Silver Strand State Beach Campground, California (Guide + Reviews)
Overview
Silver Strand State Beach Campground lines the narrow spit of sand connecting Coronado Island to the mainland — an oceanfront dream for RV campers. Sites sit directly on the beach with nothing between you and the waves except dunes and shells. It’s one of California’s few true on-the-sand camping experiences, offering sunrise over San Diego Bay and sunset over the Pacific just steps apart.
What Campers Are Saying
Overall vibe: “Beach life at its easiest.” Campers love the walk-out beach access, peaceful mornings, and convenience to Coronado. It’s quiet, scenic, and best enjoyed with the sound of the surf right outside your rig. No tents allowed, but for RVers it’s unbeatable.
Highlights
- Right on the sand: true beachfront camping, feet from the Pacific.
- San Diego skyline: visible across the bay at sunset.
- Convenience: minutes to Coronado restaurants and Navy base.
- Water activities: swimming, beachcombing, and paddleboarding.
Frictions to plan around
- RV-only: no tents or car camping allowed.
- Limited hookups: electric only; bring water and dump as needed.
- Strict gates: closed overnight to entry/exit.
- Booking frenzy: extremely limited beachfront sites.
Camper Quotes
“The sound of waves all night — unreal.”
“Best sunrise coffee spot in California.”
“Worth every minute of the reservation battle.”
“Clean, secure, and steps to the ocean.”
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: 129 paved sites for self-contained RVs and trailers only.
- Hookups: electric only; no water or sewer connections.
- Facilities: restrooms, cold-water showers, dump station, picnic tables, and beach access paths.
- Environment: wide sandy beach between the Pacific and San Diego Bay.
- Pets: allowed in the campground and on the bay side; not on the ocean beach.
Booking & Availability
Reservations: via ReserveCalifornia.com. Open year-round. Prime waterfront sites are some of the hardest to book in the state — they’re gone within minutes when released.
Tip: Arrive early for check-in and bring bikes for exploring Coronado’s bike path and nearby nature reserve.
Best Sites
- #1–20: direct beachfront views with ocean breeze.
- #70–90: quieter central section with dunes for privacy.
- #110–125: close to facilities and easy exit access.
All sites face the ocean; bring leveling blocks and expect breezy afternoons.
Nearby Campgrounds
- South Carlsbad State Beach: larger bluff-top campground north along the coast.
- Campland on the Bay: private full-service resort on Mission Bay (San Diego).
- Silver Strand Overflow Lot: additional overflow camping nearby during summer weekends.
Map & Directions
From Interstate 5, take the Coronado Bridge to Highway 75 South (Silver Strand Boulevard). The campground entrance is about 4.5 miles south of Coronado, on the right.
Address: 5000 CA-75, Coronado, CA 92118
Silver Strand FAQ
Are tents allowed?
No — RVs and self-contained trailers only (with onboard toilets and graywater tanks).
Are hookups available?
Yes — electric only; no water or sewer at individual sites.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, in the campground and on the bayside path; not on the ocean beach.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes — secure gates, lifeguards, and calm surf make it great for families.
When’s the best time to visit?
Spring and fall for warm days, cool nights, and fewer crowds.
What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?
He’s rumored to paddle across the bay at dawn to beat the traffic. 👣🌅
