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Best Campgrounds near Vista, CA

1,545 Reviews

Campgrounds surrounding Vista, California feature a mix of coastal and inland camping options for RV and tent users within a 25-mile radius. South Carlsbad State Beach and San Elijo State Beach provide oceanfront camping along Highway 101, while inland locations like Guajome Regional Park offer a more secluded experience with hiking trails and lake views. The accommodations range from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV spots, with several locations also offering cabin rentals. Most established campgrounds in the region provide water and electric hookups, with many featuring full sewer connections for extended stays.

Seasonal considerations impact the camping experience year-round, with coastal campgrounds typically requiring reservations months in advance during summer. Most campgrounds in the area operate throughout the year due to Southern California's mild climate, though winter nights can be cool. Facilities vary significantly between locations, from primitive sites to resort-style amenities with laundry services and camp stores. Many campgrounds provide token-operated showers, clean restrooms, and trash service, with varying degrees of cell coverage depending on location. A visitor noted, "For the price of full hookup in a location so close to the beach, I call it a win. It was beautiful with a pond and walking paths."

Regional parks like Guajome offer an accessible camping experience with proximity to urban amenities while maintaining a natural setting. The campgrounds typically feature fire rings and picnic tables at each site, with firewood often available for purchase. Reviews highlight the convenience of nearby attractions, with Guajome Regional Park frequently mentioned for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to Legoland, approximately 25 minutes away. Campers appreciate the walking trails around lakes and ponds at inland sites, though several reviews mention highway noise at some locations. While oceanfront campgrounds receive the highest demand, inland options provide a balance of accessibility and natural surroundings. As one camper described Guajome Regional Park, "It's surprisingly close to everything but yet you feel like you are hours away. There are trails, trees, a little lake."

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Best Camping Sites Near Vista, California (238)

    1. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    77 Reviews
    Carlsbad, CA
    7 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"

    2. San Elijo State Beach Campground

    38 Reviews
    Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 753-5091

    $50 - $520 / night

    "If you wanna go on a surfside southern california adventure and keep it fun and cheap then this place is great."

    "It's classic California beach camping. Spots are fairly close together, and it's more like a parking lot than a campground. That said, the beach is great, and the river mouth is great for surfing."

    3. Guajome Regional Park

    19 Reviews
    Oceanside, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 724-4489

    $29 - $35 / night

    "For the price of full hook up ($35) in a location so close to the beach, I call it a win. It was beautiful with a pond and walking paths. There were many dogs and we saw horses on the paths too."

    "Flush toilets available and a nice nature walk around a lake. The park was a great/affordable base camp for nearby Legoland amusement park."

    4. Dixon Lake Campground

    24 Reviews
    Escondido, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 839-4045

    $39 - $50 / night

    "Dixon lake is a perfect spot for my nephews to fish and play in the dirt. The campsites look really nice and ideal for tents. The walks around the lake are definitely worth doing!"

    "I grew up in Oceanside and people talked about camping at Dixon lake in Escondido and I thought it was lame and not “real” camping. Having never been there, I based this off nothing."

    5. Oceanside RV Resort

    15 Reviews
    Oceanside, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 864-2728

    "Overall liked this rv park, close to town for us to explore all the restaurants close by. Beach is a 5-10 minute walk. Staff was friendly ask for Diana sweetheart."

    "After circling back and now coming from the east, the narrow drive with the street light and curb wasn't enough for us to turn...so backed it up and went to the wider entrance down the street."

    6. Paradise By The Sea RV Resort

    11 Reviews
    Oceanside, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 439-1376

    "The campground is situated very close to the beach and has all the amenities to make life easier.  I was very impressed with the level of security at this campground to include day and night patrols,"

    "Love how there was so much to do on the grounds and around.

    They had an indoor rec room with billiards, shuffle board and more.

    Outdoor rec area with corn hole, picnic area and more."

    7. Escondido RV Resort

    12 Reviews
    Escondido, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 239-5273

    "Location near I-15 and Gas stations. Staff is kind and professional. Full hookups. Fill propane avaible. Resort-style amenities. Heated outdoor Pool. Nice dog park. Access to a park for walking."

    "The site itself is simply stunning, nestled in a peaceful and beautiful location that provided the perfect backdrop for a relaxing getaway."

    8. Del Mar Beach Cottages

    10 Reviews
    Encinitas, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 725-4640

    $35 - $65 / night

    "The campsites are small but it is clean and family friendly also located right on a big beautiful beach. You must have a military ID to camp here, you can have alcohol on the beach but no glass."

    "But being that close to the ocean was wonderful! You just can’t beat falling asleep to ocean waves!"

    9. Dos Picos County Park

    34 Reviews
    Poway, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 789-2220

    $24 - $100 / night

    "The creek eventually flows into a pond located on the other end of the campground. The pond is actually pretty large! Lots of space to walk around and explore."

    "The missus and I decided to do a midweek overnight escape and chose Dos Picos Park due to its close proximity.

    Great little campground with partial (electricity & water) hookups."

    10. San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

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

    $45 - $250 / night

    "San Mateo is one of the better beach campgrounds in California, some sites have some great privacy."

    "Another beautiful gem along the California Coast. Although not on or too near the beach, this campground is truly a lovely spot. All or most of the campsites boast a bit of privacy."

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Recent Camping Photos near Vista, CA

484 Photos of 238 Vista Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Vista, CA

1545 Reviews of 238 Vista 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

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Sweetwater Summit Regional Park

    Great camp

    Close to the city, camp is clean and staff is friendly and helpful.

    Showers were clean, and partial hookups are only $35 a night. Cheapest I've found in California.

  • j
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Lake Henshaw Resort

    My stay review

    This place is pretty. The staff is nice and not too strict. The place can definitely need a lil tlc but for the price per dayits nothing too complain too much. The pool is cool the showers and bathroom are all functional. Wich is a good thing. I was told to pick any spot i liked wich made my stay even better. No hookups at all i had my rv/camper but that was no problem i took my generator. Place is definitely recommended if you're a not too picky person.😉

  • 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.

  • Elise F.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    Perfect weekend getaway

    This campground is located in the Mission Trails Regional Park, and we absolutely loved it. There are clean bathrooms with flushable toilets and showers, and sinks to wash off things. The rangers even supplied Dr. Bronners Castile soap in each bathroom. We stayed in site number 17 and it was lovely. Each camp site has a picnic table, fire ring, and tent pad. Online says you can buy firewood but they no longer provide that service, so make sure you bring your own firewood! You can’t swim in the lake, but you can fish and it’s very pleasant to walk around and bird watch. There is so much to do in this urban park, you could spend many days here. P.S. the Mission Trails visitor center is spectacular.

  • 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.

  • 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

Guide to Vista

Camping near Vista, California, offers a mix of beautiful beaches and serene parks, perfect for a weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, 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. Campers love the convenience of walking right onto the sand. One reviewer mentioned, "Great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks overlooking the ocean."
  • Hiking and Biking: Trails abound in the area. For instance, San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach is close to trails that are great for biking and running. A visitor noted, "Great if you want to ride along PCH. This stretch has good bike lanes."
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Lake Jennings is a great spot. One camper shared, "The lake is clean with plenty of fish," making it a fun outing for families.

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 prioritize cleanliness. At William Heise County Park, one reviewer mentioned, "The bathrooms were clean, and the staff was friendly."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Lake Hemet Campground are great for families. A visitor noted, "Great place for family and kids. Affordable."

What you should know

  • Crowded Conditions: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak seasons. For example, San Elijo State Beach Campground can be packed. One camper warned, "It can get very crowded and packed."
  • Limited Hookups: Not all sites offer full hookups. At Doheny State Beach Campground, a camper mentioned, "The middle sites are small and tight, offering little privacy."
  • Noise Levels: Some areas can be noisy, especially near highways. A reviewer at San Mateo Campground noted, "You can hear activity from Camp Pendleton."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose the Right Site: Look for campgrounds with spacious sites, like Lake Jennings, where one camper said, "Each full hookup spot is super private surrounded by trees."
  • Plan Activities: Bring bikes for the kids. One family at San Clemente State Beach Campground enjoyed biking along the beach, saying, "It’s a great spot for biking and running."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand is a must. A visitor at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground loved the nearby restaurant for quick meals.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Make sure to confirm if your site has the necessary hookups. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground mentioned, "Prices range from $50 for a no-hookup site to $140 for a double hook-up oceanfront site."
  • Arrive Early: Getting to the campground early can help secure a good spot. A reviewer at William Heise County Park noted, "They always help us get the best spot that’s open."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: If you’re camping during peak times, be ready for busy conditions. A visitor at Doheny State Beach Campground said, "If you don’t mind being right next to your neighbors, then it’s a great site to stay at."

Camping around Vista, CA, has something for everyone, from beach lovers to families looking for a peaceful retreat. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping spots in Vista, CA?

While Vista itself has limited camping options, several excellent campgrounds are located within a 30-minute drive. Guajome Regional Park offers drive-in sites with water and toilet facilities just northwest of Vista. For breathtaking ocean views, South Carlsbad State Beach Campground provides quintessential Southern California beach camping with access to local shops and restaurants. Both locations are reservable and make perfect basecamps for exploring the Vista area and surrounding San Diego County attractions.

What tent camping options are available in Vista?

Tent campers visiting Vista can find several nature-rich options in the surrounding area. Dixon Lake Campground in nearby Escondido offers tent-friendly sites with water and toilet facilities. For those willing to venture a bit further, Green Valley Campground in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park provides a more immersive outdoor experience with access to hiking trails and seasonal waterfalls. Most tent sites in the region require reservations, especially during peak seasons, so booking in advance is recommended.

Are there RV parks or campgrounds in Vista, California?

RV enthusiasts visiting Vista have several nearby options. Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay offers resort-style amenities including a pool, playground, and full hookup concrete sites that accommodate large rigs. It's conveniently located near I-5 with propane fill available onsite. Another excellent option is Pechanga RV Resort, featuring newer facilities within walking distance to restaurants, a casino, golf course, and only a short drive to Southern California wine country. Both locations provide comfortable bases for exploring Vista and surrounding areas.

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