San Diego County's camping options around Imperial Beach range from coastal sites at sea level to inland options at elevations up to 4,000 feet. The climate varies significantly, with coastal areas maintaining moderate temperatures year-round while inland locations experience greater temperature swings. Many campgrounds near Imperial Beach sit close to the US-Mexico border, creating unique cross-cultural camping experiences where campers can see the border wall from some sites.
What to do
Hiking from camp: William Heise County Park offers extensive trail systems directly accessible from campsites. "Nice campground away from the main roads. About a 10 minute drive from Julian pie co. Nice well maintained trails, easy to moderate level," notes one visitor to William Heise County Park.
Beach access: Many campers appreciate the proximity to shoreline recreation. "Imperial Beach is not the place for swimming. There's a sign going in that says there's chemicals and sewage in the water. You can camp here though and go north to other beaches," advises a camper at Tijuana River Valley Regional Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds feature fishing lakes or ponds. At Santee Lakes, "Large parking spots and great atmosphere. The fishing lakes and best indoor walking paths are a bonus," according to a recent visitor.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "The facilities are clean and convenient, including coin-operated showers and a dump station. The friendly and helpful rangers and camp hosts contribute to a relaxed atmosphere," reports a camper at Dos Picos County Park.
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer playgrounds, pools, and recreation areas. "They have full service hookups for rv's and trailers, bungalows and cabins. Lots of amenities for the kiddos when COVID isn't around. The new pool is great," mentions a visitor at San Diego Metro KOA.
Natural wildlife viewing: Several sites provide opportunities to see local wildlife. At William Heise County Park, campers enjoy seeing "deer and flocks of wild turkey" roaming through the camping areas.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds are located near highways or urban areas. "Far enough away from the train tracks to not have train noise issues but alongside US101 so there may be road noise," notes a camper at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground.
Site privacy varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more separation between sites than others. "The main drawback is there is no privacy whatsoever at the sites. The camp sites are right next to each other and all in the open. No trees, no bushes, nothing separating you from your neighbors," reports a visitor at Tijuana River Valley.
Cell service limitations: Reception can be spotty in some locations. "Cell service is non-existent, though they of course can't control that," explains a camper at Thousand Trails Pio Pico.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "The playground area is really cool, all the structures are made of wood and are all natural," notes a visitor at Tijuana River Valley Regional Park Campground.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds have better security features than others. "Security gates to keep you safe. About a mile from Viejas Casino and 1/2 mile from a Drift racing course," says a camper at Ma Tar Awa Viejas Camper Park.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger-led programs for children. At William Heise, campers can "join in when they have activities at the amphitheater."
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dumping. "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," notes a camper at Dos Picos County Park.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require significant leveling. At Lake Jennings, "Some sites need much leveling. I know which site to reserve next time!!"
Reservation timing: Popular RV sites book quickly, especially at peak times. A San Elijo camper advises, "Difficult to book. 6 months in advance but if you do. The full hookup spots are located in the middle of the campground."
Glamping near Imperial Beach, California offers alternatives to traditional camping with options ranging from yurts at Tijuana River Valley to cabin rentals at several campgrounds. Luxury glamping accommodations near Imperial Beach provide amenities like real beds, electricity, and dedicated outdoor spaces while maintaining easy access to natural surroundings.
