Best Camping near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Rancho Santa Margarita campgrounds just for you. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Rancho Santa Margarita, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA (181)

    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    1. San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    50 Reviews
    92 Photos
    521 Saves
    San Clemente, California

    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.

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

    $250 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park

    2. Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park

    34 Reviews
    89 Photos
    1356 Saves
    Laguna Beach, California

    The Moro campground, which is located on a bluff top with unparalleled ocean views, features 27 hookup sites, 30 non-hookup tent sites, both of which include 3 ADA-accessible sites each. We also feature primitive hike-in camping in our backcountry, which has 32 sites spread out across 3 areas. Although it does require a strenuous hike, it provides a peaceful refuge from the urban surroundings.

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

    $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Doheny State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Doheny State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Doheny State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Doheny State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Doheny State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Doheny State Beach Campground

    3. Doheny State Beach Campground

    35 Reviews
    118 Photos
    23 Saves
    Capistrano Beach, California

    North Loop (sites 1-59, 120, 122)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $50 - $350 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground

    4. San Clemente State Beach Campground

    36 Reviews
    146 Photos
    755 Saves
    San Clemente, California

    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.

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

    $300 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park

    5. O'Neill Regional Park

    28 Reviews
    68 Photos
    439 Saves
    Trabuco Canyon, California

    The Arroyo campground offers 79 campsites varying in size to accommodate RVs or tent camping for up to eight people per site. Reservations for individual sites can be made online, by phone or in person. The park offers eight large group campsites for parties of 17 or more and five equestrian campsites, each equipped with horse corrals, barbeques and fire pits. Reservations for groups of 17 or more can be made by calling the park office at (949) 923-2260.

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

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park

    6. Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park

    20 Reviews
    86 Photos
    376 Saves
    Coto de Caza, California

    While the park does now have water, the showers remain closed. Water is limited, though, so please plan accordingly.

    Caspers Wilderness Park is an 8,000 acre protected wilderness preserve nestled among the river terraces and sandstone canyons of the western coastal Santa Ana Mountains. The park's many fertile valleys are overtly complemented by specimen groves of native Coastal Live Oak and magnificent stands of California Sycamore. These areas are further accentuated by seasonal wildflower displays and running streams. Wildlife is abundant and can be readily viewed from any of the park's numerous trails.

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

    $20 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Newport Dunes RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Newport Dunes RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Newport Dunes RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Newport Dunes RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Newport Dunes RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Newport Dunes RV Resort

    7. Newport Dunes RV Resort

    26 Reviews
    83 Photos
    379 Saves
    Newport Beach, California

    Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina is located in the heart of Newport Beach CA, along the scenic Back Bay. Our laid-back lux resort offers RV campers access to the same amenities as any hotel guest plus more, including beach access, hydrotherapy pools, beachfront dining, hiking & biking trails, water sports, and one of SoCal’s largest inflatable water park (summer season). We offer planned activities for families to take part in. Allow us to be your basecamp for everything Newport Beach and Orange County has to offer.

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

    $75 - $550 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Jay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Jay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Jay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Jay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Jay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Jay Campground

    8. Blue Jay Campground

    20 Reviews
    67 Photos
    422 Saves
    Trabuco Canyon, California

    Cal Trans continues to perform highway-widening work on SR-74 Ortega Highway with periodic nightly closures.

    Located approximately 4 miles off Hwy 74 (Ortega) on the North Main Divide Road, this campsite has 50 available sites with a varying distance apart for a true "wilderness" feel. Amenities include trash cans, fire pits, grills, vaulted toilets, and plenty of local trails for hiking, biking and equestrian. For information regarding local and connecting trails, please see our Trail Guide under the Trabuco District.

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

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    9. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    74 Reviews
    164 Photos
    1011 Saves
    Carlsbad, California

    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.

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

    $650 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from San Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from San Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from San Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from San Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from San Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from San Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping

    10. San Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping

    20 Reviews
    56 Photos
    323 Saves
    San Clemente, California

    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.

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

    $45 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 181 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Rancho Santa Margarita

Recent Reviews in Rancho Santa Margarita

1309 Reviews of 181 Rancho Santa Margarita Campgrounds


  • Kaitlyn B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermit Gulch Campground
    Dec. 17, 2024

    Hermit Gulch Campground

    Easy and great for first time campers

    Clean bathrooms, friendly rangers, nice layout, cute wildlife, close to TCT. Only issue, which is probably just on all of Catalina, is that late hours of the night people are driving up the road in their golf carts which are super loud. So don’t get a site near the road if your an early or light sleeper.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Prado Regional Park
    Dec. 2, 2024

    Prado Regional Park

    Great Local Getaway

    Perfect to get out of the city but still be in it. Campgrounds have more than enough privacy with each one being about 15 to 20 yards apart. A ton of recreational things to do. Quiet at night.

  • 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.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildomar Campground
    Nov. 28, 2024

    Wildomar Campground

    Decent space.

    Roads were bumpy but made it in a super low clearance rv (21ft). Had the place all to ourselves. A bit close to the other sites. Not bad

  • 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.

  • 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👍😊

  • Brittany W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Valley Lakes
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Cherry Valley Lakes

    Convenient Location for Seeing Family

    Staff all friendly and facilities while dated are kept very clean. Campers are respectful and quit at night but it’s a very noisy location right next to the freeway which took some getting used to the first few days.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Vanlife Campground Community In Coastal Mountains
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Vanlife Campground Community In Coastal Mountains

    Perfect homebase for life on the road!

    One of the most beautiful properties I've ever stayed on. Part of the Van Life Campgrounds network of community oriented homebases for vanlifers and nomads on wheels. Met some cool people, worked, hung out with goats, had a few communal dinners. What else could you ask for.

  • Annie G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fry Creek Campground
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Fry Creek Campground

    Very beautiful

    This is a very nice and quiet campground and everyone there was very respectful of quite hours. The place was very clean and very beautiful. The only con was that there are way too many insects everywhere, My base camp got bombarded with a swarm of wasps, And I was forced to leave a day early, and had to leave my cooking pot behind because of the swarm of wasps... I wish there were some kind of rangers or someone there that I could have asked for help about this, or I wish someone would do something about this issue but I guess it is what it is at this location lol 😆 Other than not being able to cook and eat without wasps in your face and In your food, it was really nice

  • Kyle F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Champagne Lakes RV Resort
    Sep. 17, 2024

    Champagne Lakes RV Resort

    REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS!

    Let's start off with the fact that this"resort" has REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS living there and TWEAKERS SELLING DRUGS. When I mentioned it to the management they could care less, didn't say a word and walked away laughing. They DO NOT perform ANY BACKGROUND CHECKS and especially with children in the park I find that very disturbing. They nickel and dime you for every little thing and the rent has gone up 3x in one year. The water supply smells like sewage when you take a shower. Because they do pump outs the resort smells like human excrement most of the time. The lakes are polluted as well and completely full of cyanobacteria AKA green algae which is a respiratory hazard. POTENTIAL BEWARE.

  • Bryan S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Orangeland RV Park
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Orangeland RV Park

    Perfect

    Great little park. Heated pool, spa was hot. Nice little store with everything you need. Staff was very friendly and helpful. Only downside was the sports bar next door was pretty loud at night. And the loud music coming from the industrial building next door at 7am. Also very close to Disney with a free shuttle

  • jennifer G.
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neill Regional Park
    Sep. 1, 2024

    O'Neill Regional Park

    Great little campground in south OC!

    Clean, quiet campground located in one of the OC Parks, with plenty of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian use. I stayed here on a weekday, and there were a few couple of vacant campsites in my area, so it was an extremely quiet visit. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked for my stay. I didn’t use the showers since I was only staying one night, but I heard they were free!

    Rangers were very friendly and firewood was only $5 for a decent bundle that lasted me over 2 hours.

    The city of Rancho Santa Margarita is right up the hill, so you can grab food and any necessities if needed.

    My site backed to the creek, so I never had people walking through my campsite.

    My dog & I slept in my van, but there was room for multiple tents, and a decent amount of shade in my spot.

    My spot didn’t have its own water spigot, but there was one at a site across from me.

    I was fortunate that all of the campers around me were quiet and considerate. I know that it doesn’t always work out that way, and having obnoxious neighbors can really ruin your experience.

  • Anita A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Bonelli Bluffs

    Less crowded ocale while visiting family nearby

    Visiting family in Santa Ana and LA. Not to far for them to come to us and all to go to beach. Park clean and well maintained, personnel very kind and friendly Beautiful view from our site on area B. Crowded on weekend, much less during week Campground is not associated to adjacent Frank Bonelli Regional. Charge $12 to enter with vehicle but no fee to ride in on bikes

  • Kim N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Cove Backcountry — Crystal Cove State Park
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Crystal Cove Backcountry — Crystal Cove State Park

    beautiful beach

    Clean dump station, beautiful sites, very strict on rules. We came 10 minutes early before check in time, they made us wait. Campsite comes with wifi but very weak. We have t mobile and had bad reception. Would come back again for beautiful views, small hike, sandy beaches with lots of sand crabs.

  • Heather L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stone Creek Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Stone Creek Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    Some of the Campsites are great, others not so much

    We traveled as a group of 17 campers and were able to disperse evenly between 4 close together campsites. We were in 19, 20, 21 and 23. Even though the website says it allowed 2 cars per site we were charged for the 2nd vehicle. In each site. I had also checked online prior to make sure we would have cell service with that many people meeting us. Only those of us that had Verizon had only a single bar. The campsites in the inner ring (ours was #21) are VERY close together. Not at all private, your camp is literally up against a couple others. We had children from the other sites running all through ours and it was so close you could hear everyone else’s private conversations. #19 and #20 were on the outer circle but just enough space to park and then walk through very sticky manzanita trees into the campsite and picnic table area. None of them had much or any shade. Our saving grace was our 4th spot - which gave us enough room to have all of us sit out of the way of the sticky trees and one tree in the middle to give us a touch of shade throughout the day. It had 2 picnic tables and was much more private so we didn’t disturb anyone and we didn’t have everyone else disturbing us. The vault toilets (yes, I know what they entail, and yes, it’s summer) were horrendous and barely useable, but we had 2 within very quick walking distance of us. They do allow dogs (we had 5 dogs and 3 cats with us) and it’s a short drive into the little town of Idyllwild. It’s a campground that served its purpose in getting all of us together and of course we had a blast, but it’s not on my “must camp here again” list.

  • Jeff T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Escondido RV Resort
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Escondido RV Resort

    Amazing resort style amenities. Spacious sites

    People are complaining about freeway noise, we stayed in site 3 (the closest site to the freeway) and it was quiet as a mouse from inside our (insulated) RV. Amazing amenities. Dog park, pool, clubhouse. We loved site 3 so close to the amenities and restrooms. Overall amazing stay

  • Michael W.
    Camper-submitted photo from The Secret Place
    Aug. 19, 2024

    The Secret Place

    Peaceful, Private, Beautiful

    Although we booked a campsite, it felt more like we were invited to Mazen's home. He was communicative and responsive, happily answered all of our questions, and was beyond generous. I can't say enough about the beautiful views of Lake Elsinore! We can't wait to visit this campground again!

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground
    Aug. 14, 2024

    Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground

    Beach view

    The parking lot is next to the beach on the one side but also next to the highway on the other side. So the view and the breeze is beautiful, but the traffic noise in the evening and morning is not so nice. With earplugs everything is fine! ;) The host Jim is very kind and helpful!


Drive Time


Guide to Rancho Santa Margarita

Camping near Rancho Santa Margarita offers a fantastic escape into nature, with beautiful campgrounds that cater to all types of campers. Whether you're looking for a beachside retreat or a mountain getaway, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like South Carlsbad State Beach Campground, provide direct access to the beach. One camper noted, "Great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks overlooking the ocean. Beach access. Lots of sites."
  • Biking and Running: The area is perfect for outdoor activities. A reviewer mentioned, "Great if you want to ride along PCH. This stretch has good bike lanes that take you into Oceanside or Encinitas."
  • Fishing and Hiking: Campgrounds like Lake Hemet Campground are great for fishing. A visitor shared, "The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time."

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views. One said, "Couldn’t have better views. We watched dolphins and seals playing in the waves" at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground.
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A camper at San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach remarked, "Clean bathrooms and showers, but we stayed midweek and the place was very, very minimally occupied."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. One visitor at Bonelli Bluffs noted, "Personnel very kind and friendly."

What you should know

  • Crowded Conditions: Some campgrounds can get quite busy. A reviewer at San Mateo Campground mentioned, "It can get very crowded and packed."
  • Limited Hookups: Not all sites offer full hookups. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground pointed out, "You do not get much privacy as the sites are quite close to each other."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise, especially near highways. A visitor at San Clemente State Beach Campground said, "You can try to imagine it’s the sound of the water but it doesn’t really work out when it’s off sync with the sound of the waves."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for more room. A family at Dogwood Campground appreciated, "Most of the sites are spaced out fairly decently."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or plan hikes to keep kids entertained. One camper at Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park mentioned, "Lots of hiking and bike trails."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground suggested, "Bring your own shade for this campsite, your own water too."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure to confirm if your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Bonelli Bluffs noted, "Most the campers have their own facilities."
  • Arrive Early: Getting to the campground early can help secure a good spot. A camper at Doheny State Beach Campground mentioned, "The outside sites along the edge of the campground are much more spacious."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Some campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at San Mateo Campground said, "Hard to get a site."

Exploring the campgrounds around Rancho Santa Margarita can lead to memorable adventures, whether you're camping in a tent, RV, or cabin.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 181 campgrounds and RV parks near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA is San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach with a 4.2-star rating from 50 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA.

  • What parks are near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA that allow camping, notably Cleveland National Forest and San Bernardino National Forest.