This article about beach camping in San Diego is brought to you by Midland — their wide variety of great walkie-talkies will keep connected and safe no matter where you roam.
Beach camping in San Diego is the best way to enjoy fun in the sun. With more than 70 miles of coastline, beach camping in San Diego is a hotspot of activity. Whether you’re tent camping or staying in your RV, there’s a beachfront campground waiting for you. San Diego’s beaches have some of the best surfing spots in California. If the ocean isn’t your bag, there are several peaceful bays to enjoy. You’ll love these seven options for beach camping in San Diego.
The Best Beach Camping in San Diego
1. San Elijo State Beach
A short half-hour drive north, the San Elijo State Beach campground sits on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. You can watch beach volleyball or check out the surf without leaving your tent. The campground welcomes tents and RVs, and provides picnic tables, flush toilets, and a gift shop. Plus, you’re only a short walk from all kinds of fun beachside activities.
“This spot is awesome. Especially if you score some good surf. The facilities are always clean. All types of camping are welcome here. The sunsets are out of this world and the beach is clean. My tip is to book way ahead in advance.” – Luke M.
Campground Details:
- Price: $35-75
- Number of sites: 165
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
2. San Diego Metro KOA
Just 15 minutes from downtown, the San Diego Metro KOA campground is perfect for campers who want a quick reprieve. This luxury campground has spots for tents and RVs, and cabin rentals. You’ll enjoy a plethora of activities and events, from Wi-Fi and cable to climbing walls. If you exhaust the campground activities, you can head to the beach or check out the downtown hot spots.
“This place is AWESOME!! Very clean and quiet. It was about 20 minutes from two beaches where we could take our dog. Great place for families and lots of options other than RV’s or trailers.” – Michelle M.
Campground Details:
- Price: $55-185
- Number of sites:
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
3. South Carlsbad State Beach
Photo by The Dyrt camper, Brian S.
The South Carlsbad State Beach campground is the best option for campers looking for a weekend getaway. The campground is about 45 minutes north of the city, near Carlsbad. They have beachside tent and RV sites, with picnic tables, flush toilets, and showers. You’re camping right on the beach, so the views are amazing and the recreation is abundant.
“If you want time to relax with the family around a campfire, go swimming in the ocean, or just walk around meeting people while walking the dog, then this is the place for you. Where the scene is beautiful and the breeze is welcoming. Handicap accessible.” – Angela
Campground Details:
- Price: $35-100
- Number of sites: 223
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
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4. Kumeyaay Lake Campground
Further inland, the Kumeyaay Lake Campground offers tent and non-electric RV sites within walking distance to Kumeyaay Lake. You can hike the many trails or, if you’re feeling adventurous, complete the five-peak challenge. The pristine sandy beaches are less than a quick drive, so you also have access to the salty ocean and sandy beaches. The campground offers picnic tables, flush toilets, and showers.
“Perfect campground located right in San Diego. Great for families with small kids and there are many close trails. There is something for everyone. Bring a picnic to eat by the dam and let the kids explore.” – Katie O.
Campground Details:
- Price: $23
- Number of sites: 46
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
5. Silver Strand State Beach
Photo by The Dyrt camper, Sherrie R.
The Silver Strand State Beach campground is an RV camper’s dream. The campground is nestled between San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean, giving you unprecedented access to water sports and beach activities. It’s a popular spot for surfing and fishing, and the bay is a great place to swim. You’ll have access to flush toilets, showers, and snacks. If you’re on active duty in the navy, you can also check out the nearby Fiddler’s Cove RV Park.
“Beautiful coastal beach location. Dolphins played off shore each morning. The beach sand was very clean and not littered. On the sand rv camping with water and electricity. No sewer hook ups! But a pumper truck comes through every morning and you can get your tanks emptied for $20. Awesome west facing view for beautiful sunsets.” – Sherrie R.
Campground Details:
- Price: $50-65
- Number of sites: 120
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
6. Campland
The Campland on the Bay is a resort-style tent and RV campground on the beach of Fiesta Bay. The campground offers immediate access to the water and marina, including a roped off swimming area for campers. Next door you’ll find a beautiful wildlife preserve. You’ll also have access to amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry, rentals, and a skate park. It’s a great spot for families who like to mix things up a little.
“I call this place the Woodstock for kids. It is a huge area directly on the bay, so no matter where your spot is, you are near water. There is a calendar of events that run all day everyday. My kids (11 & 9) absolutely love it here. Oh, I almost forgot the live cover bands every Friday and Saturday night!” – Brandy La Shea S.
Campground Details:
- Price: $55-473
- Number of sites: 579
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
7. Chula Vista RV Resort
Photo by The Dyrt camper, Milagros B.
The Chula Vista RV Resort is a luxury RV resort on the beautiful shores of San Diego Bay. The campground is right next to Bayside Park, the Chula Vista Marina, and many restaurants. There are fun activities for the whole family and you’ll have plenty of amenities, like laundry, cable, and a fitness center.
“This is a very clean well-maintained place to stay. The bay view spots have a great view of the water. The bay and the marina are within walking distance and there is a restaurant at the marina. There is water electric sewer and cable at each site. This campground is close to downtown San Diego, Sea World and the Botanical gardens.” – The Dyrt camper Ray S.
Campground Details:
- Price: $75-105
- Number of sites: 237
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
San Diegans don’t have to go far for excellent beach camping. These seven locations for beach camping in San Diego will leave you begging for more.
This article about beach camping in San Diego was brought to you Midland. Check out Midland’s NOAA Weather Radio guide to keep yourself safe while out in nature.
