Nestled just east of the Pacific Ocean, Solana Beach camping options offer both coastal and inland experiences within San Diego County. The region combines coastal conditions with inland valley microclimates where summer temperatures range from 65-85°F near the coast to 85-100°F inland. Valley Center campgrounds sit at elevations around 1,300 feet, creating cooler evening temperatures than coastal sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Dixon Lake Campground stocks the lake regularly and offers boat rentals for anglers. "Nice, well maintained sites. Very well taken care of. They clean the fire pits out etc. Some of the 40 series sites are very secluded and have excellent lake views," notes Steve.
Nature trails: Walking paths around multiple lakes at Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve provide flat terrain suitable for all skill levels. "There's lots for kids to do here! Feed the ducks, fish, ride the pedal boats. It's an awesome place for a day outside," explains Taylor.
Beach access: South Carlsbad State Beach campsites sit on bluffs overlooking the Pacific. "Pick a spot - $75 gets you on the bluff with hookups $50 gets you on the bluff but no hookups $35 gets you on the other side," advises Tom H. For ocean-view sites, note that "most of the ocean sites do have an actual ocean view" unlike some other coastal campgrounds.
What campers like
Tent camping under tree canopy: Woods Valley Kampground offers sites with natural shade from mature trees. "I love love love this campsite. It's so beautiful to be covered completely by the trees! It makes me feel like I'm in an actual Forrest and not the middle of San Diego," shares Taylor.
Yurt accommodations: Several campgrounds near Solana Beach offer yurt camping options, including Oceanside RV Resort. "We camped here on a trip up the coast and found this spot at the end of the day. There are 5 spots where you can walk your stuff and camp right on the beach. Each spot was secluded and had a picnic table and a good size area," says Alicia F.
Fishing ponds: Dos Picos County Park features a small fishing pond that's especially enjoyable for beginners. "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," reports Dave L.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Many campgrounds in the region experience noise from transportation corridors. "Street is loud in the mornings - don't recommend the east side," warns Andrew P. about South Carlsbad State Beach.
Security issues: Be aware of potential theft at some locations. "Even if you lock your generators up, securing with cable and locks and securing in the back of a covered pickup there are thieves cutting through truck covers, cutting locks and stealing generators," warns Mark M.
Booking windows: Lake Jennings and other popular campgrounds require advance planning. "Difficult to book. 6 months in advance but if you do. The full hookup spots are located in the middle of the campground," explains Dane H.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly fishing: Multiple campgrounds offer stocked fishing ponds where children can experience early success. "This was a great quick get away for my family and I. The kids all love fishing at the pond on site," shares David T. about Woods Valley Kampground.
Playgrounds and recreation: Dos Picos County Park includes family-focused facilities. "There is an event gazebo you can rent and a really nice playground," notes Nicole about the amenities.
Year-round swimming: For yurt camping near Solana Beach, families enjoy campgrounds with swimming facilities. "DID NOT DISAPPOINT!! Ps isn't that expensive when tent camping," says Madisyn L. about Woods Valley Kampground, which maintains a swimming pool for guests.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Note uneven terrain at many campgrounds. "Some sites need much leveling. I know which site to reserve next time!!" advises Jessica M. about Lake Jennings Park.
Dump station access: Plan for dump station logistics at some campgrounds. "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," explains Linda R. about Dos Picos County Park.
Ants and insects: Prepare for local insect encounters. "Only problem was the ants we encountered (first time ever) and had to run over to the local Lowe's to purchase some DE to spread around the anchor points and connections," warns Jerry H. about camping at Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve.
