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Best Campgrounds near Imperial Beach, CA

800 Reviews

The coastal area surrounding Imperial Beach, California features several beachfront and bay-oriented campgrounds within a short drive of the city. Silver Strand State Beach Campground offers RV sites with water and electric hookups directly on the beach, while Tijuana River Valley Regional Park Campground provides more primitive camping options just minutes from Imperial Beach. Both locations cater primarily to drive-in camping, with Silver Strand focusing on RV accommodations and Tijuana River Valley supporting tent camping, RVs, and even glamping options in yurts. Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay and San Diego Metro KOA in nearby Chula Vista offer more developed camping experiences with full hookups, cabins, and resort-style amenities for families seeking convenience.

Reservations are essential at most campgrounds in the Imperial Beach area, particularly during summer months when beachfront sites fill quickly. Water quality concerns affect swimming at Imperial Beach itself, with one camper noting, "Imperial Beach is not the place for swimming. There's a sign going in that says there's chemicals and sewage in the water." These water quality issues are most pronounced during rainy seasons and spring months. The Silver Strand bike path connects Imperial Beach to Coronado, making cycling a popular activity for campers. Most campgrounds in the area have limited shade and are arranged in parking lot-style configurations rather than secluded natural settings. Cell service is generally good throughout the coastal campgrounds but can be spotty at some RV parks.

Beach access and ocean views are the primary attractions for campers in the Imperial Beach region. Silver Strand State Beach receives consistently positive reviews for its beachfront location despite its tight spacing. As one camper described it, "The campground itself is, if you look in one direction, a parking lot. Look the other way and you're on the same beach Navy SEALs train on." Tijuana River Valley Regional Park offers a quieter alternative with clean facilities and walking trails. Campers frequently mention the excellent biking opportunities along the strand connecting Imperial Beach to Coronado. For those seeking mountain camping within driving distance, the Laguna Mountains about 50 miles east provide a complete change of scenery with pine forests and cooler temperatures at 6,000 feet elevation.

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Best Camping Sites Near Imperial Beach, California (106)

    1. San Diego Metro KOA

    32 Reviews
    Bonita, CA
    7 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."

    2. Sweetwater Summit Regional Park

    32 Reviews
    Bonita, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 472-7572

    $34 - $38 / night

    "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."

    "The campground also has some nice amenities: good trail system, a splash pad (open in spring and summer months), a playground, some areas to have a group picnic, even a large event room."

    3. Silver Strand State Beach

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

    $65 - $85 / night

    "Silver Strand is set in the perfect spot: halfway between Coronado and Imperial beach. The bike path is amazing and you can go under the road to the bay to enjoy kayaking or SUP."

    "Location is great for biking, with a separated trail that runs the strand all the way down to Imperial Beach and to ritzy Coronado."

    4. Fiddlers Cove RV Park

    18 Reviews
    Coronado, CA
    6 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."

    5. Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay

    12 Reviews
    Coronado, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 489-3950

    $150 - $280 / night

    "The bay and the marina are within walking distance and there is a restaurant at the marina. There is water electric sewer and cable at each site."

    "Great access to bike trails, close to all that San Diego has to offer."

    6. Campland on the Bay

    21 Reviews
    Coronado, CA
    17 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!"

    "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."

    7. Tijuana River Valley Regional Park Campground

    5 Reviews
    Imperial Beach, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (619) 428-2146

    $24 - $90 / night

    "We stayed in April; the trails were closed due to the heavy rain this year. Imperial Beach is not the place for swimming. There’s a sign going in that says there’s chemicals and sewage in the water."

    "There are walking trails walking distance from the campground and the playground in the park was very cool! If you have kids it would be a fun spot for them to play."

    8. Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    20 Reviews
    Santee, CA
    20 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 :$"

    9. Lake Jennings

    33 Reviews
    Lakeside, CA
    24 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!"

    10. Silver Strand State Beach Campground

    3 Reviews
    Coronado, CA
    5 miles

    $65 - $85 / night

    "We had to park our second car in the overnight parking lot next to the campground. Costed 20 bucks. If traveling with a shorter rig you can park in front of your rig. Back in only."

    "Spots are close together, but your steps to the sand."

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Recent Camping Photos near Imperial Beach, CA

211 Photos of 106 Imperial Beach Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Imperial Beach, CA

800 Reviews of 106 Imperial Beach Campgrounds

Guide to Imperial Beach

Camping near Imperial Beach, CA, offers a fantastic mix of beach vibes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy the sun, surf, and sand.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like South Carlsbad State Beach Campground, provide direct access to the beach. Campers love the convenience of stepping right onto the sand. One reviewer mentioned, "Great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks overlooking the ocean."
  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around William Heise County Park. A visitor noted, "The hiking trails were great for exploring and getting some exercise." You can also bike along the Pacific Coast Highway for stunning views.
  • Fishing: At Lake Jennings, you can enjoy fishing in a well-stocked lake. One camper shared, "The lake is drinking water for the local town and therefore no swimming allowed but they do stock the lake with fish."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking views at places like San Elijo State Beach Campground. A reviewer said, "Amazing sunsets and very popular with the surfers."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, such as Dixon Lake Campground, are praised for their cleanliness. One visitor remarked, "The campground is very clean and quite."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate the helpful staff at places like San Diego Metro KOA. A reviewer mentioned, "Every amenity, wonderful customer service, and close to all the sites that most people enjoy visiting out this way."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Conditions: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at William Heise County Park noted, "It can get very crowded and packed."
  • Limited Hookups: Many sites, like those at Paso Picacho Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A camper mentioned, "There are no water, sewer nor electrical hookups at this campsite."
  • Check-in Times: Be aware of check-in policies. One camper at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground advised, "Don't try to get there earlier; they usually won't let you in before check-in."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or nearby attractions. A visitor at Sweetwater Summit Regional Park said, "Fun areas for kids to play."
  • Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds with larger sites for family gatherings. One camper at Lake Jennings noted, "Each full hookup spot being super private surrounded by trees."
  • Plan for Meals: Many campgrounds have camp stores or nearby restaurants. A reviewer at San Elijo State Beach Campground mentioned, "There is a small shop/cafe with live music."

Tips from RVers:

  • Big Rig Friendly: Look for campgrounds that accommodate larger RVs, like San Diego Metro KOA. A camper shared, "Great place to relax and enjoy a beautiful campground."
  • Dump Stations: Make sure to check for dump stations before you arrive. A visitor at Dixon Lake Campground noted, "The dump station is available, but it can get busy."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many popular spots fill up quickly, so booking in advance is wise. A camper at Blair Valley Primitive Campground mentioned, "Tons of dispersed spots down the road."

With these insights, you're all set for a great camping experience near Imperial Beach, CA!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Imperial Beach, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Imperial Beach, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 106 campgrounds and RV parks near Imperial Beach, CA and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Imperial Beach, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Imperial Beach, CA is San Diego Metro KOA with a 4.3-star rating from 32 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Imperial Beach, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Imperial Beach, CA.

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