Tanama Tales

Southern California and travel blog for those who want to fill every day with meaningful experiences

You are here: Home / Blog / Camping in San Diego: Explore the Best Spots!

Blog California San Diego Travel USA

Camping in San Diego: Explore the Best Spots!

This article has everything you need to know about camping in San Diego County!

As you guys have probably noticed, I am a big camping fan.

I have camped in all Southern California counties and in many counties located in the rest of the state.  My campground bucket list keeps growing because I keep finding amazing spaces (and because it is difficult to reserve in some places).

Today, I want to share as much knowledge as possible about camping in San Diego.  The simple thought of going on a camping trip on the county gets me super pumped!

Let’s dig in since I have tons of beautiful campgrounds to show you.

About Camping in San Diego

Below, you will find a comprehensive list of campgrounds located in San Diego County.  For reference, I have added the approximate distance from Downtown San Diego.

You will find a mix of public and private campgrounds.

We tend to associate camping with tents.  However, there are different types of camping.  This list includes options for tents, recreational vehicles (RVs), and trailers.  Notice some of the places mentioned here do not accommodate tents at all (but I have kept these at a minimum).

I am providing direct links to the campgrounds booking sites.  When you see these links, it means that you can reserve in advance.  In theory, you can forget about reservations and look for a place once you arrive at your destination.  I advise against this during the high season and holiday weekends. 

Camping is a great way to cut accommodation costs.  Staying in a hotel in the San Diego area costs over $80 (over $100 is more realistic) per night.

San Onofre Bluffs Campground

This popular campground is part of the San Onofre State Beach. If you love surfing, fishing, sunbathing, cycling, kayaking, or birding, you have to include this campground in your bucket list. 

And, if you are not a fan of these activities, you can use the campground as a base to explore the plethora of fun, nearby attractions. This is a historic area too; hence there are no limits on what you can around.

The views from the trails above the bluffs are simply amazing. Make sure to admire the vivid sunsets while sipping wine in front of a bonfire.

San Onofre Bluffs Campground has several amenities like fire pits, restrooms, showers (cold water), sanitation stations, group campsite, and first aid area. A day-use area is located at the campground’s entrance (you do not have to be camping to enjoy the offerings).

Distance from San Diego: 60 Miles

Camping Region: Beach

Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers

Number of Sites: 175

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: This campground is located south the line diving Orange and San Diego counties.  Actually, a lot of people believe this is Orange County.  The closest city is San Clemente (Orange County), also known as the “Spanish Village by the Sea.”  

Camping in San Diego – San Mateo Campground

San Mateo is the other campground that is part of the San Onofre State Beach.  This campground is located 3.5 miles inland, accessed through Cristianitos Road, and surrounded by Camp Pendleton (a military base).  

There is a 1.5-mile trail connecting the campground to Trestles, a major surfing spot. Amenities include restrooms, token-operated showers, fire pits, picnic tables, camp host, trash stations, and accessible features.

Keep in mind there is no cell phone reception in the campsites.

Distance from San Diego: 60 Miles

Camping Region: Inland but 3 miles from the beach

Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers

Number of Sites: 150

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: If you do not find availability at San Onofre Bluffs or San Mateo, check the nearby San Clemente State Beach Campground (Orange County).

South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

This campground is known to be among the best in the San Diego region.  It’s renowned for its coastal bluffs, which act as a tourist attraction. Campers can engage in activities such as surfing, swimming, fishing, diving, and beachcombing. 

The site is pretty popular; hence reservations are a must! Amenities include campsite host, campfire center, store, laundry, lifeguards, restrooms, shower, sanitation station, and designated viewpoints.

The campground is located 8 miles from the Carlsbad Village, 3 miles from LEGOLAND, and about a mile away from the Batiquitos Lagoon.

Distance from San Diego: 30 Miles

Camping Region: Beach

Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers

Number of Sites: 223

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: Not all campgrounds face the ocean (some face Highway 101)

San Elijo State Beach Campground

San Elijo is yet another popular campground (as all beach campsites in California are). And, yes, like other campgrounds I have mentioned it is a well-known surfing spot and home to scenic cliffs. This site is located on the Cardiff by the Sea neighborhood of the city of Encinitas.  

Basic amenities such as restrooms and showers are available on-site.  In addition, you can find a store, RV sanitation station, beach wheelchairs, laundry and viewpoints along the campground.

The fees charged are affordable; hence it’s a nice destination for visiting. Walk-ins are welcomed (but reservations are encouraged).

Campers can engage in activities like swimming, jogging, surfing, sunbathing, snorkeling, diving, and walking. To the north, you can visit Downtown Encinitas, Moonlight State Beach, and Swamis.  To the south, the San Elijo Lagoon, San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve, and Cardiff State Beach are waiting for visitors.

Distance from San Diego: 25 Miles

Camping Region: Beach

Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers

Number of Sites: 171

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: Not all campgrounds face the ocean (some face a forested area).  Campsites with ocean views are more expensive.

Photo by chrisinphilly5448

Camping in San Diego – Silver Strand State Beach

This is an RV campground located in the heart of San Diego (it is technically in Coronado). If you do not have an RV, you can use the facilities by paying a day-use fee.

The grounds are perfect for recreation. Fun activities include picnicking, surfing, fishing, volleyball, and swimming. As the name suggests, the beach is located on a thin strip of land.  You can take a dip in both the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay.

Amenities available include restrooms, showers, fire rings, volleyball courts, sanitation station, large trash bins, and water filling stations.

Distance from San Diego: 11 Miles

Camping Region: Beach, Urban

Type of Camping: RVs

Number of Sites: 429

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: Tent camping is not allowed

Palomar Mountain State Park Campground

Are you looking to camp while avoiding summer hot temperatures? Palomar Mountain is located within the Cleveland National Forest at a 5,000 feet average altitude.  Temperatures here are 20 to 25 degrees lower than coastal temperatures.  Plus, it is a crowd-free zone.

I recommend accessing the area through CA-76 to take a look at the Mission San Luis Rey and the Pala Asistencia.  Once at the park, you can hike, fish at the Doane Pond, drive to the Boucher Lookout Tower and visit the Palomar Observatory (which is amazing!)

Campground amenities include restrooms, showers, water, and a camp host.

Distance from San Diego: 70 Miles

Camping Region: Mountain

Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers

Number of Sites: 31

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: Chains are required during winter

Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles, Palomar Observatory

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park Campground

This mountain park has two campgrounds: Paso Picacho and Green Valley.

Two of the most notorious trail in the park, Cuyamaca Peak and Stonewall peak, start from the Paso Picacho campground.  A creek runs through the Green Valley Campground, making it a great option for those who want to cool off on hot days.

Cuyamaca Lake is located a few miles away from the park.  The California Wolf Center and Julian, the apple pie capital of Southern California are located nearby too.

Campground amenities include restrooms, showers, campfire center and picnic tables.  Group and horse campgrounds can be reserved as well.

Distance from San Diego: 54 Miles

Camping Region: Mountain

Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers

Number of Sites: Paso Picacho – 85, Green Valley – 81

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: Chains are required during winter

Anza Borrego Desert State Park Campground

This huge park (largest state park in California) has mountains, canyons, dry lakes, badlands, palm groves, and flower fields (spring).  It is recommended to research attractions before arriving or asking questions to the rangers stationed at the visitor center.  You are not going to see everything the park has to offer on a day or weekend.

With respect to camping, there are several disperse campgrounds (no facilities) catering to hikers and bikers.  Developed campgrounds include the Borrego Palm Canyon and Tamarisk Grove campgrounds.

These campgrounds offer  drinking water, restrooms, token-operated showers, picnic tables, and campground host.

Distance from San Diego: 85 Miles

Camping Region: Desert

Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers

Number of Sites: Borrego Palm Canyon – 117, Tamarisk Grove – 27, tents are not allowed on hook-up sites

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: I do not recommend camping here during the summer.  Even though the campground offers potable water, you should bring your own water

Camping in San Diego – Guajome Regional Park

All the campgrounds previously mentioned are operated by the California State Parks.  This campground is administered by San Diego County. This is my go-to place when I cannot find a campsite on the beach since it is located only 9 miles from the coast and offers easy access to Oceanside and Carlsbad.

The woodlands, lake and ponds in the park offer a serene landscape. The grasslands and bodies of water attract several bird species. Plus, fishing and fish feeding is allowed.

Amenities include restrooms, basketball court, dump station, fitness area, pavilion, picnic tables, playgrounds, coin-operated showers, soccer fields, and trails.

Distance from San Diego: 46 Miles

Camping Region: Inland but close to the beach

Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers

Number of Sites: 32

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: You can bike to Oceanside through a designated trail.  

William Heise County Park Campground

This is one of my favorite campgrounds!

First, the road taking you to the park is full of beautiful vistas. The park lies amid 900 acres of mountain forests. It is easy to spot deer, rabbits, and wild turkey (a lot of them). Also, the park has 11 miles of trails.

This is my go-to place when I visit Julian (a town known for all things apple).  Other than eating pie (eat as much as you can), you can visit a mine, hike, wine/beer taste, visit a museum and shop around Julian.

Amenities include a picnic area, playgrounds, restrooms, showers, dump station, and camp host.

Distance from San Diego: 60 Miles

Camping Region: Mountain

Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers

Number of Sites: About 100

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: Campers need to exercise caution since there are rattlesnakes in the campground.  They seem to be quite common sights.  I have been alerted about some seen near my campsites the times I have visited the park.

Other San Diego County Campgrounds

Other than Guajome and William Heise, San Diego County operates the following camping parks:

  • Agua Caliente – Desert oasis located close to Anza-Borrego State Park
  • Dos Picos (Ramona)
  • Lake Morena (East County)
  • Oakoasis – For youth groups only
  • Potrero (East County, near the Mexico Border)
  • Vallecito – Located close to Anza-Borrego State Park as well

Kumeyaay Lake Campground

This is my “secret” spot for camping near San Diego.  The campground is part of the Mission Trails Regional Park and it has its own reservation website.  Since it is not on a state or county reservation site, availability is very good (even last minute availability).  

The campground is serene since it’s located away from the traffic and large urban areas. However, it is close enough to good restaurants and markets.  You can take things easy if you want (you do not have to pack food and cook).

Amenities include restrooms, showers, camp hosts, lake, trails, campfire center, fire ring, and picnic table.

Distance from San Diego: 17 Miles

Camping Region: Urban

Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers

Number of Sites: 46

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: Bring insect repellent because sometimes the mosquitoes are out of control.

Camping in San Diego – La Jolla Indian Campground

This is one the top-rated campgrounds in San Diego. Families love to camp here because of the easy river access and tubing opportunities.  Other amenities include restrooms, showers, store, campfire station and fire pits.

Distance from San Diego: 58 Miles

Camping Region: Mountain, River

Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers

Number of Sites: Over 200

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: Bring insect repellent because sometimes the mosquitoes are out of control.

Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve

The Santee Lakes is a scenic park with cabins and fishing spots that give visitors a superb experience. This is a place I like a lot!

The site is fit for fishing, boat riding, biking, and swimming. There are tons of amenities like a water park, pool, fishing lakes, playground, store, restaurant (grill), Wi-Fi, RV dumping station, BBQs, and rentals.  There are weekend activities in the communal house.

Distance from San Diego: 18 Miles

Camping Region: Urban

Type of Camping: RVs, Trailers

Number of Sites: 300

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: No tents are allowed.  You can visit for the day for a fee.

Read More: Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve

Santee Lakes Camping, Pier over one of the recycled water lakes located at the Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve, San Diego, California

Campland on the Bay

This campground has been serving the public for over 50 years.  Its location on Mission Bay puts it a stone’s throw from San Diego’s most popular beaches and attractions.

The spot can be seen as a resort since it has swimming pools, hot tubs, bicycle rentals, skatepark, basketball court, restaurant, market, ice cream parlor, live entertainment, marina and Wi-Fi. 

Distance from San Diego: 9 Miles

Camping Region: Beach, Urban

Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers

Number of Sites: Over 500

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: Because of all the amenities included, except higher than usual camping rates

Camping in San Diego – San Diego Metro KOA

My experience with KOA campgrounds has always been positive.  This park is not an exception. Located in Chula Vista, it is in close proximity to all the fun stuff San Diego offers.

Well, that is if you leave the facilities at all.  The park is equipped with amenities like a pool, gazebo, playground, kids club, jumping pillows, basketball court, leash-free dog park, bike rentals, showers, restrooms, and laundry.  For additional recreation, there are activities such as laser tag, movies under the stars, cooking decorating, ping-pong, and craft classes.

Distance from San Diego: 10 Miles

Camping Region: Urban

Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers, Cabins

Number of Sites: Over 200, most are RV sites (about 30 tent sites)

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Notes: Because of all the amenities included, except higher than usual camping rates

Lake Jennings Campground

If you need a short getaway or vacation, this is a perfect camping spot in San Diego. The campground has scenic vistas, and tons of amenities such as covered playground structure, showers, restrooms, Wi-Fi, firewood, ice, bait and tackle shop, kid’s activities and games.

The lake has miles of hiking trails, and boating/fishing opportunities.

Distance from San Diego: 25 Miles

Camping Region: Lake

Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers

Number of Sites: 39 tent sites, 52 RV sites and 5 tipi sites

Reservations: Yes, check availability here

Photo by Rickbramhall

Thousand Trail Group Campgrounds

The Thousand Trail group operates two RV resorts and campgrounds in San Diego County. Similar to companies like KOA, they bring a wide range of amenities to the camping experience.

For example, there are picnic areas, dog park, laundry, swimming pool, restaurant, library, hiking trails, games, and store on-site

The Pio Pico facility is located in Jamul (19 miles from San Diego) and Oakzanita (41 miles) facility in Descanso.

Check availability here.

Simplifying the Camping Process

I have tried to present as many options as possible.  However, if you are quicky looking for options, go to the Reserve America site to look for campgrounds operated by the State Parks and to the San Diego County Parks site for the campgrounds operated by the county.

You will find most campgrounds mentioned here in one of those 2 sites.  If you do not find availability, you can start checking the private campgrounds.

If you are looking for a camping destination this year, consider these campgrounds in San Diego. From the reviews, you will be motivated to make your reservation too.  These are destinations worth adding to your bucket list!!

More of San Diego

One Day in San Diego Itinerary

Ultimate San Diego Bucket List

LA to San Diego Drive: Road Trip Itinerary

Things to Do in Ocean Beach

What do you think about camping in San Diego?

Pin “Camping in San Diego” for later!

Related posts:

McArthur-Burney Falls, Places to Visit in California: Bucket List for TravelersPlaces to Visit in California: Bucket List for Travelers Ocean Beach PierThings to Do in Ocean Beach, San Diego View of the Point Loma Peninsula Cliffs, San Diego, CaliforniaSunset Cliffs Natural Park in San Diego There are thousands, if not millions, of things to do in California. The Golden State, with an area of 163, 696 square miles, truly has it all: beaches, forests, deserts, waterfalls, lakes, rivers, mountains, valleys, vineyards and beds of flowers. Given the facts, how to start planning a trip? Do not worry my friends! I have collected the best things to do in California from experienced traveler. In this article, you will find some of the most exciting activities to do in the state. Get ready since this is going to be a fun ride! Things to Do in California - Northern California There are always going to be differing opinions on how to divide California. For this article’s purpose, we are assuming the northern 48 counties of the state compose Northern California. Drive Around the Redwoods By Pamela Iorg from Travel Hacking Mom One of the biggest tourist draws to the Northern part of California is the magnificent Redwood Trees the area is known for. One of the best places to see them is driving through the Avenue of the Giants. It is a 31-mile section of highway 101 that starts near Phillipsville, California in the south and ends at Stafford in the north end. If you stop at the entrance to Avenue of the Giants, you can pick up a brochure that will tell you about different places to stop and safely view the trees. This two-lane road winds through Redwood National Park, with the Eel River at its side. It will be impossible to keep your eyes on the road while gaping at these awe-inspiring trees. Plan to pull off and enjoy them outside of your car. You can even drive through a huge tree near Myers Flat. The Drive-Through Tree will cost about $8 to go through but is totally worth it – when else will you have the experience of actually driving through a huge Redwood tree? Lady Bird Grove (named after Lady Bird Johnson) is a great place to stop and wander through the Redwoods. It can be a quiet, majestic, and almost spiritual experience. The sheer beauty of these giant trees and the gorgeous scenery that surrounds them will be something you will long remember! Road Trip to Mendocino from SF By Aswani from A Charming Escape Mendocino is a coastal town in Northern California about 3 hours from San Francisco. It is a charming little town with cliffside trails, quiet beaches, ocean view hotels and is perfect for a weekend road trip from SF. The most popular places to stay near Mendocino are Heritage House Resort, Sweetwater Inn and the Stanford Inn but there are also many cute B&Bs. The best and fastest route to get to Mendocino is through Highway 101 and Highway 128 via Sonoma wine country and the redwood forests. Stop at the town of Healdsburg for a quick breakfast. Stroll through downtown before heading into the winding Hwy 128 surrounded by majestic redwood trees. Another great stop on the way to Mendocino is the underrated wine region of Anderson Valley between Boonville and the town of Navarro. This region is home to some of California’s best Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wineries. Our favorite wineries in the Anderson Valley are Roederer Estate, Navarro Vineyards, Brutacao Cellars, and Phillips Hill Estates. Once you arrive in Mendocino, hike one of the beautiful trails in Mendocino Headlands State Park for an amazing sunset. Spend the next day exploring the coastal trails and visit the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. It has an impressive collection of camellias, roses, dahlias, magnolias, and many more plants. Catch Firefall in Yosemite National Park By Becky from Bonjour Becky For a few weeks each February, Yosemite's Horsetail Falls becomes Firefall — a stream of red-hot lava glowing in the setting sun. It's every photographer's and sightseer's dream. The phenomenon begins around Valentine's Day every year —exact dates vary— and happens every sunset until March, weather permitting. Plan to stay near Yosemite at least two nights to increase your chance of catching it. The closest parking is a mile away from Firefall, so arrive in Yosemite Valley early and plan to walk a mile along the road to the best viewing spots. You'll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of "lava" plunging 3,600 feet down the face of El Capitan. (Bonus: bring a thermos of hot cocoa and some blankets for an extra-cozy evening.) Firefall is a great excuse for a winter trip to Yosemite, which offers year-round hiking and epic views. Snowshoe through a winter wonderland, gaze out at the iconic Tunnel View or go ice skating with views of Half Dome before you head to Firefall in the evening. Once you've seen it, Firefall will burn bright in your memory forever. Photo by Becky Read More: 2 Day Yosemite Itinerary Rent a Cabin in Lake Tahoe in the Winter By Diana from In Between Pictures As many Californians do in the winter, rent a cabin in Lake Tahoe and enjoy the powdery white snow - perfect to snuggle up next to a fire pit with hot cocoa or wine. Lake Tahoe, nestled in the range of Sierra Nevada, is renowned for its breathtaking views and blue water - a sight that you won’t be able to get enough of. While many people visit to hit the slopes, many also like to go to reconnect with nature and enjoy the beautiful scenery. You can go on hikes, enjoy the scenic drive along the lake, or simply relax in the cabin with a good book. If you want to find the best views in Lake Tahoe – though the view is amazing no matter where you go – head to Emerald Bay where you can spot the tiny island Fannette Island. There is no better way to experience this magical place than by staying at a cozy cabin by the lake! Photo by Diana Read More: Lake Tahoe in Pictures Taking the boat to Alcatraz Island By Jo From Discover Discomfort Alcatraz Island (known colloquially as “The Rock”) is just off the coast of San Francisco Bay and is a must-visit if you’re in Northern California. It’s very popular and tickets usually sell out months in advance, so make a reservation well ahead — especially for weekends. Alcatraz Island was turned into a prison in 1934. While it was in operation it was home to the most notorious criminals at the time, including Al Capone, and “Bird Man” Robert Stroud. The conditions of the island — its freezing temperature, turbulent waves and sharp cliffs — made the prison well known for being impossible to escape from… unless you believe the legends! You take a 20-minute tour ferry to the island and then can explore freely, but I’d also recommend the 40-minute audio tour. This audio tour was hands-down one of the most engaging ones I’ve ever experienced. The narration and the dramatic reenactments gives you a glimpse into what life must have been like for the prisoners. You can even take a night tour if you’re looking for an extra spooky vibe. Read More: San Francisco Itinerary: 1, 2 or 3 Days in the City Walk Telegraph Hill and Coit Tower By Rachel from Rachel Ruminations The hills are what make San Francisco a particularly beautiful town: the views of the sea or the bay, the sight of those long, straight downhills that filmmakers so enjoy for chase scenes. Topped by art-deco Coit Tower, Telegraph Hill is a particular joy to climb on a free afternoon. Starting from Washington Square Park, the walk up is pretty, but steep. You will be rewarded by the phenomenal view of the city at Coit Tower’s base, and you can see an even better view if you take the elevator to the top. Make sure to check out the Depression-era murals on the inside of the tower’s ground floor even if you don’t go up. The walk downhill is even prettier than the walk up, if that’s possible. The long Filbert Street steps lead all the way down to sea level near Fishermen’s Wharf, where you’ll undoubtedly meet the tourist throngs. Take your time on the steps, though, and enjoy the lush Grace Marchant Garden and the narrow “streets” leading off on either side. To learn more about this walk, read Coit Tower & Telegraph Hill: An unmissable walk in San Francisco. Ski Lake Tahoe By Christina from Travel2next.com A year-round outdoor playground with amazing beaches, 12 fabulous ski resorts and miles of biking and hiking trails, Lake Tahoe is a paradise for those who love the outdoors. With soaring peaks and stunning lakes, Lake Tahoe is also a skier’s parades that straddles both California and Nevada. One of the unique things about a Lake Tahoe winter is you can ski across the border! One of the benefits of skiing in Lake Tahoe is that the ski areas are within easy reach of one another and you can try several ski resorts in one trip. Sierra at Tahoe has some of the best tree skiing and plenty of powder. NorthStar is an excellent intermediate ski resort with a fabulous base village to hang out at the end of the day. Sugar Bowl is the most convenient resort to get to if you’re coming from San Francisco Bay Area. It has a mid-sized ski area and is excellent for families. Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley are two ski areas covered under one lift ticket. Squaw Valley hosted the 1960 Olympics and is a favorite of many professional skiers. The fifth-largest ski area in North America has a fun party atmosphere is Heavenly Mountain Resort, which has plenty of terrain and is the. Read More: Drive Around Lake Tahoe Bike Across the Golden Gate Bridge By Luda from Adventures with Luda If you’re traveling to San Francisco and looking for a fun (and adventurous) activity, rent a bike and get to pedaling across the Golden Gate Bridge! I recommend this for three main reasons: you’ll see amazing views of the San Francisco bay, work off some calories (psst - Japantown has some pretty great restaurants!), and you can explore other cities. There are plenty of places to rent a bike, but I recommend picking a company in the Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood since it’s closest to the Bridge. The 20-minute bike ride over to the starting point will take you through some fairly flat streets, and you can stop near Crissy Field if you’d like to take a few photos of the waterfront. When biking across the Golden Gate Bridge, it’s important to note that there are two sidewalks: one is for pedestrians, and the other is for bikers. If you don’t know which one to take, just take a look at where everyone else is going or ask one of the employees at the concession stand. If you’re flexible on timing, you can bike all the way across the bridge and explore the neighboring town of Tiburon. This cozy little town is famous for its quirky boutiques, grassy parks, and scenic waterfront. If you plan to make the trip to Tiburon, ask the bike rental employee for a bicycle lock, as there are plenty of bicycle “parking” near the waterfront. Read More: Los Angeles to San Francisco Drive Book a Spot at the Sonoma Wine Trolley By Taima from Poor in a Private Plane If you are looking for a unique way to discover Sonoma then check out the Sonoma Wine Trolley. The tour begins in downtown Sonoma which is a great place to grab a bite before starting your wine adventure. Grab a bite at Sunflower Cafe and then make your way to Sonoma Plaza where you will board your wheels for the day. The wine trolley is a replica of a vintage California Street Cable Car used in San Francisco in the early 1900s. It’s an excellent way to experience Sonoma Valley in the open air trolley. The tour will take you to four different wineries with a stop for lunch. At one of the wineries you will be served a picnic lunch catered by The Girl and The Fig, one of the best restaurants in Sonoma. Once you have visited all four wineries the tour will drop you back off at Sonoma Plaza where you will have your pick of places to have dinner before turning in for the night. Whether it is your first time visiting Sonoma or you’re looking for a new way to experience Sonoma, the Sonoma Wine Trolley is a truly unique and fun experience. Photo by Taima Taste Craft Beer at the Russian River Brewery By Derek from Robe Trotting Napa and Sonoma valleys are rightly world-renowned for the vineyards, but one of my favorite stops in Sonoma valley was actually one of the best craft breweries in the world. Russian River Brewing Company has become world-famous for its Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger IPAs, hailed by many aficionados as the best beers in the world (Pliny the Younger is brewed once a year and is an especially hot ticket to enjoy). But they offer more than just IPAs, as their sours (named Consecration, Supplication, and Temptation) are world-class. Russian River now offers two locations in Sonoma Valley, including their original taproom in Santa Rosa and a new brewery and brewpub in Windsor. The Santa Rosa location can get packed in evenings, but they offer excellent pizzas and wings to pair with the beers. The Windsor location has a little less traffic and offers a broader menu, plus you can take a tour of their brewery. Visit the Mystery Spot By Rosie from Popcuria The Mystery Spot is a fun and quirky addition to any California trip and a great activity for all ages. This classic roadside attraction is now a California Historical Landmark and worth a stop on any drive up Highway One. Tucked away in the redwoods just outside of Santa Cruz, CA, the Mystery Spot is home to strange gravitational anomalies that will make you question your own eyes. Take the Mystery Spot’s guided tour and experience this supernatural phenomenon for yourself. Your tour will take you on a whimsical walk through the redwoods where the basics of physics do not seem to apply. Within the confines of the Mystery Spot, balls roll up hill instead of down and your friends and family appear taller and shorter than in real life. Take Instagram-worthy shots of your friends leaning off tables at unnatural angles inside the Spot’s topsy-turvy house. Snag the Mystery Spot’s bumper sticker at the end of your tour to commemorate your time at this iconic roadside pitstop. Read More: Santa Cruz Boardwalk in Pictures Hold a Baby Goat and Eat Cheese By Constance from Adventures of Panda Bear Harley Farms in Pescadero, CA is goat dairy farm located off of the northern California coast between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz. The farm has a variety of animals including chickens, a donkey, guardian llamas, Anatolian shepards, and of course, goats. All of the animals on the farm are working animals, the goats, in particular, provide milk for goat cheese. The farm’s dairy produces a variety of award-winning goat cheeses ranging from plain to cranberry walnut and garden chive, and more. The cheeses alone are well worth the visit! The best thing about visiting Harley Goat Farms is their baby goats. Take a farm tour during the spring months after the baby goats, or “kids” as they’re called, are born. Then, you’ll be able to see and hold a baby goat! The farm tour is also super informative and you’ll learn a lot about how to hold a baby goat, the farm’s operations, animals, and their cheese. The highlight of it all are definitely the baby goats, they are too cute! Stop by a Hot Spring By Athul from Our Backpack Tales Surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Glass Mountain Ridge in California is the Crowley Hot Springs also known as Wild Willy's Hot Springs. You can reach the trail close to US 395 by taking the Benton Crossing Road. The Crowley Hot Springs are open 24 hours a day and it is absolutely free. From the parking lot, you can see an elevated wooden walkway. A short walk of around 0.32 km through the beautiful backdrop of mountains is an amazing experience. The walkway slopes slightly downward and ends almost abruptly by the pools. It is about 10 feet wide and 3 feet deep, and you can easily take a dip in it! This hot spring contains one small and one large pool. The temperature in these pools can vary from 95 to 105 degrees. The bigger pool can accommodate a dozen of people but the small pool can accommodate some. The area surrounding the pool is stunning with mountains and grasslands in the backdrop. There are few option for camping in the surrounding area. These hot springs are in a fragile ecosystem so all should follow leave no trace behind policy to keep them clean. Things to Do in California - Central California Here are some of the things you can do around California’s Central area. If you ask me, this is one of the most thrilling parts of the state. Drive Around Big Sur By Dhara from It's Not About the Miles Driving the Big Sur stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway between Carmel and Ragged Point should be high on your list of things to do in California. Considered one of the most scenic coastlines on the planet, the drive gives you the opportunity to enjoy magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged Central California coastline. Just a little over 75 miles in length, Highway One hugs the water for most of this route. Where it does not, for short stretches, you will drive through towering redwoods or bucolic countryside. There are numerous pullouts where you can park and enjoy the views at leisure, and take lots of photos. Some of the best places to stop on the Big Sur Coast drive include Point Lobos State park, just south of the quaint village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the very wild Garrapata State Park, with hiking trails if you want to stretch your legs, and the historic Bixby Creek Bridge, considered an engineering marvel. Drive the road in late spring after the rains are over, and you will see gorgeous wildflowers along the road. The hills are green at this time as well, and look gorgeous against the blue of the ocean. Ride a Buggy at the Oceano Dunes By Sharon from Daily Dream 360 If you are looking for a little adventure on the beach, you may want to consider a dune buggy ride at Oceano Dunes State Park, which is located 3 miles from Pismo Beach. This activity is a great add-on when visiting the San Luis Obispo region of California. You will find plenty of Dune Buggy rental companies just outside the state park entrance. Once you complete a vehicle orientation, you'll be driven to the site within the state park and get set up with your vehicles. Your tour operator will offer directions, a map and will guide you to the area where you are allowed to drive your buggy. The park has a designated area for off-road vehicles and several restrictions with regards to speed. What I loved about the Dune Buggy ride was that I was able to choose my level of thrill. Some of the Sand Dunes were very high, and there was a high risk from coming down from a dune and getting stuck before moving back up another. For thrill-seekers, there is plenty of challenging dunes to conquer. For those less adventurous, there were some smaller hills and the very scenic ride along the ocean. Photo by Sharon Read More: Things to Do in Pismo Beach Things to Do in Avila Beach Things to Do in California - Southern California This is the part of the state I call home. After more than 15 years living here, I am still discovering new places. Check out the super fun recommendations below! Road Cycle in Santa Barbara County By Clare from Epic Road Rides If you fancy a spot of road cycling, Santa Barbara County in southern California, is a fantastic place to do it. It's a beautiful region that’s warm and sunny for much of the year. Winters tend to be short and mild. Head to the Santa Ynez valley and you’ll find quiet rolling roads that take you through gorgeous vineyards and pretty ranches with wide open fields dotted with well-groomed horses. In the village of Solvang, you’ll find an excellent bike shop that can fit you out with everything you need (you can rent too) and set you off to explore the countryside. There are around 120 wineries in this area, clustered around the pretty towns and villages of Solvang, Los Olivos and Santa Ynez. Many cyclists take the opportunity to combine cycling with a wine tour as many of the wineries open their doors to people who want to come and learn about wine and enjoy some wine tasting. Exploring by bike is the best way to really get to know a region, and I highly recommend the Santa Ynez Valley! Photo by Clare Read More: Things to Do in Solvang Mountain Bike at Snow Summit By Heather from That OC Girl If you thought Big Bear’s Snow Summit was only for winter, you got it wrong. In the summertime, the ski lifts at Snow Summit are transformed into mountain bike lifts, taking you up to an elevation of 8,000 feet and dropping you into the coolest downhill bike park in Southern California. Snow Summit has around 18 miles of mountain bike trails, including trails for the beginner all the way to the most advanced riders. The beginner level trail “Going Green” is the longest in the park at 2.5 miles, and is the most basic of all. It’s a great idea to start with this trail to get warmed up! The blue-rated trails are the most fun; this is where you can really let loose and sharpen your skills. The trails rated as black diamond are the most difficult trails in the park. You will find built-in features like jumps and berms, but most of the time you can bypass those features if you are not up for the challenge. Get some practice in at the Base Area to improve your skills before attempting those difficult trails! Day or season passes are available and the park is open to all – kids and adults! Open and closing dates. Photo by Heather Read More: Big Bear Weekend Guide Dive the Channel Islands By James from Travel Collecting One of the top things to do in California is to dive the Channel Islands. There are eight Channel Islands off the coast of Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. Five of them make up the Channel Islands National Park. The largest, Catalina Island, has places to stay and shore dives as well as boat dives are available. However, you can take day trips straight from just north of LA (Ventura Harbor) to Anacapa Island and just south of LA (San Pedro) to dive sites around Catalina. Dive boats also leave from Santa Barbra to the northern islands, though these are further offshore. The main attraction is diving the Californian giant kelp forests. Kelp stretches from the sea bed up more than forty feet to the surface, creating a magical forest to swim through. Winding your way through a thick screen of golden kelp is an incredible experience. The kelp is home to cheeky seals and sea lions that zoom out of nowhere and right up to your mask, as well as bright orange garibaldi fish. This was one of my favorite dives from the many I have done around the world. It also makes a nice contrast to the other more urban things you can do in Los Angeles. Hike to the Hollywood Sign By Caroline from Pictures and Words Few things scream LA more than the glitz and glamour of Hollywood and the movie industry. One of the coolest things to do in California is to hike up to the Hollywood sign, one of the most iconic sights in LA. Technically, the sign itself is blocked off (and don’t even try to jump the fence) so you are hiking to right behind and above the sign. Still, this is the closest you can get to the sign being able to get so up and close to the iconic monument is such a cool experience! The hike starts inside Griffith Park, from where you can take the Brush Canyon trail. It is a 6.5 mile out and back hike, and is rated moderate difficulty with an 1100 foot elevation gain. Allow about 2 1/2-3 hours to complete the hike. Also be aware that there is hardly any shade on the trail and it tends to get really hot, really fast, so be prepared and carry lots of water with you. Read More: One Day in LA: Itinerary for First-Time Visitors 2 Days in Los Angeles: Downtown-Based Itinerary Self-Guided Multicultural Tour of Los Angeles By Team Hazard Rides Again LA is incredibly diverse. There are people here from every corner of the Earth and LA is happy to give each culture its due. Tim and I once went to 3 cultural events in a single weekend – and we weren't even trying hard. On Friday night we went to a chamber music concert at the big Downtown Library. On Saturday night we were in Hollywood to see Amadou and Mariam, a blind couple from Mali who rocked the Afro-pop scene at the El Rey Theater. And on Sunday we were in Chinatown for a big cultural celebration. There is no single recipe for doing a cultural tour of Los Angeles. There are just too many options. But here are some places to look so you can put together your own multicultural tour of Los Angeles. There are neighborhoods throughout the city like Little Tokyo, Olvera Street, Little Ethiopia, Little Bangladesh and Chinatown, just to name a few. Some of them are a bit touristy, but still fun and there are also many unnamed enclaves where various cultures flourish. They often hold festivals as well. And Long Beach seems to have a festival for something every other week. Keep an eye on local calendars. There are also exhibits and performances exploring different cultures all over town. The Craft and Folk Art Museum on Wilshire almost always has something culturally unique going on, as does the Fowler Museum on the UCLA Campus. You can also check out the USC Pacific Asia Museum in Pasadena. Again, to name just a few. Then there are the performances, like Amadou and Mariam we mentioned above, or Prince Diabate whom we saw in some tiny club in Santa Monica. One of the best places to look for these more eclectic events is the LA Weekly. LA's multiculturalism is one of its most awesome features and it's something not to be missed if you're visiting the city. It's easy to stack events that are near you or that suit the dates of your visit. It's LA. There's always something going on! Hike in Joshua Tree National Park By Julie from Family Travel Lifestyle While California is famous for National Parks like Yosemite and the Redwoods, one of our lesser-known parks, Joshua Tree, offers fantastic hiking in a unique desert environment. Located in southern California – just east of Palm Springs, and less than a 3-hour drive from San Diego – Joshua Tree offers numerous trails at every level of hiking. What I love about Joshua Tree is that it isn’t as crowded as many other parks and it’s smaller which means you can do a one-day visit and still get in some great hikes and really feel as though you saw the park. Also, this park offers a lot of loop trails, which I tend to prefer to the ‘out and back’ trails. One of the most popular and can’t-miss trails in Joshua Tree is the Skull Rock loop. It’s pretty easy, good for all levels including children, and you get to see the famous and giant Skull-shaped boulder. There’s a great kids’ nature walk called the Discovery Trail that’s less than a mile if you have really little ones. The bigger hikes offer a great variety of sights. There are several hikes up to different peaks, with outstanding views of the mountains and desert. You can hike out to a palm tree oasis or walk through the boulders and include a little scrambling on your hike. The one thing to watch out for is the heat – it’s no joke at Joshua Tree, so come prepared and enjoy! VIsit the Sunny Jim Sea Caves By April from SoCalFunFamily La Jolla is known for the locals who hang around the beach. And no, I am not talking about the hodads, you know, non-surfers, but the friendly seals lounging right there on the sand. It’s also known as an incredibly fun family area, for its good food, and having the coolest sea caves. However, there is only one cave you can explore without a kayak. And that cave is only accessible through Sunny Jim’s Cave Store. From the exterior it looks just like any other beach themed gift shop, but upon further review you might see the long dark tunnel leading what looks like directly into the ground. This is the access to Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave, which was dug out in 1902. To reach the bottom you will pay $5 for adults, and $3 for children, walk down 145 dark, narrow stairs and come out on a damp wooden platform to take in the waves and views from below. This hidden gem is a unique experience if you are in the area. But, make sure to mingle with the locals on the shore below and check out the free, smaller caves right there as well. Read More: One Day in San Diego Pedal Boat At Lake Murray By Martina from Stack Your Dollars One of the best and most relaxing things to do in sunny San Diego is to take a ride on the water at Lake Murray. On a hot day, getting on a pedal boat is a great way to get a nice breeze and cool off. You’ll also be putting those leg muscles to work and getting in some fun exercise! Lake Murray is a 171 acre reservoir with a 3.2 mile shoreline; it can be found on the border of San Diego, La Mesa, and Santee. To rent the pedal boat, you have to go into the concession stand by the parking lot. It costs about $15 to rent per hour, with an additional $15 for a deposit. The boat fits about 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children. This low-cost activity is a great way to get out and have fun. It allowed my family to stick to our very frugal budget. If you would prefer, there are also kayaks, canoes, row boats, and motor boats. However, the pedal boat is my favorite because it also has a canopy to block the sun! Whale Watch in Newport Beach By Rebecca from KwaFare One of the most thrilling outdoor experiences you can have in California is to get up close and personal with some of the largest animals on earth. Whale watching in Southern California can put you right in the migratory path of humpback, minke, fin and gray whales. Even orcas are spotted from time to time, as well as sperm whales and blue whales, the largest animal to have ever lived. An excellent spot for whale watching is Newport Beach, which is only about an hour from LAX airport or downtown Los Angeles. Newport Beach is a cozy community where you’ll find Balboa Pier and Island and some great beaches. My go to whale watching company here is Davey’s Locker. And for good reason. First, they regularly have sales for their whale watching tours on Groupon. So, for about the price of a movie ticket you can take a front row seat to these magnificent creatures for over a couple of hours. But what I really enjoy is hearing the excitement of the crew every time we get to see a whale out at sea. This testifies to just how electrifying it is to witness these deep sea giants in their natural habitat. Despite how many times they get to see them, every time it’s a thrill. And the thrill is definitely contagious. You just never know what you are going to see when you get out on the boat. However, if you want to up your chances of sighting whales go out during their migration times. In general, winter and spring are great times to see gray whales, humpback and minke whales. And summer and fall are ideal for blue whales, finbacks, orcas and sperm whales. So whether you find yourself in the middle of a pod of hundreds of dolphins or next to an enormous blue whale, this is one of those things to do in California that is not to be missed! Visit the Center of the World By Theresa from The Local Tourist Just inside the border in the southeast corner of the state, you can put your toes on the officially designated Center of the World. Felicity, California, is home to the Museum of History in Granite and the Center of the World and is a destination worth a visit that's a whole lot less kitschy than it sounds. In 1985, Jacques-André wrote a children’s book titled “Coe: The Good Dragon at the Center of the World.” Somehow, this Frenchman and Father of American Parachuting convinced the Imperial County Board of Supervisors and Institut Géographique National, the French Mapping Agency, that property he owned in Imperial County should be declared the Center of the World. You can visit this town, population two, and not only make a wish inside a pyramid but also browse granite tablets etched with history. They're designed to last 4,000 years and the goal is that they'll preserve the entirety of humanity for millennia to come. It's a quirky destination with a noble promise, and should definitely be on any southern California itinerary. ATV in the Imperial Sand Dunes By Kay from The Awkard Traveler It isn't general knowledge, but California has sand dunes. Some of the best California sand dunes are found in Southern California. Specifically, the Imperial Sand Dunes State Park right near the border of Mexico. Winter is arguable a better season to visit, especially when summer temperatures can easily reach over 110F. But that also means winter is the most busy time to visit. So, pick your poison. From San Diego, the drive is about 2.5hours, 2 hours from Palm Springs, and 3 hours from Los Angeles, making the Imperial Sand Dunes an easy day trip if you do not want to stay nearby. However, there are camping and RV options at the state park! To enter the park, permits are required from October 1 through April 15 each year. Permits are $35 per week in advance and $50 per week if purchased onsite. Season permits are $150. America the Beautiful National Park pass also counts for this park. Once you are all settled into the park, you're ready to ride! But before you get into your off-highway vehicle (whether it is ATV or a bike, or other), make sure to remember the basics. Wear a protective helmet, pay attention to "closed to vehicle signs," and tall visible red flags are REQUIRED on your vehicle for visibility and safety! There you have it! Tons and tons of ideas on things to do in California. Hope you find this article useful when planning your next getaway! More of California Los Angeles Ultimate Bucket List Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles Ultimate San Diego Bucket List 150+ Places to Go in Orange County Places to Visit in Santa Barbara What are your favorite things to do in California? Let me know in the comments section below. Pin “Things to Do in California” for later!, Pigeon Point LighthouseThings to Do in California: Golden State Best

Comments

  1. Rituparna says

    I have never done camping in my life. My daughter goes every year from her school though! Your post makes me feel like trying it at least once. Very informative post. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply

  5. Katie Minahan says

    I just went on my first camping trip this week and am now hooked! I’d love to camp in one of these beach front spots soon! Thanks for sharing such a thorough post!

    Reply

  7. Rowena says

    I grew up camping, but was living in SD, so have never actually camped there. Thanks for the list though! Now that I’m not living there and don’t know too many people who still do, my actually do some camping in San Diego.

    Reply

  8. Barbara - Porty's Diary says

    I’m not a big fan of camping but I would love to do a road trip in the US, so this post would come in handy! So many amazing camping sites; I liked the ones by the beach!

    Thansk for sharing such an amazing post!

    Reply

  10. Nina Bosken says

    Wow there are so many beautiful campgrounds near San Diego! I agree that it is way cheaper than staying in a hotel. That campground by Lake Jennings looks amazing!

    Reply

  11. Kelly says

    I had never really thought of San Diego as a “camping area” before, but after reading this camping by the beach sounds amazing! I have visited the area once before and now would love to go back again 🙂

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Get all the latest goodness straight to your inbox!