- Del Mar
Popular camping styles for Del Mar
Mountainous a-frames near Del Mar guide
Overview
Situated on Pacific-facing bluffs, bout a half-hour drive north of San Diego (without traffic), Del Mar is an upscale bedroom community and the gateway to the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, just a 10-minute drive south of town. It's a good stopping-off point for those traveling between Los Angeles to the north and San Diego to the south, and if you're heading from LA to the Cleveland National Forest, you might find yourself passing through Del Mar. While there aren't many spots to camp Del Mar, sites are available at San Elijo State Beach in nearby Encinitas.
Where to go
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Named for the torrey pine, a rare species of tree that grows in the park, this day-use-only reserve preserves around 1,500 acres of coastal land that’s laced with hiking trails and scenic overlooks. It abuts Torrey Pines State Beach, a popular spot for surfing and sunbathing, to the north, and clothing-optional Black’s Beach to the south.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
For a change of climate and scenery, head east to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, which is known for its late-winter wildflower blooms. The park is a fantastic place to hike, camp, and birdwatch throughout much of the year and as an International Dark Sky Park, it’s a must-visit for stargazers who want to take in the beauty of the night sky, sans light pollution.
Silver Strand State Beach
RV campers rejoice: this beachfront park just outside of San Diego has an RV campground that can accommodate up to 120 RVs. Most of the park is dedicated to day-use activities, however, and the 2.5-mile-long beach here offers San Diego residents and out-of-towners plenty of room to spread out along with ample fishing and swimming opportunities.
When to go
Del Mar is pleasant year-round, with mild winters and hot, dry summers. The best time to visit is in September or October, when the temperatures are in the upper 70s or low 80s and there's usually little to no rain. Spring is another good alternative, though it’s not quite as warm as the fall. You can surf off the coast of Del Mar throughout the year, but you’ll need a wetsuit outside of the summer season.
Nearby attractions
Escape to Guajome Regional Park for a delightful camping adventure. Set up camp amidst picturesque landscapes, hike scenic trails, and enjoy peaceful moments by the lake. Engage in birdwatching, explore historic sites, and create lasting memories in this serene park.
