Best Campgrounds near Poway, CA

Poway in Southern California connects campers to several diverse camping spots. San Elijo State Beach Campground draws many visitors with its beachfront locations and basic amenities like bathrooms and shower facilities. Not far away, Crystal Cove State Park has camping areas along coastal cliffs where hikers can easily access nearby trails. For those wanting more seclusion, Lake Hemet Campground in the San Jacinto Mountains provides fishing spots and picnic grounds. Most campgrounds can be reached via paved roads, though getting to certain remote areas might require vehicles with higher clearance. The privacy between sites differs—some have thick tree coverage while others are more open with better views. Spring and fall bring the most comfortable weather for camping in this region. Coastal sites become particularly attractive during hot summer months, while winter stays relatively mild except at higher elevations where it gets colder. Always check if any areas are closed seasonally before making plans. Most sites come equipped with drinking water and tables for meals. Making reservations ahead of time is recommended since the best spots fill quickly, especially during busy periods. The camping areas around Poway range from oceanside spots to quiet mountain locations, giving campers plenty of choices.

Best Camping Sites Near Poway, California (199)

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Recent Reviews near Poway, CA

1353 Reviews of 199 Poway Campgrounds



Guide to Poway

Camping near Poway, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Beach Access: Enjoy the sun and surf at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground. One camper mentioned, "Great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks overlooking the ocean. Beach access. Lots of sites."
  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach. A visitor noted, "Great if you want to ride along PCH. This stretch has good bike lanes that take you into Oceanside or Encinitas."
  • Fishing: Head to Lake Jennings for some fishing fun. One reviewer shared, "The lake is clean with plenty of fish. I will definitely stay again in the future."

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views at Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park. A happy camper said, "Almost every site has an ocean view of some kind."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers at William Heise County Park. One visitor remarked, "Bathrooms were spotless. They were being cleaned frequently."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff at Lake Jennings. A reviewer noted, "The ladies at the front are always so incredibly sweet!"

What you should know

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some sites can get quite busy, especially during peak seasons. A camper at San Clemente State Beach Campground mentioned, "It is loud, even if it isn't because your neighbors are on top of you."
  • Limited Privacy: Many campgrounds have sites close together. A visitor at Doheny State Beach Campground said, "The middle sites are small and tight, offering little privacy."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise from nearby roads or trains. One camper at Lake Hemet Campground noted, "There is a ton of road noise coming off of the highway."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like San Elijo State Beach Campground, which offers easy beach access and nearby restaurants. A family camper said, "Amazing site in a little town with all you need for a weekend getaway."
  • Plan Activities: Bring bikes for the trails or fishing gear for the lakes. One parent at Lake Jennings mentioned, "There’s a playground, hikes, and 360 views."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy. A camper at William Heise County Park noted, "They have areas that are full hookup, partial hookup, no hookup, tent only areas, and group camping."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Moro Campground said, "The roads that lead to the sites is a bit narrow, so if your towable is on the long side, you might have to work a bit to back it in."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check out Lake Hemet Campground. A camper shared, "Prices range from $50 for a no-hookup site to $140 for a double hook-up oceanfront site."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially at night. A visitor at Doheny State Beach Campground mentioned, "There was a large group of people blasting their music until 2/3 AM."

Camping around Poway, CA, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a beach escape or a peaceful retreat in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Poway, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Poway, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 199 campgrounds and RV parks near Poway, CA and 15 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Poway, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Poway, CA is South Carlsbad State Beach Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 77 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Poway, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 free dispersed camping spots near Poway, CA.

  • What parks are near Poway, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Poway, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.