Glamping options near San Ysidro offer access to both desert and mountain ecosystems within a 1-2 hour drive. The region features dramatic elevation changes, from near sea level to over 5,500 feet at Mount Laguna, creating distinct microclimates that support different camping experiences throughout the year. Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F in desert locations while mountain campgrounds remain 15-20 degrees cooler.
What to do
Stargazing at night: Borrego Palm Canyon Campground provides exceptional dark sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "I've camped here a couple of times. I come here mostly for the dark skies for astrophotography. It's a nice campground, clean bathrooms and showers. There's some nice hiking as well," notes Melissa O. from Borrego Palm Canyon Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Hemet Campground offers stocked fishing waters within walking distance of campsites. "Hemet Lake itself is beautiful and the view while fishing was amazing. I was able to catch one trout during our four night stay..good eatin lol," reports Donovan from Lake Hemet Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Look for native species at Palomar Mountain State Park Campground where visitors regularly spot birds and small mammals. "The birds are loud, but if you don't care about that they're very fun to watch! The largest critter we saw was a wild turkey. We didn't hike much because we brought our pet, but the rains this year produced a lot of beautiful native flowers," explains Matty F.
What campers like
Hot showers: Multiple campgrounds offer shower facilities that campers appreciate after hiking or outdoor activities. "Clean facilities and the campgrounds have ample space between them. This area has a ton of beautiful landscape, during the fall/winter wonderful foliage appears," says Javier L. from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground.
Proximity to Julian: Many campers mention visiting the historic mining town of Julian for its famous apple pie. "It's also close to Julian so it's easy to pop in for some pie," notes Sandy S. from William Heise County Park. "We rolled in after dark and found a spot super easy that was secluded and perfect for tent camping. We had a nice hike in the morning before heading back to Julian for pie," adds Ana G. from Yaqui Well Primitive Campground.
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds remain open year-round with varying seasonal experiences. "Wooded beautiful county campgrounds a couple miles from sweet town of Julian. Hiking and biking trails. Spacious campsites. Great facilities," reports Nancy L. from William Heise County Park.
What you should know
Water availability: Desert campgrounds often have limited water sources. "Large campground split into 3 sections. The one side is mainly for RVs and has hookups. The other 2 sides are a bit more spread out, especially the sites on the outside of the loops. It's well taken care of and clean. Plus it has token showers with hot water, a dish washing area, flush toilets, fire pits, grills, and cell signal," explains Jay C. about Borrego Palm Canyon.
Weather extremes: Expect significant temperature variations depending on season and elevation. "Can get super windy! Great over roading and hikes in this enormous state park. Come prepared for anything!" warns Megan B. about Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.
Reservation requirements: Many popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Booked one night and ended up staying two because I loved it so much. Great trees, privacy between sites and wild turkeys wandering through the sites. Nice hot showers and a great dump station to empty my tanks," shares Kathy B. from William Heise County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated recreation areas for children. "The well-maintained campground boasts paved pads for most sites, making setup a breeze. Each site comes equipped with a fire ring and picnic table, perfect for cozy campfires and outdoor meals. Beyond the individual campsites, the campground itself is nestled within a beautiful park, offering a tranquil and scenic backdrop," reports Colleen D. from Dos Picos County Park.
Bugs and wildlife preparation: Bring appropriate protection from insects depending on season. "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!" advises Sade H. about camping at William Heise County Park.
Tubing opportunities: La Jolla Indian Campground offers water recreation during warmer months. "La Jolla Indian Reservation is my first pick to go camping! I love the river that runs in the middle of the whole place. You can camp next to it as well and get in! It's $35 per car they do have military discount," shares Dennis B. from La Jolla Indian Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer partial or full hookups for RVs with varying amp services. "We stayed at the Premium Full Hook Up campsite called 'Bear Camp' spot 340. Highly recommend the premium hook up sites, great views of the lake even though the water level was low. Weather was cold and windy but not too bad. Bring insulation for your water hose or have some type of method that will keep your water lines from freezing. Our water hose froze the first night," advises Donovan from Lake Hemet Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain that requires preparation. "This is a membership campground part of Colorado River Adventures. We had spot 192, a beautiful view of Anza Borrego Desert, nice and shady, far from amenities so not a lot of people passing by. We had our bikes so we got the amenities fine," reports Melissa from KQ Ranch Resort.
Dump station locations: Note where facilities are located relative to campsites. "This park is County operated. 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. There are park rangers available," explains Linda R. about Dos Picos County Park.
