Memorial Day Weekend marks the start of summer, and for Southern California families, Campland on the Bay in San Diego offers an easy, all-in-one getaway. Set along Mission Bay, this longtime campground lets kids run, splash, and explore—whether you arrive by RV, tent, or just for the day.

From waterfront campsites to resort-style amenities, Campland on the Bay offers 595 RV and tent sites, 18 on-site amenities, and a waterfront setting that makes every sunrise worth waking up for. With Memorial Day Weekend just around the corner, now is the perfect time to plan your family’s next great adventure at San Diego’s most beloved bayfront campground.

Why Campland on the Bay Is the Perfect Memorial Day Destination

Over 54 Years of Family Tradition

Campland on the Bay is more than an RV park — it’s a multi-generational tradition. Families who once camped here now return with their own kids, building over 50 years of shared memories. The City of San Diego recently extended its lease for another 15 years, reinforcing its place as a beloved and lasting part of Mission Bay.

Campland sits directly on Mission Bay — the nation’s largest aquatic park — putting families at the center of endless outdoor activity. Its prime waterfront location means kids wake up to calm bay waters, cool ocean breezes, and a full day of adventures before breakfast is even finished.

Water Adventures the Whole Family Will Love

Paddleboarding, Kayaking, and Pedal Boats on Mission Bay

One of the biggest draws of Memorial Day Weekend camping at Campland on the Bay is its direct access to the calm waters of Mission Bay. The on-site marina offers boat launches, slips, and fun rentals like kayaks, pontoon boats, and pedal boats, while Adventure Water Sports provides paddleboards, waverunners, and ski boats for more adventurous outings.

The best part? Everything is just steps from your campsite. At Campland on the Bay on Mission Bay, there’s no driving, no hauling gear, and no crowded beaches—families can walk straight from their tent or RV to the water and jump into the fun within minutes.

On-Land Activities That Keep Kids Moving All Day

Skate Parks, Sports Courts, and Open Beach Space

Memorial Day Weekend energy calls for room to move—and Campland on the Bay delivers. Kids can hit the skate park, play basketball or pickleball, or set up a beach volleyball match, while bike rentals and bayfront trails make it easy to explore Mission Bay at a relaxed pace.

Younger campers have their own fun too, with a dedicated playground for climbing and swinging, plus a classic horseshoe court for laid-back family time. With so much in one place, boredom doesn’t stand a chance.

Planned Activities and Live Entertainment for All Ages

Campland Rocks — Where the Fun Never Stops

What sets Campland on the Bay apart is its full lineup of planned activities and live entertainment—especially during Memorial Day Weekend. The popular “Campland Rocks” program features live music, themed events, and community activities that give the campground a resort-like feel. Families can review the schedule in advance and plan their weekend around the highlights.

Kids’ activities run throughout the day, offering supervised fun while parents unwind at the on-site Cantina and Bar. It’s the perfect balance of structured entertainment and free outdoor play—all in one place along Mission Bay.

Dining and Treats the Whole Crew Will Enjoy

The Cantina, Ice Cream Parlor, and On-Site Market

Feeding a hungry family after a full day outdoors is easy at Campland on the Bay. The on-site Cantina and Bar offers casual waterfront dining, perfect for everything from sunset drinks to relaxed family meals—no need to leave the campground.

For a sweet break, the Ice Cream Parlor has you covered, while the on-site Market makes it simple to grab snacks, groceries, and essentials. With everything just a short walk away, the entire weekend stays easy, convenient, and stress-free.

Pet-Friendly Camping for the Whole Family — Including the Dog

Memorial Day Weekend trips often include the whole family—including pets—and Campland on the Bay makes it easy to bring them along. Open beach areas and scenic trails around Mission Bay give dogs plenty of space to explore, while the welcoming, community feel ensures everyone enjoys the stay.

Its pet-friendly approach reflects a broader commitment to making every guest feel at home. We do have some breed restrictions. With attentive staff and an inclusive atmosphere, it’s no surprise families return year after year, building traditions that last generations.

Why Outdoor Weekends Matter for Kids (Backed by Research)

A Memorial Day weekend at Campland on the Bay offers more than a family getaway—it supports children’s physical, mental, and emotional development. Research shows that unstructured outdoor play is key to healthy growth, and activities around Mission Bay naturally promote movement, confidence, and learning. 

Studies consistently find that children who spend more time outdoors are healthier, calmer, more focused, and socially stronger—making outdoor weekends not just fun, but an important part of childhood development.

Physical Health, Strength, and Long-Term Wellness

Outdoor play naturally encourages movement — running, climbing, swimming, and exploring — which strengthens muscles, improves coordination, and supports overall fitness. Research shows that regular outdoor activity is associated with healthy physical development and reduced risk of conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues.

Large-scale systematic reviews analyzing tens of thousands of children — including a study of 188,498 participants across 29 countries — identify physical activity as the most consistent outcome linked to outdoor play, reinforcing its critical role in long-term health.

Mental Health, Stress Reduction, and Emotional Balance

Spending time in nature has a direct and measurable effect on children’s mental well-being. Studies show that being outdoors can reduce stress, lower anxiety, and improve mood, while also restoring mental energy and reducing fatigue.

Exposure to natural environments has even been linked to improved brain function and lower activity in areas associated with negative mental health patterns, highlighting the powerful neurological impact of outdoor experiences.

Better Focus, Learning, and Cognitive Development

Outdoor environments stimulate curiosity in ways indoor settings cannot. Because outdoor play is often unstructured and unpredictable, it encourages problem-solving, critical thinking, and independent decision-making.

Research confirms that outdoor recreation supports cognitive development, learning outcomes, and overall youth development — especially when children interact with natural environments. Whether it’s figuring out how to paddle a kayak, navigate a trail, or invent a new game on the beach, kids are constantly learning — without even realizing it.

Social Skills, Confidence, and Independence

Outdoor play naturally brings children together. Research shows it helps develop cooperation, communication, and social connection, as kids share space, create games, and solve challenges together.

At the same time, less structured environments allow children to take manageable risks, which builds confidence, independence, and resilience — key traits for long-term success. Campground settings are especially powerful for this, giving kids safe freedom to explore while still being within reach of parents.

Creativity, Imagination, and “Unplugged” Play

Unlike indoor entertainment, outdoor environments don’t come with instructions — and that’s exactly the point. Nature encourages children to invent games, explore ideas, and use imagination, leading to higher levels of creativity.

Without screens directing their attention, kids engage in open-ended play that supports innovation, curiosity, and flexible thinking.

The Bottom Line: It’s Not Just Fun — It’s Foundational

The research is clear: outdoor experiences like a Memorial Day weekend at Campland provide essential developmental benefits across every major area of a child’s growth:

•       Stronger bodies
•       Healthier minds
•       Better focus and learning
•       Improved social skills
•       Greater independence and creativity

In other words, it’s not just a weekend away — it’s an investment in how kids grow, think, and thrive.

Plan Your Memorial Day Weekend at Campland on the Bay — Book Now

Spots at Campland on the Bay fill up fast, especially for high-demand holiday weekends like Memorial Day. Do not wait until the last minute — secure your campsite now and give your family the waterfront Memorial Day Weekend experience they deserve. With 595 campsites, resort-style amenities, and 54 years of family memories, there is no better place to celebrate the start of summer in San Diego.

•  Address:  2211 Pacific Beach Dr, San Diego, CA 92109
•  Phone:  (858) 581-4200
•  Reservations:  Book online at campland.com — reserve up to two years in advance and save!
•  Pro Tip:  San Diego City residents receive a 20% discount and reservation priority — inquire when booking!

FAQs

What makes Campland on the Bay a good choice for Memorial Day Weekend with kids?

Campland on the Bay is designed specifically for families, offering a combination of waterfront access, planned kids’ activities, live entertainment, sports courts, a skate park, a playground, and dining — all within one campground on Mission Bay. Kids have endless things to do, and parents can relax knowing everything is safe and within walking distance.

Where is Campland on the Bay located?

Campland on the Bay is located at 2211 Pacific Beach Dr, San Diego, CA 92109, directly on the shores of Mission Bay — the nation’s largest aquatic park. It is just minutes from downtown San Diego, Pacific Beach, and all of the city’s top attractions.

Do I need to bring my own boat or water equipment?

Not at all. Campland’s Marina offers rentals for kayaks, pontoon boats, and pedal boats. Adventure Water Sports on-site rents stand-up paddleboards, waverunners, and water ski boats. You can also bring your own boat and use the launch ramp or reserve a guest slip at the 124-slip Marina.

Is Campland on the Bay pet-friendly?

Yes — Campland on the Bay is a pet-friendly campground. Dogs and other pets are welcome to join the family for Memorial Day Weekend adventures on the beach, trails, and open outdoor spaces throughout the campground.

How far in advance should I book for Memorial Day Weekend?

Memorial Day Weekend is one of the most popular holiday weekends at Campland, and campsites fill up quickly. Campland allows reservations up to two years in advance, so the earlier you book, the better. Early reservations often come with savings, so planning ahead is always worthwhile.

Are there dining options inside Campland, or do I need to leave for meals?

Dining is easy at Campland on the Bay. The on-site Cantina and Bar offers relaxed waterfront meals, the Ice Cream Parlor satisfies sweet cravings, and the Market is stocked with groceries, snacks, and essentials. Most families find they never need to leave the campground for food during their stay.

Is there a discount available for San Diego City residents?

Yes! San Diego City residents are eligible for a 20% discount and reservation priority at Campland on the Bay. Contact the reservations team directly at (858) 581-4200 to inquire about resident discount pricing and availability when planning your Memorial Day Weekend stay.