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Best Campgrounds near El Cajon, CA

1,138 Reviews

El Cajon offers several established campgrounds and RV parks within short driving distance of the city center. Circle RV Resort provides full hookup sites primarily for RVs and is located near major highways. Rancho Los Coches RV Park features more tree cover and creek access, accommodating longer-term stays. The surrounding region includes a mix of county parks, regional reserves, and privately operated RV facilities with varying amenities. Most camping areas are within 30 minutes of El Cajon, with options extending toward Santee, Lakeside, and the eastern reaches of San Diego County.

Camping facilities near El Cajon typically operate year-round due to the mild Southern California climate. Most developed campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak travel seasons and holidays. While several RV parks cater to long-term residents, short-term camping is available at nearby facilities like Lake Jennings Park in Lakeside and Kumeyaay Lake Campground in Mission Trails Regional Park. Highway noise can be a consideration at some locations, particularly those situated near Interstate 8. A camper mentioned that "Highway 8 is right outside your door and very loud" at one of the El Cajon RV parks, though the secured gates and facilities were noted as clean and well-maintained.

Many camping areas around El Cajon provide amenities like swimming pools, laundry facilities, and recreational areas. Tent camping options are more limited within the immediate vicinity but can be found at facilities like Kumeyaay Lake Campground, where visitors praise the natural setting despite proximity to urban areas. "We came here to stay overnight and loved this place! You are away from the city, but not too far," noted one camper about Kumeyaay Lake. Campgrounds with water features tend to be more popular, with Lake Jennings offering fishing opportunities in addition to camping. RV parks closer to El Cajon center typically feature more urban conveniences but less privacy between sites. Several reviews indicate that many RV parks in the area have a significant number of long-term residents, which can affect the availability of short-term spots during busy periods.

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Best Camping Sites Near El Cajon, California (173)

    1. Lake Jennings

    33 Reviews
    Lakeside, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 390-1623

    $35 - $140 / night

    "This location is a hidden gem in the outskirts of the city."

    "We had scoped this out as a wintering location for my snowbird dad, and I always remembered how powerfully silence of that hillside had impacted me... finally camped there- it was lovely!"

    2. Sweetwater Summit Regional Park

    33 Reviews
    Bonita, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 472-7572

    $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."

    3. Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    20 Reviews
    Santee, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 668-2748

    $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 :$"

    4. San Diego Metro KOA

    32 Reviews
    Bonita, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 427-3601

    ".

    + The gate makes it feel more safe as it's right next to a path by a river, which seemed sketchy at times.

    + During the week it felt spacious.

    + We worked remotely from here and picked up a good"

    "Walking distance to stores if something is needed."

    5. Dos Picos County Park

    34 Reviews
    Poway, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 789-2220

    $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."

    6. Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve

    16 Reviews
    Santee, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 596-3141

    "Being a native San Diegan The east county location allows for easy access to San Diego sites from two freeways."

    "The fishing lakes are and best indoor walking paths are a bonus."

    7. Silver Strand State Beach

    23 Reviews
    Coronado, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 435-5184

    $65 - $85 / night

    "Great choice for camping along the ocean in Southern California."

    "Can’t beat the proximity to the beach! Spots next to the road are loud and the campground is busy with small parking lot style areas, but if you can get a spot backing on to the beach, A+."

    8. Fiddlers Cove RV Park

    18 Reviews
    Coronado, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 522-8680

    "Facilities are immaculate.. adjacent to the marina, so many boats, kayaks and watercraft are available for rent.."

    "Great location, quaint little town. Levels concrete pad, have room to put your stuff. Laundry and close to base."

    9. Campland on the Bay

    21 Reviews
    Coronado, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (858) 581-4205

    $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!"

    "Right next to the beach, large campgrounds! Fire pits and dog friendly!"

    10. Circle RV Resort

    9 Reviews
    San Diego, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 648-1966

    "Short walking distance to numerous stores, fast food joints, and to make you feel safe, a Highway Patrol office is right across the street."

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Recent Camping Photos near El Cajon, CA

367 Photos of 173 El Cajon Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near El Cajon, CA

1138 Reviews of 173 El Cajon Campgrounds

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Mission Bay RV Resort

    Trashy park

    Several issues here. First the most obvious 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. Reservations failed to tell me while on the phone that the power was out but they’re still charging full price. Most of the lots are dusty dirt lots well over half of the park is not in use and in disrepair. There is trash everywhere and the staff could care less if you’re enjoying yourself. Do yourself a favor and spend the 20 extra dollars to stay at Campland Overall a waste of money and beach front property

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Sweetwater Summit Regional Park

    Great camp

    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.

  • Kai K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    Loved The Off-Roading and Beautiful Views

    Loved how much road there was to explore. We went about 2 hours deep into this area and there was still more to explore. The best part here was the stars, so stunning. Be careful in the summer as it is very hot during the day.

  • j
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Lake Henshaw Resort

    My stay review

    This place is pretty. The staff is nice and not too strict. The place can definitely need a lil tlc but for the price per dayits nothing too complain too much. The pool is cool the showers and bathroom are all functional. Wich is a good thing. I was told to pick any spot i liked wich made my stay even better. No hookups at all i had my rv/camper but that was no problem i took my generator. Place is definitely recommended if you're a not too picky person.😉

  • D
    Aug. 31, 2025

    San Elijo State Beach Campground

    Cool spot

    Difficult to book. 6 months in advance but if you do. The full hookup spots are located in the middle of the campground. Don’t feel like you missed anything if you can’t get beachfront. Bushes, fences block any views unless your in dry camping down toward south end of park. Camp store is permanently closed so that Convenience is no longer here. Bathrooms and showers are clean and somewhat nice.

  • Elise F.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Fry Creek Campground

    Loved it

    We absolutely loved Fry Creek. It might be our favorite place to camp so far. Our site was removed from others so we weren’t bothered by neighbors. It was a nice large site next to the bathrooms (which were very clean and well maintained) and close to a water spigot and trash can. This campground is definitely a birder’s paradise. We were constantly surrounded and graced by the sounds of woodpeckers, pigeons, mountain quail, bluebirds, jays, and more. One important note though is this entire area is swarmed with flies. We brought nets to put around our faces and without these, I don’t think I would have survived. So definitely bring nets for your face, bug spray, and citronella. Despite this, it was a lovely place. Will be returning one day.

  • Elise F.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    Perfect weekend getaway

    This campground is located in the Mission Trails Regional Park, and we 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. We stayed in site number 17 and it was lovely. Each camp site has a picnic table, fire ring, and tent pad. Online says you can buy firewood but they no longer provide that service, so make sure you bring your own firewood! You can’t swim in the lake, but you can fish and it’s very pleasant to walk around and bird watch. There is so much to do in this urban park, you could spend many days here. P.S. the Mission Trails visitor center is spectacular.

  • Moo
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Oceanside RV Resort

    For tent campers - pretty solid place for a quick couple stays

    First, the campsite has the MOST CLEANEST restroom and shower booths I have ever visited for tent camping. This is no doubt that for those folks who are needed for good built qaulity toiletery, this will be your location.

    For the down sides;

    1. The trains - There is a rail right behind the tent sites so if you are looking for the tent sites with quiet location: PLEASE STAY AWAY from here. the trains do not operate from around 10 pm, back on operating starting from 5 am.

    2. for T1 tent site, BE AWARE that there is a dog park RIGHT next to the tent site: there will be a urine odor all over the place.

    3. If you are planning on cooking, just be aware that there is no proper location to do a dish wash. You would need some sort of wipes to do.

  • D
    Aug. 1, 2025

    San Diego Metro KOA

    Trees are messy but creates shade.

    Spot is nice enough. Neighbors' campfires are 10 ft away from your trailer and makes your camper smell like smoke the whole next day when they start a campfire. Trees drop sticky droppings all over your camper and awning... not to mention your truck and camp site.

Guide to El Cajon

Camping near El Cajon, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a beachside retreat or a quiet spot in the mountains, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Enjoy the sun and surf at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground. Campers love the easy beach access, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. One visitor mentioned, “Great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks overlooking the ocean.”
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the trails at William Heise County Park. A reviewer noted, “The park was clean and well-maintained, and the hiking trails were great for exploring and getting some exercise.”
  • Fishing Opportunities: Head to Lake Jennings for fishing. One camper shared, “The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time. They stock the lake regularly so you have a good chance of catching trout.”

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground. A happy camper said, “The stars at night are gorgeous! You can spend hours just staring up at the sky.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the well-kept amenities at San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach. One visitor remarked, “Clean bathrooms and showers, but we stayed midweek and the place was very, very minimally occupied.”
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families enjoy the welcoming vibe at Lake Hemet Campground. A reviewer noted, “Great place for family and kids. Affordable.”

What you should know:

  • Crowded Conditions: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak seasons. A camper at San Elijo State Beach Campground mentioned, “It can get very crowded and packed. Hard to get a site.”
  • Limited Hookups: Many sites, like those at San Clemente State Beach Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A visitor pointed out, “The only downside was the bathrooms on the same road as our site were pretty dirty.”
  • Check-in Times: Be aware of strict check-in times at some campgrounds. A camper at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground noted, “Very strict check-in time. However, you can tell they are cleaning the sites and making sure the sites are in order.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Lake Jennings that offer playgrounds and activities. One camper said, “There was a play area that had ladder golf, tetherball, and ping pong.”
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep kids entertained. A visitor at William Heise County Park mentioned, “The hiking trails were great for exploring and getting some exercise.”
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy. A camper at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground enjoyed the “great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for Big Rig-Friendly Sites: Campgrounds like San Diego Metro KOA are big rig-friendly. A reviewer said, “Fanciest KOA out there. Plenty of sites. Plenty of place and more amenities than you can use!”
  • Check for Hookups: Make sure to confirm if your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A camper at Lake Hemet Campground noted, “Some of the spots are shaded and summer direct sun, so please look at the pictures.”
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Popular spots can fill up quickly, so arrive early. A visitor at San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach mentioned, “If you get a site at the far ends, it's a hike to go in and out.”

Camping near El Cajon, CA, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just be prepared for crowds and plan accordingly!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find campgrounds in El Cajon?

El Cajon offers several camping options in the surrounding area. Circle RV Resort is located directly in El Cajon, providing full hookups and big-rig-friendly sites for RV travelers. For those willing to venture slightly outside the immediate area, Sweetwater Summit Regional Park near Bonita offers drive-in and walk-in access with reservable sites, water, and toilets. Most campgrounds in the region require reservations, especially during peak seasons, so booking in advance is recommended.

What forest camping options are available near El Cajon?

El Cajon has excellent forest camping options in the nearby mountains. Corte Madera Mountain in Cleveland National Forest offers primitive camping with stunning views over Lake Morena. You'll need a free permit from the ranger station to camp at the summit. The 7.5-mile out-and-back trail provides a wilderness experience with few crowds. Another option is Dripping Springs Campground, which features large, flat sites with shade from trees, potable water, and is suitable for first-time tent campers. Both locations offer a true forest camping experience within driving distance of El Cajon.

Are there any swimming spots at El Cajon camping areas?

While El Cajon itself is inland, several nearby camping areas offer excellent swimming opportunities. Green Valley Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is known for its proximity to waterfalls with swimming holes accessible via a short trail from the campsites. For ocean swimming, San Elijo State Beach Campground offers direct beach access where you can swim, surf, and enjoy classic Southern California beach scenes. Both locations are within reasonable driving distance from El Cajon and provide refreshing swimming options during warmer months.

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