Not everyone wants to rough it in the wilderness, and that’s perfectly fine. San Diego has some of the best glamping options in California — think cozy beds, hot showers, and stunning natural settings without the hassle of hauling a tent and sleeping on rocks.
KOA Chula Vista
Located right on the bay with views of the San Diego skyline, this isn’t your typical campground. Their glamping tents come with real beds, mini fridges, and a private patio. Fall asleep to the sound of the water and wake up to one of the most incredible sunrises you’ll see anywhere. Bonus: bike rentals are available on-site, and the Bayshore Bikeway is right at your doorstep.
AutoCamp Joshua Tree
A bit of a drive from San Diego (about 3 hours), but absolutely worth it. AutoCamp’s Airstream trailers are design-magazine gorgeous — mid-century modern interiors, outdoor fire pits, and direct access to Joshua Tree’s incredible landscape. This is where luxury meets the desert in the best possible way.
Warner Springs Ranch Resort
About 90 minutes northeast of San Diego in the mountains, Warner Springs offers safari-style tents with heated floors, plush bedding, and private decks overlooking the valley. The resort also has a natural hot springs pool, horseback riding, and some of the darkest night skies near San Diego — perfect for stargazing.
What to Pack
Even though glamping provides the essentials, bring layers — desert and mountain temps drop significantly at night. A good Bluetooth speaker, your favorite snacks, and a bottle of wine from one of the local wineries make any glamping trip that much better.
