california: My friend and I want to drive from Texas to California to camp on the beach for a week or two depending on cost. We would like to stay somewhere that's a little more secure, less crowded, and most importantly inexpensive.|||The public campgrounds used to book up to a year in advance but that just changed this year, now its a first come first served setup. Campgrounds in so-cal are always full, but from Santa Barbara north there is always available spots, the people seem to be a little more friendly also. Cost wise, if you are tent camping its about 8 dollars a night, rvs are about 20 with electric and water hook ups. I recommend Gaviota State Beach. Have a good trip!|||it is illegal to camp on most California beaches and it is strictly enforced|||Carlsbad!!!