The best camping near Border Field State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Border Field State Park adventure.

Go birdwatching or peer over to Mexico at the southwestern corner of the contiguous US.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Border Field State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Border Field State Park

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San Diego Canyon Creek

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · El Cajon, CA

Try out camping without having to rough-it! You can rent the Honeycomb Cabin! Or swing through for a safe place to spend the night in your van, or tent, while taking advantage of San Diego and all it has to offer! So much to be seen or done within 30 miles! You can plan a visit to the World Famous San Diego Zoo, Museums, Sea World, Birch Aquarium, Safari Park, Lego Land and more! San Diego county has wine tasting, breweries, theaters and eateries of all kinds. There are several beaches, mountain lakes, and even the deserts! You can skydive, or scuba dive, go deep sea fishing, or lake fishing, mountain biking, hiking, climbing, or walking the boardwalk! SAN DIEGO CANYON CREEK is a SMALL PATCH of WOODS, NEAR a ROAD, in a NEIGHBORHOOD. In the midst of the trees we have a great view of the stars at night. Harbison Canyon is surrounded by rocky peaks, with a creek! We have multiple species of song birds, owls, hawks, and other wildlife that live in this Riparian Habitat. There is a chorus of frogs throughout the spring nights, and crickets year round! It's a very short walk to the neighborhood park- equipped with several types of playground equipment and public creek access, or a five minute drive to a Crestridge Ecological Reserve containing multiple trails. We have three campsites and a cabin on about an acre of land. If you'd like to hang out on the property, we offer a table and chairs with each campsite to lounge in while enjoying the fresh air and nature. There are also a couple of hammocks available. In addition, our SHARED amenities include an outdoor kitchen that includes a sink with hot water, 2 mini fridges,(full at times, extra coolers available) coffee maker, a two burner stove, a griddle, a toaster oven, blender, tea kettle, and a few pans, plates, bowls, cups, and utensils. Also here to SHARE is a Propane fire pit and BBQ area. The bathroom now includes a flush toilet, sink and shower. We are continuously making improvements. Fun Fact: Harbison Canyon was named after John Stewart Harbison - aka the King of the Bee Keepers. He arrived with over one hundred colonies of bees in 1874 and within 7 years he became the world's largest honey producer! Today there are just a few bees in the area.

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Dutchman Canyon

7 sites · Tents150 acres · Dulzura, CA

This 150 acre slice of heaven contains an isolated private ephemeral stream that has run the last two years from January to July. Located down a narrow bumpy dirt road off of Highway 94 Dutchman Canyon is at 1300 feet above sea level, The temperature in Dulzura remains nice year round. There are many Oaks, Sycamores, Eucylptus, Pepper and Pine Trees on the property. The fire road has been cleared to the top of the grade and a slight ocean view is available down the Otay Valley Road view line for hikers or mountain bike enthusiasts. A hiking trail has also been cleared to a stand of Eucylptus trees on the hillside with a pond area at their base on the west facing slope. The Dulzura winery is located across the valley and we are only 1/8 mile from the General Store of Dulzura. The Tecate Border crossing to Mexico is 10 miles south of the property. Located a few miles west of Deer Valley we have deer in the canyon year round looking for fresh water from the ephemeral stream. A 19th century concrete cistern holds water year round at one location in the stream bed. Please do not burn the dead oak firewood from the property.

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Campo Nopalito

7 sites · Lodging15 acres · Valley Center, CA

Welcome to Nopalito Farm! We’re so happy you’ve decided to spend some time on this beautiful property! In case you’re interested, here are a few interesting things about our farm. Nopalito Farm has been in operation since late 2014, but the property itself has been a working farm for over 50 years. Lemons and avocados were the primary crops from the 70’s through the 00’s, and are still prominent throughout our 15 acres. Our predecessors then diversified the growing operation by planting a wide range of fruit trees ranging from guavas and passion fruit to peaches and figs. For a decade, hops were grown on 2 acres and were sold to breweries throughout southern California. We’ve since replaced the hop yard with perennial flowers, but continue to cultivate a wide variety of delicious fruits.

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Wild Seeds Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Dulzura, CA

Wild Seeds is a sustainable conscious coliving community and live-work space in nature 30 minutes outside San Diego 🫶🌵🌞 The ranch is full of enchanting spaces -- a koi pond, 100 year old oaks, and a seasonal creek. You can have a totally private camping experience, or join our fun and engaging events. We are creative professionals, ecopreneurs, social impact artists, and spiritual activists. Our community space is inclusive, period. We embrace and celebrate people of all backgrounds, body types, and nonviolent self-expression.

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Rogue Farm

1 site · RV6 acres · Ramona, CA

Hi there, Welcome to Rogue Farm. We have 1 RV spot available on a small, quiet organic vegetable farm in Ramona, CA. Ramona is located in San Diego County. The property is 30-45 min from the center of San Diego and is 5 min from shopping/grocery stores in town. The property is located near the mountains, there are hiking trails, loads of wineries and farms. We have a small farmstand on the property (we sell our produce from it) as well as farm animals (horses, cows, goats, pigs, poultry). The site has electrical and water hookups. There is no septic available. We love visitors and are happy to share our farm. For those with animals: All dogs must be kept in a leash when outside on the farm. We have livestock that not all dogs have been around and are used to interacting with them. Please be respectful of our farm animals, this is their home.

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Mystic Canyon Inn

5 sites · Lodging1 acre · El Cajon, CA

Our home is eclectic, country, relaxed and homey. We are conveniently located just 30 minutes from downtown San Diego and popular tourist attractions like Comic-Con, Balboa Park, the beautiful beaches and the world famous San Diego Zoo. 35 minutes east you will find beautiful Mount Laguna, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Pacific Crest Trail access and the town of Julian. About an hour east brings you to the desert, where natural beauty and recreation abound. 13 miles away, Viejas Casino boasts a beautiful outlet center. 4 miles away, Sycuan has a casino with entertainment and the golf resort of Singing Hills. Come enjoy the slower pace of the San Diego backcountry. If you are in the mood for a massage, Barbara is a therapist with amazing healing hands. (Please arrange in advance of your visit to ensure availability.) If you are a hiker and need a guide, Randy is an experienced Pacific Crest Trail hiker, who will be happy to assist with drop-off and pick-up in the local mountains, or whatever your hiking/backpacking needs are. Bikers of all kinds, frequently go by on Harbison Canyon Road, which is part of a larger biking loop. So, hike, bike or drive yourself to our little haven and say goodbye to the hustle and bustle! We enjoy talking to our guests, finding out about where they live and providing information on the local area. We do work during the week, but are usually around on the weekends.

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Whiteside Mountain

1 site · Tent160 acres · Jamul, CA

160 acres of wild and private land at the top of a mountain. Bouldering, exploring, outdoor cold water shower, well drinking water, and pergola! 45 minutes from downtown San Diego and beaches but a whole different world!A single camp spot on the top of a mountain surrounded by 160 acres of no one else! Requires 4WD/high clearance AWD road to camp spot. Plenty of shade at spot with picnic area that is covered. Drinking water, sink and outdoor cold water shower. Bouldering (climbing), fire pit (seasonal), covered deck, hiking and VIEWS! Plenty of room and separate camp spots- lock the gate and you will have no visitors or onlookers. Single outdoor flush toilet with sink. We provide a Propane stove - 2 burner, propane, toilet paper, dish soap and hand soap. No COTS.Guests love it here "This was finally checked off of my saved list—my partner and I rented a 4x4 to get up there since our 2WD car wouldn't have made it in one piece. It was only a short drive from downtown San Diego and was super easy to navigate. Once we arrived the experience was TRULY MAGICAL. We had such an awesome experience exploring the property, birdwatching, hiking and some light climbing. Don't forget to check out the cave! The facilities were beyond expectations and we had a seamless experience. Steve was super accommodating and was great at communicating—he even gave us a small tour of the property! The sunsets and sunrises here were something out of a dream, we wish we could wake up every morning here. We will definitely be coming back soon!"

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Kayhill Farm

1 site · RV2 acres · Spring Valley, CA

Learn more about this land: Urban camping spot with incredible views. Perfect for stealth vans and other smaller vehicles. Unfortunately we cannot accommodate travel trailers or Rvs at this time. Water, power, and sewer available. Property is close to freeways and stores. Also adjacent to nature preserve with moderate hiking trails, wildlife watching, and panoramic views. Site is at the top of a STEEP hill. Some maneuvering on your end will be required to get a vehicle in, but site is level once parked. Hookups are included but cannot be connected continuously. This is an URBAN camp spot meaning there will be some noise from the freeways and the city that's off in the distance. We live in a neighborhood so our neighbors sometimes make noise or have cars coming in and out.

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Stallion Oaks Ranch (Retreat)

18 sites · Lodging, Tents243 acres · Descanso, CA

In 2003, the Grosvenor Family Foundation donated the 238-acre retreat property located in Descanso to The Unity Center. Much of the land, including more than 12 structures were destroyed during the Cedar Fires in October of 2003. In the years since the fire, members of our community have lovingly tended to the land and slowly nurtured the trees and flowers. The result is acres of pristine wilderness, with hiking trails, a small lake and even a hill of daffodils that bloom every Spring.Our vision is to create a world-class retreat center and campground that promotes spiritual renewal and personal growth in a natural setting, by providing a location for education, inner reflection, positive recreation and acceptance. The Ranch is owned by The Unity Center, a progressive spiritual community that emphasizes living consciously and making a positive difference in the world. This is a sacred and special place . So whether you're planning a retreat, a wedding or a special event, we hope you'll come away from the Ranch feeling renewed.

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Cashews Garden

5 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · El Cajon, CA

Fully gated and secure. This is our home. I personally lived in my RV and struggled, so now I offer our place for a cheap place to park .We have 2 parking spaces for your off grid fully independent max 24 foot van or small RV . We also have a cabover camper set up if you need a roof over your head with a bathroom and shower. Full equipped kitchen area. Not fancy but does the job! Coming soon is our 5th wheel. Available starting Mid November Has heat and air conditioning. Has a shower and bathroom. Full kitchen and bedroom. Pull out couch bed. Table and chairs. We just scored a free outdoor fireplace!!!! Woooohoooo!!! I will add pictures soon so you are welcome to sit by the fire! We have starter logs and firewood. We do not have hookups for your van or RV. We can offer an extension cord and shop vac for cleaning but cannot hook you up to full time power. We have a hose to fill your tanks. No dumping station here. No bathroom or shower —-however, if no one has rented the campers you can use those! Usually both are not booked at the same time but we prefer you have a toilet on your rig. We have donkeys and a horse that you can feed watermelon or carrots to provided by us. We have a hang out area without air conditioning, with a refrigerator, sink, tables and a camping stove. Some dishes and we got a large TV and DVD player donated to us! So, we added some old DVDs you can enjoy! BBQ grill We are right by the highway so it’s not quiet like in the country. However, at night I feel it’s quiet! And maybe I’m just used to it but I don’t notice the highway noise unless it’s a motorcycle. We have a fenced in place for your dog but you need to walk through where the donkeys and horse are to get there. Tiny dogs can escape under the gate . Animal manure around the field and pin. And to clarify due to someone asking! We don’t want people inside the animals pins just hanging out. We just don’t want anyone to get hurt but if you have a dog, you will pass through the donkey pin to the dog pin. The gate closes and separates the dog area from the donkeys and horse. It need to be open when your down because they sleep in there. They are sweet and have never kicked or bit anyone and if you have a dog you get a full tour. All of our guests with dogs have had no issues at all! If your dogs are large animal friendly then we are good with them being off leash!! We love dogs! Just know that the entrance gate opens and closes as we and our guests come and go at our home. We have a trampoline Basketball goal Outdoor Fireplace Above ground saltwater pool that you are welcome to use. We will be here when you check in to show you around. You will receive a gate code on arrival so you can come and go. We are family friendly No drugs or heavy drinking No leaving children unattended No entering into animals pins. No guests outside of you and whoever is in your van/rv We are just starting to set things up. We are working on a garden. We have avocados and oranges.

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Manzanita Ridge

1 site · Lodging9 acres · Descanso, CA

WE love where we live! And we think you'd like to visit! WE mostly enjoy our views, one of the benefits of living on a hill, there is nothing to obstruct the view! Come and hike, or just sit!

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(55)

GoodVibes Ranch & Farm

102 sites · RVs, Tents74 acres · Jamul, CA

Discover the Joy of Nature at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm: Your Ultimate Mountain Escape! At GoodVibes Ranch and Farm, we offer a variety of camping options to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer traditional tent camping, glamping units, or eco-friendly trailers, we have something for everyone. We also have a stargazing deck, picnic areas, bathrooms, showers, and commercial kitchen available for use while camping. Our campground is nestled in the breathtaking mountains of Jamul, California, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure. In addition to camping accommodations, we offer a range of activities to keep you entertained. Explore the surrounding hiking trails and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Challenge your friends to a game of disc golf or unwind with a friendly game of billiards. We pride ourselves on providing an affordable camping experience, making it the perfect choice for families or friends looking to gather and create lasting memories. Come and discover the joy of nature at GoodVibes Ranch & Farm, your ultimate mountain escape!

The best camping near Border Field State Park guide

Overview

About

Occupying the south westernmost corner of the contiguous United States, on the border with Mexico, Border Field State Park features a long expanse of sand and sea that’s interrupted by a tall slatted border fence at the Friendship Park. It’s a coastal safe haven for a variety of avian species, including threatened and endangered birds. As a result, birdwatching is a popular activity at this day-use park where camping is not allowed, though plenty of people also visit for hiking, horseback riding, and to see old World War II bunkers. Monument 258, which demarcates the border between the US and Mexico, is also visible from the park, though it is fenced off.

When to go

The park is popular throughout the year, particularly on weekends. While winters see a bit of rain and cloud cover, temperatures rarely get too cold. August and September can be a little too hot for some people's comfort, while springtime and early autumn days are often pleasantly warm, with highs in the low 70s. The park is open daily from 9:30am throughout the year, (closing times vary by season). Trails are open from 7am until sunset.

Know before you go

The Friendship Park section of Border Fields, located right on the border with Mexico, is only open on weekends. Visiting requires proof of U.S. residence, such as a state-issued driver’s license or ID.
While it may be tempting to swim at the park, it's not recommended to enter the water due to riptides and inshore holes. There are no lifeguards at the park.
The picnic areas and restrooms at Border Field are accessible, as are the North McCoy and South McCoy Trails, both of which have compacted soil.
Leashed dogs are allowed in the picnic area, but not on trails or on the beach.