Mountainous RV camping with full hookups near Carlsbad

Wicked surfing and oceanside camping sum up adventures near Carlsbad, California.

90% (1815 reviews)

United States
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California
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Carlsbad

90% (1815 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Carlsbad

Community favorites near Carlsbad

Stories from the community

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

There are many things to love. The view on the Perch is spectacular, wide open yet secret and intimate. The restaurant/bar down the hill has some fun music and is a good place to hang out. The location is just minutes away from Julian so we can hop into town when we want. We love it, our dogs love it. We will come back when we need to escape just for a couple of nights.

Crystine

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

Excellent dog-friendly getaway with great views. Cabin was fully equipped. Would love to return. Thank you, Bobby

2 nights at Hideout Mountain Lodge

Private, quiet, stunning view. WiFi is spotty, but that shouldn’t matter if you come to experience peace and natural beauty.

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

The place is very well kept and we enjoyed being away the peace of being away from the city for a bit. We loved the view at the top of the short hike and how clean everything was. This was a first time camping at the Hideout but definitely won’t be the last.

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

Fun area for weekend camping ! I definitely recommend renting the whole cove the sites are a little snug!

Weekend Trip to BaseCamp at Palomar

This area is in a rural spot, but it has modern amenities, like running water and wifi. Jennifer was an amazing host, and she was helpful in getting me setup, despite dealing with a crisis of her own. Her team even helped me get a fire going so I could roast marshmallows. Full disclosure, there are permanent residents here who live in RVs on-site, so please be comfortable in that environment. The neighbors are respectful and keep to themselves. I would definitely come back again! It’s a wonderful location nearby state parks.

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

Great location with great views. The staff are direct but helpful. We were comfortable and I’ll probably try a larger cabin next time for my son and I.

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

easy access location and great view. Bring shade if you plan to go during summer

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

This was our 3rd time here! First was in a cabin, second in a travel trailer, and third in a roof top tent with 2 kids under 4! Each time was a great experience. So many upgrades as well.

4 nights at Hideout Mountain Lodge

Amazing views, multiple locations with power and water hook ups. Very quiet and private. Enjoyed our stay.

4 nights at Hideout Mountain Lodge

We really enjoyed our stay at this campground. We had really much space, it was quiet and the nature was beautiful. It was a perfect experience

3 nights at Hideout Mountain Lodge

Soooo peaceful for me and my new rescue pup!!! Beautiful place, friendly folks!

2 nights at Provisions Farm

Easy to find great location if you wanna be away but close to it was great Natalie and Dave very nice. Enjoyed our visit. Will come again.

2 nights at Provisions Farm

Dave and Natalie, we’re very friendly, great hostess ! Picturesque scenery. Easy access. Quiet and very serene. Will definitely book again in the future.

5 nights at Provisions Farm

Loved the scenic location in Highland Valley, convenient to hiking, several wineries and Safari Park. We hiked Clevenger Canyon and Lake Hodges, both a short drive away and took a day trip to the beach at Carlsbad. David and his family were welcoming and easy to communicate with. We would definitely go back.

Gabrielle

February 2025

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

Fantastic theme great work great people thank you our Valentine’s Day 2025! We won’t forget The Raven! Recommend!

LYNN

February 2025

3 nights at BaseCamp at Palomar

I really loved the retro trailer. Also got to stay in the tent. The campground is great, amenities are well maintained. Jen the host on site is there for any questions and is more than helpful. I would definitely recommend this place and I look forward to going back.

1 night at Rancho Esquandolas

We camped next to the Quonset Hut. Nice level spot. Very quiet and private. Our dog loved the off leash time. 30 amp service was nice as was water access although not needed since our tank was full. Todd was very responsive to all questions.

Weekend Trip to The Ranch

It’s a nice site for large group. The hosts are great! We will definitely come back.

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

We loved camping here. It was quiet, great views and pretty secluded from other campers. A great place to watch the stars at night and wake up with a coffee overlooking a farm and the sky as a backdrop. We loved how you are allowed to bring in firewood yourself, but if you forgot, you can purchase from them. Close to hiking, Julian pie, c couple cages, Julian if you'd like. We had everything we needed for our stay. Great place!

9 top mountainous RV sites near Carlsbad

96%

(253)

Hideout Mountain Lodge

49 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Santa Ysabel, CA

Hideout Mountain Lodge is a beautiful escape to nature sprawled out over about 40 acres on a breathtaking spot that we call Hideout Mountain in Santa Ysabel, CA. Multiple experiences are offered: -- glamping in our vintage camper trailers, -- RV sites with full hookups and incredible views of Lake Henshaw -- campsites, -- luxury camping in our remodeled cabins (studio, 1br, and 2br cabins) each with different amenities ranging from full kitchens, wood burning fireplaces, large outdoor decks and private fire pits. Gather and share ideas with fellow guests at our community firepit and picnic tables. What makes Hideout Mountain a magical place? #1 on the list are the stunning views as far as the eye can see of Lake Henshaw and the valley and surrounding mountains. We also have a one-of-a-kind, world renowned restaurant and bar on the property: Josie's Hideout Saloon, open on weekends with live music. We are located just a few minutes drive away from downtown Santa Ysabel and Julian, with easy access off Hwy 76.

BaseCamp at Palomar

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents26 acres · Pauma Valley, CA

Experience excellence at BASE CAMP PALOMAR Campground. Whether you seek a cozy campsite or desire to rent our cabins, retro airstreams, or glamping tents, we have precisely what you're looking for. Our amenities include a newly retrofitted game room, a playground for the little ones, a WIFI Hot Spot, and well-stocked vending machines for ice and firewood. Choose to relax in one of our rental cabins, enjoy a spacious RV site, or pitch your tent amidst our oak groves. Our campground offers a fantastic opportunity to view the Milky Way or keep an eye out for UFOs. In fact, our location is world-famous for being the site of the first documented UFO encounter.

91%

(17)

Horsetel River Retreat

8 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Fallbrook, CA

Settle in and saddle up for an unforgettable experience that combines the freedom of the road with the serenity of the ranch. We can't wait to welcome you to a piece of paradise! Whether you're seeking relaxation or an adventure, our place offers the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway. Explore the local charm of arts, wineries, festivals, and nearby trails off the beaten path. Bring your horses and have a peaceful place to stay while attending equine events in San Diego County and Temecula. Our ranch provides the perfect base for discovering the unique offerings of this quaint town and rugged terrain. We are next to the Santa Margarita River Trails, famous for world-class hiking, mountain biking and horse riding along the last free-flowing river in Southern California. We are also a 20-minute drive to Old Town Temecula, 30-minute drive to Oceanside Harbor and 15-minute drive to the east gate of Camp Pendleton. In 1-2 hours, you can get to Mount Palomar, Julian, Idyllwild, San Diego, Orange County and other destinations. We offer a large camping spot for your own trailer, RV or tents next to our horse barn. There is a rustic outdoor shower and rustic water closet, as well as basic water and electric hookups. Traveling with horses? They have room to stay in our Horsetel too! We have up to 5 stalls available in a covered barn, as well as a fenced pasture. Whether you are in town for an equestrian event or to ride the trails, our barn has great access to both and comfort for your horse(s). You can ride direct to the river trails from the campsite, or trailer your horses for 3 minutes to the trailhead. Select the add-on option at checkout to book this and please send a message to the host with details on your horses. No horses but interested in riding the trails? We can arrange for a guided trail ride. Please inquire in advance for availability, as this will be booked separately and direct with the guide. Trails are advanced and not recommended for beginners.

97%

(45)

Provisions Farm

2 sites · RVs2 acres · Poway, CA

We are a small family farm in the middle of wineries in northern San Diego. We are only 5 miles from the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Come stay between the avocado trees of our beautiful property and enjoy the beach and mountains of San Diego. We are near 50 wineries with beautiful views and places to eat.

Champagne Lakes RV Resort

2 sites · RVs50 acres · Escondido, CA

Quaint Comfort. Champagne Lakes is the most secluded and spacious RV Park in north San Diego County. Choose from a rustic tree covered site near the lake or a modern site with a large concrete pad that provides easy access and maximum flexibility for today's largest slide-out equipped rigs. Sites are ready with every modern amenity including septic, fresh water, cable television, 50 amp, 30 amp and/or 20 amp electrical service, and internet service is available (fees apply). Natural Beauty. Champagne Lakes RV Resort is nestled in a valley and features huge trees, flowering plants and lots of green lush ground cover. The resort is 50 acres of nature and wildlife preserve, with 3 lakes that are fed by the local mountain streams. Wild ducks and geese have made these lakes their home for over 40 years.

97%

(17)

Rancho Esquandolas

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Warner Springs, CA

Located on the north side of Palomar Mountain between Temecula and Julian, the Rancho Esquandolas Vineyards is a serene 20-acre mountain retreat in the heart of Warner Springs wine country. We offer full RV hookups with electricity, water, and septic at the top of the vineyard. Relax and take in the amazing views, go wine tasting at the wineries next door, or hike the Pacific Crest Trail to nearby Eagle Rock. Enjoy the endless stars we get at night at 3200' elevation at the base of Mt. Palomar.

Stagecoach Trails RV Resort

25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Julian, CA

Located Just East of Historic Julian, CA We are your base camp for Julian and Anza Borrego Isn’t it time to get away? Sometimes you just need to slow life down and breathe in good country air, take a walk in the high desert and enjoy the night sky. City-life seems about as far away as the moon at Stagecoach Trails Campground and RV Park near San Diego CA. Whether you are camping, bringing your RV or enjoying one of our many rental cabins and shelters, you’ll feel connected once again to our beautiful desert and limitless skies. Bring your horses and your friends. A beautiful sunrise over Stagecoach Trails Campground and RV Park is best when shared in the peaceful quiet! Stagecoach Trails Campground and RV Park is the best-kept secret among San Diego RV Parks! Life is just better at Stagecoach Trails.

92%

(12)

MT SOMEWHERE

16 sites · Lodging, RVs10 acres · Rainbow, CA

MT SOMEWHERE, a 10-acre private mountain retreat is nestled high above the Temecula Valley, yet only 3 miles to Old Town and Pechanga Casino. We offer a variety of ways for you to enjoy your stay, from private rooms in the main.house to hike-in only dispersed camping. We welcome you to come to the country and experience the untamed natural beauty and rustic vibe of this hidden rural property. Hear the roosters in the morning, watch the hummingbirds on the deck at the main. house or relax with a cup of coffee under the giant birds of paradise. Or you can scale the 60-foot *movie rock* to take in the 360 views; from Pala Valley to Oceanside and Corona to San Diego, there is no better place to watch the sunset (or sunrise). You are surrounded by 300-year-old oak trees and granite boulders which makes you feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the city, yet a $10 UBER puts you right in the middle of Old Town. MT SOMEWHERE is a rare untouched piece of land smack dab in the middle of Southern California, which delights all our guests that come to realize all who wander are not lost.

96%

(12)

Elysian Groves

5 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Valley Center, CA

Welcome to Elysian Groves, a stunning property nestled in the rolling hills of Valley Center. With 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, Palomar Mountain, and the ocean, Elysian Groves is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, Elysian Groves offers ample space for all your camping needs. Our property features flat, grassy areas that are ideal for pitching a tent, as well as spacious parking areas for RVs. And with our commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the land, you can rest assured that you'll be camping in a pristine, unspoiled environment. But that's not all that Elysian Groves has to offer. As a working avocado and citrus grove, our property is surrounded by acres of lush fruit trees, providing a picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure. And with easy access to nearby hiking trails, beaches, and other outdoor activities, you'll never run out of things to do. At Elysian Groves, we're committed to providing a peaceful, relaxing, and memorable camping experience. Come experience the beauty of our grove for yourself and create memories that will last a lifetime. We can't wait to welcome you!

Other options near Carlsbad

Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve

1 site1 acre · Santee, CA

Discover the charm of our award-winning campground, uniquely situated in the picturesque foothills of Santee, California. Just a short 20-minute drive from the vibrant attractions of San Diego, our campground offers an ideal blend of natural beauty and convenient access to city life. With 300 full hook-up campsites, each equipped with complimentary WiFi and select sites featuring cable TV, we cater to all your camping needs. For those seeking a cozy retreat, we also provide ten charming cabins. Our campers enjoy exclusive access to fishing in the serene Lakes 6 and 7, making it a perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts. In addition to our beautiful surroundings, we host special events exclusively for campers, fostering a sense of community and adventure. Whether you're looking to relax or explore, our campground is the perfect destination for your next outdoor getaway.

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Dixon Lake Recreation Area

1 site1 acre · Escondido, CA

Dixon Lake stands out as a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque hills above Escondido, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. This campground features a variety of campsites, ranging from private, shaded spots to open areas that provide stunning views of the lake, surrounding mountains, and the twinkling city lights at night. Open year-round with 24-hour access, Dixon Lake is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike. The well-maintained roads and trails from the campground lead to excellent fishing opportunities along the shore, where anglers can catch trout, catfish, and bass. For those looking to explore the water, boats are available for rent at the park's concession stand, enhancing your experience on the lake. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, Dixon Lake offers a perfect balance of relaxation and recreation, making it a must-visit location for outdoor lovers.

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Rancho Los Coches RV Park

31 sites1 acre · Lakeside, CA

Nestled in the heart of east San Diego County, Rancho Los Coches RV Park stands out as the most historic RV park in Southern California, being the site of the smallest Mexican land grant from 1843. This unique campground offers a perfect blend of history and modern amenities, making it an ideal base camp for exploring the surrounding area. Located in Lakeside, Rancho Los Coches RV Park features resort-quality accommodations, including rental units, tent sites, and RV spaces. The park is designed to be family and pet-friendly, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their stay. Guests can take advantage of the park's proximity to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and swimming in nearby natural features. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable getaway. Experience the charm and tranquility of this hidden gem in San Diego County, where history meets adventure.

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Launch Pointe

181 sites1 acre · Lake Elsinore, CA

Launch Pointe stands out as a premier RV camping destination in Southern California, offering a diverse range of seven unique camping spaces tailored to meet every camper's needs. Whether you seek a tranquil retreat, a spacious lawn with stunning lake views, or convenient access to essential amenities, Launch Pointe has it all. In addition to traditional RV sites, guests can enjoy the charm of vintage trailers and cozy yurts, providing a distinctive camping experience. Families will find plenty of entertainment options, including the impressive Canopy Court playground, designed to be every child's dream. This playground features a variety of climbing structures and play equipment, all situated on a cushioned surface to ensure safety and comfort. Don't forget to explore the newly added splash pad, perfect for cooling off on warm days. At Launch Pointe, relaxation is key. You can unwind in a hammock beneath the shade of majestic pecan trees or indulge in thrilling water sports by skiing behind a boat. With its beautiful surroundings and numerous outdoor activities, Launch Pointe is the ideal spot for a memorable camping getaway.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Mountainous RV camping with full hookups near Carlsbad guide

Overview

Lined by the Pacific Ocean, camping near Carlsbad offers opportunities to surf, swim, and dive. Agua Hedionda Lagoon has kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking trails, while both South Carlsbad State Beach and San Elijo State Beach offer RV sites with full hookups with urban amenities nearby, in case something didn’t make it in the suitcase. For lovers of wildlife-watching, the San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center invites visitors to explore a 1,000-acre wetland ecological reserve, too. Whether you prefer glamping or setting up camp at an oceanside RV park, Carlsbad in San Diego County is a sunny destination for Hipcampers.

Where to go

South Carlsbad State Beach

Drive about three miles south, past LEGOLAND California, to arrive at (the appropriately named) South Carlsbad State Beach campground. Choose between tent camping or reveling in an oceanside RV park, including RV sites with full hookups—over 200 campsites dot the coastal bluffs. Offering some of the best beach camping in California, South Carlsbad State Beach is a hot spot for swimming, surfing, skin diving, bodyboarding, scuba diving, and other watersports. Near the entrance to the site is the camp store for basic supplies, plus a pizza restaurant.

San Elijo State Beach

Soak in that California sunshine and hang ten—Encinitas in San Diego County, particularly Cardiff-by-the-Sea, is renowned for its gnarly surfing scene. And San Elijo State Beach is right in the heart of it all. One of the most popular breaks is Pipes, particularly great for longboarding. Hit the waves during low to mid-tide for the best experience. Stairs from the cliffside RV park, which allows trailers and motorhomes up to 35 feet, lead straight to the beach. The beach camping site offers showers, bathrooms, electricity, and water but no wifi.

Palomar Mountain State Park

For Hipcampers who prefer tent camping in the woods over beachfront camping by the Pacific Ocean, Palomar Mountain State Park boasts nearly 2,000 acres of hiking trails and mountain vistas surrounded by white fir, canyon live oak, and ponderosa pine trees. The higher elevations average 5,000 feet above sea level, making for a Sierra Nevada-like atmosphere in San Diego County. Family-friendly campsites and RV sites include access to bathrooms and showers.

When to go

The best time of year to visit Carlsbad for camping is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. The summer months can be quite hot and crowded, while winter can be rainy and chilly. Fall, when the crowds thin out, is also a great time to go surfing. September and October mix the southwest, west, and northwest swells for a variety of beach breaks. That said, the weather near Carlsbad is generally mild year-round, so camping is possible at any time of the year.

Nearby attractions

Escape to Guajome Regional Park for a delightful camping adventure. Set up camp amidst picturesque landscapes, hike scenic trails, and enjoy peaceful moments by the lake. Engage in birdwatching, explore historic sites, and create lasting memories in this serene park.