RV camping near Escondido, California offers camping options within 20-30 miles of the city center. The area sits at elevations ranging from 600 to 1,800 feet with a Mediterranean climate that features warm, dry summers and mild winters. Highway access varies significantly between properties, with some campgrounds located directly off major routes while others require navigation through winding rural roads.
What to do
Swimming and recreation: At Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay, campers have access to extensive water activities. "Large pool area. Splash pad for the little ones, bar for the bigger ones, activities poolside and HUGE TV! Food service as well," notes one reviewer. The location offers marina access within walking distance.
Fishing opportunities: Some campgrounds feature private ponds for casual angling. A camper at Lilac Oaks Campground mentioned, "We stayed here next to the lake for a few days and just loved it." Catch-and-release fishing is available, with sunfish among the species reported.
Farm experiences: Less conventional camping can be found at smaller, agricultural properties. One visitor to Thompson Palms Campground shared, "My family and I had an excellent time at the Thompson's farm! We stayed a few weeks, hanging out with their cows and chickens! Their eggs are fantastic and so beautiful I almost didn't want to crack the shells!"
What campers like
Security features: Several RV parks in the Escondido area implement security measures that guests appreciate. At Ramona Oaks RV Resort, a reviewer noted, "Has a coded security gate which changes monthly" along with various recreational facilities.
Proximity to attractions: The strategic location between San Diego and inland destinations appeals to many visitors. A camper at San Diego RV Resort called it a "Great, affordable location." Others mention the convenience for visiting coastal attractions, casinos, and urban areas.
Winter camping conditions: The mild Southern California climate makes winter stays comfortable. One guest at Escondido RV Resort observed, "We arrived in the middle of Dec. It's a beautiful place and its kept immaculate. Staff is kind and professional. The grounds are layed out great. Its located close to alot of attractions."
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Traffic noise affects multiple properties in the region. A reviewer at Circle RV Resort stated, "Hwy 8 is right outside your door and very loud. Sites are adequate and if you have a pull through site you get a grill, however ours is out of gas!"
Age restrictions for RVs: Several parks enforce policies regarding older recreational vehicles. One guest noted, "Beautiful RV resort with short drives to the beach, San Diego, and casinos. Full hook ups, pool, dog walk. Little pricey and has RV age restrictions but I sent pics and was allowed even though I was outside the age."
Site leveling challenges: Uneven pads can create setup difficulties. A visitor to Olive Avenue RV Resort commented, "The park is basically new and well laid out for the size lot available. Paved surfaces and well maintained landscaping. 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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Ramona Oaks RV Resort, a visitor observed, "They do have a nice playground for the kids." Another campground reviewer mentioned, "Great pool and kids playground."
Tent camping limitations: While most facilities primarily accommodate RVs, some offer limited tent sites. A camper at Oak Creek RV Resort described it as "Nice park with a reasonable price. Facilities are nice. A bit of a drive out of town." Tent sites often have specific limitations compared to RV spots.
Seasonal activities: Family camping experiences vary significantly by season. One camper shared, "Went camping in August, during a heatwave, and had Covid restrictions. Even with all of that, we had a good time! We were in spot 21 right by the pond." They added that they "definitely would camp there again when it isn't so hot!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection importance: Choosing the right space affects the overall experience. One RVer advised, "Be cautious about what site you select. We had #1 and it is so noisy that we had to buy a white noise machine. The freeway is close by and it seems having a really loud car or a motorcycle is a thing there."
Hookup reliability: Full service utilities function reliably even during adverse weather. A visitor to Olive Avenue RV Resort noted, "We stayed here a couple of nights to visit our son in Carlsbad near by. The staff was very welcoming and friendly, but the site we requested was never available according the to staff."
Pad dimensions: Site sizes vary considerably between properties. "Spots are the concrete and very big" at one location, while another camper noted, "Sites are narrow and close together, but this is the city in San Diego, not a spacious national park!" Space limitations affect larger units more significantly.
