Camping season is upon us here in San Diego, as the school year draws to a close. While camping in San Diego is very doable all year, there is nothing better than summer nights under the stars, complete with campfire songs and sticky s’mores.
Now, before I dive into the best San Diego campgrounds, I think it needs to be mentioned that everyone has their own preferences, specifically when it comes to HOW to camp. If you’re a glamper or require a daily shower you probably won’t like at least half of my list. While some of these campgrounds aren’t high end, they also aren’t completely primitive (no amenities). But each of these campgrounds offers something special, and most will give your family a beautiful, quiet, nature immersed experience.
So if you’re looking for a fun place to camp with your family, look no further. Here is a list of the best family friendly campgrounds in San Diego for summer camping. And if you’re heading to a reservable campground, be sure to make your reservations now as some campgrounds book up fast, especially on weekends and holidays.
Cibbets Flat
This is our family’s personal favorite. It’s a small, rugged, first come first served campground, but the true gem is the first few campsites in the park. Two are walk-in, across a bridge, and are very quiet and secluded. But our number one site pick is the second on the left, which is a large site right next to the tiny creek. With water play, rocks, a bridge, and solid tree cover, this site is a child’s nature-play wonderland.
Paso Picacho
The next door neighbour to Green Valley Falls, Paso Picacho offers a plethora of tall pines giving ample shade and slightly larger campsites. Paso Picacho is also more green (think: less dry looking), has a junior ranger program, a beautiful hike, and a variety of animal life. And since it’s just a few minutes up the road from the busier Green Valley Falls, it’s an easy day trip to go enjoy the water. Paso Picacho is usually easier to book than Green Valley Falls, given the major attraction at GVF that has campers flocking to visit.
Sweetwater
This cute little campground is great for families with small children, and is much more groomed. Campsites are large with plenty of space to play, grass fields, and the road is paved which is great for bike and scooter riding. The best part of Sweetwater is their splash pad where kiddos can go to cool off in the summer heat. Bear in mind, however, that this campground is just above the 125 so sites on the highway side will hear road noise at night.
Dos Picos
This campground has something for everyone, including tent and RV sites, and cabins. There is a beautiful pond for fishing, a large playground, paved roads (think bikes and scooters) and even a gazebo where you might catch a wedding. Dos Picos has a short hiking trail that offers beautiful views as it ascends above the campground and down to the pond. And since it’s in Ramona, it’s not too far from the grocery store just in case you need an emergency snack run.
Palomar Mountain State Park
This park is an absolutely amazing place to visit. The campground is just a small piece of this beautiful park, which includes a ton of hiking trails and a pond that is stocked with fish. Lots of wildlife roam the park, including deer and fox. Something to keep in mind: tent pads here are SMALL, and we found that with the exception of maybe one or two sites, this campground was not suitable for a large family tent. (Ours is 10 person, and there are no flat areas that would accommodate that size.)
Burnt Rancheria
In the heart of Mount Laguna, this campground is a quiet and beautiful place to spend a weekend. There are no fancy amenities or attractions, but the beauty of this campground is in its setting. Nestled within the mountain pines, Burnt Rancheria is a picturesque place to relax. Sites are large, giving kids lots of room to roam without bothering neighbouring campers. With the hills of the campground it’s also a fun place for scooters and bikes. If you miss the chance to reserve a spot, they also have some FF (first come first served) sites available.
As always, do your research before booking your site. Not all sites are trailer friendly, and not all sites are tent friendly. And most importantly: pack it in, pack it out, and leave your campsite more clean and beautiful than when you arrived.
Happy camping!
