Best Tent Camping near Vista, CA

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Vista and then fall asleep in your tent? Find the best information on tent campgrounds near Vista, including sites, reviews, and tips. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Vista, California's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Vista, CA (15)

    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    1. Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    20 Reviews
    45 Photos
    368 Saves
    Santee, California

    The Kumeyaay Lake Campground is open for Friday and Saturday night camping. The 46 campsites are available for reservation on a first-come, first-serve basis and the is $22.66 per night. On the reservation website page, go to the "Location" drop-down menu at the top of the page and select Kumeyaay Lake Campground. All cancellations must be made 14 days in advance.

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Equestrian

    $24 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from The Eyrie Farm
    Camper-submitted photo from The Eyrie Farm
    Camper-submitted photo from The Eyrie Farm
    Camper-submitted photo from The Eyrie Farm
    Camper-submitted photo from The Eyrie Farm
    Camper-submitted photo from The Eyrie Farm

    2. The Eyrie Farm

    1 Review
    8 Photos
    47 Saves
    Ramona, California

    We're an organic farm homestead. Springtime sees the field lush and green from the rains. Summer is hot and dry, but the cool evening breeze is nice. We have Red-tailed Hawks at their nest, hummingbirds, songbirds, and our own quail, chickens, turkeys and ducks to mingle with.

    Campsites are in our open back pasture, "Oat Prairie at Eyrie Farm." You'll probably hear coyotes at night.

    It's your responsibility as campers to be aware of our policies, including all rules, cancellation policy and check in/out times (which are local PST). These policies are FIRM.

    Be advised at this time there is no toilet, it is Pack-It-Out. We will be adding a bathroom shed shortly.

    Every person-- adults and kids of ALL ages-- count toward party size. Children are not free.

    No RVs, trailers, or campers. No exceptions. Truck pop-up tents are fine. Additional cars after the first 2 are charged $10 each, cash on site. Carpool when possible!

    NO PETS. Guests with assistance animals must sign our assistance animal contract to stay. Be advised that assistance animal fraud is a crime, and we must protect ourselves and our animals.

    We are strictly unavailable after 9pm. It's best to arrive before nightfall as it's easier to fine. Once you get on our road you must LOOK for our number and signage on the LEFT side of the road (you'll receive address in your booking confirmation). Make sure you go to "Eyrie Farm" and no other place!

    Follow us on FaceBook! Search for "The Eyrie Farm":)

    We also sometimes host on Hipcamp, at the listing here:

    https://theeyriefarm.wordpress.com/

    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Drinking Water

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tool Box Springs - Yellow Post Campground
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Falcon Group Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Falcon Group Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Falcon Group Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Falcon Group Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Falcon Group Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Falcon Group Campground

      5. Falcon Group Campground

      1 Review
      6 Photos
      30 Saves
      Trabuco Canyon, California

      Overview

      Falcon Group Campground has three individual group campsites just off the scenic Ortega Highway in Southern California, which connects San Juan Capistrano and Temecula Valley Highway. The pleasant climate, scenery, trail system and convenient location, make this a popular destination for groups from Los Angeles and San Diego. Hiking is especially popular among campers.

      Recreation

      Hikers of any level can find trails that challenge and accommodate their recreational goals around the campground. Among them are the Falcon Trail, a 1.4-mile easy trail that connects to the campground, and Trabuco Canyon Trail, which provides scenic 6.8-mile hike into the backcountry. The San Juan Trial, which is popular with mountain bikers, has a trailhead at Blue Jay campground, adjacent from Falcon Group Campground. The trail climbs a very steep set of stacked switchbacks from the floor of Hot Springs Canyon and traverses briefly before steeply ascending a ridge toward Sugarloaf Mountain. There are also many ideal picnic spots and scenic overlooks along Ortega Highway.

      Natural Features

      The campground sits at an elevation of 3,300 ft. off the Ortega Highway scenic drive in the Santa Ana Mountains, a route that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, valleys and forest. The area lies in a mixed forest and chaparral ecosystem and is inhabited by a variety of birds, plants and wildlife.

      Nearby Attractions

      The closest town is Lake Elsinore, which has various shops, restaurants and recreation opportunities.

      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Group

      $120 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from GoodVibes Ranch & Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from GoodVibes Ranch & Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from GoodVibes Ranch & Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from GoodVibes Ranch & Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from GoodVibes Ranch & Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from GoodVibes Ranch & Farm

      6. GoodVibes Ranch & Farm

      2 Reviews
      52 Photos
      16 Saves
      Dulzura, California

      “Discover the Joy of Nature at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm: Your Ultimate Mountain Escape!” At GoodVibes Ranch & Farm, we offer a variety of camping options to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer traditional tent camping, glamping units, or eco-friendly trailers, we have something for everyone.

      Our campground is nestled in the breathtaking mountains of Jamul, California, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure.

      In addition to camping accommodations, we offer a range of activities to keep you entertained. Explore the surrounding hiking trails and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Challenge your friends to a game of disc golf or unwind with a friendly game of billiards.

      We pride ourselves on providing an affordable camping experience, making it the perfect choice for families or friends looking to gather and create lasting memories.

      Come and discover the joy of nature at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm, your ultimate mountain escape!

      At GoodVibes Ranch & Farm, we provide a range of amenities to ensure your comfort and convenience during your camping experience. With 74 Acres you have ample space around your individual campsites to enjoy with friends and family. To utilize amenities such as disc golf or billiards check in at front desk to access. Hiking or Disc Golf maps are also at front desk. Our campground offers separate men's and women's bathrooms, as well as a shower area where you can freshen up after a day of outdoor activities.

      For those who prefer to cook their own meals, we have a fully equipped kitchen available for your use. Stay connected with our WiFi access and enjoy the convenience of well water throughout the campground.

      We also prioritize sustainability and have implemented a waste management system. You will find designated bins for garbage, recycling, and compost, allowing you to dispose of your waste responsibly.

      To enhance your camping experience, we have fire pits where you can gather around and enjoy a cozy campfire. Additionally, we provide a BBQ grill and picnic areas for you to enjoy outdoor meals with your loved ones.

      We strive to provide all the necessary amenities to make your stay enjoyable and hassle-free at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Cabins

      $50 - $175 / night

      • No image available
        Camper-submitted photo from Pine Creek Road Camp
        Camper-submitted photo from Pine Creek Road Camp
        • No image available

          9. Mt. Palomar North Side Area

          Be the first to review!
          16 Saves
          Cleveland National Forest, California

          This general recreation area is located on the north side of Palomar Mountain.

          • Tents
          Camper-submitted photo from Corte Madera Mountain
          Camper-submitted photo from Corte Madera Mountain
          Camper-submitted photo from Corte Madera Mountain
          Camper-submitted photo from Corte Madera Mountain
          Camper-submitted photo from Corte Madera Mountain
          Camper-submitted photo from Corte Madera Mountain
        Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds

        Recent Tent Reviews in Vista

        1322 Reviews of 15 Vista Campgrounds


        • 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👍😊

        • 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

        • 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

        • 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.

        • 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!

        • MThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from San Clemente State Beach Campground
          Aug. 12, 2024

          San Clemente State Beach Campground

          Camping

          It was overall a nice campsite. Our site seemed to be pretty large it came with a picnic table & fire pit. The walk to the beach was close seemed maybe about 10 minute till we reached the beach from our site. It is on a hill you need to walk down & back up. The only down side was the bathrooms on the same road as our site were pretty dirty did not seem to have any maintenance during our stay.

        • IThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from The Secret Place
          Jul. 29, 2024

          The Secret Place

          Friendly, knowledgeable and respectful hosts, best views I have ever experienced.

          We couldn't find any campgrounds, after calling multiple places we came across "The Secret Place". They have the best views I have ever experienced! Especially during sunset and as the city lights start to twinkle. Very nice and quiet place. No full hookups, but good bathrooms and showers available. The camp host was knowledgeable about the area and recommended great things to do. Very helpful, very respectful and very friendly. Will definitely stay here again, made our honeymoon trip very memorable! A+ recommend.

        • Madisyn L.
          Camper-submitted photo from Woods Valley Kampground
          Jul. 28, 2024

          Woods Valley Kampground

          So beautiful, quiet, and very nice employees !!

          My fiancé and I were last minute camping and this campground was beautiful, quiet, and very aesthetic! There is a lot to do near by, a very convenient store about 5-10 minutes away called valley center foods! Employees were sooo sweet and friendly! DID NOT DISAPPOINT!! Ps isn’t that expensive when tent camping ⛺️ 🙌🏻

        • Bo L.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Oceanside RV Resort
          Jul. 21, 2024

          Oceanside RV Resort

          Solid spot for being near the beach

          Nice little site that is right in the middle of everything.

          It's crowded and you don't have much space, but if your using this instead of a hotel room it works great.

          It had a game room and pool so kids had something to do. There were families all over with kids riding bikes. We had a quick stay over while we were seeing family in the area and it worked great .

          Only issue we had is both entrances have a hell of a dip, we scraped the ass end real good going in and out with our 24ft class c.

        • GThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Blue Jay Campground
          Jul. 20, 2024

          Blue Jay Campground

          Hidden gem

          Awesome spot, lots of sights and some even have overlooks of the entire park. Can get crowded but no one was there on a Friday night in July. Bathrooms, trash, water and even buckets to fill to put out your fire. Fire pits, benches and grills nothing more you could want.

        • J
          Camper-submitted photo from Observatory Campground
          Jun. 23, 2024

          Observatory Campground

          Great place! Bad timing!

          The pictures can be deceiving. It’s beautiful there, however, other than the picture showing flat ground, and wide space, this isn’t accurate.

          This time of year, mosquitos and flies everywhere to the point where it really ruined the experience. No matter what sprays, lotions, candles or anything we tried, it was not working.



        Frequently Asked Questions

        • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Vista, CA?

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Vista, CA is Kumeyaay Lake Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 20 reviews.

        • What is the best site to find tent camping near Vista, CA?

          TheDyrt.com has all 15 tent camping locations near Vista, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.