Beach camping near Vista

Camp out near Vista for rolling hills, wineries, and beach access in San Diego County.

89% (126 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Vista

Public campgrounds near Vista

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Stories from the community

Rachel

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Ocean Front Sanctuary

Gorgeous property, clean amenities, secret surf spot when it’s working

Weekend Trip to D&J Stables

We stayed for 3 nights with our 2 horses. Our 3 horse LQ with 12ft short wall fit once unhooked in the space. We actually set up in space 4 as that was easier access to the gate into the stable area. Very clean, secure location with access to trails. Mostly we stayed here so we could leave the horses and visit our grand daughter at San Diego State. It worked well. Hosts were very accommodating.

Weekend Trip to D&J Stables

Beautiful shady location my dogs absolutely loved running around and meeting other camping dogs they all had so much fun. It was a nice quiet location nice people not too crowded at all. We had plenty of space nice green grass and the horses and the birds just a little beautiful location

6 top beach campgrounds near Vista

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D&J Stables

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · San Diego, CA

Hello All Campers this is a self check in facility.... Camp host available from 7:30AM to 8:30AM and 3:00PM to 4:30PM only You can Call owner anytime (760)419-4839 Sorry we Don't have horse rentals but can offer guided rides through the area trails with pre arranged notice. So bring your horses and enjoy the ride D & J Stables is a family run facility created by Dick and Jenny Tynan in 2005. It is located on the Kimzey Family Ranch in San Diego. Since their passing, the Stables have been managed by their son Scott Tynan. Our stables offer a clean and quiet place for horse owners to board their precious companions - short or long term - or to serve as a weekend getaway for a person or group of friends/riders. Each Boarding Corral has walking space, shaded corners, automated water feeders, soft dirt, partially sheltered sides and is in close proximity to a round pen, a small arena (turnout) and is encompassed by a small walking track. No two corrals are close enough to each other for the horses to interact, reducing the likelyhood of mishap from a neighbor. Each Weekender Corral comes equipped with the same as the above, excepting only the partially sheltered side panels, and are right next to where you will be parking your trailer or camper. With access to all 38 miles of equestrian trails in the area and less than a 2 mile ride to the beautiful South San Diego beaches, D&J Stables is a prime location for horse men and women everywhere. We are excited to open up to the general public for the camping experience Horse ranch life style, Learn more about this land: Nestled against the mountains and beach of the San Diego/ Mexico border, open access to 38 miles of state beach trails and only 1.5 miles from the sands of Imperial Beach. We have pristine views and perfect weather San Diego is known for. D and J Stables is one of the last ranches with beach access to ride a horse on the beach. It's a rustic, one of a kind experience. Dogs are allowed but not in stable area thank you for your understanding.

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Coastal Vintage Glamping

3 sites · Lodging1 acre · Oceanside, CA

Unique Glamping Escape Ocean breezes and mountain views in historic Plumosa Heights, Oceanside's oldest neighborhood! Choose from two sites: Our property is nestled in a private cul de sac on the edge of a canyon. 1. Our meticulously restored 1967 Boles Aero vintage trailer offers a one-of-a-kind glamping experience. 2. For a bit more space, unwind in our cozy 2-bedroom, 2-bath loft with stunning eastern corridor views. From our spot, you can walk to charming cafes, vintage stores, restaurants and the iconic Oceanside pier, all within a mile! For foodies, you'll enjoy our local breweries and restaurants to satisfy every appetite. Every Thursday morning brings the charming downtown Farmers Market if you'd like to cook a special meal from local ingredients; while evenings come alive with the bustling Sunset Market's with local artists, music, and a variety of delectable food vendors. You can explore beyond Oceanside, too! Our location between San Diego and Los Angeles makes day trips a breeze with the train station just a half-mile away. Or for those who prefer to explore by bike, rent our beach cruisers at a flat rate, and enjoy the many bike trails our coast offers. Minimize your footprint, while maximizing your visit to Oceanside! Our entire property is solar-powered, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. Consider Site Paz to relax in your private, gated space with eastern corridor views. Our vintage trailer with organic futons, linens and basic cookware. We utilize a water-less composting toilet, and encourage responsible waste disposal through large recycling bins for food scraps, glass, and aluminum cans. This unique space is perfect for a romantic getaway for two or a solo adventure. Consider Site Cielo for a bit more space. Unwind in our cozy, vintage 2-bedroom, 2-bath loft with hillside garden views. This is more space with queen size and full size beds, full bathrooms, a full kitchen and a t.v. in the living room. Hangout on the upper landing with a cup of coffee with the garden view.

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Ocean Front Sanctuary

1 site · Lodging1 acre · San Diego, CA

Discover a private, fully furnished oceanfront tiny dwelling available for day-to-day rental in a quiet, peaceful community in Ocean Beach. This cozy retreat is perfect for those seeking a quiet tranquil escape by the sea. *We take pride in offering a serene, retreat-style space for our guests. As this is a residential property, we kindly ask that noise be kept to a minimum at all times out of respect for neighbors and other tenants. This is not a party property. **The base rate includes up to 2 guests. Any additional guests must be approved in advance and will incur an extra charge. Only registered guests are permitted on the property. Visitors who are not staying overnight may be allowed on the property with prior approval. All guests must be respectful of the quiet environment and community. Key Features: • Ideal for a short term retreat • Stunning oceanfront views • Cozy tiny home-style full bathroomOutdoor kitchen • Outdoor kitchen • Outdoor showers for a refreshing rinse after the beach • Relax in the sauna • Wi-Fi included

Booked 2 times

Private RV Camping in San Diego!

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Bonita, CA

Discover our charming RV camping spot nestled in sunny San Diego. Our spot features a large 180' x 60' private, fully fenced lot with partial hookups and abundant outdoor space. Located in the picturesque Bonita neighborhood, we're just a short 15-minute drive from downtown and only 20 minutes away from the pristine beaches in the north and south. Additionally, we're conveniently situated just 15 minutes from the Mexico border crossing. Bonita is a delightful neighborhood with a nostalgic country feel, offering a plethora of activities right within the community. From golfing and horseback riding to scenic trails and charming eateries, there's something for everyone to enjoy. You can also explore the local library and even visit a museum during your stay. It's important to note that San Diego has strict RV parking regulations, including a ban on overnight parking on city streets. Given the high demand, RV campsites and lodges tend to book up quickly. If you're planning to visit San Diego with your RV, be sure to secure a suitable parking spot in advance. While our spot is not intended as a destination in itself, it provides a cozy retreat for your RV while you explore the vibrant city of San Diego. Our amenities include a private, landscaped yard with trees, 110V 15A electrical and water connections, outdoor furniture with a table, umbrella, and seating, as well as night lighting for added ambiance. For those looking for extra convenience, we offer optional outdoor packages for an additional fee. These include a 26' Minnie Winnie RV that sleeps up to 8 people, a Surfing Package with 2-4 surfboards and 2-4 body boards as needed, and a Bicycle Package with 2-4 bikes available upon request. For more details about these packages, please don't hesitate to contact us. If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to reach out to us. Please note that the maximum stay at our spot is 3 weeks.

Cottage Garden By The Bay

1 site · Lodging1 acre · San Diego, CA

Cabin style guest house in garden setting with own large patio, short walk to water (Bay or Beach) bicycles and surf boards available. Comfortable Queen bed, lots of natural light, great indoor/outdoor living. Close to transport, Restaurants and shops. Suitable for one person.

Good Vibes Oasis

1 site · Lodging1 acre · San Diego, CA

Merely a one-block walk to Mission Bay and two blocks from the Pacific Ocean, this space is the perfect hidden oasis! Refurbished by an interior designer, it includes a full kitchen, dining table, bathroom, a comfy queen size bed, and a cozy outdoor patio. It’s ideal for a solo traveler or a couple on vacation or someone looking for a place during an extended stay in San Diego.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

96%

(83)

San Elijo State Beach

Encinitas, California

96%

(80)

South Carlsbad State Beach

Carlsbad, California

98%

(63)

Crystal Cove State Park

Newport Beach, California

95%

(48)

Doheny State Beach

Dana Point, California

93%

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San Clemente State Beach

San Clemente, California

94%

(8)

Silver Strand State Beach

Coronado, California

89%

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San Onofre State Beach

San Clemente, California

79%

(12)

Lake Perris State Recreation Area

Moreno Valley, California

Other options near Vista

Paradise by the Sea Beach RV Resort

107 sites1 acre · Oceanside, CA

Welcome to San Diego’s North Shore, a unique campground that offers an unforgettable experience just minutes away from stunning sandy beaches. Here, you can indulge in resort-style amenities, including a refreshing pool and hot tub, clean restrooms and showers, complimentary HD cable TV, and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable stay. The campground is conveniently located adjacent to Buccaneer Park and Beach, where you can catch the perfect waves for surfing or relax at the beach café. Families will appreciate the basketball court, playground, and picnic area, making it an ideal spot for outdoor fun and relaxation. Explore the charming coastal towns of Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, and Camp Pendleton, each offering unique shops and dining options. For those seeking adventure, nearby attractions like the renowned San Diego Zoo & Safari Park and LEGOLAND California provide exciting experiences for visitors of all ages. Paradise by the Sea is truly the perfect destination to enjoy the beauty and excitement of Southern California!

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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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Lake Hemet Campground

72 sites1 acre · Mountain Center, CA

Lake Hemet stands out as a unique camping destination due to its breathtaking backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, offering visitors a serene escape into nature. Nestled in Mountain Center and close to the charming town of Idyllwild, this picturesque lake is surrounded by tall pines, manzanitas, sagebrush, and majestic giant oaks, creating a stunning natural environment that captivates all who visit. As one of Southern California's most sought-after spots for camping and fishing, Lake Hemet has recently enhanced its appeal with the addition of the Soaring Pines Cafe, which serves delicious meals, and the Splashing Eagle Swim Zone, perfect for family fun during the warmer months. When you visit, don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars. The area is teeming with wildlife, including majestic eagles and hawks that can often be seen soaring through the forest and campground. With its combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and convenient amenities, Lake Hemet is the ideal getaway destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

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Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina

204 sites1 acre · Newport Beach, CA

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina stands out as a unique destination, offering an unparalleled blend of camping and luxury right along the stunning Newport Beach Back Bay. This resort provides RV campers with access to a wealth of amenities typically reserved for hotel guests, including direct beach access, inviting swimming pools, beachfront dining options, exciting water sports, and the largest inflatable water park in Southern California. Let Newport Dunes be your home base for exploring all that Newport Beach and Orange County have to offer. Our dedicated Concierge and Housekeeping teams are available seven days a week, 365 days a year, ensuring that your stay is tailored to create unforgettable memories for you, your family, and friends. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Newport Dunes is the perfect spot to enjoy the natural beauty and vibrant attractions of the area.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Beach camping near Vista guide

Overview

In northern San Diego County, Vista is a peaceful agricultural hub with rolling hills, wineries, and the gorgeous Alta Vista Botanical Gardens. Vista’s parks and preserves offer trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding through oak groves and chaparral, while the town also sits just 15 minutes from Pacific Coast beaches with swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. (San Diego highlights like Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and Mission Beach aren’t too far either.) To the east of Vista rise the Peninsular Range mountains, where cooler temperatures, forested trails, and swimming holes offer reprieves from the summer heat for Vista campers in tents and RVs.

Where to go

Vista Surrounds

One of Vista’s most popular attractions is the Alta Vista Botanical Gardens, which features native California plants, a butterfly habitat, and nature paths. RV travelers will find a good selection of private campsites and RV parks with full hookups around Vista and nearby Encinitas. The closest beach park to Vista is Cardiff State Beach, a classic SoCal surf spot with swimming areas.

South Carlsbad State Beach

For the closest beach camping, head to South Carlsbad State Beach. The blufftop campground has tent and RV sites with picnic tables and fire rings, plus access to restrooms, showers, and a dump station.

San Elijo State Beach

San Elijo State Beach is another great beach camping option south of Vista in Encinitas. This 2-mile-long section of Pacific Ocean beach has a large campground and quick access to stores and restaurants in Cardiff.

Palomar Mountain State Park

For a break from the beach, head inland to Palomar Mountain State Park. This Peninsular Range park has multiple campgrounds and an average elevation of 5,000 feet, allowing for cooler weather and unique flora like cedar and Doug fir trees. Miles of hiking and mountain biking trails traverse the park, and the nearby Palomar Mountain Observatory offers public tours. Keep an eye out for mule deer, coyotes, and red-shouldered hawks when visiting.

When to go

Vista’s temperate climate makes it a good camping choice year-round. Beach campgrounds tend to book out well in advance during the summer season, so plan ahead. It’s also a good idea to monitor weather for summer heat waves around Vista and winter freezes in the mountains just outside of town. Whale watching season runs from late winter to early spring when gray whales pass through the area. Spring visitors may also witness wildflower blooms.