Grunion Run Group Campground
4.679 reviews2050 S Coast Hwy 101 Cardiff, CA 92007
Grunion Run Group Campground
$15.00 - $520.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00
Group Site Fee$520.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group campsite fee is $520 per night, accommodates up to 40 people and 10 vehicles. Extra vehicle fees are $15 per vehicle. Hike/Bike camping costs $15 per person, per night.
About this campground
Perched along California's stunning San Diego coastline, Grunion Run Group Campground invites adventurers to gather where the Pacific meets the shore. This spacious group haven welcomes up to 40 campers to create memories around crackling fires and shared meals. Your basecamp comes complete with 6 picnic tables for communal dining, a central fire pit for evening storytelling, a BBQ for coastal cookouts, and modern conveniences including a 50-amp hookup with full water and sewage facilities—perfect for groups seeking both adventure and comfort.
The Grunion Run Group Campground is designed specifically for group camping and provides facilities catering to large groups. Other camping types at San Elijo State Beach include RV sites, tent camping, and hike-and-bike camping.
Historical SignificanceThe campground's name pays homage to the remarkable grunion runs that have drawn visitors to these shores for generations, where tiny silver fish dance in the moonlight during their unique spawning ritual—a natural phenomenon that continues to captivate beachgoers today.
Weather and SeasonsWake to gentle ocean breezes and golden California sunshine, where nature provides the perfect backdrop for year-round camping. With comfortable highs reaching 62°F and cool nights dipping to 37°F, you'll find ideal conditions for both daytime exploration and cozy evenings by the fire. Crystal-clear skies stretch endlessly above, with minimal rain ensuring your outdoor plans stay on track throughout most of the year.
ElevationSet at sea level where land meets ocean, the campground offers immediate access to both coastal wonders and marine adventures without the challenge of altitude adjustments.
Natural Features and SceneryDramatic coastal bluffs frame your camping experience, creating a stunning backdrop where rugged cliffs meet endless ocean vistas. Stone stairs carved into the bluffside lead directly to pristine beaches below, while vibrant underwater reefs beckon snorkelers and divers to explore a hidden world teeming with marine life. This narrow stretch of paradise offers both the thrill of cliff-top views and the serenity of sandy shores.
Geological RegionNestled within San Diego's dynamic coastal landscape, the campground sits atop ancient marine terraces where millennia of waves have sculpted dramatic bluffs and hidden coves. Below, rocky reefs create natural aquariums perfect for underwater exploration, while narrow ribbons of sand provide intimate beaches framed by towering cliffsides—a testament to the Pacific's endless artistic work along this spectacular stretch of Southern California coastline.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites include paved surfaces, accessible water spigots, flush toilets, and token-operated showers. Beach wheelchairs are available at Cardiff State Beach via self-service check-out.
Sites SizeGroup site accommodates up to 40 people and 10 vehicles. Individual campsite sizes range from a length of 36 to 65 feet and a width of 17 to 27 feet.
Sites PrivacyThe group site is fenced, providing a sense of enclosure and privacy for camping activities.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe group campsite is pull-through and must be entered through the gate heading north in the campground.
Best CampsitesGrunion Run Group Campsite is the primary site within this area. No specific favorite sites listed.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
- High season (March-November) allows 7 nights
- low season (December-February) allows 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 40 people are permitted for the group campsite.
Groups
The Grunion Run Group Campground accommodates up to 40 people and 10 vehicles. Two of these vehicles can be parked within the campsite while the remainder must use designated parking areas.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne group campsite area with a fenced boundary.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is open year-round with high season from March to November and low season from December to February.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via www.ReserveCalifornia.com or by phone at 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not applicable for group camping reservations which require advance booking. Limited availability for hike and bike camping on a first-come, first-served basis after 4 PM.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not explicitly stated.
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
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at San Elijo State Beach enjoy a wide array of recreational activities, including swimming, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and biking. Some activities, such as beach wheelchairs and environmental learning programs, enhance accessibility and engagement.
HikingWhile specific trails at Grunion Run Group Campground are not mentioned, the broader recreation area features trails for biking and walking.
FishingFishing is permitted and supported in the area, with opportunities to catch various local fish species. Details about specific fishing sites or rules are not provided.
SwimmingDesignated swimming areas are available, with lifeguards stationed seasonally. Rip currents are common, and safety measures are advised.
BikingBike trails are available, and riders under 18 must wear helmets. Bicycles ridden after dark require lights.
Beach activitiesBeach activities include surfing, swimming, and snorkeling. Rip currents are a notable hazard, and safety precautions are emphasized.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsInterpretive programs and exhibits are available, supporting environmental education and cultural engagement.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in established fire rings. No wood fires are permitted on the beach, only propane and butane fires are allowed.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsRip currents pose a significant hazard at the beach. 'Stay calm and don’t try to fight the current.'
Active alertsCamp Store and Laundry are closed. Wood burning fires prohibited on the beach; only propane and butane fires allowed.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 4
Monday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 100%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Foggy
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
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Precipitation Trends
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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 is Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas (3.8 miles), police services at Encinitas Police Department (approximately 3 miles), lifeguards available on-site during summer months (tower staffed 10 AM to 6 PM).
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch to November.
Trash and recyclingRecycling bins are provided for aluminum cans, plastic bottles, and glass. Household garbage disposal is available, but campers must take large items home.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly along the Pacific Ocean coastline, with stairs providing access to the beach.
Common complaintsVisitors have commented on the restrictions surrounding fires and pets as inconvenient for some campers.
HostInformation not provided.
Campground Map
2050 S Coast Hwy 101 Cardiff, CA 92007
Driving directionsExit Interstate 5 at Encinitas Blvd., head WEST. Turn LEFT on So. Coast Hwy. Follow the Coast Hwy. south, about 2 miles.
Road access is paved and well-maintained, allowing easy navigation for standard vehicles and RVs. Maximum trailer/motorhome length is 35 feet for non-hookup sites and 24 feet for hookup sites.Nearby places
Encinitas (2 miles, approximately 7 minutes), Solana Beach (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Carlsbad (9 miles, approximately 15 minutes), San Diego (approximately 40 miles, 45 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Camp Store and Laundry facilities are currently closed. Additional supplies may be obtained from nearby Cardiff-by-the-Sea (less than 1 mile away) or Encinitas (approximately 2 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.7
9 reviews
Grunion Run Group Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the family-friendly atmosphere, proximity to the beach, and amenities such as token-operated showers and picnic tables. Some complaints arise regarding noise from nearby roads and limited privacy.
Review Summaries
"The proximity to the ocean is fantastic." "Token-operated showers are clean and convenient." "Great for group camping with ample space and picnic tables."
"Noise from the highway can be a disturbance at night." "Limited privacy due to the layout of the campground."
Bring an extra-long sewage hose for RV hookups. Plan to use propane or butane burners for fires on the beach.
High season (March-November) sees increased noise and crowding, while low season (December-February) offers a quieter experience.
"The beach access is a highlight of this campground." "Clean facilities make group camping enjoyable." "Rip currents are a concern, but lifeguards are helpful."
Accessible sites include 4A, 26A, 58A, 92A, 143A, 164A. Best campsites for ocean views are #5, #7, #18, #19, #145, and #151.
Reviews commend the accessible facilities, including beach wheelchairs and paved surfaces.
Dogs are allowed in the campground but not on the beach, and must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
Last updated July 31, 2025