Camping in Southern California with swimming

"Heaven on Earth" really exists in Southern California camping.

91% (1545 reviews)
91% (1545 reviews)

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Star Hosts in Southern California

12 top campgrounds in Southern California with swimming

99%
(1834)

Down-to-Earth Ecoshire

248 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · CA
Private 35 acre Private Land Restoration Project surrounded by rolling hills, mountain views and open sky. The sunsets and sunrises are spectacular year round. Stars and open skies that you'd be hard pressed to find anywhere else in southern California. Just 15 minutes from Temecula wineries, 40 minutes from the alpine, artsy town of Idyllwild in the San Jacinto Mountains, and just 15 minutes from the 215 in Menifee toward Hemet. Best to visit from early autumn to lush springtime where we have great wildflower blooms. Cooperative managers Jim and Dawn host visitors who want to enjoy nature, participate in regenerative gardening all while off-setting their travel footprint. Fees go to our not for profit land restoration which includes planting trees, improving aquifers and enriching the soil. The property is a owned by a restorative co-op (turning a former illegal dump into an oasis of hope) where we invite you to participate in creative local solutions to our larger global problems. * If your group is larger than six adults, pease visit our group listings page. If your group needs special privacy and sound requirements and you'd like to reserve the entirer property, you will need to contact us directly. * Spaces are available on a first come, first serve basis. * Our visitor support pricing is $20 for the first person and $15 for all additional adults. Kids 6 - 12 are $5 per night. We don't want to charge for kids 6 and under, so do not include them in your booking. Thanks! * Campfire rings are only in common clearing, designated and permitted areas. Please check for seasonal fire restrictions.
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$5
 / night
99%
(374)

Bailes Farm

5 sites · Lodging80 acres · Fallbrook, CA
One of the last remaining undeveloped parts of Southern California, De Luz Heights is located adjacent to the Cleveland National Forest, and the Santa Margarita River (just a few miles from the campsite). On my 60 acres, there are no major roads going through or next to the property. My land is 13 miles from the Pacific ocean and enjoys a relatively mild yearly climate. Giant boulders provide topographical relief and offer platforms from which to enjoy the view of the nearby Santa Margarita Mountains. The valley views are filled with olive and avocado groves, vineyards, and horse ranches. The Camp Pendleton Marine Corps base is nearby, so you might hear some artillery in the distance on some occasions. The campsite embraces all the comforts of "glamping": a hot shower, composting toilet, beds with sheets provided, gas grill with a stovetop, pots and pans, kitchenware, a sink, picnic table, shaded deck, sofa, lounge chairs, and propane fire pit. The basics are provided: toilet paper, paper towels, purified drinking water, towels, sheets, cooking oil, etc. Campers need to bring their own blankets. I've created a network of hiking trails for especially fit hikers looking for a more rigorous hike than the nearby Santa Margarita River Trail. My trails lead through creek beds, over boulders, through rocky crags, with views of the Pacific ocean on a clear day. Hikers on my trails need to wear proper hiking boots with good traction. Sections of my trails will require bouldering with hands and feet. Expect to have fatigued quadriceps, some scrapes, and a sweaty hat brim. The campsite is accessible with a two-wheel drive vehicle; I drive a Kia Forte out there regularly. However, some tips when driving a two-wheel drive car: when going uphill on a dirt road, try to keep some momentum of about 12-15 MPH. If you stop and try to start again, your tires will spin out. If that happens, just reverse down the hill, and try it again with more momentum.
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$138.57
 / night
91%
(50)

Hot Spring camp

31 sites · RVs, Tents161 acres · Apple Valley, CA
This off the grid property is the perfect place to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature. Nestled in the mountains of the high desert, we invite you to come stay in a peaceful serene setting where nature and wildlife encompasses you on this rural property surrounded by 1,000s of acres of undeveloped BLM and US Forestry land. Come escape from the city and relax at a place where you can enjoy yourself amongst others or be by yourself in your own private campsite. With 160 acres, there is lots of room for your large group to spread out or find a more private site to seclude yourself! Set up your campsite and park your vehicle at any of our developed sites that have a patch of turf, picnic tables and fire pits (grills available). Flushing toilets, pits toilets, potable water, and showers on site. The 40 minute hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is well worth the effort, and there's so much more natural beauty to see as you explore miles of hiking and OHV trails nearby and right on the property. The creek water in the Deep Creek canyon flows all year around, as does the hot spring source water that feeds the 6 creek-side hot pools, ranging in temperatures between 90F-108F. Weather can be extreme at times, with Winter temps ranging from 20*F to 40* F, and Summer temps reaching 112F+. The hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is fairly steep and can be difficult for some people, especially in warm weather, so everyone’s physical fitness needs to be considered when deciding to hike to the hot springs with pets, children, elderly people, or out-of-shape/over-weight people in your group. Although children are permitted on the property, we do not recommend bringing them due to occasional nudity that may be seen in the area and the degree of difficulty for the hike. In order to be prepared with the correct gear to make the hike to the hot springs and know the USFS rules that apply to the area, please educate yourself before coming by visiting the USFS website page for the Deep Creek area. Know before you go! The Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp is part of the historic Bowen Ranch property that was homesteaded in 1924. This property has been the camping and parking area for the Deep Creek Hot Springs for nearly a century. The Bowen Ranch property is under new ownership as of 2020 and we welcome everyone to come visit! Generally, we always have sites available and reservations are not necessary, but reserved sites are located in a more private area set aside for Hipcamp reservations with separate facilities from the general camping area. See our webpage deepcreekhotspringscampground.com for detailed driving directions to our property with the official trailhead located right on site.
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$44.99
 / night
94%
(160)

Get Lost Inn - Cabin Rentals

36 sites · Lodging1 acre · Running Springs, CA
Escape to the San Bernardino mountains and experience the ultimate mountain retreat! Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin for a romantic getaway, or a spacious lodge for a family vacation, we've got you covered. With a dozen stunning cabins to choose from, we offer the perfect accommodation for all seasons and activities. Embrace the winter wonderland with skiing and snowboarding, or explore the great outdoors with hiking, rock climbing, and fishing. Or simply unwind and relax in the serene mountain surroundings. Our cabins are conveniently located in Green Valley Lake, Big Bear, Running Springs, and Lake Arrowhead, each offering its own unique charm and adventure. Let us be your host and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Book your stay with us today and discover the magic of the San Bernardino mountains!
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$152
 / night
100%
(43)

Farm Retreat with Calf Cuddling

3 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Wildomar, CA
At Howe Ranch, we provide more than just a farm stay; we offer a healing, transformative experience that teaches relaxation and rejuvenation through profound connections with our gentle, trained farm animals. Baby animal alert! We are excited to share the arrival of our sweet Highland calf, MaryLou, who, along our precious little Scottish Highland calf Petunia is loves cow cuddles and bottle feeding from visitors. They already learned to give cow kisses! All of our gentle micro and mini cows are known to provide comfort to visitors dealing with anxiety and stress. Whether it’s hugging or grooming them, meditating with our mini goats or flock, every interaction is designed to soothe and inspire. Proceeds from HipCamp directly support the feed and care for our farm animals, of which many are rescues (501c and private). In other news, Winter Wonderland at Howe Ranch is near! Starting in early November, the farm transforms into cozy, rustic Holiday experience with photo opportunities to make memories! Important: By making a booking request you agree that you have read the listing in its entirety and agreed. INCLUDED IN YOUR FARM STAY: 1. A personalized farm animal encounter on the evening of your arrival day and participation in the morning animal care routine 2. Unique learning experiences, and opportunities to relax with the gentle barn animals outside of the care routine times 3. Organic chicken and duck eggs for breakfast 4. Clean restroom in barn with dish washing capabilities (shower is in the pool area/Extra) 5. Free use of the outdoor camp kitchen with 2 propane stoves and basic cooking supplies (must be cleaned after use) 6. Free use of the BBQ with utensils (BYO charcoal) 7. Free optional use of camping equipment (chairs, canopy, small mats) 8. A large safe space for children to play in with toys and games in the 80 ft. x 40 ft. sand camp 9. Pool season is over but you can request a free shower pass (the hot outdoor shower is in the pool venue by the farm house) or add on a 2-Hour Hot Tub session. Go to Extras to explore this option. 10. Access to other "Extras" such as electric and water hookups, and extra parking The overnight farm stay experience is generally only available on limited Fridays of the year from 2:00 p.m. until Saturday 1:00 p.m. Please do not instant book Saturdays and other days of the week/weekend, as we have regular activities at the farm the make the camp unavailable. UPCOMING LONGER STAY OPPORTUNITIES: Winter Wonderland Camp: November 11 - November 24 If you would like to visit with us other times for longer or during the week, please inquire first if we have the capacity to accommodate (no instant booking, please). Another popular way to experience our farm animals one on one is the Farm Animal Encounter, which you can book through our website. This Experience is facilitated and takes about 50 - 90 minutes depending on the size of your group. $30/guest, guests under 2 years of age free. Group discount for groups of 7+. DETAILS ON FARMER FOR THE DAY OVERNIGHT CAMP: SELF-SUFFICIENT GUEST POLICY Due to our daily workload, we can only host independent guests who are comfortable exploring the listing details and utilizing available resources on their own. Please note that: * Our personalized animal tour is guided, but guests will learn to relax around the animals independently after the tour. * The camping stay is self-facilitated, meaning the hosts are not available to entertain or assist your family members beyond the provided information and scheduled tour. ABOUT THE AREA: Nestled on just under 4 foothill acres backing against the wilderness of the Santa Rosa Plateau, but only 2 minutes from shopping, coffee, and dining, our small, veteran owned farm with a private petting zoo opportunity provides a charming and picturesque setting that encompasses the essence of rustic hospitality. It is generally hot in the area during the day June to October, but cool at night and there are lots of fun things to do in the area. Please reference our VISITOR GUIDE on thehoweranch.com and linked to in the photo section here. OUR POLICY ON PRICING and INTEGRITY We’ve encountered an increasing number of inquiries where guests try to pressure us into lowering our prices or dispute the value of our services (i.e. pricing of "Extras," last minute cancellation refund requests). While we understand that the current economy might be influencing this behavior, we want to make it clear that such actions are unacceptable and will not be tolerated as our services are priced equitably, ensuring that all guests contribute the same amount for the experiences we offer.
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$115
 / night
63%
(8)

Nalas Lake Play

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lake Elsinore, CA
Welcome to Lake Elsinore!! Im excited to be your host and help you make some great memories! This land does have a slope. But it also has a flap spot ontop perfect for camping with some amazing lake views and some gorgeous night skys. The stars feel so close to you that you think you can just reach out and grab them! There is a paved road that leads to the top of the street which is the most recommended way to get to this property since the road that google maps gives you is not paved and its too narrow for some cars. You are close to homes and stores. But your also secluded away to give you some privacy. Making you feel at one with nature. This small town is sourrended by loving people making it a jewel not just for the views and lake. This land is perfect for camping tents, Glamping tents, 4x4 Car Campers, and even small RVs(There is a small slope to get up into the property so make sure your RV is capable). The Property is just 3 minutes away from Lake Elsinore, here you can fish, swim, BBq, and many more activity that the lake offers. Being so close to it makes you want to be out there all day and come back at night to enjoy your night shows on the property with the stars. The property seize is 0.11 acres which is 4,791sq Feet. Only about 800sq Feet has a slope the rest is just flat land ontop. That gives you 3,800+ sq feet of land to just enjoy and have fun on!
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$20.79
 / night
92%
(6)

Snow Bunny Cottage

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Green Valley Lake, CA
Relax at this newly listed cottage cabin. Our mountain retreat getaway, playfully nicknamed "Snow Bunny Cottage", sits on a hill at a quiet cul-de-sac. A cozy yet fully furnished cabin, nestled under tall gorgeous trees and includes private parking for 2-vehicles. The cabin is a few minutes walking distance to the private Lake in addition to the San Bernardino National Forest. A few miles further out is the Snow Valley Ski resort. Snow Bunny Cottage is a perfect hidden gem.A large deck under string lights greets you as you enter the property. A BBQ grill is available for use. Enjoy a BBQ experience with your loved ones and relax and take in the beautiful moon lit evenings.Green Valley Lake offers seasonal fishing, heavy snow during the winter and a picturesque forest, with the charm of a close knit mountain community. Both Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead are only a few minutes away and in between an abundance of trails for adventure seekers and off road enthusiasts.We offer high-speed internet for those wishing to work from the comfort of the cabin! A large 55" TV is situated above the fireplace with cable television, for those Netflix and chill nights. The fireplace is available for our guests use, however guests must supply their own firewood. We gladly welcome pet companions, however they must be approved prior to arrival.This wonderful little cabin is not just a vacation rental property, it is also our personal home during the offseason. We kindly request and insist that you are respectful of our neighbors, our cabin and household items. Please kindly read and agree with our house rules prior to booking. Kindly let us know what we can do to make your stay as enjoyable as possible!
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$80
 / night
91%
(23)

Dead End Campgrounds RV Sites

5 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Wrightwood, CA
Sitting one mile high exactly on the side of the mountain, with views of the desert, mountains, and city lights below! . I have 2 other short-term rentals on the same 5 acres and the reviews have been so amazing I decided to expand to camping, RVs, etc. A large flat lot (50' x100') could host up to about 3 RVs (depending on the size) and tents. There is water, good WiFi, septic hook-up, and electricity in a limited capacity (solar and wind-powered). There are generators available. The property sits up against The Transitionary Habitat nature preserve and there are 350 acres of hiking in the Puma Canyon. You are literally surrounded by nature, a true escape but with the city lights in the backdrop! There are tables, chairs, tiki torches, bean bag toss, horseshoes, and a gas fire pit. The road to the property is narrow and steep, so please consider this when booking. We've had hundreds of groups navigate the roads with no problem, including 48 foot RVs. If you have concerns about whether or not your vehicle can make it, please don't hesitate to message me.
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$43
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Exploring the beautiful vast landscapes with friends, family, or a solo adventure will be an experience you won’t soon forget.

Camping in Southern California with swimming guide

Overview

Looking for the perfect camping experience in Southern California? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 1153 options in Southern California, you'll find the ideal spot to satisfy your swimming cravings. Whether you prefer a scenic lake, a tranquil river, or a refreshing ocean, there's a campsite waiting just for you. And with an average price per night of $46 and options as low as $20, there's something to fit every budget. Check out the top-rated campsites like The Lovelight Ranch (532 reviews), Private Beach Farm (382 reviews), and Ballard Walnut Grove (291 reviews) to see why they're so popular. Plus, you'll have access to amenities like pets, trash disposal, and potable water, and you can enjoy activities such as wildlife watching, exploring historic sites, and even catching some waves while surfing. So pack up your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure in Southern California with Hipcamp!

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