We’ll be blunt: San Diego County has the best spring camping in the West. Want to pitch your tent on a classic Southern California beach? You got it. Want mountains and deserts? You have those too. The five campgrounds listed here are our favorites. May is a great month to visit — summer crowds haven’t yet hit the beach and mountain parks, and it’s not too hot in the desert. For reservations, visit www.parks.ca.gov or www.reserveamerica.com, or call 800/444-7275. (To book on short notice, try a weekday trip.)
Anza-Borrego Desert S.P.
Borrego Palm Canyon is the most accessible of the 600,000-acre desert park’s three developed campgrounds. From here, a moderate 1.5-mile hike leads to a grove of California’s only native palm species. 117 sites from $20 through May 14, from $14 May 15–Sep 15. At the west end of Palm Canyon Dr., off County Rd. S22.Cuyamaca Rancho S.P.
There are two campgrounds here, both set among oaks and pines: 81-site Green Valley is bisected by Sweetwater River, which cascades into kid-friendly natural pools; 85-site and 5-cabin Paso Picacho, about 1,000 feet higher, is more popular for its hiking trails. 166 sites $15 through May 14, $20 May 15–Sep 15; 5 cabins from $45 year-round. On State 79, 5 miles north of I-8.
Palomar Mountain S.P.
With thick stands of cedar, fir, and pine, 4,700-foot Doane Valley has the most Sierra Nevada–like feel of San Diego–area campgrounds. Climb some of the park’s peaks, though, and you can see the Pacific Ocean 50 miles away. 31 sites $20. On County Rd. S6, off State 76 and County Rd. S7.
San Elijo S.B.
It’s a surfer’s paradise, but the state beach is also popular for strolling, swimming, and snorkeling. Every-one wants to score a campsite near the water, of course, but even the bluffside spots are fairly close to the waves. 171 sites from $25 Mar 1–Nov 30. 2050 Hwy. 101 (from I-5, exit at Encinitas Blvd., head west, then go south on
Hwy. 101).
San Onofre S.B.
The beach portion of the park, known as San Onofre Bluffs, is open only for day use until May 15; after that, campsites are available (but fill up fast). The park’s San Mateo State Park Loop, about 1½ miles inland and set among coastal chaparral, is open year-round. 175 sites from $25; $10 per vehicle day-use fee. Bluffs are off Basilone Rd. from I-5; the San Mateo Loop is off Cristianitos Rd. from I-5.
