South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

4.53

784 reviews

7201 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Family FriendlySwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near San Diego#1 Southern California

Quick Facts

43 ft

Price

$50 - $140/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

223 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

43 ft

Price

$50 - $140/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

223 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

$50.00 - $140.00 / night

Campsite Fees

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...

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

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Reserve California

Provider

760-438-3143

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What Campers Say

4.53

Top-Rated

Based on 784 reviews

1812 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanshowersrestrooms

Some mention

noisecrowdedroad noise

"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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

7201 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008

South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

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.

Best Time to Camp at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

Blessed 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer offers lifeguards and lively events but is crowded and busy.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 5% in CA

Fall brings reduced crowds and pleasant coastal weather—excellent visiting season.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 7% in CA

Spring offers great weather and fewer crowds—very favorable season for visits.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Top 12% in CA

Winter is quieter with whale-watching opportunities though some services are limited.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March to November. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round. Peak season: March to November. Off-season: December to February.
Current Alerts: Wood-burning fires prohibited except in established fire rings. California drought restrictions have been lifted, but water conservation is encouraged.

About South Carlsbad State Beach 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.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.

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 camping is 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.

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.

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.

Site 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.

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 SitesReserve oceanfront sites for the best views. Sites near stairway access are recommended for easier beach access.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

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.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsHigh 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.

Fire PolicyFires are permitted only in designated fire rings. Propane and butane fires are allowed on the beach with clearance from the sand.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest hospital: Tri-City Medical Center (approximately 6 miles), nearest police station: Carlsbad Police Department (approximately 4 miles), and ranger station located within the park.

Trash & RecyclingTrash bins and recycling facilities are available throughout the campground, with guests encouraged to keep spaces clean. Staff actively monitor and maintain these facilities.

Water FeaturesLocated directly above the Pacific Ocean. Stairs provide access to the beach.

Camp HostCamp hosts are available on-site and are described as friendly and helpful in user reviews.

Weather at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

Reviews

4.5

784 reviews

Top-Rated

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

Based on 784 reviews

What Campers Love

"Beautiful campsite with stunning ocean views," "Clean restrooms and showers," "Friendly staff and well-maintained facilities," "Great for families and children."

Based on 784 reviews

Common Concerns

"Road noise and lack of shade," "Crowded during peak seasons," "Beach is rocky in some areas," "Challenge of securing reservations months in advance."

Based on 784 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

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.

Based on 784 reviews

Seasonal Insights

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.

Based on 784 reviews

Camper Quotes

"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...

Based on 784 reviews