San Onofre State Beach
Discover the Beauty of San Onofre State Beach
San Mateo Campground: Coastal Camping Retreat
Experience coastal camping at San Mateo Campground, near world-class surfing and beautiful beaches in San Clemente, California.
Nestled a short distance inland within San Onofre State Beach, San Mateo Campground offers a blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities. With a 1.5-mile nature trail connecting it to Trestles Beach, a world-class surfing site, it's an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
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A brief summary to San Mateo Campground
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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Getting There
Driving
From I-5, exit at Basilone Road and head towards the coast. Follow Cristianitos Road to the campground entrance. Parking is available at your assigned campsite, with a fee covering one vehicle. Additional vehicles require an extra fee paid at the gate. Limited parking is available, especially during peak season.
Walking
From the San Onofre State Beach, follow the 1.5-mile Nature Trail that begins near the beach and leads directly to San Mateo Campground. The trail offers scenic views of the surrounding area. Be prepared for a slightly uphill walk.
Local tips
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Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, and can be made up to seven months in advance.
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Bring dollar bills to exchange for tokens to use the hot showers.
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A 1.5-mile nature trail connects the campground to Trestles Beach, a world-class surfing site.
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Your paid campsite fee includes day use access to nearby San Onofre Bluffs and San Clemente State Beach.
Discover more about San Mateo Campground
San Mateo Campground, located in San Clemente, California, provides a serene camping experience near the coast. Situated a short distance inland from the 3.5 miles of sandy beaches of San Onofre State Beach, the campground offers a peaceful retreat with easy access to various outdoor activities.
The campground is known for its proximity to Trestles Beach, a world-renowned surfing location accessible via a 1.5-mile nature trail. This trail winds through key riparian and wetland habitats created by San Mateo Creek, which hosts rare and endangered species. The area has a rich history, once serving as the home to the Acjachemen people, with traces of their heritage still present. The campground itself was established in 1971 and is part of the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.
San Mateo Campground features over 150 campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs up to 36 feet. Many sites offer water and electric hookups. Each campsite is equipped with a fire pit and picnic table. Additional amenities include restrooms, hot showers (coin-operated), and an RV sanitation station. The campground provides a balance of shaded and open areas, making it a comfortable environment for all types of campers.
A brief summary to San Mateo Campground
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