Best Camping near Valley Center, CA

Looking for the best campgrounds near Valley Center, CA? Valley Center is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Valley Center, CA (286)

    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

    1. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    73 Reviews
    162 Photos
    1005 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

    $50 - $650 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park

    2. Dos Picos County Park

    31 Reviews
    85 Photos
    262 Saves
    Poway, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $24 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground

    3. Dixon Lake Campground

    25 Reviews
    70 Photos
    393 Saves
    Escondido, California
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $39 - $50 / night

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

    4. San Elijo State Beach Campground

    36 Reviews
    75 Photos
    1118 Saves
    Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California

    Located on the San Diego Coast, San Elijo Campground offers camping, swimming, surfing, showers and picnicking. The narrow, bluff-backed stretch of sand has a nearby reef popular with snorkelers and divers. A camp store and snack bar located near the campground entrance operates March through December and provides all the amenities a camper may need including some RV supplies, boogie boards, and firewood. This San Elijo camping destination requires reservations for its 171 campsites.

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

    $50 - $520 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park

    5. William Heise County Park

    43 Reviews
    82 Photos
    553 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 from La Jolla Indian Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from La Jolla Indian Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from La Jolla Indian Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from La Jolla Indian Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from La Jolla Indian Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from La Jolla Indian Campground

    6. La Jolla Indian Campground

    20 Reviews
    10 Photos
    206 Saves
    Palomar Mountain, California

    We are San Diego County's ONLY campsite with river and tubing access!

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $40 - $120 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Jennings
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Jennings
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Jennings
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Jennings
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Jennings
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Jennings

    7. Lake Jennings

    31 Reviews
    46 Photos
    834 Saves
    Lakeside, California

    Lake Jennings is known for being one of the most scenic parks in all of San Diego County. It is a welcoming recreation destination located in Lakeside, California offering fishing, camping, hiking, and picnicking activities. The lake is a drinking water reservoir owned and operated by Helix Water District. The scenic views of the lake and the wooded surroundings make it feel as if you are in the middle of the wilderness, right outside of town.

    Lake Jennings hosts a 97-space campground that is open seven days a week year-round. It’s located on the north side of Lake Jennings, with a variety of spaces available for RVs, Trailers, Campers and Tents. Come on out, take a paddleboat, rowboat or motorboat for the day, and enjoy the beautiful weather! Cozy coves make great picnic spots, so don’t forget your picnic basket.

    Lake Jennings offers a great escape for novice or avid fishermen, and is open for shore fishing from the shoreline below the campground. Boat rentals, private boat launching, and fishing from our floating fishing dock is available Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. For your convenience, we have an on-site Bait and Tackle Shop open Friday through Sunday, offering a wide selection of bait, tackle, camping supplies, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages.

    Lake Jennings is a great destination for the serious and casual wildlife viewer and photographer. The rolling hills, the endless lake, the coastal sage, and the riparian areas provide a diverse habitat in a small area. Common sightings include deer, fox, and osprey. Bird watchers are equally drawn to Lake Jennings for its rich variety of bird species.

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

    $35 - $140 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA

    8. Temecula-Vail Lake KOA

    20 Reviews
    48 Photos
    200 Saves
    Cleveland National Forest, California

    Welcome to your ideal Vail Lake camping escape to nature with wide-open spaces to explore. Temecula/Vail Lake KOA sits on 385 acres of recreation space, featuring 467 campsites and more than 200 acres of world-class hiking and mountain bike trails. This KOA specializes in recreation from little ones up through the teenage and adult years with three sparkling swimming pools: a 25-meter lap pool, a kids' wading pool, and a full sized leisure swimming pool. We offer a variety of outdoor activity options on site including horseshoe pits, disc golf, pickleball courts, newly refinished basketball courts, and a very popular 18 hole mini golf course. Families love our summer staffed recreation and Halloween celebrations. Groups love our facilities for hosting small festivals, mountain bike races, and family reunions. Guests enjoy gathering in the campground's Vail Lake Village for meals and entertainment at the seasonal Cafe and Bar. Restock your supplies in the Village's newly remodeled store and gift shop. Relax in your campsite under our large, mature Oak trees that beautifully shade your campsites or try a new hotel-style Deluxe Cabin or Eco Tent accommodation coming late fall 2019. Just 15-minutes to Temecula Valley Wineries and local area Casinos.

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

    9. San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    50 Reviews
    92 Photos
    519 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

    $45 - $250 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground

    10. Palomar Mountain State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    51 Photos
    527 Saves
    Palomar Mountain, California

    There are 31 campsites in the Doane Valley Campground, three of which have accessible features. Each site has a table and fire ring, and most have a food locker. Piped drinking water is available. The campground also has restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers which are usable for campers, including those with disabilities.

    The beautiful forest and mountain meadows of Palomar Mountain State Park are in northern San Diego County, high atop the west side of Palomar Mountain. Large pine, fir and cedar trees make the park one of the few areas in southern California with a Sierra Nevada-like atmosphere. The park features camping, picnicking, hiking, and fishing (trout) in Doane Pond. Coniferous forests cover much of the 1,862 acres, in contrast to the dry lowlands surrounding the mountain.

    Elevation within the park averages 5,000 feet above sea level, making evenings cool even during the summer. A number of vista points offer spectacular panoramic views both westerly toward the ocean and inland toward the desert, particularly from Boucher Hill Summit, which has been listed in the Sierra Club's "Hundred Peaks Section" since first published in 1946. There, you'll also find the historic Boucher Hill Fire Lookout.

    The park is open from dawn 'til dusk daily. Reservations are highly recommended for camping during peak season. Day use fees are $10.00 per vehicle, cash or check only. Trails are open to foot traffic only, and dogs and mountain bikes are not allowed on trails. Please note that there are no gas stations on Palomar Mountain.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $40 - $130 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 286 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Valley Center

Recent Reviews in Valley Center

1681 Reviews of 286 Valley Center Campgrounds


  • 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👍😊

  • Karen D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Happy Traveler RV Park
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Happy Traveler RV Park

    Run down, and expensive

    The place felt very tired, and lacking in any atmosphere. There is a pool, which was nice. There just wasn't anything else there to justify the steep price of $100 a night. Though I'd award 5 stars to the lovely German lady who checked us in and was very friendly.

  • 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.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Ridge Yellow Post Sites
    Sep. 27, 2024

    South Ridge Yellow Post Sites

    Awesome dispersed site with amazing views

    Very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California elevation is high enough that temperatures were very enjoyable (mid 80's)

  • Osborn T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Los Coches RV Park
    Sep. 25, 2024

    Rancho Los Coches RV Park

    Natural Language Processing

    I would like to emphasize that the implementation of natural language processing(NLP) technologies https://lightpointglobal.com/services/data-analytics/data-science/nlp-services can significantly improve customer interactions. With the help of solutions such as chatbots and virtual assistants, you can automate answers to frequently asked questions and provide round-the-clock support, which will increase customer satisfaction. NLP also allows you to analyze guest reviews, determine their mood and extract valuable insights from open data, which will help in further development and adaptation of services. Language translation capabilities expand accessibility to an international audience. Thus, integrating NLP into software allows you to improve user experience and increase the efficiency of business processes.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Dos Picos County Park

    Harassing Ranger

    I have never had a bad experience at a camp ground with any ranger. They have all been wonderful. Not at this park. My registration tags went to my home so I did not have current tags. I had to have a family member collect my mail and forward to me on my travels so it was delayed. I did have a receipt which I was required to provide. However, the ranger barged into my campsite in a huff, treated me as if I were vomiting a crime and demanded my receipt on the spot in front of all. It was quite over the top. Later the same man barged back into my campsite throwing accusations at me that I hadn’t paid my measly $4.00 parking fee and breaking the rules of the park. He had the nerve to argue with me after I explained that in fact I had paid. He backed down after realizing I had. He then returned to harass us for the kids using chalk. There were kids from several campsites using chalk. We apologized and made them clean it up, no big deal. But the ranger was didn’t simply ask for it to be cleaned. He was threatening and confrontational. I dealt with one other ranger here who was quite nice and helpful but this other was awful. I discovered I was not the only one to have this experience here. I would recommend Sweetwater or Lake Jennings in San Diego area or Aqua Caliente where they are quite friendly. Yikes this was horrible

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Provisions Farm
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Provisions Farm

    Delightful Area, Delightful Hosts

    Wow, Highland Valley is beautiful!  This is a great place to camp your RV - especially if you love the farm vibe.  We stayed in the front spot, up against the property line, which felt private.

  • 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

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground

    Canpsites a plenty

    There’s a few designated camp areas up this way. Went out in early Sept 2024 and the road was fine. I drive a lifted AWD overloaded Honda Element and I had no issue. There were two sections on the final ascent loop to the top of Thomas Mountain that were a little scratchy. You do not need to complete the final ascent to the top to enjoy the camping areas. Although if your car is capable there’s an excellent spot at the very end of the loop.

  • 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.

  • Gabriel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Creek Road Camp
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Pine Creek Road Camp

    Nice quick and easy getaway

    Quite easy to get to. I drive an Acura RDX and had no problems (I actually had a lot of fun driving the road). 

    There were way more flies than we were expecting. Prepare to get swarmed. Luckily just gnats and no mosquitoes from what we experienced.

    We applied for a permit on Friday and did not get it by Saturday when we departed. Luckily, no rangers patrolled during our stay.

    Some spots with good shade.

  • Lisa D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mission Bay RV Resort
    Sep. 11, 2024

    Mission Bay RV Resort

    Wasn't Thrilled

    Overpriced for a dirt spot, no ocean view at all. Ocean view sites full of expensive RVs that can afford the price. No market or cantina, for those you have to walk to Campland, not a short walk. Should've just stayed at Campland

  • Lisa D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Vacationer RV Park
    Sep. 6, 2024

    Vacationer RV Park

    Not All That

    This RV park has huge potential but they need to get rid of permanent dwellers that have let their property decay. Junk cars, nobody seems to follow the rules, and rat problem.

  • 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.

  • dThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Creek Road Camp
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Pine Creek Road Camp

    Peaceful and secluded

    A great spot if you want to get away and enjoy some alone time. It’s a little warm in the day in august this time of year so you can’t hike around or explore too much. My girlfriend and I stopped in Julian on our way out to get a late lunch and then head to the campsite. The road is paved until you turn off Lone Creek Road and then it is a dirt road. I have a stock Rav4 and it was able to drive on it although there are a few spots you need to be careful at so you don’t scrape the bottom of your car. We only spent one night but we never saw another person during our stay

  • Glen C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Laguna Campground
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Laguna Campground

    Wonderful for dry RV or tent camping

    The scenery is incredible and varied from deeply forested to open meadow.  There are miles of hiking trails.  The campground layout is nice and for many of the loops it is possible to find a site that feels separated from your fellow campers.  This place fills up during the weekends in the spring through fall seasons, so book sites early on recreation.gov.  As implied by my title, there are no hookups here so any RV camping is dry camping.  For RVs with a good solar array, it is possible to find open spots that keep the energy flowing throughout the day.  There is one loop dedicated to longer RVs.  As a personal note, I don't recommend Site 62 for RV camping - it is angled and has some erosion issues coming off of the asphalt pad.  I have been to this campground several times as both a tent camper and an RV camper and have not had any problems with cleanliness of the facilities or excessively noisy neighbors.

  • 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!



Guide to Valley Center

Camping near Valley Center, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery 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. "Great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks overlooking the ocean. Beach access. Lots of sites," says one happy camper.
  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach. A reviewer mentions, "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. "The lake is clean with plenty of fish," one visitor shared, highlighting the fun of catching trout.

What campers like:

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

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campsites: Some campgrounds can get packed. A camper at Doheny State Beach Campground said, "The middle sites are small and tight, offering little privacy."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for noise, especially at popular spots. One camper at San Clemente State Beach Campground mentioned, "Music way too loud... I'm just not going there."
  • Limited Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground details. A visitor at Lake Hemet Campground noted, "You do not get much privacy as the sites are quite close to each other."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Lake Jennings that have playgrounds and activities. "The campground had a ton of bonuses, close to town if you need things but far enough away to feel the full camping experience," a family camper shared.
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or plan hikes to keep the kids entertained. A reviewer at San Mateo Campground mentioned, "There are plenty of facilities, and the camp store is great."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. One camper at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground enjoyed the "great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground advised, "A more experienced human might not have struggled as much but it be hard to get a 20 ft plus trailer into this particular site."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: If you're sensitive to noise, consider sites further from common areas. A visitor at Doheny State Beach Campground noted, "The wind usually blows to the ocean in the evening/early morning."
  • Plan for Dumping: Know where the dump stations are located. A camper at Lake Perris State Recreational Area mentioned, "There is a $10 fee, they have a convenient credit card machine."

Camping near Valley Center, California, has something for everyone. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a great time!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Valley Center, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Valley Center, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 286 campgrounds and RV parks near Valley Center, CA and 15 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Valley Center, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Valley Center, CA is South Carlsbad State Beach Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 73 reviews.

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

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

  • What parks are near Valley Center, CA?

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