Escape to Nature at San Mateo Campground
Discover the beauty of San Mateo Campground in San Clemente, where nature meets comfort in a picturesque coastal setting.
San Mateo Campground is a serene retreat nestled in the picturesque landscapes of San Clemente, California, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. With its lush surroundings and proximity to the ocean, this campground offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
A brief summary to San Mateo Campground
Local tips
- Book your campsite in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
- Pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly from day to night.
- Bring your own firewood if you plan to use the fire pits, as it may not be available for purchase.
- Explore the nearby hiking trails for stunning views and a chance to see local wildlife.
- Don’t forget your beach gear, as the campground is conveniently close to San Onofre State Beach.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From Huntington Beach, walk to the nearest bus stop at Main St & Pacific Coast Hwy. Take the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Route 1 bus heading south towards San Clemente. After about 30 minutes, get off at the Cristianitos Rd & Avenida Vista Hermosa stop. From there, walk east on Cristianitos Rd for about 0.5 miles, and you will reach San Mateo Campground.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, rent a bike from one of the rental shops near the beach. Head south along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). After approximately 10 miles, turn left onto Cristianitos Rd. Continue on Cristianitos Rd for about 1 mile until you reach the San Mateo Campground. Please ensure you wear a helmet and follow all traffic rules.
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Walking
For those who enjoy walking, you can start at Central Park in Huntington Beach. Head south on Goldenwest St until you reach Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Turn left and walk along the PCH for about 10 miles. When you reach Cristianitos Rd, turn left and continue for about 0.5 miles to reach San Mateo Campground. Note that this is a long walk, so wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated.
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Ride-sharing Service
You can use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Open the app and set your destination to 'San Mateo Campground, 830 Cristianitos Rd, San Clemente, CA 92672'. The app will provide you with the estimated fare and the best route to take. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to use public transportation.
Discover more about San Mateo Campground
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Landmarks on Del Mar
3.6 km
Explore San Clemente's history through captivating tile murals on Avenida Del Mar, showcasing the city's architectural gems and rich cultural heritage.
PCH Monument
11.3 km
Discover the PCH Monument in Dana Point, a historical landmark marking the start of the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, offering stunning ocean views and a glimpse into California's rich past.
Dana Point Arches
12.6 km
Discover the Dana Point Arches, a stunning coastal landmark that blends breathtaking views with rich historical significance in California.
Mission San Juan Capistrano, Landmark, Chapel, Museum and Gardens
13.0 km
Discover California's birthplace at Mission San Juan Capistrano: a historic landmark with stunning architecture, rich heritage, and the famous return of the swallows.
Dana Point Lantern District Sign
13.1 km
Discover the Dana Point Lantern District Sign, a historic landmark that captures the coastal charm and vibrant spirit of this beautiful seaside town.
Los Rios Street Historic District
13.1 km
Discover the historic Los Rios Street District in San Juan Capistrano, featuring charming architecture, local shops, and rich cultural heritage.
Historic Las Flores Adobe at Camp Pendleton
16.6 km
Explore the Historic Las Flores Adobe, a serene landmark in Camp Pendleton, California, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life and architecture.
Laguna Beach Cliff Hike
18.5 km
Discover breathtaking ocean views and scenic trails at Laguna Beach Cliff Hike, a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
La Jolla Mom
19.7 km
Discover La Jolla, a coastal paradise with stunning beaches, vibrant art, and a rich culinary scene perfect for every traveler.
Treasure Island Park
19.9 km
Experience the beauty of Treasure Island Park, a hidden gem in Laguna Beach, where stunning ocean views and lush gardens await.
Montage Laguna Beach
20.1 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking ocean views at Montage Laguna Beach, your ultimate coastal getaway in California.
Treasure Island Beach
20.3 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of Treasure Island Beach in Laguna Beach, California, a perfect getaway for relaxation and stunning ocean views.
Victoria Beach
20.6 km
Discover the enchanting shores of Victoria Beach in Laguna Beach, California, where natural beauty meets coastal adventure.
Mermaid Beach
21.0 km
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Pirate Tower
21.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
San Clemente
3.6 km
Explore the charm of San Clemente, California's coastal paradise, with stunning beaches, rich culture, and delightful dining experiences.
San Clemente Pier
3.8 km
Experience the allure of San Clemente Pier, where stunning ocean views, fishing, and vibrant beach life await in California's coastal paradise.
Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens
3.8 km
Immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of San Clemente at Casa Romantica, featuring stunning gardens and captivating art experiences.
Artifex Brewing Company
5.3 km
Explore the rich flavors of California craft beer at Artifex Brewing Company, a local gem in San Clemente's vibrant beer garden.
Lost Winds Brewing Company
5.6 km
Discover the essence of California craft beer at Lost Winds Brewing Company in San Clemente, where every pint tells a story of flavor and creativity.
Left Coast Brewing Co.
5.9 km
Discover craft beer excellence at Left Coast Brewing Co. in San Clemente, where local flavors and a vibrant atmosphere come together.
Doheny State Beach
11.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Doheny State Beach, a coastal paradise offering sun, surf, and endless outdoor adventures in Dana Point, California.
Catalina Express
11.7 km
Experience the breathtaking ferry ride to Catalina Island with Catalina Express, the gateway to adventure and stunning coastal beauty.
Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point
11.7 km
Discover the breathtaking marine life and thrilling adventures at Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching in beautiful Dana Point, California.
Dana Point Harbor
12.0 km
Experience the beauty and charm of Dana Point Harbor, a stunning coastal gem in California offering vibrant shops, delicious food, and thrilling water activities.
Dana Point
12.6 km
Explore Dana Point, California – a stunning coastal paradise with beautiful beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich maritime history.
Capt. Dave's Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari
12.7 km
Join Capt. Dave's Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari for an unforgettable marine adventure along California's stunning coast.
Historic Town Center Park
12.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and cultural heritage of Historic Town Center Park in San Juan Capistrano, a perfect retreat for all visitors.
Essential places to dine
Coyote Grill - Laguna Beach
18.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Coyote Grill in Laguna Beach—where ocean views meet culinary delight.
NEApolitan Pizzeria & Birreria
18.6 km
Discover authentic Neapolitan pizza and craft brews at NEApolitan Pizzeria & Birreria in beautiful Laguna Beach.
Lost Pier Cafe
19.3 km
Experience coastal dining at Lost Pier Cafe with fresh seafood delights and stunning ocean views in beautiful Laguna Beach.
Harvest
19.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Harvest in Laguna Beach – where American flavors meet breathtaking views.
Starfish Laguna Beach
20.1 km
Experience exquisite Asian Fusion cuisine at Starfish Laguna Beach amidst stunning coastal views and exceptional service.
The Loft
20.1 km
Experience fine American dining with breathtaking ocean views at The Loft in Laguna Beach - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Mosaic Bar & Grille
20.1 km
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The Drake in Laguna Beach
20.8 km
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Dizz's As Is
21.0 km
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Maro Wood Grill
22.0 km
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Rumari
22.1 km
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Mozambique
22.2 km
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Selanne Steak Tavern
22.5 km
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Avila's El Ranchito - Laguna Beach
22.7 km
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Rooftop Lounge
22.7 km
Discover breathtaking ocean views and exquisite dining at Rooftop Lounge in Laguna Beach - your perfect coastal escape.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cactus Jane Emporium
22.4 km
Explore the vibrant Cactus Jane Emporium in Laguna Beach for unique gifts and local artistry that celebrate California's coastal beauty.
Ocean Laguna
22.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local art at Ocean Laguna, the charming gift shop in Laguna Beach that captures the essence of coastal California.
The Garage Collective
22.8 km
Explore The Garage Collective, a charming boutique in Laguna Beach with local art, vintage finds, and handcrafted treasures.
Ligne Blanche
22.8 km
Discover unique gifts and artisanal treasures at Ligne Blanche, a charming gift shop in Laguna Beach, California, perfect for souvenirs and special finds.
Village Faire Shoppes
22.9 km
Discover unique boutiques and local artistry at Village Faire Shoppes in Laguna Beach, a delightful shopping destination with a coastal charm.
Lala
22.9 km
Discover unique fashion and decor at Lala, a charming boutique in Laguna Beach that captures the essence of California’s coastal lifestyle.
The Shop. laguna beach
23.0 km
Explore a stylish collection of women’s clothing, accessories, and jewelry at The Shop Laguna Beach, where fashion meets coastal charm.
Twig
23.0 km
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Soulshine Laguna - By Confetti Gift Company
23.0 km
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Mimi & Rae
23.4 km
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Sun and Sand Boutique
23.4 km
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Cherry Moon Shoppe
23.5 km
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Laguna Village Shops
23.6 km
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Russian Traditions
23.6 km
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Luna
23.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Helen’s Cocktails
18.3 km
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Lobby Lounge at Montage Laguna Beach
20.1 km
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Wine Gallery
22.1 km
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The Sandpiper Lounge
22.8 km
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Saloon
23.8 km
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Hennessey's Tavern
24.0 km
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Breeze & Brew
24.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Breeze & Brew, a premier bar and restaurant in Laguna Beach, offering stunning ocean views, delicious food, and refreshing drinks.
Marine Room Tavern
24.0 km
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Tony's Sports Bar and Grill
28.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious flavors at Tony's Sports Bar and Grill in Oceanside, California, a perfect spot for food lovers and sports fans.
Frankie's
29.9 km
Discover Frankie's in Oceanside, a vibrant bar with stunning ocean views and creative cocktails, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Secco
30.0 km
Discover Secco, a vibrant bar and lounge in Oceanside, California, offering refreshing drinks and a lively coastal atmosphere.
The Rooftop Bar
30.0 km
Experience breathtaking ocean views and vibrant atmosphere at The Rooftop Bar, the perfect spot for cocktails and small bites in Oceanside.
Haunted Head Saloon
30.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and eclectic spirits of the Haunted Head Saloon in Oceanside, California - a must-visit bar for every traveler.
The Space Pad
30.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Space Pad, Oceanside's premier bar for creative cocktails and unforgettable oceanfront views.
The Lounge Oceanside
30.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning ocean views at The Lounge Oceanside, your go-to cocktail bar in California.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cubana Cigars
22.6 km
Discover the ultimate cigar experience in Laguna Beach at Cubana Cigars, where luxury meets breathtaking ocean views.
The Jazzy Wishbone
30.4 km
Experience the vibrant melodies and lively atmosphere at The Jazzy Wishbone, Oceanside's premier live music bar for an unforgettable night out.
Ladies Love Outlaws
33.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Ladies Love Outlaws, Oceanside’s premier cocktail bar, known for unique drinks and lively ambiance.
Irvine Nights
33.4 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Irvine Nights, an event venue in Great Park, Irvine, perfect for concerts, community gatherings, and private celebrations.
The O Lounge
39.0 km
Experience the luxurious ambiance and vibrant nightlife at The O Lounge in Newport Beach, where unforgettable moments await.
Plush Karaoke Lounge
39.0 km
Unleash your inner star at Plush Karaoke Lounge, the ultimate destination for karaoke enthusiasts in vibrant Irvine, California.
Legacy Nightclub and Lounge
39.3 km
Discover Newport Beach's vibrant nightlife at Legacy Nightclub and Lounge, where affordable drinks and an exciting dance floor await.
Time Nightclub
40.6 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Time Nightclub, Costa Mesa's premier venue for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Sevilla Nightclub of Costa Mesa
40.7 km
Experience the pulse of Costa Mesa's nightlife at Sevilla Nightclub, where music, dance, and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable evening.
Tin Lizzie Saloon
41.3 km
Discover the inclusive nightlife at Tin Lizzie Saloon, a vibrant gay bar in Costa Mesa, offering cocktails, entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Hair Extension Lounge
41.4 km
Experience luxury hair extensions and personalized beauty services at Hair Extension Lounge in Temecula, California.
Arena OC
41.4 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Costa Mesa at Arena OC, where unforgettable nights of music and dancing await you!
STRUT Bar & Club
41.4 km
Discover the lively STRUT Bar & Club in Costa Mesa, where vibrant nightlife, live music, and an inclusive atmosphere create unforgettable experiences.
The Merc
41.5 km
Experience the soulful sounds of jazz at The Merc, Temecula's premier venue for live music and vibrant performances.
Old Town Blues Club
41.6 km
Discover the heart of Temecula’s nightlife at Old Town Blues Club, where live blues music and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.
