Lake Camping Near Chula Vista, California, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2025

Lake camping near Chula Vista draws campers looking for easy access to swimming, wildlife-watching, and hiking trails that crisscross the local backcountry. You’ll find over 470 lake-adjacent campsites here, with prices starting at $29 and an average of $120 per night. Most sites allow campfires, welcome pets, and offer showers—essentials after a long hike or a swim. Top picks include Hideout Mountain Lodge (197 reviews), Stallion Oaks Ranch (Retreat) (141 reviews), and Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry (97 reviews). Expect mornings with lake mist and evenings punctuated by distant owl calls—this is where Chula Vista locals go when they need a quick nature fix close to home.

98% (523)

Top-rated campgrounds

Lake camping near Chula Vista draws campers looking for easy access to swimming, wildlife-watching, and hiking trails that crisscross the local backcountry. You’ll find over 470 lake-adjacent campsites here, with prices starting at $29 and an average of $120 per night. Most sites allow campfires, welcome pets, and offer showers—essentials after a long hike or a swim. Top picks include Hideout Mountain Lodge (197 reviews), Stallion Oaks Ranch (Retreat) (141 reviews), and Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry (97 reviews). Expect mornings with lake mist and evenings punctuated by distant owl calls—this is where Chula Vista locals go when they need a quick nature fix close to home.

98% (523)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Hideout Mountain Lodge

95%

(353)

43mi from Chula Vista · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Santa Ysabel, CA

Hideout Mountain Lodge is a peaceful retreat tucked away in the hills of Santa Ysabel, just over an hour from San Diego and a couple of hours from Los Angeles. Spread across 40 acres, the property offers a variety of places to stay — from remodeled cabins with fireplaces and private decks, to vintage trailers, campsites, and RV spots with full hookups and views of Lake Henshaw. This is the kind of place where you slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the landscape. Guests gather around the community firepit, take walks through the oaks, or just relax on a porch and listen to the birds. On weekends, you can wander over to Josie’s Hideout Saloon, our on-site bar and restaurant, known for its live music and western character. We’re just a few minutes from the towns of Santa Ysabel and Julian, easy to get to but far enough away to feel like an escape.

2. Hidden Lake

100%

(26)

15mi from Chula Vista · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Jamul, CA

Discover the perfect escape at this peaceful lakeside camping spot nestled under the shade of majestic oak trees. Located right beside a lake stocked with fish, this serene property offers a quiet retreat for nature lovers and fishing enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, cast a line, or explore the surrounding wilderness, this beautiful location provides an ideal setting for a memorable outdoor experience. Bring your RV or pitch a tent, and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of lakeside camping. Plus, enjoy kayaking, swimming, and more as you soak in everything this lakeside haven has to offer. Book your spot today!

3. Time Traveler Retreat Julian Cabin

100%

(5)

37mi from Chula Vista · 3 sites · Lodging · Julian, CA

Built in the 50’s it is sitting on 2 parcels and is over ½ acre in size. We also have 2 other cabins for rent in Julian for larger groups. The outhouse that you see was used when it was first built and now is for storage. The original owner built the house himself and it was originally on piers alone with no other foundation! There is a folder in the bedroom closet of the house over the years. The decorations were here when we bought it so we kept them to preserve the house’s uniqueness. We treasure this house which is nestled amongst the trees and has so many beautiful birds that visit. Many turkeys love to stop by too! If you hear the deep cooing from the monster doves (who are very shy) you can try to spot one. They are amazing. We really hope you love it as much as we do.

4. Champagne Lakes RV Resort

46mi from Chula Vista · 2 sites · RVs · Escondido, CA

Quaint Comfort. Champagne Lakes 760.749.7572 is the most secluded and spacious RV Park in north San Diego County. Choose from a rustic tree covered site near the lake or a modern site with a large concrete pad that provides easy access and maximum flexibility for today's largest slide-out equipped rigs. Sites are ready with every modern amenity including septic, fresh water, cable television, 50 amp, 30 amp and/or 20 amp electrical service, and internet service is available (fees apply). Natural Beauty. Champagne Lakes RV Resort is nestled in a valley and features huge trees, flowering plants and lots of green lush ground cover. The resort is 50 acres of nature and wildlife preserve, with 3 lakes that are fed by the local mountain streams. Wild ducks and geese have made these lakes their home for over 40 years.

5. Stallion Oaks Ranch (Retreat)

96%

(227)

28mi from Chula Vista · 18 sites · Tents, Lodging · Descanso, CA

In 2003, the Grosvenor Family Foundation donated the 238-acre retreat property located in Descanso to The Unity Center. Much of the land, including more than 12 structures were destroyed during the Cedar Fires in October of 2003. In the years since the fire, members of our community have lovingly tended to the land and slowly nurtured the trees and flowers. The result is acres of pristine wilderness, with hiking trails, a small lake and even a hill of daffodils that bloom every Spring.Our vision is to create a world-class retreat center and campground that promotes spiritual renewal and personal growth in a natural setting, by providing a location for education, inner reflection, positive recreation and acceptance. The Ranch is owned by The Unity Center, a progressive spiritual community that emphasizes living consciously and making a positive difference in the world. This is a sacred and special place . So whether you're planning a retreat, a wedding or a special event, we hope you'll come away from the Ranch feeling renewed.

6. Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry

99%

(141)

38mi from Chula Vista · 6 sites · Lodging · Mount Laguna, CA

Alter Experiences LLC is a glamping & nature travel company based out of San Diego, CA. We're dedicated to creating meaningful experiences in nature & getting people outdoors. Our glamping sites are located in the Cleveland National Forest - Mount Laguna, CA. Our plush tents are nestled in the high mountain forests of San Diego's backcountry - sky islands where pristine nature & wild-life thrives. These are some of the most remote & biologically diverse habitats in all of Southern California. Our sites are handpicked to offer you a truly nature immersive experience. We strive to create the most comfortable outdoor experiences, even at our most remote locations. We take all that's fun about traditional camping & combine it with modern comfort & state of the art equipment. We offer various accommodation styles depending on location. Our Tentsile tree tents are definitely the most popular - a lightweight tree house that uses 3 anchor points to create a "living space" suspended between trees. Our elevated tree tents bring a whole new dimension to camping. Our plush & cozy bell tent was designed with the ultimate comfort in mind! It feature all the amenities you can expect at a hotel - therapeutic mattress, buddy heater, quality linens and more. The provided kitchen comes fully outfitted with everything you need including; hot chocolate, tea, spices and multiple cooking tops. All you need to bring is your cooler and food! Open fires are allowed (weather permitting) and bundles of wood are sold at $8. There are a network of trails to explore nearby, as well as Lake Cuyamaca and the historic town of Julian. You can choose from various restaurants, breweries wineries and we also have two hard cider locations, as well as various other attractions and activities. We also offer mountain bike rentals right from the campsite. Glamp with us and discover all the beautiful and natural wonders of our San Diego Backcountry.

7. Guardian Ranch

39mi from Chula Vista · 2 sites · Lodging · Escondido, CA

Escape to Guardian Ranch, a stunning 40-acre private estate in Escondido overlooking serene Lake Wohlford. This unparalleled sanctuary offers unique Airbnb lodging perfect for large groups, family reunions, or a tranquil luxury escape. What makes us the ultimate Southern California getaway? Our uniqueness lies in our scale and amenities. Choose from seven distinct vacation rental properties, including the spacious Casa Grande, charming cottages, and unique tiny homes with canyon views. We accommodate every traveler — from couples to large parties. Guests can expect a five-star stay with: • Private Pool Access: Sparkling pool amenity • Estate-Sized Group Stays: Accommodations for large parties On-Site Activities: Pickleball courts, scenic hiking trails, indoor games, and fire pit gatherings • Event Hosting: Ideal for intimate weddings, corporate retreats, and large family gatherings (capacity up to 200) • Stunning Views: Rolling hills, lush meadows, and breathtaking night skies for a true nature retreat Book your San Diego vacation rental or luxury event venue today for an unforgettable experience.

Camper favorites near Chula Vista

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Champagne Lakes RV Resort

46mi from Chula Vista · 2 sites · RVs · Escondido, CA

Quaint Comfort. Champagne Lakes 760.749.7572 is the most secluded and spacious RV Park in north San Diego County. Choose from a rustic tree covered site near the lake or a modern site with a large concrete pad that provides easy access and maximum flexibility for today's largest slide-out equipped rigs. Sites are ready with every modern amenity including septic, fresh water, cable television, 50 amp, 30 amp and/or 20 amp electrical service, and internet service is available (fees apply). Natural Beauty. Champagne Lakes RV Resort is nestled in a valley and features huge trees, flowering plants and lots of green lush ground cover. The resort is 50 acres of nature and wildlife preserve, with 3 lakes that are fed by the local mountain streams. Wild ducks and geese have made these lakes their home for over 40 years.

Stallion Oaks Ranch (Retreat)

96%

(227)

28mi from Chula Vista · 18 sites · Tents, Lodging · Descanso, CA

In 2003, the Grosvenor Family Foundation donated the 238-acre retreat property located in Descanso to The Unity Center. Much of the land, including more than 12 structures were destroyed during the Cedar Fires in October of 2003. In the years since the fire, members of our community have lovingly tended to the land and slowly nurtured the trees and flowers. The result is acres of pristine wilderness, with hiking trails, a small lake and even a hill of daffodils that bloom every Spring.Our vision is to create a world-class retreat center and campground that promotes spiritual renewal and personal growth in a natural setting, by providing a location for education, inner reflection, positive recreation and acceptance. The Ranch is owned by The Unity Center, a progressive spiritual community that emphasizes living consciously and making a positive difference in the world. This is a sacred and special place . So whether you're planning a retreat, a wedding or a special event, we hope you'll come away from the Ranch feeling renewed.

Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry

99%

(141)

38mi from Chula Vista · 6 sites · Lodging · Mount Laguna, CA

Alter Experiences LLC is a glamping & nature travel company based out of San Diego, CA. We're dedicated to creating meaningful experiences in nature & getting people outdoors. Our glamping sites are located in the Cleveland National Forest - Mount Laguna, CA. Our plush tents are nestled in the high mountain forests of San Diego's backcountry - sky islands where pristine nature & wild-life thrives. These are some of the most remote & biologically diverse habitats in all of Southern California. Our sites are handpicked to offer you a truly nature immersive experience. We strive to create the most comfortable outdoor experiences, even at our most remote locations. We take all that's fun about traditional camping & combine it with modern comfort & state of the art equipment. We offer various accommodation styles depending on location. Our Tentsile tree tents are definitely the most popular - a lightweight tree house that uses 3 anchor points to create a "living space" suspended between trees. Our elevated tree tents bring a whole new dimension to camping. Our plush & cozy bell tent was designed with the ultimate comfort in mind! It feature all the amenities you can expect at a hotel - therapeutic mattress, buddy heater, quality linens and more. The provided kitchen comes fully outfitted with everything you need including; hot chocolate, tea, spices and multiple cooking tops. All you need to bring is your cooler and food! Open fires are allowed (weather permitting) and bundles of wood are sold at $8. There are a network of trails to explore nearby, as well as Lake Cuyamaca and the historic town of Julian. You can choose from various restaurants, breweries wineries and we also have two hard cider locations, as well as various other attractions and activities. We also offer mountain bike rentals right from the campsite. Glamp with us and discover all the beautiful and natural wonders of our San Diego Backcountry.

Guardian Ranch

39mi from Chula Vista · 2 sites · Lodging · Escondido, CA

Escape to Guardian Ranch, a stunning 40-acre private estate in Escondido overlooking serene Lake Wohlford. This unparalleled sanctuary offers unique Airbnb lodging perfect for large groups, family reunions, or a tranquil luxury escape. What makes us the ultimate Southern California getaway? Our uniqueness lies in our scale and amenities. Choose from seven distinct vacation rental properties, including the spacious Casa Grande, charming cottages, and unique tiny homes with canyon views. We accommodate every traveler — from couples to large parties. Guests can expect a five-star stay with: • Private Pool Access: Sparkling pool amenity • Estate-Sized Group Stays: Accommodations for large parties On-Site Activities: Pickleball courts, scenic hiking trails, indoor games, and fire pit gatherings • Event Hosting: Ideal for intimate weddings, corporate retreats, and large family gatherings (capacity up to 200) • Stunning Views: Rolling hills, lush meadows, and breathtaking night skies for a true nature retreat Book your San Diego vacation rental or luxury event venue today for an unforgettable experience.

Public campgrounds near Chula Vista

Corral Canyon Campground

26mi from Chula Vista · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

Bobcat Meadow Campground

27mi from Chula Vista · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

86%

(7)

Green Valley Campground

32mi from Chula Vista · 57 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

100%

(5)

Arroyo Seco Environmental Camp

32mi from Chula Vista · 1 site · in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Boulder Oaks Campground

32mi from Chula Vista · 47 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

83%

(3)

Granite Springs Environmental Camp

34mi from Chula Vista · 1 site · in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

The Azalea Glen loop trail will take you through the forest that was ravaged by the Cedar Fire of 2003.

96%

(27)

Paso Picacho Campground

34mi from Chula Vista · 170 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

50%

(5)

Group Camp

34mi from Chula Vista · 1 site · in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

100%

(11)

Cibbets Flat Campground

35mi from Chula Vista · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

Los Vaqueros Group Horse Camp

35mi from Chula Vista · 1 site · in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

100%

(1)

El Prado Group Campground

37mi from Chula Vista · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cleveland National Forest

Wooded Hill Group Campground

37mi from Chula Vista · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Cleveland National Forest

Stories from the community

J

Joy

6 days ago

Tent

3 nights at Hideout Mountain Lodge

Cove #1 and 2 are quite spacious and tucked under the shade of large Oak trees, great for staying cool on hot days, maybe not so great if you need to recharge batteries with solar. Showers and toilets are a short walk away. All of the campsites aren't far from the main road so there is considerable road noise during the day, but it quiets down to almost none at night. There are so many stars visible after dark, it's magical. I didn't have the opportunity to meet the property manager, but I did notice him assisting other guests and the housekeeper, Janice watched out for me as a solo female camper, even bringing me leftovers from her Thanksgiving dinner. :)

B

Brandon

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hidden Lake

Dante was great host who offered firewood and use of a canoe. This was a first tent camping trip for my two sons and when it was time to pack up, they both said they wish we had an extra night. We all caught a fish. The relaxing sound of the frogs and owls was perfect. Unzipping the tent door to the view of the lake in the morning was awesome. We saw ducks, turtles, egret, along with a few of Dante’s goats. Very peaceful and remote.

M

Mohammad

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

The area is nice. The cove#2 was shaded which made is pleasant. There are other areas with better views if that's something you care about. There was a place to start a fire in each spot, which is ideal to have a camp fire and sit around it. There are restrooms and also showers. Restrooms are clean

N

Nicholas

October 2025

26 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

Great spot. Water and power hook up. Easy access. Short walk to the great bar at the bottom of the hill. Only down point is it is located next to two windy roads. Sports cars and bikes use these roads over the weekend, so can sound at times like a F1 race!

M

Maia

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

This campground is an amazing site. Great view of the lake and sunset and sunrise. Very private.

Olman

October 2025

19 ft campervan

1 night at Hidden Lake

Camping in front of a beautiful quaint small lake; it doesn’t get any better. Dante was so kind, caring and welcoming. Wish we could have stayed longer. Magical getaway!

J

Jeremy

October 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hidden Lake

Great location. Very private and secluded. Dante the host was great to meet us and show us to the campsites. Kayaks are available to use. The whole setting is very quiet and relaxing. Perfect for two families. Definitely worth visiting again.

Joel

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

Quiet and peaceful. It was good to have a hot shower.

C

Christy

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry

We wanted to take our grand babies who are 2 and 9 months on a trial run to see how they liked it and this was the most amazing place to do that trial run. There was a total of 5 adults and 2 little ones and we had so much room to spread out and get comfy. The bathrooms were a little far of a walk for a toddler who potty trained recently but other than that the site had everything we needed and then some. Anything we weren’t sure of and Shantel was right on it helping us out. The first night we caught 46+mile an hour winds dropping the temps into the 30’s but we turned the propane heaters on and hunkered down in the yurts and were just fine. The tree hammocks were a hit for naps and playing with babies. Lots of chairs around the fire and kitchen supplies. We plan to make this a yearly tradition with our family. So pack your clothes and food and head up! Unplug from life and make some memories.

K

Kelly

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Hideout Mountain Lodge

This campground is fantastic. Has clean facilities and beautiful surroundings.

R

Ryan

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Hideout Mountain Lodge

Lovely view and space. Hosts were great! Everything was orderly and the amenities were nice and polished.

R

Robert

September 2025

24 ft Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hidden Lake

The host was quickly responsive and informative to all my inquiries. He graciously met to guide us to the property, which was great! The fishing was fantastic for kids! They could fish close to the water’s edge and still catch loads of bluegills and even some largemouth bass - they had a blast! We’d certainly go back based on our experience.

M

Monica

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hidden Lake

What an amazing camping experience! The space was clean, the lake was beautiful, and I love that it was dog friendly! Dante is an amazing host and welcomed us with open arms and complete kindness. Highly recommend, the perfect space to get away from the chaos of daily life.

T

Thuan

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Stallion Oaks Ranch (Retreat)

host was very nice and welcoming. beautiful property with lots of stars at night and turkeys in the morning 😎

J

James

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Hideout Mountain Lodge

Campground was clean, had amenities needed, & was taken care of - although it felt cozy you didn't feel like you were scrunched next to other campers and had breathing room. This was a quick overnight for early morning fishing at Lake Henshaw and will easily be where I go when I'm in the are from now on.

J

Joshua

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

Blissful time. A bit of a mix up with someone else being in “my” spot on arrival but they sorted it out immediately and I was much happier with my revised spot (Lower Campground.) The view was breathtaking.

K

Kelly

September 2025

Tent

3 nights at Hideout Mountain Lodge

Love this campground. Has everything you need and feels very safe for a solo female traveler.

L

LeighAnna

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hidden Lake

Amazing spot. The trees provided shade that made the heat bearable. The water felt phenomenal. The kayaks and canoe provided were so much fun! And we were given firewood for a campfire as well. Highly recommend!

There's a fire pit you can use here too (when there's not a fire warning)

J

Jeanette

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hidden Lake

Great location, nice views and comfortable stay! Host was very communicative. Would stay again!

Y

Yiorgo

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

We had a great experience here thanks to the new owner, who was incredibly kind, communicative, and accommodating. The site was peaceful, private, and perfect for a relaxing getaway. Epic views of lake henshaw, great sized campsites, and a stones throw from Josie’s saloon. Will definitely be returning