San Diego RV campgrounds experience peak occupancy from November through March when temperatures range from 50-70°F and rainfall averages only 10.5 inches annually. Most motorhome sites in the region are situated within 25 miles of downtown, providing convenient access to attractions while maintaining proximity to coastal areas. Cell service strength varies dramatically between coastal and inland locations, with mountain campgrounds often experiencing significantly reduced coverage.
What to do
Bike along Mission Bay trails: Located directly adjacent to Mission Bay RV Resort, the bay offers extensive paved biking paths. "There is a bike path nearby that is awesome for young kids," notes one camper. "There's a path that goes along the bay that is about a mile long, and also a bridge that connects the park to Campland on the Bay."
Visit nearby nature centers: The Living Coast Discovery Center provides educational wildlife experiences within 5 miles of some RV parks. "There is also a nature center next to the campground that offers a discount to those who stay," mentions one visitor to Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay.
Explore waterfront activities: Fiddlers Cove RV Park provides military families direct marina access for water recreation. "Nice marina right nearby! Adjacent to the marina, so many boats, kayaks and watercraft are available for rent," explains one reviewer who appreciates the waterfront location.
What campers like
Concrete pads with amenities: At Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay, RV sites include more than just 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," details one satisfied camper.
Farm-based camping: Smaller, unique camping experiences exist just outside the city. One visitor to Thompson Palms Campground shares, "My family and I had an excellent time at the Thompson's farm! 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!"
Military-exclusive facilities: Active duty and retired military personnel have access to premium waterfront locations unavailable to civilians. "Awesome park right on the water on Coronado. Well maintained, clean sites. Facilities are immaculate," comments a visitor to Fiddlers Cove RV Park.
What you should know
Freeway noise impacts: Many San Diego RV parks sit near major transportation corridors. "Hwy 8 is right outside your door and very loud. Sites are adequate and if you have a pull through site you get a grill," explains a camper about Circle RV Resort.
Wi-Fi and cell coverage variability: Inland parks often struggle with connectivity issues. "The internet was slow and iffy. They said they were working on it. I got to see a few shows on Netflix, Hulu, YouTube... No cell service at all, but I did get a little with my WeBoost," reports a Thousand Trails Pio Pico visitor.
Reservation timing requirements: During peak winter months, advance booking becomes essential. "We booked for a week at this place. Was really looking forward to it. We made the 'luxury' reservations and given a snapshot of what our space would look like," shares one camper about their experience at Circle RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Many San Diego area parks offer pool complexes beyond basic swimming. At Escondido RV Resort, "Resort-style amenities. Heated outdoor Pool. Nice dog park. Access to a park for walking," as one reviewer explains.
Kid-focused recreation: Some parks provide extensive recreation options specifically for children. "There is a splash pad for the little ones, bar for the bigger ones, activities poolside and HUGE TV! Food service as well," notes a visitor to Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay.
Space considerations: Site sizes vary dramatically between parks and even within the same facility. "Sites are a little small, but you do have a patio. They each come with a patio table and a couple of trees. You will share a trash can with your neighbor," explains a family who stayed at Mission Bay RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Long-term stay options: For extended visits, monthly rates can provide significant savings. One camper at Oak Creek RV Resort notes, "Nice park with a reasonable price. Facilities are nice. A bit of a drive out of town. The units are packed close together."
RV age restrictions: Some higher-end parks maintain appearance standards through restrictions. "Beautiful RV resort with short drives to the beach, San Diego, and casinos. Full hook ups, pool, dog walk. Little pricey and has RV age restrictions but I sent pics and was allowed even though I was outside the age," explains a visitor to Escondido RV Resort.
Laundry facility planning: On-site laundry costs vary dramatically between facilities. "Laundry is $5 a load for both w&d. Ridiculous as they are very small and don't hold a lot. The park is secured with a gate which requires a code," warns a Circle RV Resort visitor, highlighting both security benefits and laundry challenges.
