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Best Campgrounds near San Clemente, CA

1,171 Reviews

Camping near San Clemente, California centers around coastal state beaches and nearby inland parks, with options for both tent and RV camping. San Onofre State Beach encompasses several distinct campgrounds, including San Mateo Campground (about a mile inland) and the Bluffs Campground with ocean views. San Clemente State Beach Campground sits on coastal bluffs with beach access via a tunnel under the train tracks. Nearby Doheny State Beach in Dana Point and O'Neill Regional Park in Trabuco Canyon provide additional camping opportunities within 30 minutes of San Clemente.

Most campgrounds in the area are open year-round, benefiting from Southern California's mild climate. Reservations are essential, particularly during summer months and weekends when sites fill quickly. The California State Parks reservation system (ReserveCalifornia) handles bookings for state beach campgrounds. Campers should bring quarters for coin-operated showers at state parks. Cell service is generally available throughout the area, though Verizon coverage can be spotty at San Mateo Campground. Noise from nearby Interstate 5, trains along the coast, and occasional military exercises from adjacent Camp Pendleton may be noticeable at some campgrounds.

The camping experience varies significantly between locations. Coastal campgrounds like San Clemente State Beach offer ocean views and beach access but typically have less privacy between sites. According to reviews, "San Clemente State Beach is a pretty large campground with lots of commotion/activity, so if you're looking for peace and quiet, this isn't the place to go." San Mateo Campground, while not directly on the beach, provides more spacious sites with mature trees for privacy. One camper noted, "It's farthest from the beaches, but it's also quietest and the most spaced out." A 1.5-mile trail connects San Mateo to Trestles Beach, popular with surfers. Most campgrounds accommodate both tents and RVs, with varying levels of hookups and amenities.

Map showing campgrounds near San Clemente, CaliforniaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near San Clemente, California (145)

    1. San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    53 Reviews
    San Clemente, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (949) 492-4872

    $45 - $250 / night

    "Really good views, the smell of the beach, and it’s quite distance away from the busy freeway , and no light pollution.

    no complaints at all, one of my favorites in San Clemente"

    "Overnight stay at San Mateo campground to be close to the beach. Easy to get to San Clemente State Beach and the campground parking pass was also good at the beach."

    2. San Clemente State Beach Campground

    38 Reviews
    San Clemente, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (949) 492-3156

    $45 - $300 / night

    "We've been staying at San Clemente State Beach for more than 30 years now, and it's always an enjoyable time."

    "San Clemente State Park is a great place to go camping and enjoy the beach. The campground is located on a bluff that offers great views up and down the coast."

    3. Doheny State Beach Campground

    35 Reviews
    Capistrano Beach, CA
    4 miles

    $50 - $350 / night

    "You will be right next to your neighbor. The outside sites along the edge of the campground are much more spacious.

    TIP: The wind usually blows to the ocean in the evening/early morning."

    "This campground is at the edge of the Dana Point Harbor.  The sites are small, but many of them are right on the beach.  All sites have easy access to the beach.  "

    4. San Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping

    21 Reviews
    San Clemente, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 763-7263

    $45 / night

    ".

    • No dogs allowed on beach. 30 min drive to Dog Beach in Solana.
    • Lower bathrooms. These were the only showers available. The bathrooms are well stocked but the showers were not cleaned regularly."

    "The campground is on the bluffs, and nearby Old Man's beach has some of the best beginner's surfing waves in Southern California."

    5. Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park

    22 Reviews
    Coto de Caza, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (949) 923-2210

    $20 - $25 / night

    "Tucked on the outskirts of Mission Viejo is an oasis of green grass and groves of the twisting and searching limbs of Coastal Live Oak trees.  "

    "Rangers at entrance to check for pets (not allowed) and where you can buy bundles of wood for $5 if you want. Technically not allowed to bring in outside wood."

    6. Bluffs Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    20 Reviews
    San Clemente, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (949) 492-4872

    $45 - $250 / night

    "During the open season on weekends it fills up quickly, during the weekdays it is kind of busy as well but there are still some walk up spaces available."

    "Camping cliff side along the beach in Southern California. The camp grounds are a little cramped. Seem more designed for RV’s and trailers but we don’t mind."

    7. Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park

    35 Reviews
    Laguna Beach, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 444-7275

    $25 - $75 / night

    "Luckily Booked last minute on reserve California (the worst web thing ever) on site 49. Looks like there is a oven view from every site. Close to beach and shopping."

    "There is an elementary school adjacent to the campground so you get a few PA announcements to start your day.

    There is a small visitor's center on site."

    8. O'Neill Regional Park

    30 Reviews
    Trabuco Canyon, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (949) 923-2260

    $20 / night

    "It's tucked back in the canyon, but you will still hear all the traffic from the road. Since it is a canyon, many loud cars and motorcycles zoom past at high speeds. 

    Free dump station.  "

    "Behind my Camp site was a few different hiking paths. Restroom buildings have water, toilets, and showers. It says to bring quarters for the showers but they were free. Each site is typical..."

    9. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    77 Reviews
    Carlsbad, CA
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 438-3143

    $50 - $650 / night

    "If you’re headed to San Diego, be sure to stop and check out Carlsbad just off of the 5. this awesome beach town is quintessential Southern California beach awesomeness and it is absolutely gorgeous."

    "One of best beach campgrounds in California. Beach is right there next to camping. Restroom and shower are clean even though too many people there"

    10. Blue Jay Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    21 Reviews
    Trabuco Canyon, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (858) 673-6180

    $20 / night

    "When I lived in San Clemente, this was a great campground just to get away! This campground can get rowdy because it is so easily accessible but nothing too crazy! Great views especially at sunset!"

    "We were able to find a spot tucked away off one of the loops to the left after a small hill. Neighbors played loud music but we didn’t mind at all."

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Recent Camping Photos near San Clemente, CA

287 Photos of 145 San Clemente Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near San Clemente, CA

1171 Reviews of 145 San Clemente Campgrounds

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Mission Bay RV Resort

    Trashy park

    Several issues here. First the most obvious the connections are at the front of the space on the drivers side. If you back in you better have 100 feet of hose sewer and power cord. Reservations failed to tell me while on the phone that the power was out but they’re still charging full price. Most of the lots are dusty dirt lots well over half of the park is not in use and in disrepair. There is trash everywhere and the staff could care less if you’re enjoying yourself. Do yourself a favor and spend the 20 extra dollars to stay at Campland Overall a waste of money and beach front property

  • D
    Aug. 31, 2025

    San Elijo State Beach Campground

    Cool spot

    Difficult to book. 6 months in advance but if you do. The full hookup spots are located in the middle of the campground. Don’t feel like you missed anything if you can’t get beachfront. Bushes, fences block any views unless your in dry camping down toward south end of park. Camp store is permanently closed so that Convenience is no longer here. Bathrooms and showers are clean and somewhat nice.

  • Elise F.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Fry Creek Campground

    Loved it

    We absolutely loved Fry Creek. It might be our favorite place to camp so far. Our site was removed from others so we weren’t bothered by neighbors. It was a nice large site next to the bathrooms (which were very clean and well maintained) and close to a water spigot and trash can. This campground is definitely a birder’s paradise. We were constantly surrounded and graced by the sounds of woodpeckers, pigeons, mountain quail, bluebirds, jays, and more. One important note though is this entire area is swarmed with flies. We brought nets to put around our faces and without these, I don’t think I would have survived. So definitely bring nets for your face, bug spray, and citronella. Despite this, it was a lovely place. Will be returning one day.

  • Moo
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Oceanside RV Resort

    For tent campers - pretty solid place for a quick couple stays

    First, the campsite has the MOST CLEANEST restroom and shower booths I have ever visited for tent camping. This is no doubt that for those folks who are needed for good built qaulity toiletery, this will be your location.

    For the down sides;

    1. The trains - There is a rail right behind the tent sites so if you are looking for the tent sites with quiet location: PLEASE STAY AWAY from here. the trains do not operate from around 10 pm, back on operating starting from 5 am.

    2. for T1 tent site, BE AWARE that there is a dog park RIGHT next to the tent site: there will be a urine odor all over the place.

    3. If you are planning on cooking, just be aware that there is no proper location to do a dish wash. You would need some sort of wipes to do.

  • ROCKSTAR C.
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Hare School Park

    It’s the sports fields parking lot

    I’ve been here for a couple days and nobody’s mess with us. There’s other people that are staying in another parking lot attached that are homeless in their vehicles mostly cars and vans. I’m in a 25 foot Fleetwood RV. There’s a dog park kind of area with a big field they can run around and just clean up after them.There’s no public bathrooms, but there are trash cans so clean up after yourself please. It’s not tent friendly. I don’t believe.

  • A
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    Bobcat Campsite

    Awesome campsite. Free showers. Electrical outlets by the restrooms at a handicap site. Water spigots scattered around the bobcat site. Dumpsters within walking distance from your site. The locals in the area will take your site if you arrive late. Just head back to the campground entrance and they will send a park ranger to remove them. The restrooms get cleaned daily around 8-10am. More than enough room at site 380

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Canyon RV Park

    Relaxed, clean, friendly, infor.ative, quiet

    Been passing this exit on the 91 freewqy for 25 years and had no idea canyon Rv park was tucked in beween corona and yorba linda. I was quite amazed with the tidy faculitie a d wqs very peacefull. When U are smake dab in the middle of asfalt jungle. I litteraly forgot where i was because its like a little bubble on you .exot the freeway a d e ter the park everything behind you just melts away and i felt like i was in the woods, and at times i swear i was the only camper here. If you are into easy going peacefull quite camp sites this is one of them

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 30, 2025

    Pechanga RV Resort

    Good but can be noisy

    Pull-through sites have a little room not so close to neighbors Buddy sites are available

Guide to San Clemente

Camping near San Clemente, California, offers a fantastic mix of beach vibes and outdoor adventures. With several campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach, are just a short walk from the beach. One reviewer mentioned, "Nice campground. 1.5 miles from the ocean. Sites are quite large with bushes/trees between sites."
  • Biking and Running: The area has great bike lanes and trails. A camper noted, "Great if you want to ride along PCH. This stretch has good bike lanes that take you into Oceanside or Encinitas."
  • Fishing and Water Activities: At Lake Hemet Campground, fishing is popular. One 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 at places like Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park. A happy camper said, "Almost every site has an ocean view of some kind."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, such as Bonelli Bluffs, are praised for their cleanliness. One reviewer remarked, "Possibly the cleanest public bathroom I've ever seen."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate helpful staff at places like San Elijo State Beach Campground. A visitor noted, "The staff of the Camp is so friendly and helpful."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some sites can get packed, especially on weekends. A camper at San Mateo Campground mentioned, "It can get very crowded and packed."
  • Limited Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground, have limited electric hookups. One visitor said, "If you are in an RV, you will be fine. As a tent camper, the spots are tiny."
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially near roads or during busy times. A camper at Doheny State Beach Campground noted, "The campground itself is pretty nice... but there was a large group of people blasting their music until 2/3 AM."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A family at Dogwood Campground appreciated the "spacious sites" and noted, "Most of the sites are spaced out fairly decently."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or plan beach days to keep kids entertained. One camper suggested, "You can SUP in the harbor; it's a great place for it."
  • Check for Amenities: Make sure the campground has kid-friendly facilities. A parent at San Clemente State Beach Campground mentioned, "Nice place close to many convenient places ie grocery liquor bix box sporting goods bars restaurants."

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check campgrounds like Lake Hemet Campground that offer them. A visitor shared, "Full hookups are available too."
  • Arrive Early: Popular spots fill up fast, so get there early to snag a good site. A camper at Bonelli Bluffs noted, "Crowded on weekends, much less during the week."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be lively, so bring earplugs if you're sensitive to noise. A visitor at Doheny State Beach Campground mentioned, "The train is loud, but passes seldom."

Whether you're looking for a beach getaway or a mountain retreat, camping near San Clemente has something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in San Clemente, California?

San Clemente offers several excellent camping options. San Clemente State Beach Campground is a popular choice situated on a bluff with stunning coastal views and easy beach access for surfing and boogie boarding. Another top option is San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach, which is quieter and more spacious despite being a bit farther from the beach. A 10-15 minute walk along a trail connects you to the shore, and your camping pass includes free parking at nearby beaches. Both locations offer clean facilities and scenic surroundings, making them ideal bases for exploring the San Clemente area.

Is tent camping allowed in San Clemente?

Yes, tent camping is permitted at several campgrounds in the San Clemente area. Doheny State Beach Campground welcomes tent campers with sites of varying sizes. The middle sites are smaller with less privacy, while edge sites offer more space. For a more inland experience away from coastal crowds, O'Neill Regional Park provides tent camping opportunities in a more wooded setting. Both locations have picnic tables and fire pits at each site. Most campgrounds in the area require reservations, especially during peak summer months, so it's advisable to book well in advance to secure your tent camping spot.

Can you camp on the beach in San Clemente?

Direct beach camping is not permitted in San Clemente, but you can camp very close to the beach. Bluffs Campground — San Onofre State Beach offers camping on a bluff overlooking the ocean with easy beach access. Similarly, San Onofre Recreation Beach and Camping provides camping near the shoreline. These campgrounds are situated on elevated areas above the beach rather than directly on the sand. This arrangement offers ocean views while protecting campers from tides and providing better facilities. Your camping pass typically includes beach parking, allowing convenient beach access during the day for swimming, surfing, or relaxing on the sand.

What amenities are available at San Clemente campgrounds?

San Clemente area campgrounds offer a variety of amenities to enhance your camping experience. At San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach, you'll find picnic tables, fire pits, water spigots distributed throughout the campground, flush toilets, and coin-operated showers. Many sites include fire rings for evening campfires, with firewood available for purchase ($7/bundle reported). For a more luxurious camping experience, Pechanga RV Resort offers premium amenities for those traveling with RVs. Most campgrounds in the area provide clean restroom facilities, though you'll need quarters for the showers. Camping passes typically include free parking at nearby beaches, adding value to your stay.

Are there RV camping sites in San Clemente?

Yes, San Clemente offers several RV-friendly camping options. San Clemente State Beach Campground accommodates RVs with sites featuring ocean views from its bluff location. For RV campers seeking a nearby alternative, South Carlsbad State Beach Campground offers big-rig-friendly spaces with coastal access. These campgrounds typically provide necessary hookups, though amenities vary by site. Many RV campers appreciate the accessibility of local supply stores like Rick's Trailer Supply in San Clemente for any maintenance needs. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as RV sites fill quickly in this popular coastal area.

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