RV parks near La Mesa, California offer varied options for travelers seeking quick access to San Diego attractions while avoiding downtown prices. La Mesa sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level with mild temperatures year-round, rarely dropping below 40°F at night even in winter. Many campgrounds remain open throughout all seasons, though weekend availability is often limited without advance reservations.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Access to San Diego Bay is available at Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay, where campers can enjoy boating and paddle sports. "Walking and biking in the Marina is so nice! The sunset is amazing!!!" notes Milagros B., who appreciated the location's proximity to the Chula Vista Marina.
Hiking options: Venture into desert landscapes at Thousand Trails Pio Pico in Jamul. "I did a hike in the area (TAKE LOTS OF WATER AND WATCH FOR RATTLESNAKES) and a dip in the pool was a great way to finish it off," shares Daniel B. The campground offers several walking paths about 30 minutes from La Mesa.
Urban exploration: Use campgrounds as base camps for San Diego attractions. "Great location near I-5, the Chula Vista Marina, also Gas station," writes Milagros B. about Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay. Many campgrounds provide convenient freeway access for day trips to local attractions.
What campers like
Recreational amenities: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming pools, game rooms, and social facilities. At Escondido RV Resort, visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities. "Beautiful RV resort with short drives to the beach, San Diego, and casinos. Full hook ups, pool, dog walk," shares Paul N.
Gated security: Several RV parks prioritize safety with controlled access. "Circle RV Resort is gated so you need a code to get in," notes Douglas T. Many reviewers specifically mention security features as important considerations when choosing where to stay.
Site amenities: Premium locations offer more than basic hookups. "Elite Full Hookup RV Site includes your very own gas fire BBQ grill, gas camp fire, 4 Adirondack chairs, dinner table with 6 chairs, full hookups including cable tv," explains GotelRV about their stay at Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay.
What you should know
Traffic noise: Proximity to freeways affects many RV parks. "Hwy 8 is right outside your door and very loud," warns Roxanna L. about Circle RV Resort. Consider site location when booking, as sites closer to roadways typically experience more noise.
WiFi limitations: Internet access varies significantly between parks. At Mission Bay RV Resort, "The phone service was non-existent, and the wifi didn't reach our spot. Apparently after speaking with other residents, it doesn't really reach most of the park," reports Juliet L.
Laundry costs: On-site laundry facilities often charge premium rates. "Laundry is with your debit card, but wicked expensive, $3.75 wash, $3.75 dry," notes Tom W. about Circle RV Resort. Some locations now use card systems rather than coins for machines.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Many RV parks feature swimming pools popular with families. At Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay, one visitor noted, "Large pool area. Splash pad for the little ones, bar for the bigger ones, activities poolside and HUGE TV! Food service as well."
Activity planning: Organized recreation happens at several locations. "Thousand Trails Pio Pico has a lot of potential to be a fun destination," writes Derek & Alex W., noting the various recreational areas. "An Easter egg hunt was help for the kids on Easter Sunday. Lots of activities planned throughout the month for families," adds Tyler G.
Urban farm experience: Consider unique camping options for educational opportunities. "Thompson Palms Campground offers a small farm setting where "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!" shares Amber Lynn M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on your specific needs. At Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay, Patrick J. advises, "Be cautious about what site you select. We had # 1 and it is so noisy that we had to buy a white noise machine... We had site #210 and it is the best, view, reasonably quiet."
Parking challenges: Be aware of space limitations at more crowded parks. "People have more than 1 vehicle. They don't encroach on your space but you start out with very little room," Douglas T. notes about Circle RV Resort. Several reviewers mention tight spaces being problematic for larger rigs.
Hookup locations: Check utility placement before selecting sites. One RVer at Mission Bay RV Resort warns, "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."
