer, you’re sure to have fun here.
$650 / night
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.
$250 / night
Located on the San Diego Coast, San Elijo Campground offers camping, swimming, surfing, showers and picnicking. The narrow, bluff-backed stretch of sand has a nearby reef popular with snorkelers and divers.
A camp store and snack bar located near the campground entrance operates March through December and provides all the amenities a camper may need including some RV supplies, boogie boards, and firewood.
This San Elijo camping destination requires reservations for its 171 campsites.
$50 - $520 / night
Guajome Regional Park is located in the coastal community of Oceanside and has a little bit of everything that San Diego County offers. Just 8 miles from the Pacific Ocean, the park is a great place to visit year-round, and is close to many natural and historic points of interest.
Some 4.5 miles of multi-use, non-motorized trails meander through diverse Southern California habitats such as woodlands, chaparral, wetlands and mixed grasslands. Two ponds attract a migratory birds and serve as home to a variety of fish that will test the skills of any angler.
Guajome also has two day-use areas with new playgrounds, a basketball court, restrooms and lots of green lawn space make this park ideal for picnicking – along with 33 tent and RV campsites, a caravan pavilion and a rustic cabin for those wishing to extend their stay overnight.
$29 - $35 / night
Welcome to Dixon Lake Campground, a fantastic spot near Escondido, CA. This place has a lot to offer, whether you're into tent camping, RVing, or even glamping. The campground is open all year, so you can enjoy it no matter the season.
One of the standout features here is the view. Many campers rave about the spectacular night lights and the beautiful lake views. If you're lucky enough to snag a spot on the ridge line, you'll get a great mix of city and lake scenery. It's a unique experience to feel so close to nature while still being near the conveniences of the city.
For those who like to stay active, there's plenty to do. Fishing is a big draw, and you can rent boats if you want to get out on the water. Hiking around the area is also a popular activity. If you're bringing kids, they'll love the climbing rocks at site #23.
Amenities are solid here. The campground has coin-operated showers, which are a lifesaver after a long day. There's also a small market and a snack stand, so you won't go hungry. Pets are welcome, and it's only a buck a night for your furry friends.
A few tips from fellow campers: Spot #45 is highly recommended for its privacy, and if you're tent camping, site #6 offers a secluded feel with a great view. Just be prepared for some steep driveways.
Overall, Dixon Lake Campground is a great place to relax, enjoy nature, and maybe even catch a fish or two. Happy camping!
$39 - $50 / night
North Loop (sites 1-59, 120, 122)
$350 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Oceanside, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Oceanside, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 203 campgrounds and RV parks near Oceanside, CA and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Oceanside, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Oceanside, CA is South Carlsbad State Beach Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 73 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Oceanside, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Oceanside, CA.
What parks are near Oceanside, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Oceanside, CA that allow camping, notably Cleveland National Forest and San Bernardino National Forest.
