Camping in San Diego

Whether at the beach or in the hills near the city, camping is the perfect outdoor activity for families or friends looking to spend time together in nature.

Key Takeaways

Amanda Rosa
Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
Camping in San Diego
Camping in San Diego
When to Go Camping
Featured Activity
Where to Go Camping
Beach vs Mountain Camping
Save on Tours
Tips & Before You Go
Where to Stay

The Perfect Combination of City Life and Outdoor Fun

Day Camping Near Torrey Pines State ParkFry Creek Campground Near Palomar Observatory

Going camping in San Diego is the perfect activity for a family or a group of friends who want to spend quality time together outdoors.

I personally love taking my wife and kids for a camping weekend, sometimes in one of our favorite beach camping spots and other times in the hills and mountains just beyond San Diego.

I think one thing that makes camping in San Diego so special is our year-round mostly sunny weather with mild temperatures and low humidity. We also often have cool ocean breezes which adds a little extra comfort to the experience!

Why We Love Camping

San Diego has the best of both worlds: beautiful beach camping and traditional camping opportunities. Camping in San Diego allows you to really unplug and forget about the everyday distractions and stresses going on in all of our lives.

After all, being out in nature is a great mood booster!

Blair Valley Primitave Camp Ground
Blair Valley Primitave Camp Ground

Why You Should Go Camping in San Diego?

If you’re searching for a more “modern day” camping experience, there are plenty of options at one of San Diego’s campgrounds.

These campgrounds offer a combination of being outdoors while also having access to amenities that will help make things smoother. These amenities often include things like showers, restrooms, and firepits.

San Diego Zoo Map Sign
San Diego Zoo Map Sign

See & Do More in San Diego While Camping

Roasting marshmallows by the campfire and sleeping under the stars are both perfect activities for camping, but what if you’d also like to do some beach activities or perhaps visit some of the most popular museums and attractions in San Diego?

Grab yourself a Go City San Diego pass and you can do things like visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo or San Diego Safari Park which are both part of the pass, along with access to dozens of tours, attractions, and discounted gear rentals.

You can save even more money with our exclusive code, GVSD5OFF, for extra savings at checkout.

Of course, if surf lessons at South Carlsbad State Beach or hiking in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park are more your speed, keep reading!

Local Tips
Reserve Early for Beach Camping Bliss
San Diego's coastal campgrounds are popular—book months ahead to secure your spot and enjoy oceanfront camping under the stars.

What is the Best Time of Year to Go Camping in San Diego?

Culp Valley Primitive Campground Near Anza Borrego Desert State Park
Culp Valley Primitive Campground Near Anza Borrego Desert State Park

San Diego is widely known for its year-round incredible weather. The average temperature is 72 degrees, so it’s easy to say that the outdoors can be enjoyed at any time.

While you can camp any month in San Diego, each season has its own unique benefits.

Fall Camping

Possibly the most popular time of the year among locals to go camping in during the fall season because of its comfortable weather and - yay! - the lack of insects.

As the busy summer season winds down, fewer crowds means a calmer, peaceful camping experience surrounded by colorful fall foliage.

Before You Go

Popular spots WILL fill up on the weekends, so you’ll want to book in advance.

Winter Camping

The average high temperature in the winter in San Diego is 65 degrees and the average low temperature is between 50 and 55 degrees.

Even better, the off-season allows campers to enjoy the grounds with fewer crowds and a quieter atmosphere.

Before You Go

Know that during this time of the year you’ll have a bit less daylight hours and morning coastal fog can limit your time outdoors.

Walkway to the Anza Borrego Desert State Park Visitors Center
Walkway to the Anza Borrego Desert State Park Visitors Center

Spring Camping

Wildflowers are in bloom and the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the perfect place to enjoy the colorful display. It can also make for an incredible season to go camping!

Don’t forget, spring is also whale watching season and the perfect time to see the gray and blue whales as they migrate through the area.

Before You Go

Spring in San Diego means May gray and June gloom, so expect occasional showers.

Temperatures can vary by location, but that doesn’t stop popular camping spots from filling up during the weekends.

Friends Playing Beach Volleyball at Ocean Beach City Beach
Friends Playing Beach Volleyball at Ocean Beach City Beach

Summer Camping

Summer in San Diego means plenty of long, warm, and sunny days. Perfect for outdoor activities and the chance to experience summer festivities.

During the summer season you can play on our beautiful world-famous beaches like Coronado Beach, Ocean Beach, and La Jolla Cove.

Before You Go

Expect crowds in San Diego’s popular camping spots, especially on the weekends. I’d recommend that you book in advance.

Also heads up, fire restrictions during dry periods can limit campfires and other outdoor activities.

Featured Activity

White Rhino at San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
When heading to the San Diego Zoo, make sure to visit to the Safari Park. The Safari Park is home to a wide array of different safaris where you can experience different animals from around the world.
Learn More

The Best Places to Go Camping in San Diego

San Diego has a variety of campsites that help visitors experience a little of everything the area has to offer.

From beach camping to forests, deserts, and a safari - there’s something for everyone!

So let’s do it! Below I’ll list out my favorite camping spots, both on the beach and in the hills and mountains!

San Elijo State Beach and Campground

San Elijo State Beach

Along the beautiful coastline of Cardiff by the Sea, you’ll find San Elijo State Beach. It’s the perfect chance to revel in the beauty of Southern California’s coast while camping.

Why We Love It

This is a great spot to relax in your tent camp or RV and enjoy “living on the beach.” Go hiking along the bluffs, go surfing during the day, and then spend the evening stargazing.

Looking for more secluded campsites? Try San Elijo Lagoon, perfect for birdwatching and fishing.

Demand is high at this beach camping location. So, make sure you book this camp early!

What to Do While at San Elijo State Beach

The campground is only a short walk away from the main beach, making it easy to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, whale watching, and, of course, surfing.

Don’t know how to surf? No problem.

Sign up for the fun San Diego: Private Surf Lesson. It’s a one-on-one private lesson for groups that will have you all learning surf etiquette, techniques, and how to pop-up on your board.

Visit Cardiff by the Sea

Cardiff delivers plenty of coastline, history, boutiques, and coastal charm.

You can hike along the scenic trails in Cardiff State Beach, learn about San Diego’s mission history along El Camino Real, window shop as you stroll down Cardiff Avenue, and so much more!

Carlsbad State Beach Camping next to the Ocean

South Carlsbad State Beach

With over 40 acres of oceanfront, Carlsbad State Beach gives campers plenty of access to San Diego’s ocean.

Camping here provides the perfect chance to sit back, enjoy the outdoors, and take in the San Diego coastline.

Why We Love It

South Carlsbad State Beach is perfect for families looking for a truly family-oriented experience because of the campground’s Wi-Fi free zone.

And like San Elijo State Beach, the spots go quickly. Be sure to book your spot early.

What to Do While at South Carlsbad State Beach

When in San Diego, do as the locals do! Grab your surf or paddle board, go swimming, or just take a moment to enjoy the view.

Looking for more lessons? The San Diego: Private Group Surf Lesson lets your group paddle, pop, and ride the waves in a variety of locations.

Meet your instructor at one of these Wavehuggers locations: Cardiff, Encinitas and Carlsbad. Get their local insight and then transfer those skills to the waves.

Visit Carlsbad

There’s a reason we call Carlsbad “an outdoor-lover’s paradise.”

Carlsbad offers plenty of coastline, canyons, and so much more - you’ll never run out of things to do.

If you’re lucky enough to visit between March and May, to see one of our favorite floral displays, The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch!

Relaxing at Blair Valley Primitave Camp Ground next to Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers campers a truly unique and unforgettable camping experience.

You’ll get to see vast desert landscapes, rock formations, and the diverse desert wildlife in the largest California state park.

The best seasons to visit are spring and fall. Since it is a desert, you can expect weather extremes, especially during the winter and summer.

Why We Love It

This is one of our favorite places to go camping when we’re not at the beach!

You can camp anywhere you like within the state park and then just sit back, relax, and enjoy the tranquility.

What to Do While at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Of course, if you’re debating when to stay, there’s no question - it has to be in the spring!

Anza Borrego comes alive during the Desert Flower Bloom as thousands of wildflowers bloom in colorful bursts of oranges, yellows, greens, and purples.

Visit the Borrego Badlands

Pair the bloom with a visit to the Borrego Badlands for an unforgettable camping trip.

The Borrego Badlands gives you a glimpse of California’s ancient, geological past with its 450 million year old rock formations.

Roar and Snore at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Calling everyone who ever wished for a “night at the zoo!”

This once-in-a-lifetime overnight adventure will have you taking guided walks for exclusive after-hours up-close animal demonstrations, sharing in camp activities, and devouring s’mores.

This experience is made possible through the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Why We Love It

This is a one-of-a-kind, unique experience that’s perfect for families. I think especially if you have younger kids who love animals, this is a camping adventure worth considering.

What to Do While at Roar and Snore at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

During the day you can visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and watch over 3,500 animals in carefully maintained replicas of their natural habitats.

You can take the guided Africa Tram Safari and visit an African Savannah field and visit the Walkabout Australia to see the kangaroos and wallabies.

Don’t forget your Go City San Diego pass - the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is included in the price!

Visit Escondido

Be sure to stop in one of San Diego’s oldest cities, Escondido, while you’re in the area.

From history buffs to outdoor enthusiasts to wildlife lovers and foodies - there’s a little bit of everything in Escondido.

Laguna Campground next to Mt Laguna in North County San Diego

Laguna Campground

The Laguna Campground is great for campers looking for cooler temperatures, natural beauty, being “off grid”, and easy access to a variety of hiking trails.

Make sure to keep an eye out for the endangered Laguna Skipper Butterfly, which has a dedicated area in the campground.

Why We Love It

The Laguna Campground is nothing short of spectacular!

From the mountains to the meadows to the colorful wildflower bloom in April and May, this is a truly beautiful campsite.

What to Do While at Laguna Campground

While you’re camping, you can also explore a variety of hiking trails that range from easy to moderate to challenging. There you can enjoy the stunning views of the mountains, waterfalls, meadows, and forests that Laguna offers.

Laguna’s rugged landscape also makes it the perfect location for mountain bikers!

Visit Mount Laguna

This scenic village is home to the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and Mount Laguna Observatory.

I think a side trip to Julian for one of their tasty apple pies is also well worth it!

Kumeyaay Lake Campground

Like Laguna above it, Kumeyaay offers campers a picturesque camping experience.

With plenty of hiking trails and fishing opportunities, the Kumeyaay Lake Campground is perfect for outdoor lovers looking for a scenic getaway.

Why We Love It

Not only is the Kumeyaay Lake Campground a tranquil and relaxing getaway, they offer plenty of family-friendly activities.

What to Do While at Kumeyaay Lake Campground

Heads up! There is no swimming at Kumeyaay Lake, but guests over 16 can fish with a valid California Fishing License.

Visit Mission Trails Regional Park

Mission Trails Regional Park is one of our favorite recreational areas! With multiple habits in one place, Mission Trails boasts dozens of ways to enjoy nature.

Be sure to stay for sunset! Mission Trails is featured in our Best Places to Watch the Sunset in San Diego article.

Lake Jennings Park

If you love fishing, hiking, or both, Lake Jennings Park will have you enjoying the outdoors to the fullest!

Why We Love It

Lake Jennings is the perfect campsite for families who love to fish. In fact, it’s some of the finest freshwater fishing in the U.S. and they host a variety of fishing tournaments throughout the year.

And with plenty of activities for kids, this family-friendly campground is perfect for a weekend getaway.

What to Do While at Lake Jennings Park

Boat rentals are available onsite, however, there is no swimming.

Hiking trails lead to the San Vicente Creek, Sweetwater River, and El Cajon Mountain. If you just want to relax, there is also nothing wrong with just relaxing with a great book and the incredible views of this gorgeous lake!

Visit East of Lakeside

If you’re looking for more outdoor fun, East of Lakeside offers charm, natural beauty, and classic San Diego hospitality.

You can surely pair your visit with a wine tasting tour or a scenic drive through the area.

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

If you’re looking for a more rustic experience, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park has both developed campgrounds with showers and picnic tables and primitive sites for a more natural setting.

Of course, bragging rights where they are due, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park offers 100+ miles of trails.

Why We Love It

This secluded getaway is great for groups and families looking for something a little different.

Plus, campers will have a breathtaking view of the San Diego mountains, including Cuyamaca Peak, which is the second highest mountain peak in the San Diego area.

What to Do While at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Despite being only around 1 to 1.5 hours away from Downtown San Diego, you’ll feel as if you are worlds away.

I think the best thing to do is to hike in an oak woodland forest that features a sprinkling of pines and take in the lovely meadows and creek that go through them.

Visit Mount Laguna

Mount Laguna is just a lovely scenic drive away from Cuyamaca Rancho. Treat yourself to a visit to this charming village and drink in the views of mountains and forests in this 30-ish minute drive.

Popular Activities

San Diego Harbor Cruise
San Diego Harbor Cruise
$36 per person
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The World Famous San Diego Zoo
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Visit SeaWorld San Diego
Discounts Available
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Visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
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Beach Camping vs Mountain Camping in San Diego

If you asked us to choose our favorite between beach or mountain camping, we’d have a hard time picking!

They’re both unique and fun in their own way.

Carlsbad State Beach Camping next to the Ocean
Carlsbad State Beach Camping next to the Ocean

Beach Camping

Nothing compares to falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing and waking up to the view of a sunrise over the water.

Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park

Mountain Camping

Crisp, clean air, scenic views of the mountains, forests, and valleys, plus cooler temperatures than the coast? Mountain camping checks all the boxes.

Similarities

Both mountain and beach camping give visitors the best opportunities to experience Southern California’s natural beauty.

From San Diego’s stunning beaches to its breathtaking mountain scenery, there are plenty of diverse activities to enjoy for families, friend groups, and outdoor enthusiasts alike both at the beach or in the hills.

You can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience a side of San Diego that many never get to see no matter where you go camping.

Differences

Beach camping you can enjoy the coastal landscapes, mild temperatures, swimming, surfing, and more. Some sites offer limited amenities and you’ll definitely need to book your space in advance, especially during peak seasons.

With Mountain camping, you can revel in the towering beauty of Southern California’s forests and enjoy cooler temperatures while fishing, biking, or hiking. Most of these sites require a short scenic drive as well, so keep that in mind.

Campgrounds offer a variety of amenities and are less crowded, especially off peak.

San Elijo State Beach and Campground
San Elijo State Beach and Campground

My Choice

I truly love camping at the beach or in the mountains and have taken my family for both adventures. If you make me choose, I’ll take beach camping but that’s because I’m a surfer and can’t get enough of the waves!

However, for you, it really comes down to your personal preferences. Depending on what you’re looking to get out of your camping trip, either experience is well worth it!

Go Hiking with Go Pass!
San Diego Hiking Tour
San Diego Hiking Tour
San Diego is not just sunny beaches, but home to some of the best hiking in the country. With Go Pass, choose from two trails for your hike. Mission Trails Regional Park and Tecolote Canyon Trails offer trails for beginners and experts!
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Local Tips
What activities does the Go City San Diego pass include?

There’s a variety of activities included with the Go City San Diego pass such as: The San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, Hiking Tours, Whale Watching, Museum Tours, Speed Boat Adventures & more!

For the most popular attractions and water-sport rentals as well as the biggest discounts, consider the All-Inclusive Pass.

Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

Tips for Camping in San Diego

Camping can be a fun and exciting adventure! To ensure a smooth trip, here are a few tips.

  • Practice Tent Camping: If you’re taking a tent, practice setting it up at home to better use time once you arrive at the campground.
  • Pick a Campsite Before Arrival if Possible: Ensure that your family has the best location to spend time together during your vacation in San Diego.
  • Plan Food and Water Ahead: Camp-fire friendly meals should be easy to prepare. Ensure there is plenty of water for everyone in the family.
  • Check the Weather in Advance: Be sure to check the forecast in advance and make sure everyone packs plenty of weather appropriate clothing for the trip.
  • Don’t Forget Your Personal Hygiene: Pack toiletries like soap, shampoo, hand sanitizer, and toothpaste for the trip.

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The World Famous San Diego Zoo
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