San Clemente State Beach Camping Reservations

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San Clemente State Beach is popular for day use and overnight beach camping trips.The beach is located about a mile south of San Clemente Pier.

Locals would like to keep this place to themselves, but the state of California has provided plenty of parking space so we can all enjoy this wonderful beach.

The bluff-top campground has 160 campsites to choose from. Most sites do not have a beach view however if you can get a reservation next to the canyon the ocean is visible.

Each of the 160 campsites has a fire ring, picnic table, and shade ramada, with water nearby. The RV area in the family campground accommodates 72 recreational vehicles and has water, electrical and sewage hookups.

Some campsites in the tent and pop camper section of the campground have partial ocean views. When making a reservation keep in mind, campsites in the back of the campground can hear the busy San Diego Freeway.

San Clemente State Beach is a perfect destination for a family camping trip. Pack up the RV and enjoy this picture-perfect location. Check-in time 2:00 pm Check out time 12:00 noon.

A group camping area can handle 50 people and 20 vehicles, trailers included. Each campground has hot showers, flush toilets, and a sink area. Six campsites, restrooms and showers, and ten picnic sites near the parking lot.

None of the campsites have a clear view of the beach with the exception of the campground hosts. Campsites 57-72 overlook the canyon and the ocean beyond and are close to the nature trail.

To get to the beach, you will need to cross over the railroad tracks that run along the coast. Caution is required as the Amtrak trains pass by at about 50 miles per hour here.

Once on the beach, you are treated to one of the best beaches in Southern California. Sandy cliffs run along the entire beach giving the appearance of a remote location even though civilization is only a quick walk away.

San Clemente State Beach is one of the most popular places to camp along the Southern California coast. Campsites are up on the bluff with a paved trail that leads down to the beach.

Things To Do San Clemente State Beach Campground

There is a visitor center which is located in the original 1934 ranger’s cottage. Open most weekend the visitor center has interesting historic photos along with information on native animals and plant life.

San Clemente State beach campground is near the town of San Clemente and its possible to hike along the beach, however, the trip is a lot quicker by car. Stores and dining options are only a 15-minute drive away.

There are several miles of hiking trails branching off from the campground, however, most visitors head to the beach for recreation.

Daytime temperatures are in the 60s and 70s almost year-round while evening temperatures generally hover between the 40s and 50s. Most mornings the sky will be overcast until noon unless there is a Santa Ana wind condition.

Getting There

San Clemente State Beach is located on the south end of the city of San Clemente in Orange County. The day use area and the campground are easily accessible from Interstate 5, both North and South. The Park’s address is 225 Avenida Califia, San Clemente, CA 92672