San Clemente State Beach Campground: Best Campsites

San Clemente State Beach is situated at the southern end of San Clemente, California, midway between Los Angeles and San Diego. The beach features a large metered parking lot for day-use visitors and a popular bluff-top campground for overnight stays. The San Clemente Beach Trail connects visitors to the pier to the north, and when the tide is low, it is possible to walk south along the beach to the world-famous Trestles surfing area. Although locals may prefer to keep this spot to themselves, it remains open for everyone to enjoy, as it is a California State Beach.

San Clemente State Beach Campground

San Clemente State Park is an ideal destination for a family camping trip. The bluff-top campground offers 160 campsites, including 72 RV sites with full hookups. While most sites do not have a direct view of the beach, the ocean can be seen from campsites next to the canyon. Specifically, sites 57 through 72 overlook the canyon and are conveniently close to the nature trail. Some campsites in the tent and pop camper section also have partial ocean views. When making a reservation, remember that sites in the back of the campground can hear the nearby Freeway. Each campsite has a fire ring, picnic table, and shade ramada with water nearby.

Beach Access From the Campground

The beach is situated at the base of steep sandstone bluffs. Access from the campground requires walking down a steep paved path or navigating challenging trails. At the bottom of the bluff, visitors must cross the railroad tracks along the coast. Caution is essential, as Amtrak trains pass by at approximately 50 miles per hour. Once on the beach, you are greeted with one of the best beaches in Southern California. Sandy cliffs stretch along the coast, creating the illusion of a remote location, even though civilization is just a short walk away.

Activities: San Clemente State Beach

A visitor center is in the original ranger’s cottage, built in 1934. It is open most weekends and features intriguing historical photos and information about native animals and plant life. The campground is located near San Clemente Pier, providing opportunities for hiking along the beach, although traveling by car is much faster. Stores and dining options are only a 15-minute drive away. Multiple miles of hiking trails extend from the campground, but most visitors prefer going to the beach for recreation. Daytime temperatures are typically in the 60s and 70s throughout the year, while evening temperatures generally range from the 40s to 50s. Mornings are usually overcast until noon, except when a Santa Ana wind occurs.

Campground Regulations & Visitor Tips::

Dogs are allowed in the campground but must be on a leash. They are not permitted on trails or the beach except in designated areas.
Fires are restricted to designated fire rings.
The entrance gate is locked from 10 pm to 6 am.

Reservations for camping are highly recommended, especially during peak times, as it tends to fill up quickly.
If you’re there for day use, be prepared for a potentially crowded parking lot, especially in summer.
Bring your shade as the campground has few trees for natural shade.
Accessibility: The area includes accessible campsites, restrooms, showers, and trails like the Butterfly Trail. However, accessing the beach might require assistance for those with mobility challenges due to the steep trails.

San Clemente SB Video Ride Around

Getting To San Clemente State Beach

The campground is located on the south end of San Clemente in Orange County. The day-use area and the campground are easily accessible from Interstate 5, both North and South. The Park’s address is 225 Avenida Califia, San Clemente, California. Campground Website.

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Southern California Beach Camping Destinations

Casa Romantic San Clemente

San Clemente Beach Trail

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