San Elijo State Beach Campground
4.7310 reviews2050 S Coast Hwy 101 Cardiff, CA 92007
San Elijo State Beach Campground
$15.00 - $520.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$50.00
Hookup Site Fee$75.00
Premium Site Fee$70.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00
Group Site Fee$520.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $15 for hike/bike shared sites, $50 for inland non-hookup sites, $70 for premium oceanfront non-hookup sites, $75 for hookup sites (both inland and oceanfront), and $520 for group camping sites.
About this campground
Perched dramatically on oceanside bluffs, San Elijo State Beach Campground invites you to fall asleep to the rhythm of Pacific waves and wake to spectacular sunrise views. This coveted coastal retreat offers 171 thoughtfully positioned campsites, from premium oceanfront spots where you can watch dolphins play from your tent door to convenient inland sites with full hookups. Each site comes equipped with essential comforts including hot showers, sturdy picnic tables for seaside meals, and fire pits perfect for evening s'mores under the stars.
San Elijo State Beach Campground offers a variety of camping options, including standard family campsites, RV sites with full hookups, and a hike-and-bike campsite.
Weather and SeasonsSan Elijo's Mediterranean-like climate delivers the quintessential Southern California experience with gentle, sun-kissed days averaging 62°F and cool, refreshing nights that may dip to a crisp 37°F—perfect sleeping weather with your tent windows open to the ocean breeze. While the region enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, occasional light rain showers and rare dustings of coastal mist add variety to the typically pristine conditions, creating those magical mornings when the marine layer transforms the landscape into an ethereal dreamscape.
ElevationThe campground's privileged position atop coastal bluffs provides a natural amphitheater setting, where each terraced campsite offers its own unique vantage point of the endless Pacific horizon stretching westward.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your clifftop perch, witness nature's daily spectacle as gray whales migrate past during winter months and pelicans patrol the shoreline year-round. The campground's bluff-top setting showcases a tapestry of native coastal sage scrub and wildflowers that burst into color each spring, while below, the beach beckons with its golden sand and hidden tide pools. Just offshore, a vibrant reef ecosystem creates a natural aquarium that draws snorkelers and divers eager to explore underwater gardens teeming with garibaldi, leopard sharks, and swaying kelp forests.
Geological RegionCarved by millennia of Pacific storms and tides, San Elijo's dramatic setting exemplifies the rugged beauty of the San Diego coastline. The campground crowns a narrow strip of ancient marine terraces, where layers of sedimentary rock tell the story of California's dynamic geological past. Below the bluffs, a pristine beach stretches north and south, punctuated by the rocky reef formations that create both excellent surfing conditions and protected areas for marine exploration.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAll restrooms and shower buildings have accessible facilities. Campsites like 4A, 26A, 58A, 92A, 143A, and 164A are designated accessible, with surfaces either fully or partly paved. Beach wheelchairs are available for free with photo ID check-out.
Sites SizeVaries by site; oceanfront sites range from approximately 50–65 feet in length and 17–25 feet in width, while standard inland sites are smaller.
Sites PrivacySites are described as having some privacy but vary in seclusion. Oceanfront sites offer less shade and are more exposed.
Total Campsites171 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOceanfront sites are recommended for views, but inland hookup sites offer full utilities. Avoid bug-infested sites like 28 when possible.
Best CampsitesBest campsites include numbers 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 25, 27, 29, 31, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 43, 45, 47, 49, 57, 59, 60, 61, 77, 145-171.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
- March-November: Max 7 consecutive nights
- December-February: Max 14 consecutive nights
- Annual limit: 30 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard sites limit occupancy to 8 people, while group sites accommodate up to 40 people.
Groups
The Grunion Run group site accommodates up to 40 people and 10 vehicles. It includes six picnic tables, one fire pit, one barbecue, and full hookups (50 amps, water, and sewage).
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into oceanfront (premium) and inland (standard) sections separated by the park road.
Open and Closed SeasonHigh season: March-November; Low season: December-February.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via ReserveCalifornia online or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited; shared hike/bike sites are first-come-first-served.
Cancellation PolicyThe $7.99 reservation fee is non-refundable. Cancellations after 6 PM the day before arrival forfeit the first night's fee. Modifications incur a $7.99 fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
San Elijo State Beach Campground provides a variety of recreational activities, especially for water enthusiasts and families. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and scuba diving/snorkeling along the reef. There are also family programs, cultural activities, and designated bike trails.
FishingFishing is allowed, with opportunities along the beach and reef areas.
SwimmingSwimming is a popular activity, with access to the ocean directly from the beach. Lifeguards are present during peak seasons.
BikingBiking is supported with trails running near the campground. However, a reviewer noted, "Bike riders don’t always stop for pedestrians, so be alert at intersections."
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is offered through state-led programs like Wildlife Walks and Nature Table exhibits. Seasonal highlights may include gray whale migrations.
Beach activitiesBeach activities include surfing and sunbathing. The beach is bluff-backed and accessible via stairs, offering scenic views.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsPrograms include Junior Ranger classes, Summer Campfire Series, wildlife walks, and hands-on educational activities via the Nature Table.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed in established rings only; propane and butane fires permitted on the beach.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rip currents and bug infestations as noted by some users. "Swimmers should stay calm if caught in rip currents and swim parallel to the shore."
Active alertsCamp Store is currently closed. Lifeguard staffing is seasonal. Wood burning fires not allowed outside established rings. Generators have restricted hours.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 93%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include hospitals in Encinitas (~2 miles), police stations in Cardiff-by-the-Sea (~1 mile), and lifeguard towers staffed seasonally.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch through November
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is available for household garbage only, and recycling bins are provided to support local Junior Ranger programs. Campers are encouraged to take large items like chairs or boxes home for disposal.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the Pacific Ocean via stairs from bluff-top campsites. A reef nearby is ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Common complaintsUser complaints include bug infestations at certain sites, train noise from nearby tracks, and generator theft warnings.
HostNo specific details about campground hosts provided.
Campground Map
2050 S Coast Hwy 101 Cardiff, CA 92007
Driving directionsExit Interstate 5 at Encinitas Blvd., head WEST. Turn LEFT on So. Coast Hwy. Follow the Coast Hwy. south, about 2 miles.
The campground is accessible from Coast Highway 101, which is directly connected to major routes. It is 2 miles south of Encinitas Boulevard exit on Interstate 5. The road is paved and suitable for passenger vehicles and RVs.Nearby places
Encinitas: ~2 miles
Solana Beach: ~5 miles
San Diego: ~40 miles
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Encinitas and Cardiff-by-the-Sea, both within 2 miles of the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.7
10 reviews
San Elijo State Beach Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's excellent location, beachfront access, and vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. Common issues include traffic noise from nearby highways and occasional bug infestations.
Review Summaries
"Great location, great donuts!" "Easy access to the surf," and "It felt, relaxed and safe and it was beautiful being on the beach and watching people surf before dawn!"
Complaints include traffic noise from nearby highways, bug infestations at certain sites (e.g., "Upon pulling in at site 28 it was immediately apparent there was a bug issue"), and high activity on...
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Consider bringing insect repellents due to occasional bug issues. Stay alert when exiting the campground as visibility to southbound traffic on old Highway 101 may be impaired.
Summer months are especially busy with family programs and beach activities. Winter sees reduced lifeguard staffing and fewer events.
"Showers are completely functional and convenient"; "Killer recycling, cleared 3 big bags per bin the other day"; "Wonderful waves, beautiful campground!"
Highly recommended sites include 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 25, 27, 37, 40, 45, 49, 57, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, and 151. Site 28 had bug-related issues.
Accessible sites are praised for their paved surfaces and proximity to restroom facilities.
Pets are allowed at campsites but not on the beach. Campers are reminded to leash pets and clean up after them.
Last updated July 31, 2025