Camping San Diego

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near San Diego. San Diego is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near San Diego and user-submitted reviews.

Best Camping Sites Near San Diego, CA (169)

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Jennings
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Jennings
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Jennings
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Jennings
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Jennings
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Jennings

    1. Lake Jennings

    31 Reviews
    46 Photos
    841 Saves
    Lakeside, California

    Lake Jennings is known for being one of the most scenic parks in all of San Diego County. It is a welcoming recreation destination located in Lakeside, California offering fishing, camping, hiking, and picnicking activities. The lake is a drinking water reservoir owned and operated by Helix Water District. The scenic views of the lake and the wooded surroundings make it feel as if you are in the middle of the wilderness, right outside of town.

    Lake Jennings hosts a 97-space campground that is open seven days a week year-round. It’s located on the north side of Lake Jennings, with a variety of spaces available for RVs, Trailers, Campers and Tents. Come on out, take a paddleboat, rowboat or motorboat for the day, and enjoy the beautiful weather! Cozy coves make great picnic spots, so don’t forget your picnic basket.

    Lake Jennings offers a great escape for novice or avid fishermen, and is open for shore fishing from the shoreline below the campground. Boat rentals, private boat launching, and fishing from our floating fishing dock is available Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. For your convenience, we have an on-site Bait and Tackle Shop open Friday through Sunday, offering a wide selection of bait, tackle, camping supplies, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages.

    Lake Jennings is a great destination for the serious and casual wildlife viewer and photographer. The rolling hills, the endless lake, the coastal sage, and the riparian areas provide a diverse habitat in a small area. Common sightings include deer, fox, and osprey. Bird watchers are equally drawn to Lake Jennings for its rich variety of bird species.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 - $140 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    2. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    74 Reviews
    164 Photos
    1011 Saves
    Carlsbad, California

    For many, once the sun comes out and summer rolls around, it can be hard to resist the urge to get outside and soak up some fun. If you relate, and you just need to unplug for a minute, Carlsbad camping offers some of the state’s best camping sites around. When your work has stacked up and you’re overloaded, it’s time to gather your camping gear, and head to Carlsbad State Beach camping for solitude and relaxation.

    This San Diego beach and campground feature camping, swimming, surfing, skin diving, fishing and picnicking. The campground is especially popular in the summer, thanks to its scenic location which overlooks the picturesque Carlsbad Beach below. Even better, the campground offers direct access to the beach via a set of well-kept stairs. As a result of the popularity, the campground is reservation only, so don’t show up without one or you’ll likely be unable to stay.

    When you’re done with the beach, check out the nearby California geography and some of the trails within the park. If the ocean isn’t your thing, a number of Campfire Programs, Junior Ranger Programs, and Nature Walks may be offered. That said, program availability changes with the season, so be sure to check signs posted on the restrooms and at the entrance station regarding park information during your visit.

    At night, campers are gently caressed to sleep by the nearby ocean tide, lapping upon its secluded shoreline. There is plenty of privacy throughout, thanks to the large selection of flora and fauna throughout the campground. The campsites themselves are also spacious, with roughly half of them featuring electric hookups. Additionally, All restrooms and shower buildings have accessible facilities. Prior to arrival, visitors with disabilities who need assistance should contact the unit Supervising Ranger.

    South Carlsbad State Beach Campground is perfect for campers and individuals who love the ocean and the outdoors. Whether you’re looking surf the rolling waves, or paddle board out and take part in all that the north county coastline has to offer, you’re sure to have fun here.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $650 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park

    3. Dos Picos County Park

    32 Reviews
    87 Photos
    268 Saves
    Poway, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $24 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Summit Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Summit Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Summit Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Summit Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Summit Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Summit Regional Park

    4. Sweetwater Summit Regional Park

    29 Reviews
    78 Photos
    340 Saves
    Bonita, California

    Visitors to this 500-acre regional park have quite a palette of activities to choose from. Modern campsites sit at the top of the summit, along with a seasonal splash pad, play areas, a 13-station exercise course, rentable picnic areas, a community room, an outdoor amphitheater and fishing at Sweetwater Reservoir.

    Hikers, cyclists and equestrians will enjoy 15 miles of trails that meander up and down the hill, through open grasslands and along streamside vegetation boasting spectacular views of the reservoir and this unique urban oasis.

    Camper, trailer, and tent camping are all options among 112 sites – many with access to both water and power. Coin-operated showers are available for all campers.

    One of the major attractions at the park is the 60-foot pavilion. This covered structure and its kitchen facilities are especially suited for group campers. You’ll also find four 16-foot picnic pavilions, a Campground Amphitheater, a 2,000-square-foot Community Room, and a 13-Station Exercise Course.

    An adjacent local park features a lawn area, tot lot, splash park and shaded picnic tables with panoramic views of the countryside.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $34 - $38 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park

    5. William Heise County Park

    44 Reviews
    92 Photos
    566 Saves
    Julian, California

    Situated 4,200 feet above sea level in a forest of pines and oaks along the northern extremity of the Laguna Mountain Range, this 929-acre park is one of the few San Diego county parks to get snowfall each year.

    Forests of oak, pine, and cedar surround peaceful mountain meadows and provide an undisturbed setting for nearly 11 miles of scenic hiking and equestrian trails. Mule deer and wild turkey are frequently seen throughout the park, and rare residents include bobcats and mountain lions.

    Though its forest may seem timeless, each season brings dramatic changes: from winter snowfall to spring wildflowers, there is always something new to experience at Heise.

    In addition to trails, you can take advantage of cabins, trailer sites, individual tent sites, and a group-tent camping area, along with several playgrounds, restrooms with coin-operated showers and ample picnic spaces. Rangers-lead activities every weekend, and the park office with a small museum is open during the day or by appointment. This park makes a gorgeous setting for weddings and special events!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $24 - $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from San Diego Metro KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from San Diego Metro KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from San Diego Metro KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from San Diego Metro KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from San Diego Metro KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from San Diego Metro KOA

    6. San Diego Metro KOA

    31 Reviews
    43 Photos
    216 Saves
    Bonita, California

    Wake up to the smell of the ocean air and go to bed beneath a clear sky full of bright stars at one of the best campgrounds in San Diego, California. San Diego Metro KOA Resort is the ideal destination if you're looking for a relaxing vacation with ample opportunities for excitement. We operate year-round and want to help you have the time of your life, whether you're visiting us for a couple of days in the summer or staying with us for a month in the winter.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    7. Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    20 Reviews
    45 Photos
    369 Saves
    Santee, California

    The Kumeyaay Lake Campground is open for Friday and Saturday night camping. The 46 campsites are available for reservation on a first-come, first-serve basis and the is $22.66 per night. On the reservation website page, go to the "Location" drop-down menu at the top of the page and select Kumeyaay Lake Campground. All cancellations must be made 14 days in advance.

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Equestrian

    $24 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from San Elijo State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Elijo State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Elijo State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Elijo State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Elijo State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Elijo State Beach Campground

    8. San Elijo State Beach Campground

    36 Reviews
    75 Photos
    1120 Saves
    Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California

    Located on the San Diego Coast, San Elijo Campground offers camping, swimming, surfing, showers and picnicking. The narrow, bluff-backed stretch of sand has a nearby reef popular with snorkelers and divers. A camp store and snack bar located near the campground entrance operates March through December and provides all the amenities a camper may need including some RV supplies, boogie boards, and firewood. This San Elijo camping destination requires reservations for its 171 campsites.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $50 - $520 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Strand State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Strand State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Strand State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Strand State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Strand State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Strand State Beach

    9. Silver Strand State Beach

    22 Reviews
    44 Photos
    484 Saves
    Coronado, California

    Silver Strand Camping is available for self-contained recreational vehicles, motorhomes, or trailers only, per Coastal Commission regulations. Minimum requirement is a built in sink with an enclosed drain system, and a portable toilet with holding tank. Vehicles not meeting the minimum requirements will be turned away. Day Use Lot #3 is now available for campground extra vehicle parking. Have more space in your site! Special Rules and Pricing apply. Rate is $20 per night. Contact the park for detailed information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $65 - $85 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve

    10. Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve

    15 Reviews
    37 Photos
    199 Saves
    Santee, California

    If you live up north follow the ducks and migrate to Santee Lakes for some winter camping. If you are already in Southern California and looking for some San Diego camping, then bring the kids for a weekend or a week. Our award winning Campground is nestled in the foothills of Santee, just 20 minutes from many of San Diego’s big attractions. The San Diego Trolley is nearby and you can access San Diego’s beautiful beaches, downtown, a Padre’s game, Balboa Park or Old Town.

    Feel free to see all of the sites that San Diego has to offer, but we have plenty at Santee Lakes to keep you busy. After you choose from 300 full hook-up campsites, all having free WiFi and Deluxe sites, a bit larger, with cable TV, you can enjoy the amenties we offer. You can rent a pedal boat, fish in 7 seasonally stocked lakes, take a swim in one of two pools or relax in the spa. Campers get exclusive fishing in Lakes 6 & 7, and access to the swimming pools and spa.

    Also, when you camp at Santee Lakes, you are choosing a facility that is dedicated to reducing our impact on the environment. More than 4 acres of solar panels located on our property provide enough power to meet almost 50% of the entire Park and Campground needs! Our facility was again awarded the national Plan-it Green Award for our environmental efforts!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
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Showing results 1-10 of 169 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near San Diego

Recent Reviews in San Diego

1144 Reviews of 169 San Diego Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from San Diego RV Resort
    Dec. 11, 2024

    San Diego RV Resort

    Expensive and extremely noisy

    Stayed there for one month. Used generator intermittently during the non-quiet hours and neighbors were complaining. Instead of talking to us they when straight to the office like 12 year old tattletales to complain. Manager asked to come by and talk with her but was unable to come that day due to work schedule so I intended to talk with her the following day except when I got home they had left a letter on our RV telling us to leave at the end of our stay and never come back. Mind you this RV park is right next to I-8 and is extremely noisy throughout most of the day and night but an onboard generator during the daytime hours were just to much to bear…got it!

    The laundry mat is $5 per load and several people have had their belongings stolen; at one time it was their own security guard who doing the stealing - you can’t make this stuff up. On the elite side there is a creek that runs through and is eroding the ground at the edge of the road and almost floods the park during rainy season. There’s too many reasons to NOT recommend this place. Take your hard earned money elsewhere.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Dec. 9, 2024

    Dos Picos County Park

    Great Setting, Peaceful, and CLOSE to home!

    This place is a jewel, and if you live in San Diego, right in your backyard! Rangers are super helpful and friendly, the campground is clean and quiet, and the setting is beautiful. There’s a tranquil pond, nice hiking trails, places for kids to play…. Just a fantastic option close to home for locals and well worth consideration for visitors to the area.

  • E.
    Camper-submitted photo from Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
    Dec. 2, 2024

    Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    Great escape from the city!

    I followed the coordinates provided and it took us right to the trailhead. We saw a few other campers but overall, the campground was ours for the weekend. We did some light hiking and exploring but otherwise took advantage of the peace and quiet that was available to us. Gorgeous sunsets and sunrises and epic star gazing! Being a dark sky community, we were able to see so many stars and constellations. We saw shooting stars nearly every minute and we were also able to find Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus,  and Neptune all with the naked eye! Next time we will pack a small telescope and I'm sure we will see more! 

    Watch out for cactus and needles that are buried in the sand. It is not recommended to bring dogs or walk barefoot for this reason. Our sandals and boots both had many needles stuck in the rubber soles after the trip. Being in the valley, the winds were very light but there is a possibility of strong winds and sand storms so be prepared. Temps averaged 70-75 during the day and dropped to 38-42 at night but with a small fire and proper gear, we were plenty comfortable. Fire rings are provided at some locations however the ranger informed us we could build a rock ring and line it with tin foil which worked great. 

    The road in was a bit rough in some areas. Wash out and silty sand could pose problems for smaller vehicles or campers so use your best judgement. Single track roads in/out so you will need to yield off the main road when encountering larger oncoming vehicles, which could also be difficult for inexperienced offroad drivers.

  • Sade H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from William Heise County Park
    Nov. 30, 2024

    William Heise County Park

    Fun but Dusty

    We went in October with our AHG group. It was great and super dog friendly but WOW so much dirt created so much dust in the air and it got on everyone and everything. With that being said… TONS to do! Such beautiful sights to see! The drive up was amazing. They had plenty of water to wash and drink with a lot of bathrooms as well.

    You can walk trails, stargaze, take your bikes around and so much more!

  • Sade H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Observatory Campground
    Nov. 29, 2024

    Observatory Campground

    Love this place!

    I brought my family with our 2 dogs for Thanksgiving and unfortunately we left early because it was a major danger for our dogs with the very bold and brave coyotes.

    We tent camped but I feel like if we had an RV it would have been safer for the dogs.. for us alone with out the dogs, tent camping would have been fine!

    Other than that. BEAUTIFUL!!! We loved every single moment from the colorful drive up to the stars and checking out the observatory which was also pet friendly. It’s SO FUN to see all the different color leaves and the sunsets, the sunrises, the crisp air, the views on the way up….all of it was so beautiful.

  • patty W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise By The Sea RV Resort
    Nov. 29, 2024

    Paradise By The Sea RV Resort

    Location Location Location

    Just spent two weeks here including thanksgiving holiday. we watched this park fill to capacity the day before the holiday. We liked it better when there were a few empty spaces. It’s just how it is at RV parks like this-not much room. BUT- go out the locked gate at the back of the grounds, walk thru a park and across a (not too busy) street and there is the Pacific Ocean. The beach was hit hard by storms over the past year apparently and much sand has washed away. Leaving most of the beach covered in a thick layer of smooth river stones. Not easy to keep your balance on but doesnt hinder your walk to the surf too badly. We have loved our time here walking on the beach with our dog. This RV park is clean, has amenities like community room pool hot tub outdoor gathering area with tables with propane fireplace built in. It is also pretty expensive.

  • Jeff T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Lake Campground
    Oct. 21, 2024

    Dixon Lake Campground

    Great forestry feel. And good price ($30)

    We stayed here multiple times to car camp and have stayed in sites 3, 6, and 28. We really enjoyed site 28 due to the spectacular views of Escondido. The reason I gave it 4 stars is because their can be some creepy people occasionally like some old guy was following my son in his car. But other than that we had a good stay. If you are in a camper I would recommend Escondido RV resort instead due to the more inviting feel (we stayed there in our Coleman travel trailer). But if you car camp a lot like myself I would recommend staying here at Dixon lake. Great stay overall👍😊

  • Osborn T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Los Coches RV Park
    Sep. 25, 2024

    Rancho Los Coches RV Park

    Natural Language Processing

    I would like to emphasize that the implementation of natural language processing(NLP) technologies https://lightpointglobal.com/services/data-analytics/data-science/nlp-services can significantly improve customer interactions. With the help of solutions such as chatbots and virtual assistants, you can automate answers to frequently asked questions and provide round-the-clock support, which will increase customer satisfaction. NLP also allows you to analyze guest reviews, determine their mood and extract valuable insights from open data, which will help in further development and adaptation of services. Language translation capabilities expand accessibility to an international audience. Thus, integrating NLP into software allows you to improve user experience and increase the efficiency of business processes.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dos Picos County Park
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Dos Picos County Park

    Harassing Ranger

    I have never had a bad experience at a camp ground with any ranger. They have all been wonderful. Not at this park. My registration tags went to my home so I did not have current tags. I had to have a family member collect my mail and forward to me on my travels so it was delayed. I did have a receipt which I was required to provide. However, the ranger barged into my campsite in a huff, treated me as if I were vomiting a crime and demanded my receipt on the spot in front of all. It was quite over the top. Later the same man barged back into my campsite throwing accusations at me that I hadn’t paid my measly $4.00 parking fee and breaking the rules of the park. He had the nerve to argue with me after I explained that in fact I had paid. He backed down after realizing I had. He then returned to harass us for the kids using chalk. There were kids from several campsites using chalk. We apologized and made them clean it up, no big deal. But the ranger was didn’t simply ask for it to be cleaned. He was threatening and confrontational. I dealt with one other ranger here who was quite nice and helpful but this other was awful. I discovered I was not the only one to have this experience here. I would recommend Sweetwater or Lake Jennings in San Diego area or Aqua Caliente where they are quite friendly. Yikes this was horrible

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Provisions Farm
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Provisions Farm

    Delightful Area, Delightful Hosts

    Wow, Highland Valley is beautiful!  This is a great place to camp your RV - especially if you love the farm vibe.  We stayed in the front spot, up against the property line, which felt private.

  • Annie G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fry Creek Campground
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Fry Creek Campground

    Very beautiful

    This is a very nice and quiet campground and everyone there was very respectful of quite hours. The place was very clean and very beautiful. The only con was that there are way too many insects everywhere, My base camp got bombarded with a swarm of wasps, And I was forced to leave a day early, and had to leave my cooking pot behind because of the swarm of wasps... I wish there were some kind of rangers or someone there that I could have asked for help about this, or I wish someone would do something about this issue but I guess it is what it is at this location lol 😆 Other than not being able to cook and eat without wasps in your face and In your food, it was really nice

  • Kyle F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Champagne Lakes RV Resort
    Sep. 17, 2024

    Champagne Lakes RV Resort

    REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS!

    Let's start off with the fact that this"resort" has REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS living there and TWEAKERS SELLING DRUGS. When I mentioned it to the management they could care less, didn't say a word and walked away laughing. They DO NOT perform ANY BACKGROUND CHECKS and especially with children in the park I find that very disturbing. They nickel and dime you for every little thing and the rent has gone up 3x in one year. The water supply smells like sewage when you take a shower. Because they do pump outs the resort smells like human excrement most of the time. The lakes are polluted as well and completely full of cyanobacteria AKA green algae which is a respiratory hazard. POTENTIAL BEWARE.

  • Gabriel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Creek Road Camp
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Pine Creek Road Camp

    Nice quick and easy getaway

    Quite easy to get to. I drive an Acura RDX and had no problems (I actually had a lot of fun driving the road). 

    There were way more flies than we were expecting. Prepare to get swarmed. Luckily just gnats and no mosquitoes from what we experienced.

    We applied for a permit on Friday and did not get it by Saturday when we departed. Luckily, no rangers patrolled during our stay.

    Some spots with good shade.

  • Lisa D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mission Bay RV Resort
    Sep. 11, 2024

    Mission Bay RV Resort

    Wasn't Thrilled

    Overpriced for a dirt spot, no ocean view at all. Ocean view sites full of expensive RVs that can afford the price. No market or cantina, for those you have to walk to Campland, not a short walk. Should've just stayed at Campland

  • Lisa D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Vacationer RV Park
    Sep. 6, 2024

    Vacationer RV Park

    Not All That

    This RV park has huge potential but they need to get rid of permanent dwellers that have let their property decay. Junk cars, nobody seems to follow the rules, and rat problem.

  • dThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Creek Road Camp
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Pine Creek Road Camp

    Peaceful and secluded

    A great spot if you want to get away and enjoy some alone time. It’s a little warm in the day in august this time of year so you can’t hike around or explore too much. My girlfriend and I stopped in Julian on our way out to get a late lunch and then head to the campsite. The road is paved until you turn off Lone Creek Road and then it is a dirt road. I have a stock Rav4 and it was able to drive on it although there are a few spots you need to be careful at so you don’t scrape the bottom of your car. We only spent one night but we never saw another person during our stay

  • Glen C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Laguna Campground
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Laguna Campground

    Wonderful for dry RV or tent camping

    The scenery is incredible and varied from deeply forested to open meadow.  There are miles of hiking trails.  The campground layout is nice and for many of the loops it is possible to find a site that feels separated from your fellow campers.  This place fills up during the weekends in the spring through fall seasons, so book sites early on recreation.gov.  As implied by my title, there are no hookups here so any RV camping is dry camping.  For RVs with a good solar array, it is possible to find open spots that keep the energy flowing throughout the day.  There is one loop dedicated to longer RVs.  As a personal note, I don't recommend Site 62 for RV camping - it is angled and has some erosion issues coming off of the asphalt pad.  I have been to this campground several times as both a tent camper and an RV camper and have not had any problems with cleanliness of the facilities or excessively noisy neighbors.

  • Jeff T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Escondido RV Resort
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Escondido RV Resort

    Amazing resort style amenities. Spacious sites

    People are complaining about freeway noise, we stayed in site 3 (the closest site to the freeway) and it was quiet as a mouse from inside our (insulated) RV. Amazing amenities. Dog park, pool, clubhouse. We loved site 3 so close to the amenities and restrooms. Overall amazing stay

  • Sarah J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Olive Avenue RV Resort
    Aug. 10, 2024

    Olive Avenue RV Resort

    Weekend stay

    This place is nice, clean and quiet with newer RVs. It’s only a few miles off 78, about 10-15 miles from Carlsbad beach and the same distance to Escondido. We are long-time San Diego residents living out of state and came home to visit family. This is not a park like private site setting. It’s an RV parking lot with sewer and water hook-ups. If you want a location and North County works for you, this is a good place. There are two mobile homes but the RVs are all newer. Sites are narrow and close together, but this is the city in San Diego, not a spacious national park! Bathrooms in pool area are clean.

  • Madisyn L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Woods Valley Kampground
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Woods Valley Kampground

    So beautiful, quiet, and very nice employees !!

    My fiancé and I were last minute camping and this campground was beautiful, quiet, and very aesthetic! There is a lot to do near by, a very convenient store about 5-10 minutes away called valley center foods! Employees were sooo sweet and friendly! DID NOT DISAPPOINT!! Ps isn’t that expensive when tent camping ⛺️ 🙌🏻

  • Bo L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceanside RV Resort
    Jul. 21, 2024

    Oceanside RV Resort

    Solid spot for being near the beach

    Nice little site that is right in the middle of everything.

    It's crowded and you don't have much space, but if your using this instead of a hotel room it works great.

    It had a game room and pool so kids had something to do. There were families all over with kids riding bikes. We had a quick stay over while we were seeing family in the area and it worked great .

    Only issue we had is both entrances have a hell of a dip, we scraped the ass end real good going in and out with our 24ft class c.

  • anna I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kitchen Creek Road
    Jul. 10, 2024

    Kitchen Creek Road

    Decent spot to stop

    Pretty small spot off the road, does get kind of loud from cars but overall a decent and clean spots


Drive Time


Guide to San Diego

Camping near San Diego offers a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors while being close to the city. With beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and a variety of campgrounds, there's something for everyone.

What to do

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like South Carlsbad State Beach Campground, provide direct access to the beach. Campers love the convenience of walking right to the sand. One reviewer mentioned, "Great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks overlooking the ocean."
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the trails at William Heise County Park. A visitor shared, "The hiking trails were great for exploring and getting some exercise."
  • Fishing: At Lake Jennings, fishing is a popular activity. One camper noted, "The lake is clean and well-stocked with trout and bluegill."

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views at San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach. A review highlighted, "There are plenty of facilities, and the camp store is great."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, such as San Elijo State Beach Campground, are praised for their cleanliness. One camper said, "Showers are clean, a little worn out but high pressure and REALLY hot."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like San Diego Metro KOA are known for their family-friendly vibe. A visitor mentioned, "Great place to relax and enjoy a beautiful campground."

What you should know

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some sites can get very busy, especially during peak seasons. A reviewer at San Mateo Campground noted, "It can get very crowded and packed."
  • Limited Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Lake Hemet Campground, have limited electric hookups. One camper shared, "You do not get much privacy as the sites are quite close to each other."
  • Check-in Times: Be aware of strict check-in times at places like Borrego Palm Canyon Campground. A visitor mentioned, "Very strict check-in time."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids, like San Diego Metro KOA. One review highlighted, "They loan you fire pits if you don’t have one."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at William Heise County Park said, "We were pleasantly surprised by the beautiful scenery."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy. A visitor at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground enjoyed the "great little restaurant serving pizza."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at San Clemente State Beach Campground noted, "Our site seemed to be pretty large."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials before arriving. A camper at Lake Jennings mentioned, "If you forget something, there's a store at the entrance."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Blair Valley Primitive Campground shared, "It’s a fine campground. Just fine. Except for all the people."

Camping in the San Diego area offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a great choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near San Diego, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, San Diego, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 169 campgrounds and RV parks near San Diego, CA and 15 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near San Diego, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near San Diego, CA is Lake Jennings with a 4.6-star rating from 31 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near San Diego, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 free dispersed camping spots near San Diego, CA.

  • What parks are near San Diego, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near San Diego, CA that allow camping, notably Cleveland National Forest and San Bernardino National Forest.