South Carlsbad State Beach
Next stop, southern California. How many places can you park the RV, tent or travel trailer and watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean? Just south of the city of Carlsbad sits this narrow beach campground, South Carlsbad State Beach. The campground is situated on a bluff overlooking the beach. If surfing (or watching surfing), beach combing, hiking or just watching the waves roll in is your thing, you are going to love this park.
Important Notes
- The campground is open year-round, however the camp store is only open from March to October.
- Campsites are $35.00 to $100.00 depending on amenities. $15.00 for each additional car.
- There are 220 campsites each set up for RV, travel trailer, or tent. Only 20 sites offer full hookups.
- Reservations can be made by calling (800) 444-7275 or visiting, https://www.reservecalifornia.com/CaliforniaWebHome/.
- Each site has a table, fire ring and a grill or grate.
- Park has restrooms complete with token operated showers.
- There is a visitor center and park store on site.
- Check-in is 2 pm with check-out at noon. No exceptions.
Why it works
The best feature of this campground is that you are literally overlooking the ocean. It’s absolutely breath taking. Staying at this park opens the door an abundance of activities. Hiking, biking, snorkeling, swimming, surfing, sand castle building, an easy stroll on the beach and an end to the day watching the beautiful sunset over the ocean.
Who’s going to love it
Beach and ocean lovers are going to find this heavenly. Kids and dogs are going to have a blast on the beach.
Things to consider
While this landscape is spectacular it should be noted that this is in a very urban environment. If you are really looking to get away from civilization, this may not be the right fit for you. This campground is between the Pacific Ocean on one side, and Carlsbad blvd. on the other. There is a fair amount of traffic in this area along with bus stops nearby and the SPRINTER train route runs under half a mile from the campground. The train can be LOUD but eventually, we adjusted.
Sites are a bit close and there is not much vegetation between sites to create privacy between spaces. This is a popular campground so make your reservations early. Especially if you want to be on the beach (west) side. Additionally, this campground is on a bluff. You are high on a cliff overlooking the beach below. For protection and safety the sites along the ocean all have a fenced edge. Lastly, make sure you bring your broom because there is going to be sand, everywhere. Seriously, I’m still finding sand.
For more information visit the website here: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=660 and download the park pdf and map here.
See you at the campsite!
