Family-friendly things to do in San Diego range from headline attractions like the world-famous zoo to simple pleasures like building sandcastles or exploring tide pools at low tide. What makes these experiences even better is pairing them with a camping trip, where adventure continues long after the day’s outing ends. Camping gives families flexibility, built-in outdoor fun, and an easy base to return to between excursions.
Whether your kids love animals, beaches, or hands-on activities, San Diego offers something for every age. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best family activities—curated especially for campers who want both relaxation and exploration.
Why Camping Is a Unique Way to Experience San Diego
Camping opens a different window into San Diego compared to staying at hotels or vacation rentals.
Built for Families
Campland is chock full of fun amenities and recreation. When you’re camping, mornings can start with a paddle on Mission Bay, afternoons might include a trip to Balboa Park or the zoo, and evenings end with a bonfire and s’mores. Unlike traditional lodging, campgrounds allow kids to play freely, connect with nature, and easily meet other families.
Closer to Nature and Attractions
San Diego’s campgrounds are positioned near the heart of the city. Whether you’re on Mission Bay or close to Pacific Beach, you’ll have easy access to beaches, trails, and top attractions while still feeling immersed in the outdoors.
The Flexible Pace
Camping also gives you control over timing. You can return to camp for naps, meals, or downtime without losing the vacation vibe. That balance makes it easier to keep kids happy while still packing in memorable outings.
Big-Name Family Attractions
San Diego is famous for its big-ticket destinations that draw families year after year, and these icons deserve a place on every itinerary. From world-class animal encounters to interactive history and ocean discovery, these attractions guarantee unforgettable memories for kids and adults alike.
San Diego Zoo & Safari Park
The San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park is home to more than 12,000 animals and is consistently ranked among the best zoos in the world. Families can wander through immersive habitats like the Lost Forest, Polar Bear Plunge, and Elephant Odyssey, all designed to bring kids up close to wildlife. For a different adventure, the Safari Park in Escondido offers a tram ride across sprawling savanna habitats where giraffes, rhinos, and antelope roam freely.
Tip: Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and catch animals when they’re most active. Consider splitting your visit across two days if time allows.
USS Midway Museum
Docked along the downtown waterfront, the USS Midway Museum lets visitors step inside a historic aircraft carrier. Families can explore restored aircraft, climb into cockpits, and try out flight simulators that bring aviation history to life. Kids love the hands-on nature of the exhibits, while adults appreciate the stories of veterans who served on board. Plan at least two to three hours here—it’s bigger than it looks.
Birch Aquarium
Located in La Jolla, the Birch Aquarium is compact but packed with wonder. Touch tanks let children feel sea stars and hermit crabs, while interactive displays explain marine science in fun ways. Outside, panoramic ocean views create a perfect backdrop for family photos. The aquarium makes an excellent half-day trip that pairs well with nearby beaches or La Jolla Cove, where sea lions often lounge.
Balboa Park
Beyond the zoo, Balboa Park is a destination in itself, offering 1,200 acres of museums, gardens, playgrounds, and open lawns. Families can enjoy kid-focused museums like the Fleet Science Center or the San Diego Model Railroad Museum, then unwind with a picnic under the shade of towering trees. Seasonal events, street performers, and cultural festivals keep the park lively year-round, making it an easy win for families with a wide range of interests.
Hidden Gems for Families
While San Diego’s headline attractions are worth the trip, the city also has a collection of lesser-known treasures that are perfect for families who want something different. These spots often combine outdoor exploration, history, and coastal beauty, making them ideal for campers who like to mix adventure with relaxation.
Cabrillo National Monument
At the tip of Point Loma, Cabrillo blends history with natural discovery. Families can explore tide pools at low tide, climb to the top of the historic lighthouse, and walk scenic trails overlooking San Diego Bay and the Pacific. During winter months, the site is also one of the best spots in Southern California for whale watching.
Tip: Check tide schedules before you go—low tide is the best time to visit the tide pools.
La Jolla Cove & Underwater Park
This coastal gem is a must for nature lovers. Children are often fascinated by the sea lions and seals that lounge on the rocks, while older kids and adults can snorkel or kayak through the underwater park’s kelp forests. The calm waters nearby make it safe for younger children to wade, and picnic areas give families space to take a break. Pair this outing with a stop for ice cream or fish tacos in La Jolla Village.
Mission Bay Playgrounds
Mission Bay isn’t just about boating and biking—it also has family-friendly playgrounds and sandy coves that are perfect for younger kids. Parents can relax while children climb, swing, and dig in the sand just steps from the water. It’s an easy, low-cost way to enjoy a laid-back afternoon without leaving the heart of San Diego.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
For families with adventurous spirits, Torrey Pines offers hiking trails that wind through rare pine forests and along dramatic coastal cliffs. The hikes range from easy half-mile loops to more challenging routes that end at the beach. The views are spectacular, and kids get a thrill out of spotting dolphins offshore.
Tip: Bring water and sun protection, as shade is limited, and start early to avoid crowds.
Budget-Friendly & Free Family Fun
Not every family outing in San Diego has to come with a big price tag. The city is full of free and low-cost activities that keep kids entertained and give parents a break from high admission fees. These options are perfect for campers who want to balance iconic attractions with simple outdoor adventures.
Beaches
San Diego’s coastline is a natural playground, and most beaches are completely free to enjoy. Coronado Beach is ideal for families with younger children thanks to its wide, flat shoreline, while North Pacific Beach offers gentler waves with lifeguards on duty. Don’t forget Mission Bay’s calm coves, which are perfect for toddlers and safe splashing.
Tide Pooling
At low tide, spots like Cabrillo National Monument and La Jolla’s rocky coves transform into living classrooms. Kids can discover crabs, sea stars, and sea anemones up close. It’s a fun, hands-on science lesson wrapped in an afternoon adventure.
Tip: Wear water shoes and bring a bucket for kids to temporarily collect and observe their finds before releasing them back.
Balboa Park Gardens
Many of Balboa Park’s outdoor spaces are completely free. Families can explore the Botanical Building, wander through the Palm Canyon Trail, or let kids run across expansive lawns while parents relax. Pack a picnic lunch to turn your visit into a full-day outing without added costs.
Free Days & Community Events
Throughout the year, many San Diego museums participate in free days, giving families the chance to experience cultural attractions at no cost. Local community events, such as farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and beach festivals, also provide budget-friendly entertainment. Families camping nearby can easily plan a trip around one of these events for added value.
A Sample 3-Day Family Camping Itinerary
Day 1: Coastal Kickoff
- Morning: Start with paddleboarding or kayaking at your campsite.
- Afternoon: Head to Birch Aquarium for marine fun.
- Evening: Return for a family cookout and storytelling around the fire.
Day 2: Classic San Diego Adventures
- Morning: Cabrillo National Monument and tide pooling.
- Afternoon: Visit the San Diego Zoo, focusing on kid-friendly areas like the Children’s Zoo.
- Evening: Relax back at camp with stargazing or a movie night.
Day 3: Parks and Play
- Morning: Explore Balboa Park’s museums and gardens.
- Afternoon: Stop by La Jolla Cove to watch sea lions.
- Evening: End the trip with a sunset walk along Coronado Beach before returning to camp for one last campfire.
Tips for Smooth Family Outings from Campgrounds
Family trips run smoother when you plan ahead.
Timing
Visit popular attractions early to beat the crowds and heat. Use mid-day breaks for indoor spots like museums or aquariums.
Transportation
Parking can be tight at beaches and attractions. Consider biking from camp, using shuttles, or arriving early for the best spots.
Packing Essentials
Bring snacks, water, sunscreen, hats, and changes of clothes for kids. A picnic blanket doubles as a rest spot during outings.
Balancing Activity with Rest
Schedule downtime at camp between excursions to avoid burnout. Even a short swim at the campground pool can reset the energy for the day.
Campland on the Bay: Your Family Basecamp
After days of exploring San Diego, you need a place that keeps the family entertained, comfortable, and connected. Campland on the Bay is that place.
The Experience
Located on Mission Bay, Campland combines the best of resort amenities with the charm of camping. Families can relax on the waterfront, launch kayaks right from the beach, or simply enjoy the friendly, social atmosphere that keeps guests returning year after year.
Family Amenities
- Pools & Spas: Two swimming pools and two hot tubs for all ages.
- Recreation: Sports courts, skate park, playgrounds, and a fitness center.
- Entertainment: Onsite Cantina, live concerts like Campland Rocks (busy-season), and family programs year-round.
- Convenience: Market for supplies, bike rentals, boat launch, laundry, and free WiFi.
- Pet-Friendly Fun: Off-leash dog park and open spaces for furry companions. Mission Bay RV Resort, a sister property that is minutes away from Campland is also pet-friendly and if you are looking for a quieter vibe, Mission Bay RV Resort is the place to be. What’s more, guests can easily access amenities at Campland.
Why It’s the Perfect Base
Campland offers extended stays. Plus, Campland’s location makes day trips effortless. Within minutes, you can be at Pacific Beach, Balboa Park, or the zoo. Yet when the day winds down, you’ll return to a campsite where kids can play freely, parents can unwind, and families can reconnect. Campland isn’t just a place to stay—it’s part of the San Diego experience.
Conclusion: Turn San Diego into Your Family Playground
San Diego overflows with family-friendly adventures, from iconic attractions to hidden gems and simple beach days. Pairing those experiences with a camping trip gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace while still enjoying the comforts of a vibrant basecamp. Campland on the Bay puts you close to it all, offering the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Ready to plan your trip? Book your spot at Campland and make San Diego your family’s ultimate playground.
