South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
4.57150 reviews7201 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008
South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
$50.00 - $140.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$95.00
Premium Site Fee$70.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$650.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $50 for inland non-hookup sites to $140 for oceanfront double hookup sites. Additional fees include $15 per extra vehicle and $10 dump station usage.
About this campground
Perched dramatically on coastal bluffs above the Pacific, South Carlsbad State Beach Campground offers the quintessential California beach camping experience. Wake to the sound of crashing waves in your choice of coveted oceanfront sites or peaceful inland spots. Stone stairways carved into the bluff lead directly to pristine beaches below, while modern amenities ensure comfort throughout your stay. The campground features sparkling clean restrooms, token-operated hot showers to rinse off after beach adventures, and a well-stocked camp store where you can grab morning coffee, beach essentials, or enjoy a meal without leaving the grounds.
South Carlsbad State Beach Campground offers a variety of camping accommodations, including primitive, tent, RV, group, and premium oceanfront sites.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with Southern California's enviable coastal climate, this seaside haven maintains perfect camping weather virtually year-round. Daytime temperatures hover in the sweet spot between 65°F and 75°F, warm enough for beach activities yet comfortable for hiking and exploring. As evening approaches, the Pacific breeze brings refreshing coolness that makes for ideal sleeping conditions. Morning visitors might witness the mystical marine layer—a soft blanket of fog that rolls in from the ocean, creating ethereal sunrise views before burning off to reveal another perfect beach day.
ElevationThe campground commands an enviable position atop dramatic coastal bluffs, offering sweeping vistas of the endless Pacific horizon. This elevated vantage point not only provides spectacular ocean views but also captures cooling sea breezes and creates a natural amphitheater for watching the sun sink into the ocean each evening.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your bluff-top perch, witness nature's daily spectacle as the Pacific Ocean stretches endlessly before you, its moods shifting from glassy morning calm to afternoon whitecaps. The beaches below offer a fascinating dual personality—smooth sandy stretches perfect for barefoot walks alternate with tide pools nestled among rocky outcroppings teeming with marine life. Each evening, the western sky transforms into a canvas of orange, pink, and purple as the sun melts into the horizon, while the diverse coastal ecosystem comes alive with shorebirds, occasional dolphin pods, and the rhythmic dance of kelp forests visible in the clear waters.
Geological RegionSet along Southern California's stunning coastline, South Carlsbad State Beach Campground showcases the region's dramatic geological story where ancient sandstone bluffs meet the relentless Pacific. These weathered cliffs, carved by millennia of wind and waves, create a natural terrace high above the ocean. Below, the landscape alternates between golden sand beaches formed by eroded bluff material and exposed rocky platforms that emerge during low tides, revealing the area's complex coastal geology and creating perfect conditions for exploring tide pools filled with colorful sea life.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is ADA-compliant, offering accessible restrooms and showers, paved campsites, accessible parking, and a beach wheelchair program accessed via the entrance kiosk. Accessible campsites include sites 16, 77, 87, 97, 108, 119, 126, 148, 153, and 184.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, accommodating up to 35-foot trailers or motorhomes. Oceanfront sites provide direct views, while inland sites are slightly smaller but still well-designed.
Sites PrivacySites provide varying levels of privacy, with bushes separating many of them, especially inland sites. Oceanfront sites have less shade and privacy but offer stunning views.
Total Campsites223 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReserve oceanfront sites for the best views. Sites near stairway access are recommended for easier beach access.
Best CampsitesSites 4-72 and 156-223 are considered the best, with oceanfront views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
March to November: 7 consecutive nights. December to February: 14 consecutive nights. Maximum of 30 nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 8 people per site.
Groups
The Pelican Point Group Campsite accommodates up to 40 people and 10 vehicles, offering picnic tables, fire pits, and hookups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into inland and oceanfront sites, separated by Carlsbad Blvd. Oceanfront sites are on a bluff, while inland sites are closer to the highway.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season: March to November. Off-season: December to February.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited; reservations are highly recommended due to high demand.
Cancellation Policy$7.99 reservation fee is non-refundable. Cancellation incurs an additional $7.99 fee. First-night fee forfeited for cancellations after 6 PM the day before arrival.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to South Carlsbad State Beach Campground can enjoy a variety of activities ranging from swimming, surfing, and fishing to educational programs and live music at the camp store. Some activities are seasonal, such as lifeguard towers and organized family programs.
HikingWhile the campground does not have extensive trails, nearby walking paths and beach routes are popular for exploration. Several reviews mention walking along the beach and enjoying scenic views.
FishingFishing is allowed at the beach, though no specific details on species or fishing regulations are provided. The calm waters make it suitable for casual fishing activities.
SwimmingSwimming areas are described as clean and inviting, with lifeguards stationed in summer months and limited staffing in spring and fall. One user commented, "The beach is very swimmable, and lifeguards ensure safety."
BikingCampers can bike along paved roads within the park. Reviews praise it as family-friendly for biking, with comments such as "I had lots of fun riding bikes up and down the camp."
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of dolphins, pelicans, and gray whales during winter months. Squirrels are commonly noted around campsites.
Beach activitiesActivities like sunbathing, beachcombing, and shell collecting are popular. Beach shoes are recommended due to rocky areas.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe campground hosts Junior Ranger and Little Ranger programs for children, along with interpretive programs like the Education Station and Beachcombers Walk. Weekly schedules vary.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings. Propane and butane fires are allowed on the beach with clearance from the sand.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh bluffs pose a risk, and cliff erosion can create unstable areas. Wildlife like squirrels and bees may be present. Swimming conditions vary based on tide and currents.
Active alertsWood-burning fires prohibited except in established fire rings. California drought restrictions have been lifted, but water conservation is encouraged.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 3
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 77%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital: Tri-City Medical Center (approximately 6 miles), nearest police station: Carlsbad Police Department (approximately 4 miles), and ranger station located within the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch to November
Trash and recyclingTrash bins and recycling facilities are available throughout the campground, with guests encouraged to keep spaces clean. Staff actively monitor and maintain these facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly above the Pacific Ocean. Stairs provide access to the beach.
Common complaintsComplaints include road noise from nearby highway, crowded campsites, and challenges reserving sites due to high demand.
HostCamp hosts are available on-site and are described as friendly and helpful in user reviews.
Campground Map
7201 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Driving directionsTake Interstate 5, exit Poinsettia Ln. Go west to Carlsbad Blvd, turn north. Make a legal U-turn at Breakwater Rd (1st light). Proceed south on Carlsbad Blvd to campground entrance on right.
The campground is accessible from Carlsbad Blvd via a paved road. The entrance requires drivers to make a legal U-turn at Breakwater Rd to access the entrance.Nearby places
Carlsbad (3 miles, approximately 10 minutes), San Diego (50 miles, approximately 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies, food, and firewood are available at the on-site Camp Store. Additional grocery stores and camping supplies can be found in Carlsbad, approximately 3 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
150 reviews
South Carlsbad State Beach Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the scenic ocean views, family-friendly atmosphere, and clean facilities. Complaints are primarily related to proximity to roads and noise.
Review Summaries
"Beautiful campsite with stunning ocean views," "Clean restrooms and showers," "Friendly staff and well-maintained facilities," "Great for families and children."
"Road noise and lack of shade," "Crowded during peak seasons," "Beach is rocky in some areas," "Challenge of securing reservations months in advance."
Book oceanfront sites for the best views, bring shade as sites are fully exposed to the sun, and secure valuables due to occasional theft reports.
Summer reviews focus on high occupancy and lively events, while winter reviews praise the tranquility and whale-watching opportunities. Spring and fall are noted for reduced crowds.
"The ocean waves were loud enough that I really didn't notice any road noise on the inland side." - Danny Briggs. "This place is a fave. I live locally and like to walk through all the campgrounds to...
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Sites 4 to 72 and 156-223 are recommended for oceanfront views. Accessible sites include 16, 77, 87, 97, 108, 119, 126, 148, 153, and 184.
Accessible sites are highly praised for their design and maintenance. Reviews mention accessible tables and paved tent spaces.
Pets are allowed on a leash but are prohibited on the beach. Reviews highlight the campground's pet-friendly atmosphere.
Last updated July 31, 2025