The best hot spring campgrounds near Chula Vista, California

Sunny Chula Vista is about as far south as you can get in Southern California. Between San Diego and the US-Mexico Border, Chula Vista sits across the San Diego Bay from a seven-mile stretch of beach that connects to Coronado. You can swim, surf, and sunbathe yourself silly at sites like Silver Strand State Beach and Coronado Beach, or head inland from Chula Vista for another world of lakes, mountains, and desert trailheads. For fans of hiking, mountain biking, wildlife watching, wildflowers, and cacti, campers love the parks east of Chula Vista.

97% (335)

Top-rated campgrounds near Chula Vista

Sunny Chula Vista is about as far south as you can get in Southern California. Between San Diego and the US-Mexico Border, Chula Vista sits across the San Diego Bay from a seven-mile stretch of beach that connects to Coronado. You can swim, surf, and sunbathe yourself silly at sites like Silver Strand State Beach and Coronado Beach, or head inland from Chula Vista for another world of lakes, mountains, and desert trailheads. For fans of hiking, mountain biking, wildlife watching, wildflowers, and cacti, campers love the parks east of Chula Vista.

97% (335)

Top-rated campgrounds near Chula Vista

1. Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

98%

(446)

45mi from Chula Vista · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Sagewinds Farm is the first certified organic white sage farm in the world. Located in the high desert of San Diego county, between 3500 feet and 3800 ft. this beautiful 40 acres features caves, massive boulders to climb, views, flat land and privacy. At night the stars are magnificent and the milky way is visible...there are meteor showers several times a year. Permanent residents in the barn are the 2 mini horses to visit and four wonderful dogs. The nights are always cool and usually below 60% so be prepared to sleep well, even if the days are hot. There is almost always a breeze and sometimes a wind, so bring your kites. There are visiting animals that past thru and could include, coyotes, bobcats, Coatis, foxes, rabbits, quail, hawks and mountain lions. There are also some snake and lizards. We do have rattlesnakes. To make up for the rattlers we offer two flush toilets! Camp on the healthy, beautiful and first Certified Organic White Sage Farm in the World. I like to tell people that this is sacred land and it is. Come see the magnificent boulder formations. Come for the quiet. Come for the stars. Remember that the Jacumba Hotel Hot Springs and restaurant is 5 minutes away and the food is exceptional. The place to heal Beautiful high desert,(3500') with boulders, boulder mountains, caves and views. Rolling southern California terrain, home to all kinds of birds and wild life. Camp on top of the mountain, or camp in a cave or anywhere in between. See the Milky way on most nights, all have incredible stars. 40 acres. Visit our the little town of Jacumba Hot springs down the road. Exciting things are happening there. The Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel, really good food, organic produce, and of course the Water! They offer day passes. Weekend music events at the Hotel or the The Old Bathhouse where you listen under the most incredible stars. Bazaar at the Bathouse the first Saturday of the month. This is the prettiest property in east county! And the healthiest! It is a Certified Organic White Sage farm. This is the old west! Come in the spring for the wild flowers on the land. Come for the dark skies. Come for the very occasional snow. Most definitely come for all the Meteor showers.. You can see the Milky way on most nights

2. DeAnza Springs Resort

95%

(19)

48mi from Chula Vista · 65 sites · Tents, RVs

DeAnza Springs Resort is a family friendly resort in North America. Situated on more than 500 private acres of high desert (2600 feet above sea level) in Eastern San Diego County, it is ideal for year-round vacationing. The Resort is comprised of 311 spacious RV sites, most with full hookups, (30/50 amps) and unlimited tent sites for camping. Comfortable rental units consist of fully furnished tiny homes and motel rooms. Centerpiece to the Resort is a 7500 square foot clubhouse. It is home to the Oasis Lounge/Bar and cafe. There is also a computer area for public internet access. No matter what activities you enjoy, you’ll probably find them available at DeAnza Springs Resort. Surrounded on three sides by the wilderness of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the resort grounds include grassy lawns, shade trees, two sparkling swimming pools and a hot tub with access to hiking trails in every direction. Amenities include two swimming pools open year round (one indoor heated and one outdoors), an outdoor hot tub, tennis/pickle ball courts, shuffle-board courts, fitness center with sauna, and laundry facilities. There is also a large enclosed pet park and WiFi broadband internet access.

3. Starlight Outpost | Stargazing Stay

97%

(16)

34mi from Chula Vista · 3 sites · Lodging

Starlight Outpost is a private, design-forward desert stay near Jacumba Hot Springs, located in Campo, California, about an hour east of San Diego. This peaceful retreat is ideal for travelers looking for: • Stargazing • Quiet desert nights • Romantic getaways • A calm alternative to crowded Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel Guests stay in a thoughtfully curated, enclosed structure designed for comfort, privacy, and sleep under dark desert skies. If you’re searching for a Jacumba Hot Springs alternative that’s quiet, unique, and intentionally hosted — Starlight Outpost offers space to unplug, rest, and reconnect. WHAT MAKES THIS STAY SPECIAL • Exceptionally dark skies for stargazing • Quiet desert location away from crowds • Thoughtfully styled interior (not rustic camping) • Private bathroom and kitchen setup • Designed for couples and intentional travelers This is not a party spot or campground — it’s a calm desert retreat. WHAT THIS STAY IS PERFECT FOR ✅ Couples ✅ Solo travelers ✅ Stargazers ✅ Writers, artists, creatives ✅ Guests visiting Jacumba Hot Springs who want privacy NOT A GOOD FIT IF ❌ You want nightlife or group gatherings ❌ You’re looking for a resort or social hot springs scene ❌ You plan to host parties or events WHAT’S PROVIDED Sleep & Comfort • King-size mattress with memory foam topper • Heated mattress pad (winter) • AC available • Multiple blanket & pillow options Kitchen • Refrigerator • Sink with hot & cold water • Hot plate + air fryer • Dishes, glassware, utensils • Basic spices, oil, pancake mix • Indoor dining area Bathroom • Flushing toilet • Hot & cold shower • Towels & robes provided Outdoor Amenities • Fire pit for cooking • Propane BBQ Optional Add-Ons • Stargazing telescope • Electric s’mores kit • Pizza oven with premade pizzas Guests only need to bring food & drinks — everything else is provided. LOCATION & AREA Starlight Outpost is located in Campo, California, close to: • Jacumba Hot Springs • Lake Morena • Desert hiking trails • Historic rail sites This is a peaceful desert area — quiet, dark, and intentionally slow.

4. Jacumba Vortex Hipcamp

49mi from Chula Vista · 1 site · RV

Stay on the back acre of our growing permaculture homestead, just 1/2 mile outside of historic Jacumba Hot Springs! Camp out in your own tents or vehicles, or stay inside our Dodge motorhome, which sleeps two in the loft and two in the cabin. Enjoy access to a kitchenette, outdoor grill, and fire pit. Firewood is available for purchase.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Kaitlyn

3 weeks ago

2 nights at Starlight Outpost | Stargazing Stay

Had an amazing stay! From the moment we pulled in I was in love! Had everything we needed to be comfortable. The night time vibes were amazing with the lighting and adorable decor. Don’t forget your warm clothes though, it was definitely colder then I expected but the heated bed made sleeping cozy!

g

gabriel

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Beautiful views, good trails and fun dogs. Hopefully we can camp in this spot again.

E

Elisa

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Amazing views and Ellen was so helpful. We loved meeting all of their animals and exploring the property. Cute tie-dye too!

R

Russell

August 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

This property is magical. So is Ellen. I was looking for a place to sleep before crossing into Mexicali and then found it very hard to leave. So much to explore on the property and surrounding area. I highly recommend staying here - just make sure you make some time to take it in!

J

Julia

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Wonderful camping experiencing on Ellen’s land. There were amazing views, short fantastic hikes, and the sweetest animal friends. I would love to visit again!

A

Amir

July 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to DeAnza Springs Resort

It's a relaxing place to camp, with plenty of hiking trails and open space to walk. The community is very welcoming to campers. We had a great time enjoying the pool! Thank you—we’ll definitely be back!!

Shelby

June 2025

12 ft campervan

2 nights at Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

We loved the beautiful landscape and Ellen’s charm!

S

Sam

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Its Ellens world and you get to experience it. Camping is raw but the nature is special. I will return. Cheers

C

Christian

May 2025

13 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Beautiful land and views; great hiking adventures from camp and enjoyed host Ellen's green thumb sage fields and flowers and the two ponies. Such a great stay. Loved the boulder mountains - beautiful sunrise hikes!

K

Kelsey

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Ellen has a magical property and space in a sacred area. I appreciated her tour and background so much. The camping site was great, and I did little hikes around the property that filled my cup up. I would definitely recommend to anyone! Easy to pair with Jacumba hot springs hotel day pass as well :)

T

Teresa

May 2025

Tent

2 nights at Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Kind hosts provide a private, beautiful, and tranquil location for tent camping.

N

Nikki

April 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

This land is so special and sacred!! There are so many little nooks to explore. I return to this sweet little sage farm every year, and I'm so appreciative of Ellen's hospitality & spunk. It is also very close to the new Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel.

Clarissa

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

10/10!! Ellen’s organic farm is an oasis and we are so lucky that she allows folks in to experience its magic. Solo camped here and felt totally safe and comfortable the whole time. Will be back soon ❤️

S

Stacy

April 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

This location was phenomenal ❤️ the views, hiking, everything was fantastic. I brought my three children, and we all had an amazing time.

M

McKenna

March 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

We loved camping on Ellen’s land. On arrival we were greeted by Ellen, the two mini horses, and three dogs, then got a tour of the property and the various camping options. The property is beautiful and we would definitely come back on a future trip!

M

Martha

March 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Fantastic spot and stunning views! Host was very sweet and passionate about her place. It made it extra special!

S

Sara

March 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

great views. there are only two camp sites for a large property, so it feels very private!! the trail walking area is lovely.

Matt

February 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Ellen's place is magical and she is a gem. We had a great time camping on her beautiful property and exploring the town. Thank you Ellen!

C

Carol

February 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

What a unique and special place Ellen has. She is a welcoming host and spent time with me showing me around. The sage farm is so fragrant and the view from my campsite just awesome. Thank you Helen!

Keith

February 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sagewinds Farm High Desert camp

Love this special place. Will visit again! What a view!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best hot spring camping near Chula Vista guide

Where to go

Chula Vista Surrounds

Chula Vista’s Otay Valley Regional Park features eight miles of scenic hiking and biking trails right in town. There’s also a campground at Sweetwater Summit Regional Park, while RV travelers will find an assortment of RV parks in and around Chula Vista with full hookups, free wifi, and other amenities. At the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Sanctuary, you can explore nature trails and birdwatching on a salt marsh.

Silver Strand State Beach

With 2.5 miles of ocean beach and a half-mile of bay beach, Silver Strand is a local go-to for surfing, swimming, and sunsets. The beachside campground is for self-contained vehicle camping only, meaning no tents.

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

In the Peninsular Range east of Chula Vista, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is an excellent place to beat the SoCal heat in a mountain climate. Cuyamaca Rancho features Lake Cuyamaca, the Sweetwater River, and 100-plus miles of hiking and biking trails through forest and meadows. Campgrounds offer tent camping and RV camping sites with picnic tables, fire pits, restrooms, and showers.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a rugged preserve in the Colorado Desert about 1.5 hours east of Chula Vista. The park features hiking and OHV trails, a spring wildflower bloom, a palm-studded desert oasis, International Dark Sky Park status, and a number of popular camping options. Plan for intense desert conditions in summer and bring plenty of water and sun protection.

When to go

Chula Vista’s coastal location gives it temperate weather that makes for enjoyable camping year-round, but If headed to the mountains, check summer forecasts for high temperatures and adjust accordingly. Desert camping is best in winter and should be avoided in summer. The region’s wildflower bloom is variable but typically occurs in spring.