OC Beachside Camping

Camping can be a great and fun activity for the whole family to enjoy without spending hundreds of dollars. Although camping in the forest can be exciting, there is still really nothing like camping on a beach. South of Los Angeles, you will find the beautiful Orange County, which is actually home to three great beach camping sites for both RVs and tents.

Doheny State Beach, Dana Point

Doheny State Beach located in the gorgeous Dana Point offers campers more then just a spot on the sand. Besides being able to wake up right next to the cool ocean, you also have many activities to choose from throughout your day. Doheny State Beach offers parks, picnic areas, kayak rentals, many walking paths, as well as being located right near the marina that offers seaside dining and shopping. A short walk away will also bring you to the Dana Point Ocean Institute that will allow you to take a tour of a tall-masted sailing ship, also known as a “tall ship.” Barbeques and alcohol are permitted.

San Clemente State Beach, San Clemente

San Clemente State Beach is another great option for the beach camper. Located in the beautiful surreal, San Clemente, this location offers a great almost ’away from it all’ type of feeling. Besides the more then beautiful sandstone bluffs, the real gem with this campsite is that it is virtually tucked away from all the hustle and bustle. And you are left with a calming beauty that offers serene sunsets and sunrises. There are trails that one can take and spot a bit of wildlife, and you may even see a dolphin or two swimming out in the ocean. A relaxing dinner made by your campfire is an extraordinary way to end the day. Note to campers, campfires are only allowed in the campsites. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash and accompanied at all times.

San Onofre State Beach, San Onofre

San Onofre State Beach which is technically located just south of the Orange County borderline near San Diego is another spectacular camping location for anyone wishing to sleep on the beach. Near Camp Pendleton, San Onofre offers an exuberant list of activities for any beach lover to take advantage of. Surfing, windsurfing, bodyboarding, bodysurfing, skimboarding, kiteboarding, wakeboarding, skateboarding, roller skating, rollerblading, sailing, boating, jet skiing, waterskiing, fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and volleyball are just the start of all that this great place has to offer. There are also beautiful trails that will bring any visitor to the seemingly untouched beaches where you may even spot a deer or two amongst the native vegetation. This beach, near the power plant, offers picnic tables, bathrooms, and fire rings.