San Diego is one of California's southernmost coastal towns, and the second largest city in the state. The city has an abundance of shoreline, over 30 of which surround the San Diego Bay--a body of water extending from central San Diego to the city of Imperial Beach in the southern part of San Diego county. One of the city's smaller bays, Mission Bay, is located just north of the San Diego International Airport near both Pacific and Mission beaches. RV camping is permitted in specified areas at both San Diego Bay and Mission Bay.
Amenities available at RV campgrounds on the San Diego Bay and Mission Bay include basic necessities such as hot showers and laundry facilities; some campgrounds also offer recreation amenities. Chula Vista RV, a staple on the San Diego Bay since 1983, has a general store, swimming pool and picnic area. Campland on the Bay, located on Mission Bay since 1969, has a game room, market and provides free wireless Internet access to all guests.
San Diego's bayfront RV campgrounds are busiest in the summer months, so making a reservation well before arrival is advised. Some campgrounds also have maximum stay restrictions. Pets are typically allowed, but expect restrictions on animal size and the areas in which pets are allowed to be taken--as a general rule, dogs are not allowed on the beach in San Diego. Other rules and regulations, including quiet hours and check-in times often apply as well.
RV campgrounds on the bay in San Diego offer different rates for the summer and winter seasons--anticipate paying more from May through September than in other months. As of 2010, summer month rates begin at around $60 per night and winter month rates start at about $40 a night. Other costs include fees for extra persons, pets and extra vehicles--all typically under $10 per day as of 2010. Ask about the rate for electrical usage, as some campgrounds include the fee in the rental rate, while others charge an additional fee.
San Diego Mission Bay and San Diego Bay are crowded areas, particularly during the daytime hours of summer months, and people can easily walk up to the campgrounds from the beach. While some RV campgrounds provide security patrol, it is important to be cognizant of personal safety--keep RVs locked whenever possible, and keep valuable items in a safe location.
