Camping near San Diego, California

Enjoy year-round beach camping with sun, sand, and surf in America's Finest City.

93% (12661 reviews)

Popular camping styles for San Diego

Under $50

Within one hour of San Diego

12 top campgrounds near San Diego

92%
(149)

The Crest Co-Op

3 sites · RVs1 acre · Spring Valley, San Diego
After spending a few years traveling around the world and working remotely, we chose San Diego to settle down and start a family. Given our unconventional lifestyle and the old-school mentality of mortgage lenders, it took us a while to buy our first home. It is a fixer-upper house with about an acre of land. We recently added a garden, citrus trees, grill, patio, and plan to add more amenities for campers. We love our home and the land around it, and we hope you do too! Since we chose San Diego out of anywhere in the world to live, we have tons of great recommendations to enhance your stay. We are open to both short-term and long-term stays. We thank you for sharing our space that we call the Crest Co-op, and we thank you for contributing to our never-ending-projects-fund. People that stay with us love our views, both facing north where you will see the 3 largest peaks in the region, and at the top of our driveway where you can see the ocean and downtown San Diego. The sunsets are unreal! Our guests also love the recommendations. As avid travelers, we can help you find the best restaurant, beach, brewery, hike, or whatever you are into. **PLEASE READ TO ENSURE THIS IS A GOOD MUTUAL FIT** When you submit a request or message, please let us know what kind of vehicle you have, especially the length. Please note that if the total length of your vehicle (for those with trailers that includes the length of the truck) should be under 35 ft. This is a general guideline since we've found larger vehicles are difficult to back down our driveway. We have backed a 33 ft airstream down the driveway with a 20ft truck so it is doable if you are a pro at backing up, but please note this before booking. Also please let us know if you plan to use electricity or water, and add on the electricity since this costs us a lot of money. San Diego Gas and Energy is the most expensive energy in the country and our average electricity bill is over $700 per month, so we unfortunately have to pass on some of these costs if you decide to plug in. Wifi and water are free. Last, if you tell us a little about yourself and what you're looking to do in San Diego we can try to make your stay more enjoyable with conversation and recommendations. See ya soon!
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$40
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San Diego Canyon Creek

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · El Cajon, San Diego
As you enter into our little oasis, you'll see why we want to share the space. It is a great environment to get away from the city or pass through on your road trip. The driveway enters down to our creek-side camping where a hammock under a tree awaits a quiet reader or a bird watcher. It's just a 30 minute drive to the beach, a short walk to the neighborhood park- equipped with a playground, or a five minute drive to a local ecological reserve containing multiple trails. If you'd like to hang out on the property, we offer chairs and an umbrella with each campsite to lounge in while enjoying the fresh air and nature. In addition, we have a propane-powered fire pit, an outdoor food preparation area, and a flush toilet. Fun Fact: Harbison Canyon was named after John Stewart Harbison - aka the King of the Bee Keepers. He arrived with over one hundred colonies of bees in 1874 and within 7 years he became the worlds largest honey producer. Today there are just a few bees in the area.
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$39
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99%
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Cinnamon Rock Retreat

10 sites · Lodging, Tents32 acres · San Diego Country Estates, San Diego
Welcome to Cinnamon Rock Retreat! Experience the beauty of our self-sustainable homestead, nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Ramona. At Cinnamon Rock Retreat, we offer a variety of camping options to cater to a wide range of experiences. Whether you prefer RV sites, tent sites, camper van sites, or Bell Tent accommodations, we have something for everyone. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature. No matter the time of day, you will be captivated by the stunning views of sprawling trees and wild flowers and bushes, from glorious sunrises to calming sunsets. Indulge in simplicity and let go of the stresses of the "9-5" routine. Here, you can truly connect with life's natural rhythm and find gentle quietude and peacefulness that rejuvenates the mind and soul. Cinnamon Rock Retreat is proud to be the host of Eden Ancient Design, a holistic healing and trauma care center. This partnership allows us to work with you to address your personal healing needs and bring balance to your body, mind, soul, and spirit. Through the use of bioenergetic frequencies, and herbal remedies we strive to reset your original design, following in the footsteps of visionaries like Tesla and Ryfe. We firmly believe in the power of holistic, natural methods to improve and maintain your health. Contact us today to schedule your stay and take advantage of the wide range of services offered including ceremonial plant experiences and organic farming. Cinnamon Rock Retreat and Eden Anciemt design are a haven for healers and those seeking healing. Allow us to welcome you home. If you're in need of a fresh and revitalizing experience, join us on a journey to become part of our self-sustainable community. We extend our hand to you, inviting you to learn and grow alongside us. Our innovative homesteaders are eager to share this incredible site with you, providing a peaceful escape from the fast pace of suburban life. Our campgrounds offer private sites, surrounded by local flora and fauna that enhance the natural beauty of the landscape. Reserve your spot today, whether you're looking for a tent or RV site, a cozy camper van, or a Bell Tent experience. Planning a special event? Look no further than Cinnamon Rock Retreat. Our stunning atmosphere is the perfect setting for weddings, anniversaries, family reunions, arts and crafts fairs, and more. Conveniently located just a short distance from Main Street in Ramona, and a scenic drive away from the charming town of Santa Ysabel, famed hiking trails, and the quaint village of Julian, Cinnamon Rock Retreat and Eden Ancient Design Center await your arrival. Please message us for more information or to book your campsite or event today! Warm regards, The Cinnamon Rock Retreat and Eden Ancient Design Center family.
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$45
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Campo Nopalito

5 sites · Lodging15 acres · Valley Center, San Diego
Welcome to Nopalito Farm! We’re so happy you’ve decided to spend some time on this beautiful property! In case you’re interested, here are a few interesting things about our farm. Nopalito Farm has been in operation since late 2014, but the property itself has been a working farm for over 50 years. Lemons and avocados were the primary crops from the 70’s through the 00’s, and are still prominent throughout our 15 acres. Our predecessors then diversified the growing operation by planting a wide range of fruit trees ranging from guavas and passion fruit to peaches and figs. For a decade, hops were grown on 2 acres and were sold to breweries throughout southern California. We’ve since replaced the hop yard with perennial flowers, but continue to cultivate a wide variety of delicious fruits.
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$90
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Coastal Rancho Soledad

4 sites · RVs2 acres · Chula Vista, San Diego
Your perfect base camp to relax, "work" remotely, and explore San Diego from a coastal environment. Designed to welcome RVing guests in a "city-close but just far enough away" ranch-style setting. A must-stop refuge whether returning from your Baja expedition or starting a new one! ******************Conveniently located :-) 3 miles from bay marina/boat ramp 4 miles from Pacific Ocean beaches and State Park (Imperial Beach, Silver Strand, Coronado Beach) 5 miles from US/Mexico border Convenience and grocery stores within walking distance Public transportation and trolley line accessible *******************What to expect: County residential estate at the end of a private gravel road in a tree-lined valley through "rural looking" properties. Ample turn-around on site suitable for trailers and larger vehicles. Neighboring residential subdivision 200 feet away separated by hillside. A screened area with "classic" trucks and "legacy" equipment next to two shipping containers. An ambitious landscape design with planting in progress. ******************What we hope you find: A glimpse of the Pacific Ocean and a coastal breeze to greet you on arrival. Spaces for solitude and reflection. Spaces for conversation. Space for celebration. Please note 3D view from space on most mapping services is outdated (zombie-land-like landscape is no longer).
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$50
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93%
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Thundering Hawk Retreat

8 sites · Lodging50 acres · Valley Center, San Diego
Welcome to our hipcamp located on a 50-acre flower farm in the heart of Valley Center. As soon as you arrive, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery, and the sound of the creek flowing nearby will immediately put you at ease. Our serene setting is the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Our property is bursting with color and nature, thanks to the many types of flowers and plants that we cultivate here. You'll love wandering through the fields and taking in the beauty that surrounds you. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful getaway, our hipcamp is the perfect place to disconnect and recharge. At night, the stars shine bright overhead, and the peaceful sounds of the creek and wildlife create a calming atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else. Whether you're camping in a tent, staying in a camper, or enjoying one of our clamping bell tents, you'll be able to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our farm. We can't wait to share our little slice of paradise with you! Follow us on Instagram @thunderinghawkretreat
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$99
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Splitrock Farm and Retreat

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents101 acres · Fallbrook, San Diego
About Splitrock Farm and Retreat Far Away, Close to Home For more information... Visit our website www.splitrock.camp Instagram page @splitrockfarmandretreat. Tag your photos #splitrockfarmandretreat #SplitrockFAR #farawayclosetohome Or, contact the Camp Host through Hipcamp direct message or the direct line 760-645-5431. Splitrock Farm and Retreat started in January 2021 after a global search of a place to set roots, live off the land, and create an amazing place for recreation, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Splitrock Farm Splitrock was part of a 160-acre avocado farm that prospered from 1970 to 2017, generating over 1million pounds of avocados per year until the previous owners switched off the water in 2017. Ben purchased 101 acres in 2021 with plans to harvest the dead avocado trees for firewood and replant with organic, sustainable crops such as grapes, citrus trees, and flowers. Splitrock Retreat Splitrock's attraction comes from its unique groves, magnificent granite boulders, and sweeping vistas. Mixed within the avocado groves are several ancient groves and solitary trees that include 200 foot tall pines, hundreds of old oaks, and soaring palms. Freckled throughout the hillsides are thousands of humongous granite boulders, offering a prehistoric feel to the landscape. Above all, Splitrock offers unrivaled views. Over 40 miles of coastline includes views to Point Loma, the Carlsbad power station, and the Pendleton Hospital. To the northeast are views of near 11K foot snowy peaks of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio, with rolling hills of De Luz and Fallbrook in the foreground.
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$22
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Reid Ranch

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Vista, San Diego
Reid Ranch is located in North County less than 10 miles from the beach. You will have your own site with a private fire pit uniquely placed in the natural Granite rocks. Your experience will be one of a kind. So many activities near by. Close to numerous breweries and great wineries. I have lived in San Diego for over 30 years so I can give recommendations to the best of what San Diego has to offer. Downtown is a 45 minute drive or you have access to the train nearby. We have 2 hold tubs that can be added on that over look the coast. Located in the Mar Vista Valley only eight miles from the Pacific Ocean. We enjoy the best weather in the world. The ocean breeze along with gorgeous sunsets adds to the experience. Our private fire pit nestled in the granite boulders is truly one of a kind. We hope you come experience our slice of heaven for yourself soon.
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$55
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Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents67 acres · Palomar Mountain, San Diego
This land has been a community gathering space for the Native's Ceremony and Healing Space for over a thousand years. Feast your eyes upon the Matates and traces of the people that once gathered here so long ago.Upon the mid 1800's we had a Settler named Nate Harrison find this to be the ideal space, and he set up homestead here, and lived an amazing full life. He was to become the first African American to aquire land here in San Diego County, and his homestead remains to this day; studied by archaeology students to this day.Sensitive habitat and magic lies within our gates, and we must approach the mountain as we would any sacred space; with RESPECT.We welcome you to enjoy Nate's land and inspire who you are deep inside your heart.
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$60
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Bailes Farm

3 sites · Lodging60 acres · Fallbrook, San Diego
One of the last remaining undeveloped parts of Southern California, De Luz Heights is located adjacent to the Cleveland National Forest, and the Santa Margarita River (just a few miles from the campsite). This 12-month flowing river is the only one in Southern California that has never been altered or dammed by humans, and features a state-managed hiking trail with many water holes along the way with clear, clean water to dip into. On my 60 acres, there are no roads going through or next to the property. My land is 13 miles from the Pacific ocean and enjoys a relatively mild yearly climate. Giant boulders provide topographical relief and offer platforms from which to enjoy the view of the nearby Santa Margarita Mountains. The valley views are filled with olive groves, vineyards, and horse ranches. The Camp Pendleton Marine Corps base is nearby, so you might hear some artillery in the distance on some occasions. The campsite embraces all the comforts of "glamping": a hot shower, composting toilet, beds with sheets provided, gas grill with a stovetop, pots and pans, kitchenware, a sink, picnic table, shaded deck, sofa, lounge chairs, and propane fire pit. The basics are provided: toilet paper, paper towels, purified drinking water, towels, sheets, cooking oil, etc. Campers need to bring their own blankets. I've created a network of hiking trails for especially fit hikers looking for a more rigorous hike than the nearby Santa Margarita River Trail. My trails lead through creek beds, over boulders, through rocky crags, with views of the Pacific ocean on a clear day. Hikers on my trails need to wear proper hiking boots with good traction. Sections of my trails will require bouldering with hands and feet. Expect to have fatigued quadriceps, some scrapes, and a sweaty hat brim. The campsite is accessible with a two-wheel drive vehicle; I drive a Kia Forte out there regularly. However, some tips when driving a two-wheel drive car: when going uphill on a dirt road, try to keep some momentum of about 12-15 MPH. If you stop and try to start again, your tires will spin out. If that happens, just reverse down the hill, and try it again with more momentum.
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$129
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Robin's Nest

5 sites · Lodging, RVs5 acres · Ramona, San Diego
Robin's Nest is a 5-acre rescue ranch for creatures, large & small. Currently, we're home to 3 chihuahuas & a two Australian Cattle Dogs (Lily, Alberto, Julio - aka The Three Chimigos and Oakley & Eddie the blue heelers), 4 pot belly pigs (Michael, Falkor, Meg, & Ayla - aka The Three Little Pigs +1), a mini horse (Phinneas), a mini donkey (Donkey), and a Buckskin Quarter Horse (Tivio), two lambs (Dolly & Reba), and 4 alpacas (Fern, Woodrow, Gandalf, & Gus). We have a lot of flat, usable space, but we also have some impressive boulders, hidden nooks and crannies to explore, and beautiful, mature trees. It's our little slice of heaven! Learn more about this land: Join the royal court and stay in our 1975 Airstream Sovereign Land Yacht! Immerse yourself in a budding rescue ranch with pot belly pigs, mini horse, and mini donkey, or take a romp on our 5 acres with lots of hidden gems to discover, or explore the many hiking trails nearby (Mt. Woodson, Potato Chip Rock, Iron Mountain). You also have access to a relaxing hot tub/jacuzzi & brand new 300sf deck. The Airstream has one King bed with a super comfy mattress and the dinette turns in to an additional King sleeping space. If you want a true immersive, farm experience, ask about our add-on experiences including grooming the animals, helping at feed time, and cleaning their pens! There's plenty of great space to ride your bikes, and it's proven to be a hit with the kiddos! The Airstream is new to the ranch and is a work in progress, but you'll love the charm of hanging out in a very cool vintage trailer. We'll soon be adding some layers of paint, shine, and lots of love, so make sure to follow our progress in fixing the ole girl up! Our location is also unique because we are fully fenced in and have a separate turn out space for your horses (check add-ons for camping with your horse). We also have a small 1954 Camper ("Lucy") that can act as a second bedroom for more sleeping space (check for add-on). **WHEELCHAIR ACCESS: We can provide a ramp for the Airstream for accessibility, though please be aware the camper is small, likely not wide enough for a standard wheelchair, and the bathroom is also small and doesn't meet ADA standards. Please ask if you have questions?!
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$75
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Faye Park

7 sites · Tents2 acres · Vista, San Diego
Hello beautiful humans! Welcome to Faye Park; an Integration Sanctuary. Come here to stop doing and start being. Slow down, connect with nature, lay under elder trees, or sit by the fire. We are located 10 miles inland from the coast, where the ocean breeze still kisses our trees. This neighborhood is pretty rural, where everyone has land and a host of wildlife to encounter. A few artists live on site and love to share live music jam sessions and projects. We also offer add-ons such as fire cupping/body work, meals, and integrative therapy. Just being here will reset your mind, body, and spirit. We and the land look forward to holding space for you.
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Camping near San Diego guide

It's easy to enjoy the best of the southern California lifestyle in sunny San Diego, just 30 minutes north of the California-Mexico border. A multicultural metropolis, it’s also blessed with a rich history, natural beauty, and more than 60 beaches and 70 miles of coastline. Mild temperatures and sunny weather makes it ideal for year-round camping and outdoor recreation. Numerous camping options within San Diego county and nearby make it easy for campers to spend the night under the stars, fall asleep to the soothing sound of the surf, or wake up under a canopy of trees.

Where to Go

San Diego and Coronado

Stay close to downtown San Diego at a private camping, glamping, or RV park, like the family-friendly Campland at Mission Bay. Across San Diego Bay, Silver Strand State Beach offers RV sites near Coronado, and further inland, Sweetwater Summit Regional Park has campsites with hookups and an aquatic playground. Stay in a floating cabin, or lakeside tent or RV site at Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve, or head near the border, where the Tijuana River Valley Regional Park offers campground, yurts, and a diverse ecosystem. For a unique experience, camp overnight in the San Diego Zoo.

Encinitas, Carlsbad, Oceanside, and San Clemente

Head north along the coast for endless waves, sandy stretches, and the ultimate beach camping experience, with several public oceanfront camping options. Many beach campgrounds are situated on bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and offer great ocean views and water access, along with picnic tables, fire pits, restrooms, and camp stores. Options include the popular San Elijo State Beach near Cardiff, South Carlsbad State Beach, San Onofre State State Beach, and San Clemente State Beach. In Oceanside, camp with your RV at Harbor Beach.

Julian

For a camping trip getaway in the mountains, head inland to the gold rush town of Julian. Go hiking and biking along the extensive trail network at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, or play in Lake Cuyamaca, with spacious camping spots at Green Valley and Paso Picacho. William Heise County Park offers tent camping, RV camping, and cabins, while you can enjoy a high desert camping experience at Vallecito County Park. Nearby Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers hundreds of miles of trails, great stargazing, and developed, primitive, and dispersed campsites. For forests and wilderness camping, head north into the Cleveland National Forest.

When to go

San Diego's mild weather and many sunny days make it a year-round destination. It's especially busy over the summer when everyone flocks to the ocean and beaches, and the city hosts numerous festivals. Visit in spring and fall to escape the crowds, but still enjoy nice weather. Spring is also a great time for wildflowers in nearby Coronado, Carlsbad, and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Expect some rain showers and cold ocean water in winter.

Know before you go

  • Although San Diego has a public bus and trolley system, you'll want a car to get around easily, especially to venture further up the coast or inland.
  • Beach campgrounds are very popular, especially in summer, so book campsites well in advance. 
  • Be aware of fire restrictions and bans. Some beaches do not allow campfires.
  • Bring or rent a wetsuit if you plan on being in the water in winter.
  • Pets are prohibited at many San Diego beaches and park trails.

Frequently asked questions about camping near San Diego

Can you camp overnight on the beach in San Diego?

Yes, you can go beach camping in San Diego in certain areas, but camping in the sand is pretty much forbidden on public land. Still, bluff-top beach campsites and RV spots can be booked at South Carlsbad State Beach and San Elijo State Beach, while Silver Strand State Beach offers only RV camping with water and electric hookups. It is illegal to sleep overnight at Mission Beach. Find more beach camping near San Diego.

Where can you camp for free in San Diego?

Most dispersed BLM camping near San Diego is free, but some campsites do require a fee, and Leave No Trace principles always apply. Cleveland National Forest allows permitted, dispersed camping, and within Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Julian (a 2-hour drive from the city), Fish Creek and Blair Valley Campground are popular primitive camping spots.

Are San Diego County Parks open for camping?

San Diego County Parks are open for camping, as are California state parks near San Diego like Cuyamaca Canyon State Park and Palomar Mountain State Park. Within San Diego County, you can go camping at nearly a dozen regional parks, including William Heise County Park, Agua Caliente County Park, and Guajome Regional Park, all of which have either camping cabins or tent campsites.

Where can I buy camping gear in San Diego?

San Diego is home to a number of camping goods stores, where you can buy camping supplies, backpacking gear, and RV essentials. Big names include REI in Clairemont, Walmart, 5.11 Tactical off of I-8 in Mission Valley, and Big 5 Sporting Goods (near Old Town), all in addition to the locally owned Nomad Ventures in Escondido. TopoTerra is a downtown San Diego outpost for camping gear rentals.

Is car camping legal in San Diego?

Car camping is illegal on San Diego city streets. Different from temporary camping, the city has a "vehicle habitation ban," meaning it is illegal to sleep overnight or live in a car in San Diego. It’s also illegal to park an oversized vehicle or RV overnight (between 2 and 6am) on public San Diego streets without a permit. Your safest bet for car camping in San Diego is in designated camping areas, like a private Hipcamp campsite just outside of town.

Can you camp anywhere in San Diego?

No, you cannot camp anywhere in San Diego County (even if car camping or backpacking), but camping is allowed in San Diego in some state parks, on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, and on some private lands where you can find professional campgrounds, RV parks, or Hipcamps.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, you cannot camp anywhere in San Diego County (even if car camping or backpacking), but camping is allowed in San Diego in some state parks, on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, and on some private lands where you can find professional campgrounds and RV parks.

Yes, you can go beach camping in San Diego in certain areas, but camping in the sand is pretty much forbidden on public land. Still, bluff-top beach campsites and RV spots can be booked at South Carlsbad State Beach and San Elijo State Beach, while Silver Strand State Beach offers only RV camping with water and electric hookups. It is illegal to sleep overnight at Mission Beach. Find more beach camping near San Diego.

Most dispersed BLM camping near San Diego is free, but some campsites do require a fee, and Leave No Trace principles always apply. Cleveland National Forest allows permitted, dispersed camping, and within Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Julian (a 2-hour drive from the city), Fish Creek and Blair Valley Campground are popular primitive camping spots.

San Diego County Parks are open for camping, as are California state parks near San Diego like Cuyamaca Canyon State Park and Palomar Mountain State Park. Within San Diego County, you can go camping at nearly a dozen regional parks, including William Heise County Park, Agua Caliente County Park, and Guajome Regional Park, all of which have either camping cabins or tent campsites.

San Diego is home to a number of camping goods stores, where you can buy camping supplies, backpacking gear, and RV essentials. Big names include REI in Clairemont, Walmart, 5.11 Tactical off of I-8 in Mission Valley, and Big 5 Sporting Goods (near Old Town), all in addition to the locally owned Nomad Ventures in Escondido. TopoTerra is a downtown San Diego outpost for camping gear rentals.

Car camping is illegal on San Diego city streets. Different from temporary camping, the city has a "vehicle habitation ban," meaning it is illegal to sleep overnight or live in a car in San Diego. It's also illegal to park an oversized vehicle or RV overnight (between 2 and 6am) on public San Diego streets without a permit. Your safest bet for car camping in San Diego is in designated camping areas, like a private Hipcamp campsite just outside of town.

While you cannot directly camp on the sand in San Diego, there are beach campgrounds nearby that offer tent camping with ocean views. Some popular options include:

Keep in mind that these campgrounds are very popular, so it's essential to reserve your spot in advance. Visit the San Diego beach camping page for more information and options.

Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.