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Camping Guide5 min readNov 2024

Best RV Camping Spots Near San Diego

From Campland on the Bay to Anza-Borrego Desert, we break down the top campgrounds within 3 hours of San Diego — and which RVs work best at each.

San Diego is one of the best starting points for an RV adventure in the entire country. You are within three hours of mountain forests, open deserts, ocean bluffs, and the Mexican border. Whether you are a first-timer looking for a gentle intro or a seasoned camper chasing the perfect dispersed site, there is something within reach of our fleet.

1. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park — Best for Stars & Solitude

The largest state park in California at 600,000 acres. Anza-Borrego allows dispersed camping throughout most of the park — meaning you can pull off the road and set up almost anywhere. No hookups, but the night sky is unlike anything you will see near the city. Best visited October through April when temperatures are manageable.

We recommend our toy haulers and larger travel trailers for Borrego. Bring extra water and a quality generator. Cell service is minimal.

2. Lake Morena — Best for Fishing & Quiet

About 60 miles east of San Diego, Lake Morena County Park sits at 3,000 feet elevation and offers full-hookup RV sites around a 150-acre reservoir. Largemouth bass fishing, hiking, and one of the few campgrounds in the region that stays green year-round.

3. Palomar Mountain State Park — Best for Tall Trees

At 5,500 feet, Palomar Mountain feels like a completely different world from San Diego. The state park campground is small (only 30 sites) and limited to smaller rigs — we recommend trailers up to 30 feet here. The payoff is giant oak trees, cool temperatures even in summer, and the famous Palomar Observatory nearby.

4. Campland on the Bay — Best for Families

Right on Mission Bay in Pacific Beach, Campland is basically a resort campground. Full hookups, pools, a marina, kayak rentals, and live music on weekends. This is where most of our local delivery bookings go — easy access, great facilities, and centrally located. Ideal for groups with kids.

Campland is one of our primary golf cart delivery zones. Rent an RV + golf cart and explore the bay without worrying about parking.

Which RV Should You Rent?

Beach and resort campgrounds (Campland, Mission Bay): Any unit works — full hookups support larger rigs. Go as big as your group needs. Desert camping (Anza-Borrego): Toy haulers and trailers with independent suspension do better on rougher roads. Mountain camping (Palomar): Stick to units under 32 feet due to tight turns. Our XL Alta bunkhouse and similar units are a great fit.

Ready to book your San Diego camping trip? Browse our fleet or call us to find the right unit for your destination.

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“It was my first time renting an RV and they could not have made it any easier. They were polite, professional, and very accommodating. The RV was perfect for the event I attended. It was a 4 day festival in the desert and everything was perfect. Thank you Mike and our staff for making this experience flawless and amazing. I will definitely be recommending you to everyone.”

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“Rented a trailer for a camping weekend and everything went really well. Was able to pickup trailer and everything worked out well for the weekend. Generator worked good to power the AC and keep everything cool even though we were camping in the desert heat with no shade. Definitely will rent from again.”

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