San Diego County campgrounds range from coastal bluffs to mountain forests at elevations from sea level to over 4,000 feet. The area's Mediterranean climate creates ideal year-round camping conditions with temperatures rarely dropping below 45°F at night, even in winter months. The eastern county campgrounds transition to desert landscape where summer temperatures can exceed 100°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Jennings offers both shore fishing and boat rentals on their reservoir. "We come here once a week to feed the ducks with my nephews. We've come to this lake my whole life," says one visitor to Lake Jennings. The fishing regulations here vary by day - weekday permits allow shore fishing only, while weekend permits include boat rental options.
Wildlife viewing: Dixon Lake provides excellent bird watching opportunities with over 25 species commonly spotted. "The walks around the lake are definitely worth doing!" notes a camper at Dixon Lake Campground. Many campers report seeing wild turkeys at higher elevation sites.
Hiking trails: William Heise features multiple trails ranging from 1-5 miles with moderate elevation changes. A reviewer mentions, "Nice well maintained trails, easy to moderate level," at William Heise County Park. The trails pass through oak woodlands with seasonal creek access points.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Dixon Lake campers appreciate privacy between units. "Some of the 40 series sites are very secluded and have excellent lake views. Recommend seeing the sites to get an idea of where you would like to stay prior to staying," shares a visitor. The most private sites typically book 3-4 months in advance.
Urban proximity: Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve provides natural surroundings with city conveniences nearby. "This spot is awesome. Perfect spot to forget you're in San Diego. It's lake in the middle of neighborhoods," explains a regular at Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve. The campground sits just 20 minutes from downtown San Diego.
Yurt camping: San Diego County offers several yurt options for those seeking structure without hauling equipment. At GoodVibes Ranch & Farm, a visitor noted, "Beautiful nature getaway! Only 30 mins East of San Diego. 150 acres of beautiful pristine land. Gorgeous oaks shading our camp site." Most San Diego yurt camping locations provide beds with mattresses.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most San Diego campgrounds require advance planning, especially during summer. "This place is extremely busy with lots of people, loud music, narrow spots," warns a visitor to San Diego Metro KOA. Bookings should be made 6-8 months ahead for summer weekends.
Noise considerations: Many campgrounds experience sound from nearby roads or urban areas. At South Carlsbad State Beach, a camper notes, "Campsites are right on top of each other. Highway is breathing down your neck. Beach is nice though." Bringing earplugs is advised for light sleepers.
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons and other wildlife frequently visit campsites. "Critters heard roaming around campsite at night (either a raccoon or coyote came within 5 feet of our tent while we were sleeping)," reports a Dixon Lake camper. Food storage requirements vary by location but most require secure storage at night.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Several campgrounds offer structured activities for children. Santee Lakes features "kids play grounds, clean showers close, water, electricity, walking." Their splash pad operates from April through October with a $5 per child entry fee.
Safety considerations: Some areas require extra supervision. A Lake Jennings visitor cautions, "Watch out for the geese! We come here once a week to feed the ducks with my nephews. Don't come here alone and I wouldn't go at dark either." Rangers typically patrol family-friendly areas hourly until 10pm.
Educational opportunities: Dos Picos County Park provides family-friendly nature programming. "I have only tent camped here and really enjoyed the clean and quiet spot not too far from civilization but feels like in the middle of nowhere. My kids caught their first fish in the little pond :)" The park offers weekend ranger talks from May through September.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary widely between locations. A camper at Dos Picos notes, "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." Most San Diego County parks with RV sites offer 30-amp service with a limited number of 50-amp sites available.
Site selection strategy: Many San Diego campgrounds have significant differences between sites. "Google Earth your site. The difference between sites next to each other is big when you're talking about any versus zero shade," recommends a visitor to South Carlsbad State Beach. The most level RV sites tend to be numbered sites ending in even numbers at most county parks.
Seasonal considerations: Different seasons affect site desirability. A reviewer at Santee Lakes observed, "Nice campground just 20' from San Diego city. Set up our 16' travel trailer at a lakeshore full hookup site #27... Only problem was the ants we encountered (first time ever) and had to run over to the local Lowe's to purchase some DE." Ant activity increases during summer months at most inland campgrounds.
