Coastal campgrounds near Del Mar, California range from beachfront RV parks to more primitive tent camping areas, with most options focused on beach access and ocean views. San Elijo State Beach Campground sits on bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Cardiff, offering sites for tents, RVs, and glamping accommodations with direct beach access via stairways. Campland on the Bay provides over 500 sites with full hookups near Mission Bay, while smaller facilities like South Carlsbad State Beach Campground offer additional oceanfront options.
Most beachside campgrounds in the Del Mar area require reservations up to six months in advance, particularly for prime ocean-view sites during summer months. One camper noted, "Be prepared to jump on a reservation the second they become available. Reservations have a 6 month rolling availability. Plan ahead." Facilities vary significantly across the region, with many campgrounds offering water and electric hookups, showers, and dump stations. The climate supports year-round camping with mild temperatures, though winter months can bring occasional rain. Several campgrounds in the area have noise considerations due to proximity to highways, train tracks, and urban development.
Campers consistently highlight the stunning sunset views and beach access as major draws to the region's campgrounds. "The sunsets are out of this world and the beach is clean," mentioned one visitor about San Elijo State Beach. Mixed-use campgrounds near Del Mar cater to various camping styles, from surfers seeking proximity to breaks to families wanting beachfront recreation. Several reviews point to the convenience of nearby amenities, with many campgrounds within walking distance of restaurants, markets, and coffee shops. While the camping areas tend to be more developed and less secluded than wilderness camping, the trade-off comes with excellent ocean access, well-maintained facilities, and the unique experience of falling asleep to the sound of waves breaking on the shore.
$50 - $650 / night
"South Carlsbad SB is a gem ~ it sits on a bluff right over the Pacific Ocean and is just a few steps down to beach. 👣 Each site has a large iron fire pit and picnic table ~ btahrooms and showers are"
"If you’re headed to San Diego, be sure to stop and check out Carlsbad just off of the 5. this awesome beach town is quintessential Southern California beach awesomeness and it is absolutely gorgeous."
$50 - $520 / night
"If you wanna go on a surfside southern california adventure and keep it fun and cheap then this place is great."
"It's classic California beach camping. Spots are fairly close together, and it's more like a parking lot than a campground. That said, the beach is great, and the river mouth is great for surfing."
$60 / night
"It sits next to the bay, which is calmer and the beach. I've seen people jet ski, sail, paddle boat, play beach volleyball, and swim, and there are even bonfire pits on the beach!"
"We had 4 campsites all next to each other. The camp hosts were all very nice, they drove around quite a bit making sure all was good. For how many sites they have it didn’t seem too crowded."
$24 - $100 / night
"The creek eventually flows into a pond located on the other end of the campground. The pond is actually pretty large! Lots of space to walk around and explore."
"The missus and I decided to do a midweek overnight escape and chose Dos Picos Park due to its close proximity. Great little campground with partial (electricity & water) hookups."
$24 - $25 / night
"Campground was close to freeway exit and nearby local neighborhoods. Despite that, it still felt quiet and comfortable. Sites were clean snd a good size. Bathrooms were nice and clean."
"You are away from the city, but not too far. The facilities were nice and the only scare was the GIGANTIC spider seen outside the bathroom. We'd for sure come pack...the price is right too :$"
$87 - $245 / night
"We did a monthly stay… about $500 less than the campground right next to it. Quiet neighborhood at night, but a lot of families which makes it feel homey. Kids playing and people walking their dogs!"
"We enjoy this park because of its proximity to the beach and boardwalk area. The park is clean, staff has always been helpful. We have had no issues."
$39 - $50 / night
"Dixon lake is a perfect spot for my nephews to fish and play in the dirt. The campsites look really nice and ideal for tents. The walks around the lake are definitely worth doing!"
"I grew up in Oceanside and people talked about camping at Dixon lake in Escondido and I thought it was lame and not “real” camping. Having never been there, I based this off nothing."
"Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve provides a well-managed 190-acre oasis ideal for large families seeking natural serenity and structured recreation near San Diego."
"Being a native San Diegan The east county location allows for easy access to San Diego sites from two freeways."
$35 - $140 / night
"This location is a hidden gem in the outskirts of the city."
"We took our 28-foot travel trailer and two young kids (ages 5 & 8) for a long weekend at Lake Jennings Campground in Lakeside, CA — and it was a fantastic quick escape."
$34 - $38 / night
"Close to the city, camp is clean and staff is friendly and helpful. Showers were clean, and partial hookups are only $35 a night. Cheapest I've found in California."
"I’m not sure you’ll find a campground like this anywhere else in California for $29/night with partial hookups. It was quiet and peaceful. Bathrooms could have used some attention."
ScoutCame here with a group of 4 RVs/trailers. What a good mix of scenic sites. Staff lady up front was nice and helpful. The fishing pond was a bit of a let down. But the kids still had fun!
TravelerNice campground on the water & close to Coronado. Clean bathrooms & showers $1.50 laundry with new machines! Boat rentals Military/Retired only
GuideWe took our 28-foot travel trailer and two young kids (ages 5 & 8) for a long weekend at Lake Jennings Campground in Lakeside, CA — and it was a fantastic quick escape. Just 30 minutes east of San Diego. This hilltop park offers peaceful vibes, spacious sites, and family fun without the long drive. RV-Friendly Sites Our full-hookup pull-through site (30-amp) was easy to maneuver with plenty of space and privacy. Many sites have nice lake or city views (worth the small upgrade). Hookups worked great, and the clean restrooms/hot showers were a short walk away. Free Wi-Fi was a handy bonus. The shaded, covered playground was a huge hit, along with games like ladder golf, cornhole, and horseshoes. Short hiking trails start right from the campground with great lake overlooks. We rented a boat for fishing (no swimming — it’s a drinking water reservoir) and the kids loved spotting wildlife. Quiet hours were respected for good sleep. Friendly staff, well-maintained grounds, and a safe, gated feel made it relaxing. Pricing is reasonable Lake Jennings delivers scenic views, roomy RV sites, and kid-friendly activities in a convenient location. Perfect for families wanting a low-key getaway close to home. We’ll be back! Highly recommended for RV families
GuideStayed here for a quick San Diego stop and it was exactly what we needed for an overnight or short-term RV stay. The full hookups (50-amp) were reliable, the heated pool and hot tub were a welcome perk after a long drive, and the sites easily fit our 35-footer with pull-through access. Free WiFi worked fine for basic needs, laundry was clean, and the staff was friendly and helpful. It’s a no-frills, mostly residential park right off I-5 near Imperial Beach.s The location makes it super convenient for beach days, quick trips to SeaWorld, or heading south to the border. Great value and easy in-and-out.
GuideSantee Lakes Recreation Preserve provides a well-managed 190-acre oasis ideal for large families seeking natural serenity and structured recreation near San Diego. Its 300 full-hookup RV sites, many lakeside with generous spacing, cable TV, and amenities, effectively accommodate multi-generational groups. Seven recycled-water lakes offer family-friendly activities like fishing, pedal boating, duck feeding, and birdwatching, complemented by five miles of trails, playgrounds, two swimming pools (one heated), and a sprayground. The park’s environmental ethos shines through drought-resistant landscaping and clean facilities, fostering educational engagement with local ecology. Reservations are essential, particularly for weekends. Overall, it balances accessibility and tranquility, making it a premier destination for family bonding amid Southern California’s landscape.
GuideOur big family of eight had a wonderful four-night stay at Sweetwater Summit Regional Park Campground in Bonita with our 45ft travel trailer, and the North Loop provided a convenient base just 20-25 minutes from downtown San Diego. We secured one of the spacious premium pull-through sites. #63 which had full hookups (30/50 amp electric, water, and sewer) on a long paved pad that comfortably handled our large rig and gave everyone plenty of room to spread out with multiple vehicles and outdoor setups. The kids loved the playgrounds, seasonal splash pad, gentle family hiking trails with beautiful Sweetwater Reservoir views, plus picnicking, fishing opportunities, and open spaces for group games—making it an ideal spot for memorable family bonding with modern amenities right at hand.Book early (as early as a year in advance) as the North Loop fills quickly, especially the premium spots.
ScoutVery relaxing place to stay. Good amenities and very friendly staff.
ScoutWhy pay the rates for this RV park when you could just park in the city parking lot for free!
We are here in March and the public parking all the way around the bay is filled with RVs that look rather permanent. Running generators to sit and watch TV late into the night. So far Have not seen any enforcement moving them out or requiring people to move. The on-site laundry is a joke for how many campsites there are. There were five or six washers and dryers, but most of them were full of clothes just sitting there. They apparently do not enforce any regulation on removing your items after being completed. Also getting to the laundry is challenging. If you only have a vehicle. There is no parking near it and it is in the middle of the other section that I believe is long-term. We went 10 minutes away to a public laundromat that was much better.
ScoutSan Diego camping is just expensive. This is a reasonably priced park with large spaces, walking and biking trails, fire pits, picnic tables and convenience. Reception is good. The weather is great and there are yellow flowers everywhere. I haven't used the bathrooms but they have lots of individual rooms with toilets and showers. There are a couple of dips going through the park but I'm not seen even the larger rigs have any issue with them. I will definitely stay again.
Camping sites near Del Mar, California offer inland options beyond the popular coastal locations. At elevations ranging from sea level to 1,200 feet, inland campgrounds provide a different perspective with lake views and hiking trails. The Mediterranean climate supports camping year-round, though inland areas experience wider temperature swings from summer highs in the 90s to winter lows in the 40s.
Fishing at Dixon Lake: The 70-acre reservoir at Dixon Lake Campground allows fishing without a California fishing license—just purchase a $7 daily lake permit. "Big fish in this lake. Warning: Beware the Poison Oak. If you're hitting the trails or fishing the bank, there's a lot of it," notes Dad & B R.
Surfing at local beaches: San Elijo State Beach attracts surfers of all abilities to its consistent breaks. "From Swamis to the north and Cardiff Reef at the south end this is my favorite surf campground in Cali," shares Rick O. "Have fun. Go surfing," adds Sam O.
Mountain hiking: When beach activities become repetitive, head inland for different terrain. "Mission Trails Regional Park... absolutely loved it. There are clean bathrooms with flushable toilets and showers, and sinks to wash off things. The rangers even supplied Dr. Bronners Castile soap in each bathroom," writes Elise F. about Kumeyaay Lake Campground.
Privacy level variations: Campgrounds offer varying degrees of seclusion. Dos Picos County Park provides "a tranquil and scenic backdrop" according to Colleen D., while Lake Jennings has "Preferred View sites... an added benefit of the Preferred View sites is the privacy since no one is camped behind you," notes Moriah M.
Dog-friendly options: Several campgrounds accommodate pets with designated areas. "It's clean and family friendly also located right on a big beautiful beach. You can have alcohol on the beach but no glass. They have a play set for kids right next to the campsites," shares Nicole H. about Del Mar Beach Cottages.
Urban escapes: Some camping areas provide natural settings despite urban proximity. "Perfect spot to forget you're in San Diego. It's lake in the middle of neighborhoods," says Taylor about Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve. Another camper adds, "Although you can see housing and it's not in a remote area, it is still quiet and peaceful."
Reservation timing challenges: Most campgrounds require significant advance planning. For Lake Jennings, "We camp frequently since we live 5mins away. Always enjoy Easter and Halloween with friends and family," notes Monica M., suggesting holiday bookings fill quickly.
Security considerations: Some campgrounds report theft issues. At Campland on the Bay, "There's been a few things stolen from our friends campsites at this location," warns Taylor. Another camper at South Carlsbad notes, "Even if you lock your generators up, securing with cable and locks and securing in the back of a covered pickup there are thieves cutting through truck covers."
Noise levels vary: Urban-adjacent locations have inevitable noise impacts. "Although ocean bluff spots cost you the elevation angle of the site lot or vegetation may impede or restrict your view. There's also a metal fence... Noise. Far enough away from the train tracks to not have train noise issues but alongside US101 so there may be road noise," explains Tom H.
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. Lake Jennings has "a tranquil pond, nice hiking trails, places for kids to play… Just a fantastic option close to home for locals and well worth consideration for visitors to the area," reports Wes L.
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds feature resident wildlife that children enjoy watching. "We come here once a week to feed the ducks with my nephews. We've come to this lake my whole life," shares Taylor about Lake Jennings. However, some wildlife can be problematic: "We got one of the tent sights and ended up about 25 feet away from a raccoons nest they are very bold and will try to get your food right in front of you."
Swimming alternatives: Since many reservoirs prohibit swimming, look for campgrounds with pools. "Kids were in there all the time. We never ran into any rude or obnoxious campers," notes Jill E. about the amenities at Mission Bay RV Resort. "There is a gated pool and hot tub, we never used it since we just went to the beach/bay," adds another camper.
Hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placement when reserving. "The connections are at the front of the space on the drivers side. If you back in you better have 100 feet of hose sewer and power cord," warns Mark R. about Mission Bay RV Resort.
Site selection strategy: Research specific sites before booking. "Google Earth your site. The difference between sites next to each other is big when you're talking about any versus zero shade," advises Ryan W. about South Carlsbad State Beach Campground.
Recommended equipment: Several campgrounds have water quality issues requiring filtration. "Full hook ups are available for RV's but you need a surge protector and a water filter is advised if you want to drink the water," notes Nicole H. about Del Mar Beach Cottages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Del Mar, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Del Mar, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 184 campgrounds and RV parks near Del Mar, CA and 11 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Del Mar, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Del Mar, CA is South Carlsbad State Beach Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 80 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Del Mar, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near Del Mar, CA.
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