The best vintage trailer rentals near San Diego, California

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.

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.

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.

98% (320)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

97%

(79)

29mi from San Diego · 3 sites · Lodging · Oceanside, CA

Unique Glamping Escape Ocean breezes and mountain views in historic Plumosa Heights, Oceanside's oldest neighborhood! Minimize your footprint, while maximizing your visit to Oceanside! Our entire property is solar-powered. Our property is nestled in a private cul de sac on the edge of a canyon. Site 1. Our meticulously restored 1967 Boles Aero Trailer Paz located in a private, gated space with eastern corridor views. Enjoy the full size organic futon, there is a refrigerator, coffee maker, basic cookware and glassware. Its equipped with a water-less, composting toilet, standing shower, towels, beach chairs & umbrella. This unique space is perfect for a romantic getaway for two or a solo adventure. There is space outside to relax with a fire pit and lights. Site 2. Consider our Cielo Loft if more space is what you need. Unwind in our cozy, vintage 2-bedroom, 2-bath loft with garden and eastern corridor views. A larger space with 1 queen size futon and 1 full size bed, full bathrooms, towels, a fully equipped kitchen, coffee maker and a t.v. in the living room. Hangout on the upper landing in the morning with a hot cup of coffee. From our spot, you can walk through the tree lined neighborhoods to charming cafes, vintage stores, a variety of restaurants and the iconic Oceanside pier, all within a mile! If its good food you enjoy, our local breweries and restaurants satisfy every appetite. Every Thursday morning brings the charming downtown Farmers Market with art, locally grown fresh fruits and veggies as well as delicious prepared food. Thursday evenings come alive with the bustling Sunset Market's local artists, music, and a variety of delectable food vendors. These are both located in downtown Oceanside. Its easy to explore beyond Oceanside too! Our location between San Diego and Los Angeles makes day trips a breeze with the train station just a half-mile away. Easily venture to cities to the south, north and even east for the day via the train. Or for those who prefer to explore by bike, we have hybrid bicycles to rent at a flat rate; explore the beach and neighborhoods on two wheels. Ridecircuit.com/oceanside offers local transportation services within Oceanside if needed. The fares are moderate and the service picks you up at your location.

2. Hideout Mountain Lodge

95%

(352)

36mi from San Diego · 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.

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.

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.

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.

98% (320)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

97%

(79)

29mi from San Diego · 3 sites · Lodging · Oceanside, CA

Unique Glamping Escape Ocean breezes and mountain views in historic Plumosa Heights, Oceanside's oldest neighborhood! Minimize your footprint, while maximizing your visit to Oceanside! Our entire property is solar-powered. Our property is nestled in a private cul de sac on the edge of a canyon. Site 1. Our meticulously restored 1967 Boles Aero Trailer Paz located in a private, gated space with eastern corridor views. Enjoy the full size organic futon, there is a refrigerator, coffee maker, basic cookware and glassware. Its equipped with a water-less, composting toilet, standing shower, towels, beach chairs & umbrella. This unique space is perfect for a romantic getaway for two or a solo adventure. There is space outside to relax with a fire pit and lights. Site 2. Consider our Cielo Loft if more space is what you need. Unwind in our cozy, vintage 2-bedroom, 2-bath loft with garden and eastern corridor views. A larger space with 1 queen size futon and 1 full size bed, full bathrooms, towels, a fully equipped kitchen, coffee maker and a t.v. in the living room. Hangout on the upper landing in the morning with a hot cup of coffee. From our spot, you can walk through the tree lined neighborhoods to charming cafes, vintage stores, a variety of restaurants and the iconic Oceanside pier, all within a mile! If its good food you enjoy, our local breweries and restaurants satisfy every appetite. Every Thursday morning brings the charming downtown Farmers Market with art, locally grown fresh fruits and veggies as well as delicious prepared food. Thursday evenings come alive with the bustling Sunset Market's local artists, music, and a variety of delectable food vendors. These are both located in downtown Oceanside. Its easy to explore beyond Oceanside too! Our location between San Diego and Los Angeles makes day trips a breeze with the train station just a half-mile away. Easily venture to cities to the south, north and even east for the day via the train. Or for those who prefer to explore by bike, we have hybrid bicycles to rent at a flat rate; explore the beach and neighborhoods on two wheels. Ridecircuit.com/oceanside offers local transportation services within Oceanside if needed. The fares are moderate and the service picks you up at your location.

2. Hideout Mountain Lodge

95%

(352)

36mi from San Diego · 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.

Stories from the community

L

Laura

5 days ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

Cleanliness, comfort and close to home, perfect retreat at an affordable price

c

catherine

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

I loved the location, decor, and privacy all in an urban space. Would recommend if you just need to crash and wanna see this beautiful part of California. I do wish the oven was functional so only cook stove top while your there. Best cozy vibes!

D

Debany

October 2025

1 night at 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

I loved this space! So cute and thoughtful, not a far walk from the ocean/restaurants. Would definitely stay again.

D

Darek

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

Great location! Nice camper with all the amenities.

D

Delaney

September 2025

Weekend Trip to 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

Was everything we wanted for the weekend and more! A beautiful site to hang out at, the camper was gorgeous on the inside, very modern with just enough amenities! Can't wait to come back!

R

Ryno13

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

Absolutely loved this place. Amazing views, very nice people around and working the spot. Will definitely be back

J

Julissa

September 2025

Weekend Trip to 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

This was such a peaceful expirence waking up in the morning seeing the sun rise over the mountains walking to the beach and drinking coffee at the local cafes coming back for a cozy tea in a space that took me back in time with the clasic interior of 1967 really helped me reset and tune in i used the radio cd and caset player and cooked some yummy foods I enjoyed every moment in this space thank you

M

Mark

September 2025

Weekend Trip to 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

The camper was a great weekend getaway. Check in and out was very smooth. Great location, great times. Will definitely be recommending to friends.

D

Donald

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

I was very pleased with the accommodations of the vintage RV. It was clean and had ample space, even though I was alone at the time. The area had a beautiful view of the lake and the surrounding lands with bovine. I would definitely recommend the Mountain Lodge to others.

E

Ethan

August 2025

1 night at 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

Very clean, great location, outdoor space, has all the amenities you need. Great host, easy process of checking in/out.

A

Alison

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

Our vintage camper rental was a ton of fun. As typical tent campers, this was a new experience and a bit more luxurious. The styling of the camper was cute and playful. We enjoyed exploring the property, starry nights, and raging bonfires. The staff was helpful and friendly and the overall experience was excellent. We took a day trip to Fort Cross Old Timey adventures and Julian. Thank you for the good summer memories!

T

Tammy

July 2025

1 night at 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

This airstream was perfect! Very clean and private from the main house and neighbors. Lots of small, unexpected amenities, games, beach chairs, etc. Would absolutely stay again.

M

Mike

July 2025

4 nights at 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

I loved my stay. Perfect little escape in Oceanside!

T

Tiana

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

The trailer was cozy, well-maintained, and well-appointed! Lots of kitchen supplies including plates, utensils, cups, a few pots and pans, knives, and cutting boards. Nights were super quiet and peaceful. We had a very restorative weekend. Another reviewer said the shower was cold - for what it’s worth, it’s nice and hot now! Definitely coming back.

A

Alan

June 2025

Weekend Trip to 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

Wonderful little place. Cozy trailer in a quiet neighborhood. Absolutely recommended. Be aware that if you're a bit bigger than me (5'8" average build), you might feel a bit tight in there, but you will most likely enjoy the aesthetic nonetheless.

S

Samantha

June 2025

4 nights at 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

Loved camping here, hosts were super nice and the trailer was very cute and within walking distance of the beach and fun parts of town. The camper is very nicely updated and the site itself has plenty of privacy and all kinds of tools and dishes for cooking on-site as desired. Wouldn't hesitate to stay there another time if I'm in Oceanside again.

K

Kathleen

June 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

I'm giving a 10/10. Me and my family enjoyed our spontaneous trip to Hideout. We were extra happy with the view, the outdoor lighting, the A/C unit, the outdoor shower with hot water, and the comfort of the camper.

J

Jason

May 2025

Weekend Trip to 2 Sites-Vintage Trailer/Roomy Loft

Javier & Belinda went above and beyond to accomodate us on a last minute visit to Oceanside. The adorable vintage camper fits the aesthetic of their entire property beautifully. It has it's own entrance and garden with patio and firepit, and feels safe and homey. We enjoyed the 30ish minute walk to the boardwalk, explored town, had a great sushi dinner, and walked it off on the way back. As others noted there is noise from the I-5 freeway in the distance. To us it was like white noise, but I can see that earplugs would help for those sensitive sleepers. We'll definitely keep this place on the top of our list for our next Oceanside visit. Thanks, Javier & Belinda!

M

Marissa

January 2025

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

This site was really nice for an overnight stay! We really enjoyed the view and amenities available in the camper (bathroom, kitchen, dining area). There’s also a lookout point which has a beautiful view of the area. The site has a shower but the water was just barely above cold temperature. However it was tolerable & nice to have the option to shower after a day of hiking.

Resaleen

January 2025

Weekend Trip to Hideout Mountain Lodge

This spot was generously spaced, offering plenty of privacy and a peaceful atmosphere. The setup was well-designed. The RV has everything you need and very clean. Highly recommend for anyone seeking a cozy getaway with great hosts!

Other options near San Diego

Sunset Hideaway Farm

88%

(4)

36mi from San Diego · 35 sites · Pauma Valley, CA

Located just 6 miles from Palomar Mountain Observatory- Basecamp is the perfect location to stay at. This historic campground is surrounded by vast farmlands growing mostly citrus and avocados. Drive through Pauma Valley and enjoy the views before you start heading up the mountain to Basecamp. The campground itself is undGo for a hike, star gaze and enjoy the outdoors!er a canopy of century old oak trees, along with the trailers and glamping tents, there are tent sites, sites with hookups as far as water, power and sewage.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best vintage trailers near San Diego guide

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.