San Clemente State Beach Camping

Camping at San Clemente State Beach is a premier outdoor experience along the California coastline, offering scenic views, modern amenities, and a variety of recreational activities. Located at the southern end of San Clemente, California, this beachside campground is situated between Los Angeles and San Diego, making it a convenient escape for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Since opening in 1937, San Clemente State Beach has been a favorite destination for campers, RV travelers, and water sports enthusiasts alike.

San Clemente State Beach Camping Overview

The San Clemente State Beach campground features 159 campsites, including 72 full hookup sites for RVs and 87 standard campsites for tents and smaller vehicles. Full hookup campsites** can accommodate RVs up to 42 feet in length, while some are limited to smaller vehicles (36 or 32 feet). Campers can also choose from two group camping areas, ideal for larger gatherings. Each campsite comes with a picnic table, fire ring, and grill, with many sites offering shade structures.

Campground amenities include:

• Full hookups for RVs

• Picnic tables, fire rings, and BBQ grills at each site

• Flush toilets, hot showers, and drinking water

• Dump station, overflow parking, and cell service

• Gift shop and visitor center with educational exhibits

• ADA-accessible campsites

• Generators allowed from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

With year-round availability, San Clemente State Beach camping offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to the beach via two trails. The campground is family-friendly, offering a mix of tent camping, RV camping, and group camping options for visitors.

Recreational Activities at San Clemente State Beach

Camping at San Clemente State Beach is perfect for outdoor lovers, offering a wide variety of activities:

• Surfing, swimming, boogie boarding, and snorkeling are popular water sports due to the excellent surf conditions.

• Nature lovers can enjoy hiking, bird watching, whale watching, and exploring the nearby tide pools.

• The San Clemente Coastal Trail* provides a longer, scenic hiking and biking path that stretches north along the coast.

• Fishing, beachcombing, stargazing, and picnicking round out the options for those looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

• The Visitor Center, housed in a historic Spanish Colonial cottage, offers exhibits on the area’s cultural and natural history, making it a must-see for families.

Pet Policy and Accessibility

San Clemente State Beach camping is pet-friendly, allowing dogs in the campground (on a leash) but restricting them from the beach and trails. Several ADA-accessible campsites are available to ensure that everyone can enjoy the camping experience.

Important Information for Campers

• Reservations: Due to the popularity of San Clemente State Beach camping, it’s recommended to make reservations well in advance, especially for the RV hookup sites.

• Campground security: The entrance gate is locked daily from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., so campers should plan their arrival accordingly.

• Weather: With mild coastal weather, daytime highs typically range from the 60s to 70s, though nighttime temperatures can drop to the 40s, so campers should come prepared for cooler evenings.

• Construction updates: Ongoing construction to improve the campground's entrance facilities will continue through Spring 2024, potentially causing brief delays when entering the campground.

Nearby Attractions

Visitors to San Clemente State Beach can also explore nearby attractions such as Doheny State Beach, San Onofre Bluffs, and San Mateo Campground, offering additional camping options in the area. The town of San Clemente itself is just a short drive away, providing access to local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

San Clemente State Beach camping offers an unbeatable combination of coastal beauty, modern amenities, and endless recreational opportunities. Whether you’re planning an RV camping trip, tent camping, or a group camping adventure, the campground provides everything you need for a memorable stay on the California coast. From surfing and hiking to simply enjoying the breathtaking ocean views, San Clemente State Beach is an ideal destination for campers of all ages.