Camping is a beloved pastime and a quintessential part of American culture. Since 1962, Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has been on a mission to preserve the joy of camping and to make it an experience that everyone can partake in. With over 500 locations across the United States and Canada, adventure is closer than you think!

Within San Diego County, Chula Vista is home to KOA’s San Diego Metro campground. I was given the unique opportunity to tour the property with the owner, Clint Bell. His grandfather, Ted Bell, founded the campground in 1968. Clint is a third-generation owner and prides himself in fostering a sense of community within the six KOA establishments that his family owns. The company strives to support multigenerational camping. Consequently, the Chula Vista location has grown from a mere 5 acres to the impressive 24 acres that it is today.

The campground has pet-friendly tent sites, RV pads (pull-through and back-in), and luxurious cabins that even the most discerning camper would appreciate. Australian eco tents are also available for glamping (glamorous camping) enthusiasts. The park offers modern amenities such as showers, restrooms, laundry, free WiFi, and an outdoor communal kitchen. For those who are not keen on cooking or barbecuing, the Sand Castle Café serves fresh pizzas, salads, burgers, and local wine/beer.

The San Diego KOA is paradise for recreation lovers. Bike Rentals? Check. Game Room? Definitely. Playground, basketball court, and a grass playing field? You bet! Insider tip: No KOA vacation is complete without testing out the giant jumping pillows (also imported from Australia). The brand-new recreation center showcases a resort-sized pool and an indoor kids club! Rain or shine, there is always something to do. The park goes above and beyond to make sure that their guests are happy and entertained.

San Diego’s KOA supports sustainability in numerous ways. All maintenance is done in house and water/energy usage is conserved with specialized water tanks and solar panels. Their recycling program donates all proceeds to a local chapter of Care Camp, an organization that helps kids with cancer make memorable camping memories. Furthermore, the neighboring organic farm, Agua Dulce Farms, supplies fresh fruit and vegetables for the Sand Castle Café. Agua Dulce Farms also hosts the campground’s annual Fall Festival. Environmentally conscious and community centered, what’s not to love?

Clint expressed what it was like to lead such a dynamic operation: “It’s like being the mayor of a small city.” Clint’s company truly embodies his passion for hospitality, camping, and recreation. The staff members work diligently to keep America’s favorite pastime alive for generations to come. Be sure to visit and stay a while; I can assure that you will be treated like family. With all that San Diego KOA has to offer, Clint and his team will ensure that your experience is one that you’ll never forget.

Interested in staying at San Diego’s KOA?

Please visit their website or call the office (619-427-3601) for more information.

The campground is located at 111 N. 2^nd Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910.