Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near Palomar Mountain? Find the best information on tent campgrounds near Palomar Mountain, including sites, reviews, and tips. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Palomar Mountain's most popular destinations.
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
Situated 4,200 feet above sea level in a forest of pines and oaks along the northern extremity of the Laguna Mountain Range, this 929-acre park is one of the few San Diego county parks to get snowfall each year.
Forests of oak, pine, and cedar surround peaceful mountain meadows and provide an undisturbed setting for nearly 11 miles of scenic hiking and equestrian trails. Mule deer and wild turkey are frequently seen throughout the park, and rare residents include bobcats and mountain lions.
Though its forest may seem timeless, each season brings dramatic changes: from winter snowfall to spring wildflowers, there is always something new to experience at Heise.
In addition to trails, you can take advantage of cabins, trailer sites, individual tent sites, and a group-tent camping area, along with several playgrounds, restrooms with coin-operated showers and ample picnic spaces. Rangers-lead activities every weekend, and the park office with a small museum is open during the day or by appointment. This park makes a gorgeous setting for weddings and special events!
$24 - $34 / night
Located on the Cleveland National Forest, Oak Grove Campground is nestled in a valley of large oak groves and manzanita.
Oak Grove Trail is a short walk of 1.5 miles and is located across Rt. 79, behind the Ranger Station. Oak Grove Trail is the oldest established trail on the Palomar Ranger District. Although a steep trail, it offers great views of the San Jacinto and San Gorgonio Mountains and the Oak Grove Valley as you gain elevation. The trail connects with the Oak Grove Truck Trail offering access to High Point Lookout (an additional 5 miles one way). Be prepared with plenty of drinking water. Hikers interested in exploring will find nearby Agua Tibia Wilderness worth the drive as well.
Oak Grove Trail is a short walk of 1.5 miles and is located across Rt. 79, behind the Ranger Station. Oak Grove Trail is the oldest established trail on the Palomar Ranger District. Although a steep trail, it offers great views of the San Jacinto and San Gorgonio Mountains and the Oak Grove Valley as you gain elevation. The trail connects with the Oak Grove Truck Trail offering access to High Point Lookout (an additional 5 miles one way). Be prepared with plenty of drinking water. Hikers interested in exploring will find nearby Agua Tibia Wilderness worth the drive as well.
The attractive campground is comprised of chaparral vegetation such as canyon live oaks, ribbonwood and chamise and offers open, but secluded sites. The area offers stargazers an opportunity to view the clear night skies. Birders will be pleased with the variety of wildlife and opportunities for viewing. The Cleveland National Forest also boasts such species as mountain lion, bobcat, mule deer, coyote, gray fox, ringtail cat, long tail weasel, opossum, jackrabbits, desert cottontails, and California ground squirrel among many others.
Palomar State Park and Palomar Observatory are located on county Rt. S6, where an active telescope is available for viewing by the public. Temecula Wine Country is also within driving distance. The closest town is Warner Springs
$15 / 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
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
We are San Diego County's ONLY campsite with river and tubing access!
$40 - $120 / night
Lake Hemet is surrounded by the majestic beauty of the San Jacinto Mountains, in Mountain Center, near the charming town of Idyllwild. The scenery is splendid no matter which direction you look. Tall pines, manzanitas, sage, and giant oaks abound!
Lake Hemet is one of the most popular spots in Southern California for camping and fishing. The recent additions of the Soaring Pines Cafe serving delicious food and Splashing Eagle Swim Zone have made Lake Hemet the vacation spot to be during the spring and summer months.
Remember to pack a camera and binoculars, and keep a watchful eye as majestic eagles, hawks, and other wildlife are often seen soaring throughout the forest and campground. Come and enjoy camping, fishing, boating and the breathtaking scenery all year round.
DAY USE: In addition to camping, Lake Hemet offers public access to the campground for day use guests daily (hours vary by season). Day use is $25 per vehicle and affords guests with the opportunity to picnic, shoreline fish, launch personal boats or kayaks (additional fees apply) and rent boats or kayaks from our marina. If you are visiting other guests who are overnight camping with us, the $25 fee still applies. NOTE: DAY USE WILL BE CLOSED FOR ALL SUMMER HOLIDAY WEEKENDS FROM FRIDAY TO SUNDAY for Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day weekends. Only guests with previously purchased annual day use or launch passes will be allowed as our campground will be fully booked and activities are planned for our guests.
$45 / night
Welcome to your ideal Vail Lake camping escape to nature with wide-open spaces to explore. Temecula/Vail Lake KOA sits on 385 acres of recreation space, featuring 467 campsites and more than 200 acres of world-class hiking and mountain bike trails. This KOA specializes in recreation from little ones up through the teenage and adult years with three sparkling swimming pools: a 25-meter lap pool, a kids' wading pool, and a full sized leisure swimming pool. We offer a variety of outdoor activity options on site including horseshoe pits, disc golf, pickleball courts, newly refinished basketball courts, and a very popular 18 hole mini golf course. Families love our summer staffed recreation and Halloween celebrations. Groups love our facilities for hosting small festivals, mountain bike races, and family reunions. Guests enjoy gathering in the campground's Vail Lake Village for meals and entertainment at the seasonal Cafe and Bar. Restock your supplies in the Village's newly remodeled store and gift shop. Relax in your campsite under our large, mature Oak trees that beautifully shade your campsites or try a new hotel-style Deluxe Cabin or Eco Tent accommodation coming late fall 2019. Just 15-minutes to Temecula Valley Wineries and local area Casinos.
Lake Skinner Recreation Area, located near Temecula, CA, is a popular spot for family camping. This campground offers a variety of accommodations, including tent sites, RV spots, and even glamping options. It's open year-round, so you can enjoy the great outdoors whenever the mood strikes.
One of the standout features here is the full hookups available for RVs, making it a convenient choice for those who prefer a bit more comfort. The campground is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. For families, there's a splash pad and playground to keep the kids entertained, and plenty of open space for activities like kite flying and cornhole.
Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the lake, which is actually a reservoir. While swimming isn't allowed, you can fish for a $10 daily fee. The camp store is well-stocked, so if you forget any essentials, you won't have to go far to find what you need.
The sites are a bit close together, so don't expect a lot of privacy. However, the friendly atmosphere and the range of amenities more than make up for it. The bathrooms and showers are generally clean, though it's always a good idea to bring your own toilet paper just in case.
Overall, Lake Skinner Recreation Area is a great spot for a family getaway, offering plenty of activities and conveniences to make your stay enjoyable. Whether you're there for the fishing, the open spaces, or just a relaxing weekend away, you'll find something to love about this campground.
$25 - $45 / night
There are 31 campsites in the Doane Valley Campground, three of which have accessible features. Each site has a table and fire ring, and most have a food locker. Piped drinking water is available. The campground also has restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers which are usable for campers, including those with disabilities.
The beautiful forest and mountain meadows of Palomar Mountain State Park are in northern San Diego County, high atop the west side of Palomar Mountain. Large pine, fir and cedar trees make the park one of the few areas in southern California with a Sierra Nevada-like atmosphere. The park features camping, picnicking, hiking, and fishing (trout) in Doane Pond. Coniferous forests cover much of the 1,862 acres, in contrast to the dry lowlands surrounding the mountain.
Elevation within the park averages 5,000 feet above sea level, making evenings cool even during the summer. A number of vista points offer spectacular panoramic views both westerly toward the ocean and inland toward the desert, particularly from Boucher Hill Summit, which has been listed in the Sierra Club's "Hundred Peaks Section" since first published in 1946. There, you'll also find the historic Boucher Hill Fire Lookout.
The park is open from dawn 'til dusk daily. Reservations are highly recommended for camping during peak season. Day use fees are $10.00 per vehicle, cash or check only. Trails are open to foot traffic only, and dogs and mountain bikes are not allowed on trails. Please note that there are no gas stations on Palomar Mountain.
$40 - $130 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Palomar Mountain, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Palomar Mountain, CA is South Carlsbad State Beach Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 73 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Palomar Mountain, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 191 tent camping locations near Palomar Mountain, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
