10 Best San Diego RV Parks for Coastal Camping and City Adventure
With year-round sunshine, sandy beaches, and urban-meets-nature attitude, San Diego is the state's top destination for RV travelers. Whether you're drawn to surfing in Pacific Beach, hiking in East County, or browsing museums in downtown, this beach town offers something for all road tripper types.
One of the best parts? San Diego makes parking your RV easy by the action. From beachfront resorts in Mission Bay to quiet nature preserves outside the city, the region is full of RV-friendly campgrounds with all levels of amenities.
But which San Diego RV parks are well worth your time—and which give you the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and vistas? This guide profiles 10 standout San Diego RV parks, complete with insider recommendations and power planning tips to enable you to make the most out of your vacation.
What Makes RV Camping in San Diego Unique
RV camping in San Diego offers the rare combination of coastal access and city convenience. In just 20 minutes, you can go from surf breaks and state beaches to restaurants, museums, and nightlife. It’s one of the few places where you can enjoy sunset over the Pacific and still be close to gas stations, grocery stores, and urban amenities.
Here’s what makes RVing in San Diego special:
Variety of settings: Choose from beachfront resorts, desert campgrounds, or lakeside retreats. Whether you prefer family-friendly or off-the-grid, there's a spot for you.
Mild weather year-round: San Diego’s climate is ideal for camping in any season, though summer and holidays get crowded.
Flexible options: Some parks offer full hookups and luxury amenities, while others—like state beaches—offer dry camping only.
Urban adventure + outdoor escape: You can paddleboard in the morning and dine in Little Italy by night—all from your RV base camp.
No matter your style, San Diego makes it easy to explore with comfort and flexibility—as long as you plan ahead.
10 Best San Diego RV Parks
No. | RV Park Name | Address | Phone Number |
1 | Campland on the Bay | 2211 Pacific Beach Dr, San Diego, CA 92109 | (858) 581-4200 |
2 | San Diego Metro KOA Resort | 111 North 2nd Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910 | (619) 427-3601 |
3 | Silver Strand State Beach | 5000 CA-75, Coronado, CA 92118 | (619) 435-5184 |
4 | Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve | 9310 Fanita Parkway, Santee, CA 92071 | (619) 596-3141 |
5 | Chula Vista RV Resort | 460 Sandpiper Way, Chula Vista, CA 91910 | (619) 422-0111 |
6 | Mission Bay RV Resort | 2727 De Anza Rd, San Diego, CA 92109 | (877) 219-6900 |
7 | Potrero County Park | 24800 Potrero Park Dr, Potrero, CA 91963 | (619) 478-5212 |
8 | Sweetwater Summit Regional Park | 3218 Summit Meadow Rd, Bonita, CA 91902 | (619) 472-7572 |
9 | Admiral Baker RV Campground | 2400 Admiral Baker Rd, San Diego, CA 92120 | (619) 487-0019 |
10 | Lake Jennings Campground | 9535 Harritt Rd, Lakeside, CA 92040 | (619) 390-1623 |
1. Campland on the Bay – Mission Bay Family-Friendly Fun by the Water
Campland is one of San Diego’s most well-known RV parks, located right on Mission Bay. It’s perfect for families, with a packed activities calendar, bike rentals, beach access, and even a skate park. The vibe is energetic and social—great for those looking to mix coastal camping with kid-friendly amenities.
⚠️ Tip: Book early—it's one of the most popular spots, especially during holidays
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2. San Diego Metro KOA Resort – Chula Vista Urban Comfort Meets Campground Energy
Urban Comfort Meets Campground Energy
This KOA is near-resort quality, not a campground, with its luxury cabins, pool, climbing walls, and even a café. It's within walking distance of downtown and offers full hookups, making it a hit with weekend warriors and long-term visitors.
Why camp here: KOA-quality service and all amenities just minutes away from city life—ideal for first-time RVers or those camping with kids.
Perk: Don't cook every evening—stop by the on-site café
3. Silver Strand State Beach – Coronado
Beachfront Camping with a Raw Coastal Vibe
Want to hear the ocean at sunrise? This public park provides dry camps on the sand between the ocean and bay. No hookups, but amazing views and direct beach access make it a favorite of veteran RVers with solar rigs or battery backup.
Why stay here: For the unexcelled oceanfront setting—bring your own power and indulge in off-grid beach paradise.
⚠️ Tip: Bring a battery-powered fan and lights, especially in summer
4. Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve – Santee (East County)
Peaceful Lakeside Retreat Just Outside the City
Lakeside Haven of Relaxation Just Beyond the City
Encircling seven artificial lakes, this peaceful park is any outdoor enthusiast's paradise. It has full hookups, fishing, hiking trails, and even houseboats in the form of floating cabins. A mere 20 minutes from downtown San Diego, it's close enough to be convenient but far enough to be relaxing.
Why stay here: Relaxing, ocean view option to beach camping, complete with all amenities of a full-service campground.
5. Chula Vista RV Resort – Chula Vista Marina
Waterfront Comfort with Resort-Style Perks
This upscale RV resort has marina views, and easy access to boat rentals, water dining, and boardwalks. Cable TV, full hookups, and landscaped grounds make it one of the best locations for long-term stays or desiring extra comfort..
Why stay here: Resort amenities in a tranquil bayfront setting, less than 10 miles from downtown.
6. Mission Bay RV Resort – Mission Bay
Classic Coastal Camping with Bay Views
South of Campland, this quieter park is for visitors who want Mission Bay to be near, minus all the hustle and bustle. The large sites, with partial or full hookups, line this quieter park. This is ideal for bikers, kayakers, and wildlife watchers.
Why stay here: Clean, convenient, walking distance to all San Diego has to offer—with sunset views across water.
⚠️ Tip: Pack your bikes—Mission Bay is littered with scenic trails
7. Potrero County Park – Near U.S.–Mexico Border
Rustic Camping Near Rolling Hills and Border Trails
This remote interior campground, approximately 45 miles north of San Diego, is suitable for anyone seeking to distance himself or herself from the noise. It features water and electric hookups, trails, and canopies under the oak trees. Weather in this area tends to be warmer compared to elsewhere, so don't forget portable fans or backup power.
Why stay here: Great for hiking, biking, and getting away from it all in nature.
⚠️Tip: Bring extra water and portable power—services are limited
8. Sweetwater Summit Regional Park – Bonita
Hilltop Views and Outdoor Adventures
With panoramic views and over 15 miles of trail, this regional park is great for active campers. It has full hookup RV sites, a children's splash pad, and an equestrian staging area. In close proximity to East County amenities but near attractions too.
Why stay here: A hidden gem with open space and modern facilities, ideal for nature-focused RVers.
9. Admiral Baker RV Campground – Mission Gorge (Military Only)
Exclusive Access with Golf Course Views
Open to active duty and retired military, this RV campground is a peaceful setting with a golf course, pool, and playground in walking distance. Full hookups come with sites and are reasonably priced.
Why stay here: For military families looking for comfort and convenience close to downtown.
10. Lake Jennings Campground – Lakeside
Lakeside Camping with Stellar Stargazing
Perched above Lake Jennings, this scenic RV campground is great for weekend getaways or photography-focused travelers. Full and partial hookups are available, and the open skies make it a prime spot for night sky viewing.
Why stay here: Quiet, scenic, and perfect for relaxing weekends with campfires and stars.
Bonus: Fire pits allowed—don’t forget your marshmallows
Powering Your San Diego RV Trip: What to Know
San Diego may be full of RV-friendly campgrounds, but not all of them offer full hookups—and that’s where smart power planning can make all the difference.
Take Silver Strand State Beach, for example. It’s one of the most beautiful beachfront RV sites in Southern California, but it’s dry camping only. That means no hookups for water, sewer, or electricity. If you're not prepared, you’ll be relying on minimal onboard battery power.
Even in full-service parks, peak seasons like summer and holidays can lead to power fluctuations or limited availability of premium hookup sites. Having your own power source gives you the flexibility to stay longer, go farther, and camp with peace of mind.
That’s where portable power stations and solar panels come in.
A high-capacity solution like the EcoFlow DELTA series can power essentials like:
Pair it with EcoFlow’s portable solar panels, and you can recharge your system using California’s abundant sunshine—even while parked at the beach.
Whether you're dry camping under the stars at Lake Jennings or boondocking on the edge of the bay, portable power keeps your trip smooth, safe, and comfortable.
Packing Tips for San Diego RV Adventures
San Diego’s diverse landscapes—from coastal bays to inland lakes—mean that packing smart can make your RV trip much more enjoyable. Here are some must-haves to consider before you hit the road:
For Sun & Surf:
Reef-safe sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and polarized sunglasses
Light layers and quick-dry clothing for beach and water activities
Snorkeling gear, paddleboards, or kayaks (especially useful at Mission Bay or Santee Lakes)
For Camp Comfort:
Portable power station (like the EcoFlow RIVER 2 or DELTA), great for day trips or dry camping
Solar panels for recharging at locations like Silver Strand or Lake Jennings
LED lanterns or motion-sensor lights for night visibility at parks with minimal lighting
Helpful Extras:
Water pressure regulator and hoses for safe hookups
Leveling blocks for uneven terrain
First aid kit and extra fresh water for desert or inland parks
The more self-sufficient your setup, the more freedom you’ll have to stay longer at that perfect beachfront site or venture into San Diego’s quieter inland gems.
Conclusion: From Beach Days to Stargazing Nights
Whether you’re camping along the shore at Mission Bay or enjoying a quiet night under the stars at Lake Jennings, San Diego is a dream destination for RV travelers. With its mix of full-service resorts, family-friendly parks, and off-grid beach sites, there’s something here for every kind of explorer.
But to make the most of your trip, it pays to be prepared. Choosing the right RV park is important—but so is having the freedom to power your adventure anywhere. With the right gear, a reliable power source, and a sense of curiosity, you’re ready to unlock everything San Diego has to offer—on your schedule, and on your terms.