Desert glamping near Escondido

Lakes, ranches, and rocky foothills—easygoing Escondido is a camper's dream.

97% (457 reviews)

United States
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California
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Escondido

97% (457 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Escondido

Community favorites near Escondido

Public campgrounds near Escondido

Your campsite is just a short walk from the Borrego Palm Canyon Trailhead, which leads to a refreshing palm oasis.

95%

(94)

Borrego Palm Canyon Campground

149 sites · RVs, Tents In Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

81%

(18)

Tamarisk Grove Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Stories from the community

Ellie

2 days ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Manzanita Village Retreat

The perfect weekend with my daughter. Caitriona was incredibly welcoming, both on hand to help with any questions, but also very calm and respectful of our space. The hut was idyllic. Warm at night and cool in the day, with two comfy futons. It’s situated a little away from the main house and felt completely private and serene.

Preksha

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Manzanita Village Retreat

We loved staying at the village. It’s a peaceful and comfortable place to spend the weekend. Caitriona and Michele are kind and welcoming hosts, was inspiring to experience their beautiful space.

Weekend Trip to Clara Vista High Desert Retreat

I feel so lucky that my doggies and I found Tom's Artist's Ranch and Cricket's Cabin. I will be revisiting the place as often as I can. It's the perfect spot to get some quiet time, with nature and the spectacular mountain views inspiring positivity and creativity. Bonus points if you're artistic, as the land is full of art for you to stumble upon as you hike and explore. Tom is a gifted sculptor and ceramicist, and his work is scattered throughout the property, making each foray out on the trails feel like a treasure hunt. Pros: I came out to get some work done in private, and it was the perfect place to do it. I edited on my laptop from the bed while enjoying a spectacular view of the mountains and the desert. Tom has a well-appointed AC electrical system in the cabin, so you can keep all your devices charged while you're there. There are no other pets on the property, making it the perfect place to let your fuzzy kids explore. The cabin is nice and warm (even in below-40-degree evening temps) due to the propane heater Tom installed. No need to bring your backpacking stove, as there is an outdoor kitchenette outfitted with a burner and propane grill. Tom also provides drinking water and a well-water tap faucet for washing. There is a cute outdoor shower, too. Almost Cons: The location is just inaccessible enough to be cool. Make sure you put the address in the GPS - not the coordinates. Overall it's a great place and I hope you love it!

2 nights at Wild Seeds Ranch

We had a great time! This was exactly the unwind we needed to get away from the terror that is late stage capitalism in the US. It was the most relaxing place!

Weekend Trip to Starry Night

The location is incredible. Eric went above and beyond to ensure that we were comfortable and happy. The RV is well kept and is very comfortable to stay in. Eric’s property is right across from public land and a hike to the stone formations is a must.

Weekend Trip to Wild Seeds Ranch

Love my short stay-over at Wild Seeds. I arrived just after dusk and pulled onto the site. It was so tranquil - the evening birds, crickets and other sounds of nature - distant crows 🥰. I slept the best I have in weeks and woke refreshed. I appreciated their off leash policy for pets, my boy Chubbs enjoyed the roaming freedom. We didn’t stay long, but we did walk about before leaving sanding I’m ever in the area again, I’d definitely return to take advantage of a longer stay. Thanks! Also… I LOVED the winding roads and scenery leading up to our stay.

28 nights at Wild Seeds Ranch

I had a nice stay there in cozy corner with my 14’ travel trailer. The spot is kind of secluded, but close enough to walk to the bathroom. It’s a very nice property with friendly folks gardening, playing basketball and doing yoga. However, it’s not too crowded and people give you your space. Also, the cost is very reasonable.

2 nights at Wild Seeds Ranch

Lexi and everyone there were very kind to me. It's far enough from the city to enjoy the mountains, but close enough to drive in for supplies. The environment created at Wild Seeds ranch is great for healing work through community, nature, & exercise . Especially when the creek is flowing and the giant trees are blowing in the wind, it brings a deep sense of peace and belonging to integrate the experience there. We really enjoyed the pull up bars and basketball court to help get the day started before adventures to the Ocean and city.

Logan

March 2025

2 nights at Birdsong Backcountry Retreat

We had such a nice time at the Bluebird Tiny House at Birdsong Backcountry Retreat. The property was very private and quiet and had lots of space for our dogs to roam the fenced yard. The converted horse trailer was so cute and cozy and had everything we needed to disconnect from our busy lives and just relax. The outdoor space was very peaceful with lots of comfortable areas to sit and read and a hot tub and gas firepit to keep us warm in the evenings. We look forward to visiting again!

Andrea

March 2025

2 nights at Earthbag Tiny House

great to be out of the suburbs! a cozy spot for the two of us nestled inside with a fireplace during a wind and rain storm! we are so happy to have had an easy getaway. in better weather there is so much great outdoor space to use. thank you!

14 nights at Wild Seeds Ranch

Absolutely delightful property great wildlife opportunities and an overall relaxing stay. 10/10 would recommend

Weekend Trip to Earthbag Tiny House

My wife and I had an amazing time here. Beautiful views, great area for the dogs to explore. We’d definitely stay here again.

Clarisse

March 2025

Weekend Trip to The "Camp-Sight"

We had an amazing stay at this beautiful property! The scenery was gorgeous, and Cheri was such a kind and helpful host, always available to assist and explain how everything works. The amenities were great, including a fire pit ring for cozy nights and a BBQ grill for cooking meals. The spacious area gave us plenty of room to relax and enjoy nature. The data signal was reliable, which was a nice bonus. A few things to note: the water pressure in the bathroom was a bit spotty, and there was no running water in the kitchen sink. The microwave also wasn’t working, but since we booked last minute, it’s understandable that some things weren’t fully ready. That being said, once everything is properly managed and maintained, this glamping spot truly shines. It’s a beautiful and peaceful getaway, and we will definitely come again!

3 nights at Wild Seeds Ranch

Omigosh, Wild Seeds is such a special spot! They have a beautiful, peaceful creek area and bonus - a kitchen for the campers to store food and cook. Sadly, it rained on my first day and all my stuff got soaked so I didn’t get to fully enjoy the experience and that’s absolutely no fault of theirs. As a matter of fact, had I reached out before booking an emergency apartment in San Diego, I could have probably made it work to stay with the solutions Lexi tried to provide. Definitely above and beyond. I’ll be visiting again to get the full Wild Seeds experience. Notable: book over near the kitchen and bathrooms for the communal fun area with easy access to amenities. Across the street (where I booked) is more for completely off grid and secluded vibes. I didn’t know this but will be helpful knowledge for next time.

6 nights at Wild Seeds Ranch

This is the most amazing camping experience I've ever had. Such a beautiful, well maintained community and everyone is super friendly! I don't want to leave!! 😍

Mariana

March 2025

Weekend Trip to Manzanita Village Retreat

The place was quiet and peaceful. I ended up leaving a day early due to the weather but overall my experience was good. Everything was kept up really well, there was access to hot water, restrooms, and kitchen.

Weekend Trip to Starry Night

This place was exactly what the doctor ordered...peaceful!! Great hiking just across the road, day trips with so many places less than an hour away! Eric was the perfect host, told us of places we should go see (especially the bakery) was right there greeting us and making sure we were good. Had friends with their toy hauler meet us and there was more than enough room for their 44 ft rig! Could have had a few more RVs and still would have had plenty of room. It really is a little piece of heaven! Thanks again Eric

Weekend Trip to Wild Seeds Ranch

I really like the time stay in Wild Seeds Ranch. If you close by that location. make sure you stay in Wild Seeds Ranch. I will be back soon :>

Christiana

February 2025

Weekend Trip to Manzanita Village Retreat

Hosts were lovely, easy to meet, and the grounds are peaceful. This little place is so cute and stayed warm overnight, had a great view of the sunset, and felt just far enough from the rest of the grounds to feel private. My little dog and I had a nice time. We hiked to Eagle Rock the next day, just a 5 minute drive away.

3 nights at Wild Seeds Ranch

Lexi was super sweet and accommodating and the creekside location was adorable

6 top desert glamping sites near Escondido

93%

(38)

Wild Seeds Ranch

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Dulzura, CA

Wild Seeds is a sustainable conscious coliving community and live-work space in nature 30 minutes outside San Diego 🫶🌵🌞 The ranch is full of enchanting spaces -- a koi pond, 100 year old oaks, and a seasonal creek. You can have a totally private camping experience, or join our fun and engaging events. We are creative professionals, ecopreneurs, social impact artists, and spiritual activists. Our community space is inclusive, period. We embrace and celebrate people of all backgrounds, body types, and nonviolent self-expression. PLEASE NOTE: Our property is off-leash friendly, but you are required to supervise your furry friends at all times. Our residents have several outdoor cats, so you will be required to leash your dog if they are not good with felines.

100%

(55)

Clara Vista High Desert Retreat

1 site · Lodging30 acres · Ranchita, CA

This beautiful high desert retreat is a working artist's property with several stone and steel sculptures of the late artist, Norm Hines, available for viewing on the property. The guest cabin sits secluded on the southern ridge of Montezuma Valley, with spectacular views of Earthquake Valley and the distant mountains of Baja California and a short hike to Anza Borrego State Park. A gas fireplace in the cabin will keep you warm on those chilly winter evenings. Ideal for 1-2 people looking for solitude, stargazing and high-desert nature. Cozy guest cabin with propane fireplace on 30 acre artist's retreat at 4000 feet elevation. One mi. hike to NW boundary of Anza Borrego SP. Four mi. to PCT. Hiking trails to large plutonic rocks, breathtaking view south into Mexico. Private portable toilet, outdoor cold water sink, outdoor grill, small camping stove, teapot, full size bed, Norm Hines sculptures on property for guest viewing. Great for bird watching, stargazing, desert solitude. 13 miles to Borrego Springs. 28 miles to Julian. Guests love staying here: "Tom’s cabin was the perfect weekend getaway to decompress and detach. The site offers all the amenities you need. There are multiple trails located around the property if you’re looking to get a little activity in. Otherwise just sitting and hanging out is about as peaceful as it gets. A great place to go if you don’t want to venture out too far. This place just might be my monthly weekend hideout. Thanks Tom for sharing such a beautiful place."

96%

(78)

Mystic Canyon Inn

6 sites · Lodging, Tents1 acre · El Cajon, CA

Our home is eclectic, country, relaxed and homey. We are conveniently located just 30 minutes from downtown San Diego and popular tourist attractions like Comic-Con, Balboa Park, the beautiful beaches and the world famous San Diego Zoo. 35 minutes east you will find beautiful Mount Laguna, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Pacific Crest Trail access and the town of Julian. About an hour east brings you to the desert, where natural beauty and recreation abound. 13 miles away, Viejas Casino boasts a beautiful outlet center. 4 miles away, Sycuan has a casino with entertainment and the golf resort of Singing Hills. Come enjoy the slower pace of the San Diego backcountry. If you are in the mood for a massage, Barbara is a therapist with amazing healing hands. (Please arrange in advance of your visit to ensure availability.) If you are a hiker and need a guide, Randy is an experienced Pacific Crest Trail hiker, who will be happy to assist with drop-off and pick-up in the local mountains, or whatever your hiking/backpacking needs are. Bikers of all kinds, frequently go by on Harbison Canyon Road, which is part of a larger biking loop. So, hike, bike or drive yourself to our little haven and say goodbye to the hustle and bustle! We enjoy talking to our guests, finding out about where they live and providing information on the local area. We do work during the week, but are usually around on the weekends.

100%

(52)

Earthbag Tiny House

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Ranchita, CA

Learn more about this land:The Earthbag Tiny House is situated on 5 acres of undeveloped land and includes an earthbag/stone outhouse, earthbag hot tub for two and an earthbag pool. The property has a large shaded area for folks to be together and gather during the heat of the day. We also have a large charcoal BBQ grill and gas grill available for guests to use. This property is off-grid, but fully equipped with solar power, running water, and wifi. You will be walking distance to an expansive area of BLM land, multiple hiking trails, horseback riding, and jeep/ATV trails. We are just 1 mile from the famous Pacific Crest Trail and a 10-minute drive to access Borrego Desert hiking. The owner/host will be staying on the south-western most part of the property.We can't wait for you to come stay with us!

99%

(92)

Manzanita Village Retreat

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Warner Springs, CA

We are co-founders of Ordinary Dharma and Five Changes, and stewards of this land at Manzanita Village Retreat. Thirty years ago we were searching for a place where the land itself would be an active support in our of work facilitating workshops and retreats. We were looking for land that was within easy reach of San Diego and Los Angeles, while still being remote and far from the noise of highways. The land is infused with the presence of the thousands of people who have come here for transformation and renewal. We are now open to visitors from HipCamp -- we look forward to your visit Caitriona Reed and Michele Benzamin-Miki

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.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Hiking through Split Mountain to Elephants Knees, a 10mi hike to some geologic features I had no idea existed in California.

93%

(112)

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Borrego Springs, California

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Desert glamping near Escondido guide

Overview

If you're looking for a memorable camping experience near Escondido, California, with a touch of luxury, look no further than Hipcamp's over 1197 available options for glamping in the desert. With top-rated campsites like Lovelight Ranch (532 reviews), Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch (518 reviews), and The Desert Rose Collective (378 reviews), you're sure to find the perfect spot. Enjoy popular amenities such as showers, trash, and pet-friendly sites, and take advantage of activities like paddling, whitewater paddling, and wildlife watching. Prices range from $18 to an average of $100 per night, so there's something for every budget.