RV camping near Tecate, California offers varied terrain with locations ranging from 600 to 4,000 feet elevation. The region features a mix of desert and mountain landscapes with seasonal temperature swings of up to 30°F between day and night. Cell service varies substantially throughout the area with stronger coverage in El Cajon and Escondido compared to mountain locations.
What to do
Mountain biking trails access: Thousand Trails Pio Pico in Jamul provides access to nearby mountain biking routes. "Not a lot of room to move around" notes camper Bud H. about the campground itself, but the surrounding area offers multiple trail options for mountain bikers of various skill levels.
Kayaking from marina locations: Fiddlers Cove RV Park offers direct bay access with equipment rentals. "Kayak, boat, SUP available for rental. Easy access to all of San Diego," reports Katie H. This military installation requires military ID for entrance but provides convenient water recreation options.
Wildlife observation areas: Several RV parks near Tecate connect to wildlife viewing areas. "Beautiful wildlife, sunsets, sculptures, beach, marina, bike paths," mentions Sherrie R. about the amenities at Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay. The adjacent nature center offers discounts to campers.
What campers like
Heated pools year-round: Multiple RV parks maintain heated swimming pools regardless of season. At Escondido RV Resort, "The drainage system was impeccable, preventing any issues with mudslides even in such extreme weather," notes John H., highlighting its all-weather capabilities.
Concrete pads with full hookups: Many parks offer level concrete sites with complete services. "Sites are concrete, level and have privacy hedges," states Sherrie R. about Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay, while Vacationer RV Park provides similar setups despite mixed reviews about general maintenance.
Gated security systems: Several parks implement security measures for camper safety. Circle RV Resort "is secured with a gate which requires a code" according to Roxanna L., providing additional security that many travelers appreciate when camping near the border region.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Reception varies dramatically across locations. At Thousand Trails Oakzanita Springs, "cell service was exceptional!!! Full bars, so I could Netflix, and YouTube!" reports Tom W., but other locations have limited connectivity, particularly in mountain areas.
Honey wagon services: Thousand Trails Oakzanita Springs offers tank dumping options. "Many sites are without sewer however on certain days a honey wagon may be available for $25.00," explains Maurice H., providing an alternative to driving to dump stations.
Site spacing concerns: Many RV parks have compact arrangements. "Everyone is within their boundaries it's just tight," notes Roxanna L. about site spacing at Circle RV Resort, a common observation across multiple parks in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access scheduling: Some parks operate pools on limited schedules. At Thousand Trails Pio Pico, "the pool was open for 2 hours 4 times a day, you can play mini golf, but bring your own putter and balls," advises Tom W., suggesting families plan accordingly for recreation.
Recreation center variations: Family recreation options differ significantly between parks. "One rec center is designed more for kids with a pool table, air hockey, shuffleboard, and games," explains Daniel B. about Pio Pico's facilities, while other parks may have more limited amenities.
Bathroom cleanliness inconsistency: Facility maintenance varies across locations. "Bathhouses are kept warm and very clean," reports Jessie W. about Oakzanita Springs, but at Vacationer RV Park, "bathhouses were kept clean" despite other maintenance issues according to Cantrell C.
Tips from RVers
Big rig access challenges: Some locations have difficult approach roads. "Limited 30/50 amp full-hookups. Large rigs, beware. Access roads are narrow, hilly, AND curvy," warns John D. about Thousand Trails Oakzanita Springs, though he notes "it CAN be done."
Elevation considerations: Mountain locations require temperature planning. "Wouldn't come again this time of year without a heater, as it got uncomfortably cold at night," advises Jessie W. about Oakzanita Springs, which sits at approximately 4,000 feet elevation.
Laundry facility limitations: Laundry options are restricted at many locations. "Laundry is with your debit card, but wicked expensive, $3.75 wash, $3.75 dry," notes Tom W. about Circle RV Resort, while some parks have limited or non-functional laundry facilities.
