Description

California, San Mateo Campground.  Easy freeway access from Interstate-5. 

Directions:

Located just one mile off the I-5 freeway south of San Clemente.  Exit the I-5 freeway at Cristianitos road and go east for one (1) mile.  The campground entrance will be on the right.

Please see the Campbase map tab provided here for an accurate location. 

Comment

San Mateo Campground Is a very nice, large state campground with 157 spots.  Surrounded by wilderness, most services and the beach are over a mile away.  The campground is located on a bike/walking trail that leads to the beach and San Clemente.  This is primarily a tenting campground but, the paved parking pads and roads are large enough to accommodate just about any size camper and tow vehicle.  An overflow parking lot is available.  Each additional vehicle is $15.  If the vehicle is towed in then its free.  RV's up to 35 feet can be accommodated.  

Wood is available at the front entrance.  There is also self check-in available at night.  Campsites 1 thru 67 have water and electric but no septic.  Remaining campsites do not have water or electric.   A dump station is available.  Bring your quarters if you plan on using the pay showers.  The showers are very nice with high pressure warm water.  Everyone liked how clean they were.

This is a secure and safe campground.  Rangers walk the campground after 10:00 P.M.. to make sure campers observe the quiet hours.  The camp ranges are available 24x7 by phone should there be a problem in the park.  Obtain their number when you arrive at the campground. 

Downtown San Clemente is approximately two miles from the campground.  It's an easy bike ride, the city is bicycle friendly.

The San Clemente Municipal Golf Course is located about two miles from the campground.

About a mile from the campground entrance and along the I-5 freeway are an number of shops and bicycle rental/repair.  Restaurants include Carl's Jr. and Big Helyens Bar.

Theft Warning:  keep your vehicle locked and don't leave valuables or other items out at any time.  Transients may pass through the campground at night.  If you want to keep it, secure it.  

Don't be alarmed:  On occasion you may hear bombs or machine gun fire from the Camp Pendelton Marine Base adjacent to the park.  There is no danger but, on occasion the explosions may be loud.

Reservations are not available.  This is a first-come, First-served campground.