Best Campgrounds near San Diego, CA

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, California (169)

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Showing results 1-10 of 169 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near San Diego, CA

1151 Reviews of 169 San Diego Campgrounds



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 4.7-star rating from 32 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 Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.