Best Campgrounds near Chula Vista, CA

Looking for the best campgrounds near Chula Vista, CA? Chula Vista is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Chula Vista, California (122)

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Showing results 1-10 of 122 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Chula Vista, CA

951 Reviews of 122 Chula Vista Campgrounds



Guide to Chula Vista

Camping near Chula Vista, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a beachside retreat or a serene spot in the mountains, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Enjoy the sun and surf at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground. Campers love the easy beach access, with one reviewer saying, "Great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks overlooking the ocean."
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the trails at William Heise County Park. One visitor mentioned, "The hiking trails were great for exploring and getting some exercise."
  • Fishing: Head to Lake Jennings for some fishing fun. A camper shared, "Nice clean water in the lake with plenty of fish."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground. One reviewer said, "The stars at night are gorgeous! You can spend hours just staring up at the sky."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at San Elijo State Beach Campground noted, "Showers are clean, a little worn out but high pressure and REALLY hot."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff. At San Diego Metro KOA, one guest said, "Every amenity, wonderful customer service, and close to all the sites that most people enjoy visiting out this way."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some sites can get very busy, especially during peak seasons. A camper at William Heise County Park warned, "It can get very crowded and packed."
  • No Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Paso Picacho Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "There are no water, sewer nor electrical hookups at this campsite."
  • Check-in Times: Be aware of strict check-in times at some campgrounds. A reviewer at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground noted, "Very strict check-in time."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or nearby hiking trails. One family at Lake Jennings enjoyed, "There is a play area that had ladder golf, tetherball, and ping pong."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A camper at San Elijo State Beach Campground reminded, "Dogs are not allowed on the beach, but they are allowed south of Tower 16."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A visitor at Sweetwater Summit Regional Park mentioned, "Fun areas for kids to play."

Tips from RVers:

  • Big Rig Friendly: Many campgrounds, like South Carlsbad State Beach Campground, are big rig friendly. One RV traveler noted, "Big rig friendly, drinking water, and electric hookups."
  • Reservations Recommended: It's a good idea to book your spot in advance, especially during busy times. A camper at Dos Picos County Park said, "Shouldn't have a problem finding a site here."
  • Dump Stations: Make sure to check for dump stations nearby. A visitor at San Diego Metro KOA mentioned, "There is also a dump station in the campground."

Chula Vista camping, CA, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Chula Vista, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Chula Vista, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 122 campgrounds and RV parks near Chula Vista, CA and 7 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Chula Vista, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Chula Vista, CA is San Diego Metro KOA with a 4.3-star rating from 31 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Chula Vista, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Chula Vista, CA.

  • What parks are near Chula Vista, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Chula Vista, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.