Ah, the great outdoors! What could be better than spending some quality time in nature with your four-legged best friend? Camping with dogs is one of the most enjoyable ways to bond and have fun together. Not only will camping with your pup provide an unforgettable experience for both of you, but it also helps to build a stronger relationship between pet and owner. If you're in San Diego, Orange County, or Los Angeles, check out these nine dog-friendly campgrounds in Southern California.
9 Dog-Friendly Campgrounds in Southern California
Southern California has some of the most beautiful camping sites in the country, many of which are dog-friendly! Here are just a few of our favorite dog-friendly campgrounds in Southern California listed by county.
San Diego County
Nestled in Bonita, you can enjoy day-use activities or stay overnight at their spacious 500-acre park. You can bring your dog, but they must stay on leash. In addition to their beautiful campgrounds, they have a seasonal splash pad, play areas, and a 13-station exercise course. If you're looking to host a gathering, they even have rentable picnic areas and a community room. Located at: 3218 Summit Meadow Road, Bonita, CA 91902
While located in a more urban setting, this dog-friendly resort offers tons of fun activities for the whole family. You can dine and taste local craft beers at their dog-friendly Sand Castle Cafe. This dog-friendly campground offers tent site camping, RV parking, and cabin rentals. Located at: 111 North 2nd Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910
Located in Mission Bay, this campground offers both RV and tent camping. In addition to having a gym, off-leash dog park, skatepark, and pool, they also offer dining options and they even have water sports rentals. Located at: 2211 Pacific Beach Dr., San Diego, CA 92109
Towards the more northern end of the county, this beachside site offers RV and tent camping. While the site is dog-friendly, dogs are not allowed on the adjacent beach. The campground offers picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Located at: 7201 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, CA 92008
Orange County
Located right off I-5 in San Clemente, CA. San Mateo offers tent camping and RV hookups with each site having its own fire pit. They also have basic amenities like flush toilets and showers. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash and be attended to at all times. Located at: 830 Cristianitos Road, San Clemente, CA 92672
This facility located just inland from Balboa Beach offers RV camping, cottage rentals, as well as tent camping in some of the smaller RV spaces. The resort is dog-friendly with two pets allowed per accommodation; keep in mind though that the city of Newport has levied breed restrictions on their resorts, so it is best to call ahead before going. They boast an amazing amount of amenities to include a pool, market, summer water park, fire pits, and more. Located at: 1131 Back Bay Dr., Newport Beach, CA 92660
A California State Park, this amazing site is located right on the beach just north of Huntington Beach (Surf City!). This site offers both RV and tent camping options. Dogs are allowed in the campground and on the multi-use trail; however, they must be leashed and dogs are not allowed on the beach (bummer). Another however - Huntington Beach Dog Beach is located less than 2 miles south. Bolsa Chica State Beach is located at: 17851 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Los Angeles County
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Malibu just 25 miles from the city of Los Angeles, this site is home to some of the most beautiful nature views in Southern California. This dog-friendly campground accommodates RVs and tents and has onsite showers and bathrooms. Located at: 1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas, CA 91302
In the northern part of the county is this beautiful state park/campground. Campers can either bring an RV or set up a tent. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table and there are coin-operated showers on site. Dogs are allowed on the campgrounds and at the connecting North Beach area. Located at: 35000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
Bring Out the Inner Wolf
Camping with your dog is a great way to bond and explore the outdoors. By finding the right campground for you and your pup, you can get out of the house and into nature while still providing them with what they need to stay safe. Whether it's a weekend at Leo Carrillo State Park or a day playing at Newport Dunes, there are plenty of dog-friendly campgrounds in Southern California for you and your dog to explore. After all - camping with your pup is the best way to enjoy nature together!
Adventure Guide to Taking Your Dog Camping
Check out our Adventure Guide on Taking Your Dog Camping. It has all the tips, tricks, and recommendations you need to make the most of your outdoor escapades with your furry friend. Find the best activities, get prepared, stay safe, and experience unforgettable moments together.
