San Mateo Campground: A Nature Lover's Retreat
Experience the serenity and beauty of San Mateo Campground, a tranquil escape in San Clemente, CA, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Nestled in the scenic landscapes of San Clemente, San Mateo Campground is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. With its lush surroundings, hiking trails, and proximity to the beach, this campground offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in Southern California's natural beauty.
A brief summary to San Mateo Campground
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good camping spot, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Bring your own firewood as it may not be readily available at the campground.
- Check local regulations regarding beach access and parking if you plan to visit the nearby coastline.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, as the nearest stores may be a bit of a drive away.
- Consider visiting during the off-peak season for a more peaceful experience.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From downtown Laguna Beach, head to the nearest bus stop on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Take the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus route 1 heading south towards San Clemente. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the Cristianitos Rd stop. From there, it's a short walk to San Mateo Campground. Head east on Cristianitos Rd for about 0.5 miles until you reach the campground entrance at 830 Cristianitos Rd.
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Bicycle
If you enjoy cycling, rent a bike from one of the local shops in Laguna Beach. Start by heading south on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) towards San Clemente. After about 4 miles, turn right onto Cristianitos Rd. Continue on Cristianitos Rd for about 0.5 miles until you reach San Mateo Campground at 830 Cristianitos Rd. Be cautious of traffic along the PCH.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, you can embark on a scenic route. Start from Main Beach in Laguna Beach and walk south along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) for approximately 4 miles. After 4 miles, turn right onto Cristianitos Rd. Walk east for about 0.5 miles to reach San Mateo Campground at 830 Cristianitos Rd. This is a longer trek but allows you to enjoy the coastal views.
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
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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
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Victoria Beach
20.6 km
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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
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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
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Left Coast Brewing Co.
5.9 km
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Doheny State Beach
11.4 km
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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
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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
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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
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Essential places to dine
Coyote Grill - Laguna Beach
18.5 km
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NEApolitan Pizzeria & Birreria
18.6 km
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Lost Pier Cafe
19.3 km
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Harvest
19.4 km
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Starfish Laguna Beach
20.1 km
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The Loft
20.1 km
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Mosaic Bar & Grille
20.1 km
Experience exceptional dining at Mosaic Bar & Grille in Laguna Beach – where gourmet cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views.
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
Experience exceptional American cuisine at Selanne Steak Tavern in Laguna Beach, where every meal becomes a cherished memory.
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
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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
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Marine Room Tavern
24.0 km
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Tony's Sports Bar and Grill
28.7 km
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Frankie's
29.9 km
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Secco
30.0 km
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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
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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.
