Reservations possible?
Yes
RV Hookups
Yes
Potable water
Yes
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

San Mateo Campground is one of two campgrounds in San Onofre State Beach. It is situated 3.5 miles northwest of San Onofre Surf Beach, which is famous worldwide for its excellent surfing conditions. The proximity means that San Mateo is an excellent choice for anyone coming from out of town to check out the surf breaks. While the campground located at the San Onofre Bluffs is a bit closer to the beach, it does not have as much to offer as San Mateo. Perhaps the most prominent difference is the fact that San Mateo has warm showers located in a building, while the campground at the Bluffs only has cold outdoor showers. After a long day of surfing, a warm shower seems worth the slightly longer walk.

When you arrive at your campsite you will find a picnic table and a fire pit. There are nearby hookup sites in case you need water or electricity. The bathrooms feature flush toilets, and there is a dump station. If you need firewood, bundles are available for $6. You will have to pay a $15 Day Fee in addition to the price of your campsite.

Once you are settled into your campsite, you will likely want to hit the beach. Follow the Panhe Nature Trail for 1.5 miles until you reach the sand. Whether you are surfing, sunbathing, swimming, or snorkeling, keep an eye out for San Onofre State Beach’s numerous resident threatened and endangered species. These include the San Diego fairy shrimp, steelhead trout, southwestern willow flycatcher, and arroyo toad. The fact that these delicate creatures are able to survive in an area that sees two and a half million visitors annually is a testament to the respect this land is shown.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Near San Onofre State Beach and surfing.

Cons

Summer weekend crowds.

Pets allowed

Allowed with Restrictions

Managed by

California State Parks.

Reservation phone number

1 (800) 444-7275

Features

ADA accessible
Flushing toilets
Showers
Potable water

Location

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