Beautiful Picnic and Camping Parks in San Diego
Families have fun in San Diego parks
San Diego is best enjoyed outside, and in addition to its beautiful beaches, the county boasts a wide array of scenic parks for picnicking, camping, hiking, or just throwing a blanket down on the grass and whiling away the day staring at the clouds. Below is a listing of favorite parks in the San Diego area, and links to the San Diego County Parks and Recreation website for more in-depth information.
Picnic Parks
There are over 24 parks in San Diego, covering areas to the East, North and in between. Most of these parks include picnic tables, playgrounds and lawns. For small gatherings these parks are perfect, but if you are planning a larger celebration, such as a family reunion, a company picnic, or even a wedding reception, there are seven County parks that have reserveable areas fit for up to 500 people. Reservations to these parks are available up to a year ahead of time.
Ramona, CAA rocky, shady park with a pond, two reserveable areas and additional picnic areas and playgrounds for walk-in use.
Lakeside, CAOne of San Diego’s original parks, and still favorites. The park’s 98 acres includes plenty of play area and a ball field.
Escondido, CAThe 53-acre park includes seven reservable areas, a freshwater stream, beautiful grassy areas and a modern playground.
El Cajon, CAGatherings as large as 500 can reserve an area in this park filled with old oaks, a flowing stream, a ball field and hiking trails.
Pine Valley, CAA lawn-covered park filled with pine trees, oaks and lots of fun activities including tennis, shuffleboard and horseshoes.
Potrero, CAA secluded 115-acre park can accommodate up to 300 people in their reservable picnic area. Grassy meadows and oak trees provide a beautiful backdrop for picnickers.
Del Mar, CAOcean breezes are the highlight of this coastal picnic park.
Camping Parks
Get closest to nature by living amongst it. San Diego’s temperate weather makes camping a favorite choice among outdoor types, and those who are looking for a beautiful change of scenery. The following are some of the favorite local camping parks:
A favorite spot in the desert, with geothermally heated springs that attract those who want to relax in soothing mineral waters after a hike through the parks canyons and hillsides. Due to wildlife concerns, pets are not allowed.
Ramona, CAOaks and mountains surround this secluded camping spot.
Oceanside, CAContains one of the most diverse habitats of all of San Diego’s county parks. Visitors can fish, hike and ride horses.
Lakeside, CAOnly five miles from the suburb of El Cajon, the park invokes the feeling of being in the country. With a beautiful man-made lake, chaparral covered hills and views of El Capitan, it’s an easy place to get away.
Campo, CAOne of the most modern camping facilities in San Diego, Lake Moreno is surrounded by over 3,000 acres of chaparral, oak woods and grassland. Trout, bass and panfish bring out the fishing enthusiasts. Boats are available to rent.
Potrero, CALocated about 40 miles east of San Diego, Potrero includes grassy meadows, and hundred-year-old oak trees for shady picnics. Animal residents include mule deer, coyotes and the occasional bobcat.
Santee, CAA convenient adventure on 190 acres and seven lakes nestled in the foothills 20 minutes from San Diego. Enjoy 300 full hook-up sites, playgrounds, fishing, boat rentals, biking and running trails, laundry, general store, internet access and a friendly smiling staff.
Bonita, CAOnly 10-miles from downtown San Diego, this camping park is perfect for those looking for a quick getaway, or as an addition to other San Diego activities. Popular with hikers, horse riders and mountain bikers.
A quieter and cooler alternative to some of the busier desert parks in the area.
Be sure to check out San Diego's other great campgrounds
