"Do you enjoy camping? Do you like the sounds of the waves crashing against the shore? Do you love overlooking the ocean as you wake up? Then South Carlsbad State Beach is for you. Located right on the shore of the Pacific Ocean, South Carlsbad State Beach offers camping sites for tents, trailers, and motorhomes. Each site offers ample room to set up camp for the night, sveral nights, the week, or however long you wish to stay. Trees and hedges offer privacy for some sites. Choose beach side or inland sites. Showers and restrooms are near to every site. The beach is just a ramp or stairway away. Depending on where your site is located you may have a longer trek to the ocean, but it’s worth it. Showers do cost around $.25 every 2 minutes, but, hey, it’s camping. Be happy for a shower at all. A convenience store filled with all of the camping goodies you’ll need (from sunscreen to souvenirs to ice cream novelties) is right at the entrance. You are allowed 2 vehicles on site for free (I think). Beyond that you have to pay or park elsewhere. (And parking is at a premium.) Still sound good? Let me tell you from experience, this place is great! My husband’s family went beach camping here every summer during his growing up years. Even after we were married we still did the annual beach camping thing at South Carlsbad State Beach with his family. Yes, there is dirt and hungry squirrels and ants, but, again, hey, it’s camping. The experience is great. Sitting at the camp site overlooking the ocean below is a glorious thing. Listening to the waves as you drift off to sleep is amazing. Lounging on the sandy beach watching your children play in the water while you leisurely read a book is heavenly. If you haven’t tried this yet, you should. Bring all your camping gear, food, and loved ones to South Carlsbad State Beach and get ready to enjoy the beach camping experience of a lifetime. Oh, but if you want to get reservations, you’ll have to make them 7 months in advance. Call on the 1st day of the month that is 7 months before your anticipated visit as soon as the phone lines open (8am Pacific Time, I believe). You won’t regret it. Telephone: 760-438-3143 Operating Hours: Dawn to sunset. Call the park to confirm."

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