Outdoor Blog
20 Best Places to Camp Within 2 Hours of San Diego
With San Diego being known as “America’s Finest City,” it’s no surprise that it accommodates many kinds of hobbies for all kinds of people. San Diego has amazing weather that is perfect for camping almost year round. However, many of the campsites around the county are not year-round. There are many places around the city to go roughing it or go glamping, whichever your style!
While California is mostly known for its large cities, the Redwood National and State Parks attracts large numbers of people every year. However, the forest is in Northern California, and San Diego is in Southern California. There are still many beautiful sites to camp around the San Diego area. Most offer easy access to the beach or the city, while others are in the wilderness near lakes and saltwater reservoirs. If you live in or around San Diego and don’t want to drive up to Redwood National, here are some options for you to check out!
1.Mission Bay RV Resort
Just 12 minutes from the heart of San Diego, this family-friendly RV park is open all year long. It has many amenities, including internet access and laundry rooms. It’s the perfect place to get away without really getting away. The nearby bay is a great place to swim in the saltwater without being on the crowded beaches of the Pacific ocean.
Pros:
- Pavilion and lounge with games and recreational activities
- Convenience items such as ice and firewood are for sale at the front desk
- Restrooms and showers
- Laundry facilities
- Gated entrance and 24/7 security
- Full hook-ups
- Free wifi and cable TV
Cons:
- Crowded
- No tent campgrounds
2. Pio Pico RV Resort & Campground
This spacious RV resort is just about 30 minutes outside San Diego, and it offers many amenities. There’s places to swim and relax, as well as places to partake in many sports and recreation activities. And there is wifi and satellite tv available. If you forgot anything at home, no problem! There is a camp store that is available to all guests!
Pros:
- Hiking and bike trails
- Restrooms
- Laundry
- Market
- Pool, hot tub, and spa
- Pets welcome
- Wifi and satellite tv
- RV storage
Cons:
- Not remote
- No tent campsites
3. Campland on the Bay
If you’re looking for a place to get away to without really getting away from the city, Campland on the Bay is the place for you! There’s a lot of things you can do to pass the time: swimming, basketball, bike ride, campfires, ice cream, live entertainment, etc. Just a short drive away and you’ll find yourself at SeaWorld, LEGOLAND, and the San Diego Zoo. If it gets a little cold at night, there is a fire pit for every camper to enjoy.
Pros:
- RV and tent campsites
- Pet friendly
- Laundry and wifi
- 124-Slip marina
- Recreational courts
- Market
- Campfire
Cons:
- Not remote
4. Santa Fe Park RV Resort
With easy access to the nightlife of San Diego, this RV resort has many amenities for all types of people. There’s full hookup spaces that offer different kinds of Amp electrical services for everyone. There’s a large clubhouse for laundry, cooking, fitness, and fun.
Pros:
- Laundry
- Fitness center
- Variety of Amp hookups
- Kitchen
- Heated pool and spa
- Satellite tv with HBO access
Cons:
- Not far from the city
- Not the best if you’re wanting to reconnect with nature
- No tent campgrounds
5. San Diego Metro KOA Resort
This dog-friendly campsite has places to pitch a tent, park an RV, or rent a cabin. You can participate in many activities right on the grounds. There’s a cafe, pool, playground, pavilion, and kitchen. And it’s only about 15 away from the heart of San Diego, so you can visit all the hotspots the city has to offer while feeling like you’re far away as well. They have live music sometimes, too!
Pros:
- Cable and wifi
- Pool and spa
- Multiple camping spots
- Pavilion
- Playground
- Bike rentals
Cons:
- Not remote
6. San Diego RV Resort
Just 15 minutes outside the city, this RV resort is so close to the beach and the town. It offers easy access to the trolley that can take you to a number of San Diego’s attractions, such as San Diego Zoo, Old Town, and Balboa Park. With wifi, laundry, and restrooms, this place is perfect for those who are traveling via RV.
Pros:
- Fitness center
- Heated pool
- Wifi
- Laundry and restrooms
- Full hookups
Cons:
- Not remote
- Crowded
- Nowhere for tents
7. Paradise by the Sea Beach RV Resort
This RV park is about 40 minutes away from San Diego, so it’s perfect for San Diego natives who are wanting to get away from the city in their RV. There’s pool and beach access for those who love being in the water, and there’s cable tv and wifi access for those who like to stay in. This RV park is just a short walk to the Oceanside Pier, where campers can shop or eat.
Pros:
- Full hookups
- Free wifi and cable tv
- Pool and spa
- Close to many exciting attractions
Cons:
- Not a tent campground
8. Santee Lakes Campground
Just 20 minutes away from the city, this campground is amazing. Campers can choose between full RV hookups with free wifi, or campers can upgrade to a deluxe suite with cable tv. Campers also get access to Lakes 6 and 7 for exclusive fishing. This campground also has 4 acres of on-site solar panels that provide 50% of the facility’s needs. For those who love using green energy, this campground is the place for you.
Pros:
- Beautiful lakes
- Fishing access
- Free wifi
- Cable tv availability
- Solar panel
Cons:
- No laundry services
- No restrooms
9. Admiral Baker RV Campground & Picnic Areas
Surrounded by green grass and lines of trees, this RV park is located very close to the city while also being enveloped in nature. It has several recreational courts, a swimming pool, and picnic tables. There are also laundry and showers available. This is the perfect getaway for active-duty military members!
Pros:
- Beautiful landscape
- Close to the city
- Recreational courts
- Outdoor pool
- Picnic areas
- Shower and laundry facilities
- Pets allowed
Cons:
- Not open year-round
10. Surf & Turf RV Park
Located mere blocks from the Pacific ocean, this RV park has a lot of things to do around the city. However, this park does not offer many of the amenities that the other parks do. This part offers more of a long-term stay than the others, which gives more of a resort-quality.
Pros:
- Located close to the city
- Places to park several kinds of RV
Cons:
- No bathrooms
- No laundry
- Not remote
11. Mission Trails Regional Park
This weekend-only retreat to the Kumeyaay Lake Campground is perfect for those who want to reconnect with nature on a deeper level. It offers purchasable firewood to make s’mores and beautiful trails for hikers to enjoy. Open fires are only allowed in the fire rings located at each campground. The picnic tables are available for cyclists and hikers for day-use.
Pros:
- Beautiful scenery
- Hiking trails
- In the heart of nature
- Fire rings at each campground
Cons:
- Only open on weekends
12. Fiddler’s Cove Marina & RV Park (Navy MWR)
This RV park is located right on the Fiddler’s Cove Marina and offers boat slips and rentals. You can also rent kayaks, canoes, and sailboats. Showers, restrooms, laundry, and a chandlery store are available as well. And it’s only 16 minutes from the heart of San Diego.It is open to active duty navy members only at this time.
Pros:
- Many things to rent and do
- Slip availability
Cons:
- No tent areas
13. Willow Loop Campground
This campground offers both RV and tent areas, and it allows pets. RV users can hook up to the sewer and water services. There are showers and restrooms, as well as a camp store and picnic tables. While there is no wifi service, there is cell service. It also has ADA accessibility. And you can access the campgrounds by walking, hiking, or driving. The nearby lake is stocked with fish, so it never runs out.
Pros:
- ADA accessibility
- Showers and restrooms
- Picnic tables
- Cell phone service
- Pets allowed
- RV and tent sites
- Camp store
- Fishing
Cons:
- No wifi
- No laundry
14.Lake Jennings Campground
This lakeside campsite offers RV hookups and tent sites. They even offer a few tipi sites. They offer many of the basic amenities, but they also have a campground scavenger hunt. They have 24-hour restrooms and showers. There is free wifi available as well. At the entrance of the campground, you can purchase ice, propane, and firewood. There is also a shop where you can purchase fishing equipment, camping supplies, snacks, or non-alcoholic drinks.
Pros:
- Restrooms and showers
- Bait and tackle shop
- Game room
- Free wifi
Cons:
- Limited availability
15. La Pacifica RV Park
Perfectly located close to the beaches and the city, this RV park offers many amenities. There are many different Amp hookups for different types of RVs and sewer and water hookups. It’s pet-friendly, has laundry, and has newly remodeled restrooms. It offers free wifi, cable tv, and trash services. This RV park is centrally located near some of the best parts of Southern California. It is also located at the bottom of San Diego Bay.
Pros:
- Laundry
- Showers and restrooms
- Wifi and cable tv
- Trash services
- Year-round pool and spa
- Large clubhouse
Cons:
- No tent sites
16. La Jolla Indian Campground
This campground prides itself on being San Diego county’s only campsite with river and tubing access. They offer both RV and tent campsites. While it is about 1 hour and 15 minutes away from San Diego, you can relax by floating down the river. There aren’t many places in the world where you can find undisturbed wilderness, but the La Jolla Indian Reservation has almost 10000 acres of it. You can also learn about the La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians who have lived in the Palomar Mountain range for thousands of years!
Pros:
- Camp store
- Showers and bathrooms
- River access
- Tubing
- Tent and RV campsites
Cons:
- No pets allowed
- No wifi or cell service
- No flush toilets
17. Sweetwater Summit Regional Park
This campsite offers tent campsites and RV hookups. There are 15 miles of trails that are perfect for hiking and biking. Campers can fish in the Sweetwater Reservoir or relax in the community room. This campsite also has a 60-foot pavilion that is covered and has kitchen facilities. There are also four 16-foot picnic pavilions scattered among the grounds.
Pros:
- Tent and RV sites
- Restrooms
- Fishing
- Several pavilions
- Trails
Cons:
- No showers
- No wifi
- No resort-style amenities
18. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
This beachside campsite offers so many activities for those who love the ocean. There are stairs that lead to the beach where you can surf, swim, skin diving, and fishing. Pitch a tent right on the bluff-top campgrounds, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. You can watch the sunset over the ocean and then do some stargazing. If you’ve always wanted to do some beach camping, this place is perfect for you.
Pros:
- Ocean access
- Dog friendly
- Handicap accessibility
Cons:
- No showers
- No RV hookups
19. Mulberry Loop Campground
This campground has many things to offer for all kinds of campers. There’s places to pitch a tent and hook up your RV, as well as market and picnic tables. Restrooms with showers are available, and trash services too. There’s cell service, wifi, and ADA accessibility. And it’s only about 25 minutes from San Diego. However, the campground does not offer any clean drinking water.
Pros:
- Wifi
- ADA accessibility
- Trash services
- Restrooms and showers
- Camp store
- Picnic tables
- Pet friendly
Cons:
- No drinking water
20. Chula Vista RV Resort
This RV park has a lot to offer. You can choose to back your RV into the lot or pull through it. With each lot, campers will also get a picnic table, trash service, and cable tv. When you leave your RV, you can go to the pool, hot tub, fitness center, or game room. It’s pet-friendly and it offers the option to purchase propane and laundry services. If you forgot something at home, there is also an on-site market.
Pros:
- Full RV hookup
- Pool and hot tub
- Pet friendly
- Game room
- Camp store
- Fitness center
- Cable tv
- Trash services
Cons:
- Laundry services are add on pay
- No tent sites
- No showers
Final Verdict:
The San Diego Metro KOA offers the most in terms of ways to camp and amenities. While you’re not very far from the city, there are still many things to do that will make you feel like you’re miles away. It offers many things for kids to do, as well as adults. Whether you would prefer to rough it or go glamping, this campsite offers the best camping experience for everyone!
Bonus tip: If you also want to hit the city, watch this video to find out 26 things to do in San Diego!
Outdoor Blog
Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season
Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.
Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures
If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.
Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.
What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?
One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.
This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.
Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have
Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.
The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.
Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience
Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.
These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.
Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience
A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.
Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.
Outdoor Blog
Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip
As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.
Choosing Your Adventure
First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.
Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.
Plan a Camping Trip
If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.
What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.
Gear Up for Deer Hunting
For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.
Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.
Map Your Route
Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.
Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.
Prepare Physically and Mentally
The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.
Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.
Pack Smart
The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.
Outdoor Blog
BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024
BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.
At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.
The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.
In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.
BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.
For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.
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