Camping Near San Diego
Southern California paradise with beaches, mountains, and desert all within an hour's drive.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
South Carlsbad State Beach offers the quintessential San Diego coastal camping experience with beachfront sites, swimming, and fishing opportunities. With 784 reviews and a 4.53 rating, it's a proven favorite for those wanting to camp right on the beautiful San Diego coastline.
Burnt Rancheria provides excellent mountain camping in Cleveland National Forest with strong reviews (308) and a 4.65 rating. It offers both tent and RV camping options in a beautiful forested setting that contrasts nicely with coastal options.
Arroyo Seco Trail Campground in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park offers great hiking access and tent camping with excellent reviews (359) and a solid 4.55 rating. It provides a scenic mountain retreat within reasonable distance of San Diego.
Campground Locations
Showing top 5 campgrounds near San Diego
About This Destination
San Diego, California (50-mile radius) camping offers an unparalleled combination of oceanfront state beach campgrounds, urban RV resorts, and mountain forest retreats within easy reach of America's Finest City. This diverse region provides year-round camping opportunities ranging from bluff-top sites overlooking the Pacific at San Elijo State Beach to forested mountain campgrounds in Cleveland National Forest.
Best Time
The best months for camping are March through May and September through November, when temperatures are mild and crowds are manageable. Spring offers wildflower displays and comfortable hiking weather, while fall provides warm ocean temperatures and excellent whale watching opportunities.
Destination Highlights
- 5+ campgrounds within 50 miles
- Located in California
- Options for every camping style
Plan Your Trips
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Book coastal state beach campgrounds through ReserveCalifornia 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends and holidays.
- 2Arrive early at popular trailheads like Torrey Pines and Potato Chip Rock to secure parking and avoid crowds.
- 3Pack layers as coastal nights can be chilly even after warm days, and inland areas experience significant temperature swings.
- 4Check fire restrictions before your trip, as campfires may be prohibited during high fire danger periods.
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San Diego Campgrounds Book Fast
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South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
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