Best Camping near Ranchita, CA

Ranchita is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Ranchita is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Ranchita, CA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Ranchita, California (308)

    Camper-submitted photo at William Heise County Park near Julian, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at William Heise County Park near Julian, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at William Heise County Park near Julian, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at William Heise County Park near Julian, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at William Heise County Park near Julian, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at William Heise County Park near Julian, CA

    1. William Heise County Park

    44 Reviews
    92 Photos
    583 Saves
    Julian, California

    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!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $24 - $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Borrego Springs, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Borrego Springs, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Borrego Springs, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Borrego Springs, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Borrego Springs, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Borrego Springs, CA

    2. Borrego Palm Canyon Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    30 Reviews
    143 Photos
    334 Saves
    Borrego Springs, California

    Anza- Borrego Desert State Park’s rugged landscape formed largely by the forces of erosion attacking the uplifted mountains. The higher the mountains rise, the more vigorously they are attacked by rain, snow, ice, and wind, as they yield to the constant pull of gravity. Borrego Palm Canyon Campground visitors will be able to reserve campsites six months in advance from the current date. Bookings may extend from the arrival date to the desired departure date – based on availability and the park’s maximum stay rules. Reservation are available October 1st through April 30th.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $35 - $125 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Julian, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Julian, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Julian, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Julian, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Julian, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Julian, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Culp Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Ranchita, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Culp Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Ranchita, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Culp Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Ranchita, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Culp Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Ranchita, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Culp Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Ranchita, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Culp Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Ranchita, CA

    4. Culp Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    17 Reviews
    66 Photos
    414 Saves
    Ranchita, California

    Located in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, this free primitive campground is in the San Ysidro Mountains west of Borrego Springs. It's 3,375 feet above sea level.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo at Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park near Descanso, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park near Descanso, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park near Descanso, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park near Descanso, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park near Descanso, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park near Descanso, CA

    5. Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

    23 Reviews
    43 Photos
    407 Saves
    Descanso, California

    The beautiful park offers camping and hiking in an oak woodland forest, with a sprinkling of pines and lovely meadows with creeks. There are over 100 miles of trails which accommodate hikers, bikers, and equestrians. The two family camps, Paso Picacho and Green Valley, are open and on the reservation system spring through fall. Green Valley sits at an elevation of 4,000 feet and has a creek which runs through the middle of the campground. The day use area offers sets of cascades and shallow pools, great for water play on hot days. Green Valley has 81 campsites.

    Paso Picacho, 5 miles north, sits at an elevation of 5,000 feet. The most popular hikes start from this camp, including the 2 mile hike up Stonewall Peak (elevation 5,700 feet), and the 3.5 mile hike up Cuyamaca Peak (elevation 6,512 feet), both which offer breathtaking views of the deserts to the east, the coast to the west, and Lake Cuyamaca at the bottom. Lake Cuyamaca, operated by the Helix Water District, is two miles north of Paso Picacho and offers boating and fishing. Paso Picacho campground has 85 campsites.

    Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring. Restrooms with flush toilets and pay showers are in the campground. Water faucets a located every few campsites. There are no hookups. Each campground has a dump station. Firewood and ice may be purchased at the camps. Interpretive programs are offered during the summer season. Campsites are $30 per night. Reservations are necessary for weekends April through October. The camping fee includes one motorized vehicle. Extra vehicles are $10 per night. There is a limit of 8 persons per campsite. Dogs are allowed but are restricted to the campgrounds, picnic areas, and paved roads and Cuyamaca Peak Fire Road. They may not be left unattended.

    Environmental backpack in or horseback ride in camps are also available. Granite Springs and Arroyo Seco Environmental camps are open on first come, first serve. Both have chemical toilets, non-potable water, corrals and tent sites.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $40 - $250 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Dos Picos County Park near Poway, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dos Picos County Park near Poway, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dos Picos County Park near Poway, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dos Picos County Park near Poway, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dos Picos County Park near Poway, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dos Picos County Park near Poway, CA

    6. Dos Picos County Park

    33 Reviews
    98 Photos
    280 Saves
    Poway, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $24 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at El Prado Campground near Mount Laguna, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at El Prado Campground near Mount Laguna, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at El Prado Campground near Mount Laguna, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at El Prado Campground near Mount Laguna, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at El Prado Campground near Mount Laguna, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at El Prado Campground near Mount Laguna, CA

    7. El Prado Campground

    22 Reviews
    92 Photos
    246 Saves
    Mount Laguna, California

    Overview

    Laguna Campground is a great mountain getaway just one hour east of San Diego, California in the Laguna Mountain Recreation Area. Campers can enjoy cooler temperatures, unique natural areas and an extensive trail system at this mountain facility from summer through early fall.

    Recreation

    The Laguna Mountain Recreation Area is known for great horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking trails. Visitors can get their boots dusty on the Laguna Meadow Trail system or access a segment of the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail, which runs from California to the State of Washington. Wildflowers are usually abundant in April and May on the Big Laguna Trail, which takes visitors past Big Laguna Lake. In wet years there is water in Big Laguna Lake by December or January and ducks and other birds can be found. The trail presents a number of options to the user. A return to the trailhead parking can be made by cutting through the Laguna Campground or by taking the Pacific Crest Trail north. Families can learn about the area's flora and fauna by attending educational programs at the facility's amphitheater. Or for history buffs, the El Prado Cabin located at nearby El Prado Campground, is the first ranger cabin built in the Cleveland National Forest in 1911. The San Diego State University Observatory also sponsors "Star Parties" for campers most Saturday evenings during the summer (schedule can be obtained at the nearby visitor center or by calling 619-473-8547).

    Natural Features

    The campground sits at an elevation of 6,000 ft. in the Laguna Mountains. It is forested with pines and oaks that provide plenty of shade, in addition to a meadow. The area is home to many species of birds, as well as the endangered Laguna Skipper butterfly. Little Laguna lake is located just a short distance from the campground and is an excellent hiking destination for photographers and visitors looking to explore the area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Agua Caliente County Park Campground near Mount Laguna, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Agua Caliente County Park Campground near Mount Laguna, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Agua Caliente County Park Campground near Mount Laguna, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Agua Caliente County Park Campground near Mount Laguna, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Agua Caliente County Park Campground near Mount Laguna, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Agua Caliente County Park Campground near Mount Laguna, CA

    8. Agua Caliente County Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    61 Photos
    127 Saves
    Mount Laguna, California

    Agua Caliente is located in the desert of central Southern California. Pitch your tent or park your RV on the white sand between cacti and Mt. San Jacinto. Close to Palm Springs, and the Mexican border. Amenities include 3 pools, hot springs, restrooms, and games.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $29 - $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Oak Grove Campground near Aguanga, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oak Grove Campground near Aguanga, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oak Grove Campground near Aguanga, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oak Grove Campground near Aguanga, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oak Grove Campground near Aguanga, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oak Grove Campground near Aguanga, CA

    9. Oak Grove Campground

    19 Reviews
    69 Photos
    205 Saves
    Aguanga, California

    Overview

    Located on the Cleveland National Forest, Oak Grove Campground is nestled in a valley of large oak groves and manzanita.

    Recreation

    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.

    Natural Features

    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.

    Nearby Attractions

    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

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $15 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Hemet Campground near Mountain Center, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Hemet Campground near Mountain Center, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Hemet Campground near Mountain Center, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Hemet Campground near Mountain Center, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Hemet Campground near Mountain Center, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Hemet Campground near Mountain Center, CA

    10. Lake Hemet Campground

    38 Reviews
    125 Photos
    315 Saves
    Mountain Center, California

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $45 / night

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 308 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Ranchita, California

1538 Reviews of 308 Ranchita Campgrounds


  • cThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Canyon
    Feb. 18, 2025

    Painted Canyon

    Best dispersed camping site of all time

    Amazing area! So many places to camp. Road in is unpaved but not too bumpy. Once you get to the canyon area it’s deeper sand, so 4WD is advised. The road says mandatory but we saw many 2WD cars there.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Feb. 13, 2025

    South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    High theft area!!!

    Even if you lock your generators up, securing with cable and locks and securing in the back of a covered pickup there are thieves cutting through truck covers, cutting locks and stealing generators…. Be WARNED!!!

  • roam F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mountain Road
    Feb. 12, 2025

    Thomas Mountain Road

    Known as Apple Canyon

    Easy travel dirt roads. There are only 3 actual sites with fire rings, but there is plenty of room to camp without rings. 5g Verizon works great.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Feb. 2, 2025

    Dos Picos County Park

    Perfect weekend getaway

    The well-maintained campground boasts paved pads for most sites, making setup a breeze. Each site comes equipped with a fire ring and picnic table, perfect for cozy campfires and outdoor meals. The facilities are clean and convenient, including coin-operated showers and a dump station. The friendly and helpful rangers and camp hosts contribute to a relaxed atmosphere. Beyond the individual campsites, the campground itself is nestled within a beautiful park, offering a tranquil and scenic backdrop.

  • Jeffrey F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mecca Hills Wilderness
    Feb. 1, 2025

    Mecca Hills Wilderness

    Unique beauty and splice

    This is a good spot if you are willing to g to drive the 5 miles on the dirt road. Very sandy. Recommend 4 wheel drive but doable without if you are careful. Lots of spots to pullout while heading into the canyon. Several people in the area the night I was there but plenty is space and solitude. Did the ladder canyon hike the next day. Decent cell service unless you go far the up the canyon then none.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from West Shores RV Park & Storage
    Jan. 26, 2025

    West Shores RV Park & Storage

    Interesting RV PARK

    Pretty interesting RV park there are people with sail kites and they have two stroke engines strapped to their back or like go karts some of them,and they’re flying with a propeller on the engine. I don’t know what they call it but it’s pretty cool to watch. A little noisy in the daytime but other than that, it’s great

  • Kate W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Dripping Springs Campground
    Jan. 19, 2025

    Dripping Springs Campground

    Simple but great

    I really have come to love Dripping Springs campground. There's a great hike right out the end of the campground, although it gets HOT because this is more desert land than forest. I've stayed in a few sites and I think 14 has become my favorite even though you are kind of exposed, it's huge and it's away from all the other sites. I did see a baby scorpion in the bathroom once, so beware. There's a nice little cafe down the road and a winery a bit further that I like with a beautiful view.

  • Julie K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Corvina Beach Campground — Salton Sea State Recreation Area
    Jan. 6, 2025

    Corvina Beach Campground — Salton Sea State Recreation Area

    Really great for $10

    We were pleasantly surprised by the spacious camp spots with fire rings and picnic tables. The CG had toilets and cold showers. I would have given it 5 out of 5 but there was a train that went by near the site. We've heard about the bad smell at Salton Sea but it was odorless when we were there in January.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Circle RV Resort
    Jan. 5, 2025

    Circle RV Resort

    A nice cheap place

    This campsite looks really clean and has a heated pool with a small gym. It was 1200 per month.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Octillo Wells OHV Recreation Area
    Jan. 4, 2025

    Octillo Wells OHV Recreation Area

    It’s desert time!

    It’s technically the Republic of Slowjamistan.

    Lots of open space, just drive out and park. Might need an air down/up system depending on how far in you want to travel. No issues for the first 0.25-0.5 mile off the highway.

    ATV rentals available. There are some picnic tables and compost hole restrooms.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from San Diego RV Resort
    Dec. 11, 2024

    San Diego RV Resort

    Expensive and extremely noisy

    Stayed there for one month. Used generator intermittently during the non-quiet hours and neighbors were complaining. Instead of talking to us they when straight to the office like 12 year old tattletales to complain. Manager asked to come by and talk with her but was unable to come that day due to work schedule so I intended to talk with her the following day except when I got home they had left a letter on our RV telling us to leave at the end of our stay and never come back. Mind you this RV park is right next to I-8 and is extremely noisy throughout most of the day and night but an onboard generator during the daytime hours were just to much to bear…got it!

    The laundry mat is $5 per load and several people have had their belongings stolen; at one time it was their own security guard who doing the stealing - you can’t make this stuff up. On the elite side there is a creek that runs through and is eroding the ground at the edge of the road and almost floods the park during rainy season. There’s too many reasons to NOT recommend this place. Take your hard earned money elsewhere.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Dec. 9, 2024

    Dos Picos County Park

    Great Setting, Peaceful, and CLOSE to home!

    This place is a jewel, and if you live in San Diego, right in your backyard! Rangers are super helpful and friendly, the campground is clean and quiet, and the setting is beautiful. There’s a tranquil pond, nice hiking trails, places for kids to play…. Just a fantastic option close to home for locals and well worth consideration for visitors to the area.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Palm Springs
    Dec. 7, 2024

    Thousand Trails Palm Springs

    Great Central Location

    Thousand Trails Palm Springs offers a great pool and hot tub area with a lively, mixed-age crowd—perfect if you’re in your 30s and looking for variety. The bathrooms and laundry facilities are well-maintained, and the location is unbeatable for exploring Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley, conveniently situated right off the highway. However, the park is busy and crowded, with plenty of palm trees and tight spots that can be tricky for larger rigs. Electrical maintenance during our stay further limited site availability, adding to the congestion. Despite the challenges, the proximity to local attractions makes it a convenient option.

    Make sure you have your registration and insurance handy when you arrive.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sam's Family Spa RV Resort & Motel
    Dec. 7, 2024

    Sam's Family Spa RV Resort & Motel

    Worth it for Long Term Stays

    Sam’s Family Spa offers a mixed experience with steep daily rates, decent weekly rates, and an unbeatable deal for monthly stays. The mineral-fed hot springs and heated pool area are highlights, though access requires wristbands and a bathroom code. Mail delivery is convenient, but the lack of security at the campground entrance feels like a gap. The west side of the park boasts stunning views, and the grounds feature a variety of interesting desert plants. However, the overall experience didn’t quite match the polished image portrayed on the website. Still, its proximity to Palm Springs and relaxing hot springs make it a worthwhile option for longer stays

  • E.
    Camper-submitted photo from Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
    Dec. 2, 2024

    Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    Great escape from the city!

    I followed the coordinates provided and it took us right to the trailhead. We saw a few other campers but overall, the campground was ours for the weekend. We did some light hiking and exploring but otherwise took advantage of the peace and quiet that was available to us. Gorgeous sunsets and sunrises and epic star gazing! Being a dark sky community, we were able to see so many stars and constellations. We saw shooting stars nearly every minute and we were also able to find Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus,  and Neptune all with the naked eye! Next time we will pack a small telescope and I'm sure we will see more! 

    Watch out for cactus and needles that are buried in the sand. It is not recommended to bring dogs or walk barefoot for this reason. Our sandals and boots both had many needles stuck in the rubber soles after the trip. Being in the valley, the winds were very light but there is a possibility of strong winds and sand storms so be prepared. Temps averaged 70-75 during the day and dropped to 38-42 at night but with a small fire and proper gear, we were plenty comfortable. Fire rings are provided at some locations however the ranger informed us we could build a rock ring and line it with tin foil which worked great. 

    The road in was a bit rough in some areas. Wash out and silty sand could pose problems for smaller vehicles or campers so use your best judgement. Single track roads in/out so you will need to yield off the main road when encountering larger oncoming vehicles, which could also be difficult for inexperienced offroad drivers.

  • Sade H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park
    Nov. 30, 2024

    William Heise County Park

    Fun but Dusty

    We went in October with our AHG group. It was great and super dog friendly but WOW so much dirt created so much dust in the air and it got on everyone and everything. With that being said… TONS to do! Such beautiful sights to see! The drive up was amazing. They had plenty of water to wash and drink with a lot of bathrooms as well.

    You can walk trails, stargaze, take your bikes around and so much more!

  • Sade H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Observatory Campground
    Nov. 29, 2024

    Observatory Campground

    Love this place!

    I brought my family with our 2 dogs for Thanksgiving and unfortunately we left early because it was a major danger for our dogs with the very bold and brave coyotes.

    We tent camped but I feel like if we had an RV it would have been safer for the dogs.. for us alone with out the dogs, tent camping would have been fine!

    Other than that. BEAUTIFUL!!! We loved every single moment from the colorful drive up to the stars and checking out the observatory which was also pet friendly. It’s SO FUN to see all the different color leaves and the sunsets, the sunrises, the crisp air, the views on the way up….all of it was so beautiful.

  • patty W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise By The Sea RV Resort
    Nov. 29, 2024

    Paradise By The Sea RV Resort

    Location Location Location

    Just spent two weeks here including thanksgiving holiday. we watched this park fill to capacity the day before the holiday. We liked it better when there were a few empty spaces. It’s just how it is at RV parks like this-not much room. BUT- go out the locked gate at the back of the grounds, walk thru a park and across a (not too busy) street and there is the Pacific Ocean. The beach was hit hard by storms over the past year apparently and much sand has washed away. Leaving most of the beach covered in a thick layer of smooth river stones. Not easy to keep your balance on but doesnt hinder your walk to the surf too badly. We have loved our time here walking on the beach with our dog. This RV park is clean, has amenities like community room pool hot tub outdoor gathering area with tables with propane fireplace built in. It is also pretty expensive.

  • Amanda B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Native Falls Campground
    Nov. 17, 2024

    Native Falls Campground

    Fun quick family stay

    Very cute set up tent sites are right next to road but it’s not to busy of a road. They have a basketball court one, lake for fishing or swimming and paddle boats to go out on the lake. There are tv hook ups and cabins. I did not see any fire pits on sites. Bathrooms are ok and have locks which you need code for.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Salton Sea Sra
    Nov. 9, 2024

    Salton Sea Sra

    I love this place

    I have been coming here for 25 years. Sadly the lake is disappearing, but it have beautiful sunsets and is isolated and peaceful ( except for the occasional train). Avoid in the summer, but winter is amazing.

  • Suzanne W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina Spa and RV Resort
    Nov. 3, 2024

    Catalina Spa and RV Resort

    Catalina Spa RV Resort

    Growing up my family went on a few camping trips; mostly to Arizona to visit the ghost towns but when we wanted to go take a weekend trip and didn't want to leave state we would stay at the Catalina Spa Rv Resort in town. I remember my brother and I having so much fun running around or riding our bikes through the many turnaround streets at this park. They have an awesome pool and jacuzzis to use and a very large pond that all year round has ducks, birds, frogs, fish and turtles to look at. They have a friendly staff and the travelers were always very sweet and kind. The only town fall was that usually there isn't very many kids there, mostly older people come here to stay. They have. Gym and a game room. Lots of shade in rv parking areas and small bbq and tables to enjoy. Definitely worth checking it out !

  • 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👍😊


Guide to Ranchita

Camping near Ranchita, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy nature and unwind.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around William Heise County Park. One visitor mentioned, "The hiking trails were great for exploring and getting some exercise." The park is surrounded by tall trees and lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature walks.
  • Fishing: Head to Lake Hemet Campground for some fishing fun. A camper shared, "The lake is well-stocked with trout and bluegill," making it a great spot for anglers.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Blair Valley Primitive Campground, you might catch a glimpse of coyotes and other wildlife. One camper noted, "Saw some coyotes pass by my camp," highlighting the area's natural charm.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the sites. A review for Lake Jennings stated, "The bathrooms and showers are clean," which is a big plus for many.
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors enjoy the helpfulness of the staff. At Dos Picos County Park, one camper said, "This is a very well-run county park," emphasizing the positive experiences with the park's team.
  • Privacy: Campers often mention the spaciousness of the sites. A review for Burnt Rancheria Campground highlighted, "The sites are nice with lots of trees for more privacy," making it a peaceful getaway.

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get busy and noisy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Lake Hemet Campground mentioned, "It can get a little loud on the weekends with drunk party-goers."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For instance, Blair Valley Primitive Campground has no drinking water or electric hookups, so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
  • Wildlife Caution: While wildlife is a highlight, it’s essential to be cautious. A camper at William Heise County Park warned about ticks in the area due to the presence of mule deer.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Lake Jennings, which has a playground and activities for kids. One parent shared, "Great place for family and kids. Affordable."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to bring fishing gear if you’re heading to Lake Hemet Campground. A visitor noted, "Make sure to bring your spinning rods and reels with you."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy. A camper at Dixon Lake Campground mentioned, "They have a small snack stand during the day," which can be convenient.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites before booking. A review for Paso Picacho Campground mentioned, "Not many spaces for big rigs, but lots if you’re in the 20’ range."
  • Be Mindful of Hookups: Some campgrounds, like Burnt Rancheria Campground, do not have electric hookups. A camper noted, "There are no water, sewer nor electrical hookups at this campsite."
  • Arrive Early: To secure a good spot, especially on weekends, try to arrive early. A visitor at Dos Picos County Park mentioned, "Shouldn't have a problem finding a site here," but arriving early can help you snag the best ones.

Camping near Ranchita, California, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a family adventure, there's something for you in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Ranchita, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Ranchita, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 308 campgrounds and RV parks near Ranchita, CA and 33 free dispersed camping spots.

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ranchita, CA is William Heise County Park with a 4.5-star rating from 44 reviews.

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 33 free dispersed camping spots near Ranchita, CA.

  • What parks are near Ranchita, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Ranchita, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.