Camping areas near Encinitas, California feature coastal bluffs and inland valleys with year-round average temperatures of 60-75°F. Most campgrounds in this region stay open all year due to the mild Southern California climate, with October through April offering less crowded conditions and cooler temperatures for tent campers. The inland campgrounds provide shelter from coastal fog that can roll in during summer mornings.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Jennings offers stocked fishing without requiring a California fishing license—just a $7 per adult 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.
Water recreation: Paddle boats and fishing ponds provide family-friendly activities at Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve. "There's lots for kids to do here! Feed the ducks, fish, ride the pedal boats. It's an awesome place for a day outside!" shares Taylor.
Hiking access: Camping near Escondido puts you minutes from notable trails. "Dixon lake is a perfect spot for my nephews to fish and play in the dirt. The walks around the lake are definitely worth doing!" reports Taylor about Dixon Lake Campground.
What campers like
Tree coverage: Unlike oceanfront sites, inland options provide natural shade. "I love love love this campsite. It's so beautiful to be covered completely by the trees! It makes me feel like I'm in an actual Forrest and not the middle of San Diego," writes Taylor about Woods Valley Kampground.
Accessible luxury glamping: For families seeking glamping in Encinitas, California, tent sites with electrical hookups simplify the experience. "This location has the most amenities we've encountered at a campsite. It even has electric tent hookups for the technology inclined!" notes Sarah B. about San Diego Metro KOA.
Variety of accommodation types: South Carlsbad State Beach Campground offers multiple price points and site types. "Pick a spot - $75 gets you on the bluff with hookups $50 gets you on the bluff but no hookups $35 gets you on the other side," explains Tom H.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most coastal sites require planning 6+ months ahead. "The worst part is trying to get a spot secured," mentions Jonathan G. about San Elijo State Beach Campground.
Noise considerations: Multiple campgrounds near Encinitas have noise from highways, trains, or aircraft. "Campground is situated next to the highway and train tracks. No shade. Friendly beach crowd," warns Tim J. about San Elijo.
Security concerns: Theft can occur even with precautions. "High theft area!!! 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, cutting locks and stealing generators…. Be WARNED!!!" cautions Mark M. about South Carlsbad.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools, making glamping near Encinitas with kids more comfortable. "The new pool is great," mentions Rob L. about San Diego Metro KOA.
Playgrounds and recreation: "Very nice campground with a small pond and large playground for the park," notes Ryan T. about Dos Picos County Park.
Clean facilities: Many family campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. "Super clean showers that are FREE! Leave your quarters at home! The water pressure is fantastic and it takes no time for the water to get HOT," reports Chanel C. about Dixon Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Know where and when you can empty tanks. "You have to drive to the RV dump to dump. It's close but you don't have the convenience to dump at your site," explains Linda R. about Dos Picos County Park.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on noise and view preferences. "Street is loud in the mornings - don't recommend the east side," advises Andrew P. about South Carlsbad, while another camper notes, "The far south end of the camp has the most shade/privacy brush, and only has sites on the ocean side so you'll have far more privacy."
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional equipment. "Some sites need much leveling. I know which site to reserve next time!!" shares Jessica M. about Lake Jennings.
