Best Weekend RV Trips from San Diego, California

Living in Southern California means you’re never far from a great adventure. With the ocean to the west, mountains to the east, and desert just beyond, weekend getaways are practically built into the San Diego lifestyle. One of the easiest and most rewarding ways to explore them is by RV.

Whether you’re a first-time renter looking for a stress-free trip or a seasoned traveler seeking new weekend favorites, these RV trips from San Diego, California are the perfect blend of close-to-home convenience and wide-open exploration.

1. Julian & Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

1 hour from San Diego

Julian is a charming mountain town tucked in the Cuyamaca Mountains, famous for its apple orchards and homemade pies. It feels like stepping back in time, with historic storefronts, rustic cafés, and gold mine tours.

RV Camping:

• Paso Picacho Campground (Cuyamaca Rancho State Park): Spacious RV sites with hookups, nestled among pines at 5,000 feet elevation.
  
  
• Easy roads make this an approachable spot for first-time RV drivers.
  
  

Things to Do:

• Try Julian’s world-famous apple pie at Mom’s or Julian Pie Company.
  
  
• Hike Stonewall Peak or Lake Cuyamaca trails for sweeping views.
  
  
• Visit the Eagle Mining Company for a hands-on gold rush experience.
  
  

Why it’s great for renters: Close to home, cool mountain air, and easy campground access make it a low-stress, high-reward trip.

2. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

1.5–2 hours from San Diego

California’s largest state park spans over 600,000 acres of desert wilderness. Depending on the season, you might see wildflowers blooming, catch a fiery desert sunset, or stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the state.

RV Camping:

• Palm Canyon Campground (Borrego Springs): RV sites with partial hookups, close to trails and town.
  
  
• Borrego Palm Canyon Campground is especially renter-friendly, with paved sites and ranger programs.
  
  

Things to Do:

• Drive through Borrego Springs to spot the life-sized metal sculptures scattered across the desert.
  
  
• Hike the Palm Canyon Trail to a hidden oasis.
  
  
• Visit in spring for the famous “super bloom” of wildflowers.
  
  

Why it’s great for renters: A true change of scenery that feels worlds away, but still only a couple hours’ drive from San Diego.

3. Mission Bay & San Diego Beaches

Stay local for waterfront fun

Who says you have to leave the city for a getaway? Mission Bay offers the perfect mix of convenience and outdoor adventure. Set up camp right on the water and enjoy kayaking, biking, or simply soaking up the San Diego sunshine.

RV Camping:

• Campland on the Bay: Full hookups, beach access, and kid-friendly amenities like pools and arcades.
  
  
• Mission Bay RV Resort: Waterfront RV sites with hookups, ideal for couples or families who want convenience.
  
  

Things to Do:

• Bike the scenic path around Mission Bay.
  
  
• Paddleboard or kayak right from your campsite.
  
  
• Visit SeaWorld, Balboa Park, or Old Town San Diego within minutes.
  
  

Why it’s great for renters: Perfect for first-time RVers to get comfortable without leaving the city.

4. Joshua Tree National Park

3 hours from San Diego (ideal for a long weekend)

Joshua Tree is otherworldly — a desert landscape of boulder piles, starry skies, and the park’s namesake trees. It’s a must for photographers, hikers, and anyone looking to unplug.

RV Camping:

• Black Rock Campground: Has larger sites and is closer to Yucca Valley for supplies.
  
  
• Cottonwood Campground: Easier access for RVs and ranger programs. (Note: hookups are limited, so prepare for dry camping.)
  
  

Things to Do:

• Explore Hidden Valley or Skull Rock for unique hikes.
  
  
• Rock climb or scramble the giant boulders.
  
  
• Stay after dark for world-class stargazing.
  
  

Why it’s great for renters: A bucket-list destination just a few hours away — manageable for a long weekend road trip.

5. Carlsbad & Oceanside Beaches

30–45 minutes north of San Diego

For an easy beach escape, head up the coast to Carlsbad or Oceanside. With cliffside campsites, laid-back beach towns, and plenty of family-friendly attractions, it’s one of the most accessible RV trips from San Diego, California.

RV Camping:

• South Carlsbad State Beach Campground: RV sites perched on ocean bluffs with incredible sunsets (electric hookups available).
  
  
• Paradise by the Sea RV Resort (Oceanside): Full hookups, heated pool, and just steps from the beach.
  
  

Things to Do:

• Walk the Oceanside Pier and grab fish tacos.
  
  
• Take the kids to Legoland California.
  
  
• Relax on Carlsbad’s sandy beaches or shop the village boutiques.
  
  

Why it’s great for renters: Close to home, scenic ocean views, and easy campgrounds make it a stress-free getaway.

Wrapping It Up

Whether you’re craving apple pie in the mountains, stargazing in the desert, or sunsets on the beach, these RV trips from San Diego, California are all within a weekend’s reach. Renting an RV opens up the freedom to chase fresh scenery without long travel days — all while bringing the comforts of home along for the ride.

Ready to Hit the Road?

Book your RV rental today from your San Diego, California territory manager and let your next adventure begin.

Explore options now at San Diego Camper Rentals and make your weekend unforgettable.

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