RV camping near Encinitas, California provides access to coastal attractions while offering a range of facilities from basic to resort-style accommodations. The region experiences a Mediterranean climate with year-round average temperatures between 60-75°F, making it suitable for camping in all seasons. Sites throughout northern San Diego County require advance reservations, particularly during summer and holiday periods when availability becomes extremely limited.
What to do
Beach activities at Paradise By The Sea RV Resort: The resort features a back gate leading directly to beach access areas. "We loved the quick walk to the beach. The resort is nice, about what you expect for space at an urban resort," notes Don M., highlighting the easy coastal access from this Oceanside location.
Watersports at Fiddler's Cove: Located on San Diego Bay, this military-only RV park provides rental equipment for water recreation. "Adjacent to the marina, so many boats, kayaks and watercraft are available for rent," shares Chuck T. The protected bay waters create calmer conditions than ocean beaches, suitable for beginners.
Biking on coastal paths: Mission Bay RV Resort connects to extensive bayfront cycling routes. "There's a path that goes along the bay that is about a mile long, and also a bridge that connects the park to Campland on the Bay," explains Juliet L. Visitors should bring their own bikes or check rental options at nearby shops.
What campers like
Resort-style amenities: Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay offers numerous entertainment options. "They quite literally have everything to the point where you can't even do all of it. Sites come with a picnic table and 4 chairs around a nice propane fire tank," reports Lance L., who appreciated the secure entry system with keycards.
Pool facilities: Paradise By The Sea maintains pool and hot tub areas for visitor use. "Pool and hot tub well maintained. Easy access to beach and a mild walk to the pier," writes David T. The resort also features both indoor and outdoor recreation areas with games and social spaces.
Family activities: Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay includes specialized areas for different age groups. "Splash pad for the little ones, bar for the bigger ones, activities poolside and HUGE TV! Food service as well," notes yawkub, who also mentioned the adjacent nature center that offers discounts to campers.
What you should know
Proximity to train tracks: Many coastal RV parks experience regular train noise. While staying at Oceanside RV Resort, one reviewer noted, "For tent campers - pretty solid place for a quick couple stays" but warned "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."
Space limitations: Most RV parks in this region have compact sites. At Circle RV Resort, Tom W. observed: "Place is well taken care of, but there are a lot of regular residents, and they park their cars everywhere. Empty spaces, half in the space, half in the street, it was nuts."
RV age restrictions: Several parks maintain appearance standards that limit older vehicles. As one Olive Avenue RV Resort visitor reported: "Arbitrarily rejected accepting our motorhome based on a picture I sent, which they undoubtedly did not even check. Never explained why." Contact parks directly about age policies before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated facilities for children. At Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay, facilities include "an arcade for the kids. There is also a comfort station with a playground and horse shoe pits," according to yawkub.
Tent camping availability: Most parks primarily accommodate RVs but Oceanside RV Resort provides tent-specific sites. "There are 5 spots where you can walk your stuff and camp right on the beach. Each spot was secluded and had a picnic table and a good size area for your tent," shares Alicia F.
Bathroom facilities: When traveling with children, clean facilities become essential. One camper at Oceanside RV Resort emphasized this point: "First, the campsite has the MOST CLEANEST restroom and shower booths I have ever visited for tent camping."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many coastal sites require adjustment for drainage. Michael noted at Olive Avenue RV Resort: "We had a pull through site with full hook ups; it was on a cement pad that was nice, but the city made them slope all the pads for water drainage... a huge amount! We maxed out our tongue on multiple boards to level off."
Utility connections: Some parks have unusual hookup placements. A Mission Bay RV Resort visitor warned: "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."
Seasonal considerations: Escondido RV Resort has shown resilience during extreme weather. John H. reported: "Despite facing challenging weather conditions with heavy rain and hail from an atmospheric river, everything continued to function seamlessly- from the electric hookups to the water supply. The drainage system was impeccable, preventing any issues with mudslides even in such extreme weather."
