Santee Lakes: Vibrant San Diego County Gem Entices Anglers, Nature Lovers
Cast a line, take a hike, or participate in a fun activities in a 190-acre Shangri-la
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Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve is San Diego County’s best-kept outdoor secret, and it’s perfect for an RV vacation. Located in Santee just northeast of the bustling city, this 190‑acre getaway centers around seven shimmering lakes, each alive with rainbow trout, catfish, bass, and bluegill — no state fishing license required, just a park permit from the General Store.
RV travelers can stay in one of 300 sites, with 83 full-hookup sites available. Each space has a picnic table, and there’s plenty of room for slideouts. Ten lakeside cabin/cottage rentals are available as well.
Photo: Rhalene Degraff.
Recreation abounds at Santee Lakes. Guests can enjoy a pool for swimming and hot tub for unwinding. Fishing and boating are welcome for campers on some of the lakes, and nature trails lead visitors to some of the beautiful views on the property. Take advantage of the many outdoor games available, and a playground gives kids a chance to blow off steam.
Restrooms and showers, RV supplies, and laundry facilities cater to guests. Firewood and ice are available as well at the campground, and a cocktail lounge serves as a watering hole for grownups.
Photo Courtesy of Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve.
Fun in the Sun
Guests don’t have to look far for recreation in this California getaway. Rent a pedal boat or kayak ($16–17/hour) and gently glide among the lake’s islands as ducks paddle alongside. The lakes invite peaceful exploration and easygoing family fun. Meanwhile, anglers can test their luck on Lakes 1–5 (open to day visitors) or Lakes 6–7, which are reserved for campers. The park keeps things fresh with seasonal trout stocks and even night‑fishing events—perfect for score‑chasing or unwinding under the stars.
Photo courtesy of Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve.
Hiking, Birdwatching & Family Fun
Follow over five miles of multi-use trails that weave through oak groves and wetlands, perfect for running, biking, or meandering strolls. Birders will delight at their finds: Santee Lakes is home to more than 200 species, from egrets to blue herons. You’ll also see plenty of ducks paddling about the lakes. Little ones—or brave climbers—will love Boulder Island’s rock formations, playgrounds (including a splash pad), and scent garden, offering endless discovery and shaded play.
Dine Alfresco
Pack a picnic or reserve a lakeside gazebo for family feasts overlooking the water. These tranquil outdoor settings are perfect for birthdays, small weddings, or just good times. For simpler bites, the Topwater Grill serves burgers, sausages, and kid-friendly fare, or grab snacks at the General Store.
Photo courtesy of Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve.
Events Galore
Santee Lakes’ calendar is packed with fun activities: fishing tournaments, holiday weekend specials, outdoor movies, and seasonal events light up the lakes. It’s a place where morning jogs meet twilight gatherings, and fire‑ring chats segue into marshmallow roasts.
Anglers will find lots to do here. Cast your lines for the Catfish Opener in April; haul in hefty catches for September’s Stockzilla, which features stock channel catfish; and hook hefty critters in November during the Trout Opener. Night fishing events are held during summer.
Prefer non-angling events? Work up the nerve to participate in the Halloween Spooktacular, featuring Trunk-or-Treat and other games; also in October, the Ladies at the Lake put on a Fall Sale with everything you need; and enjoy holiday illumination during the Lights at the Lakes Drive Thru Light Show in December.
Photo courtesy of Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve.
Open year-round, the park features wheelchair-friendly fishing piers, trails, and restrooms.
The park is also dog-friendly: On‑leash pups are welcome throughout the park, and campers can enjoy off‑leash play in designated areas.
Nearby Attraction
If you fancy a change of scenery, the Mission Trails Regional Park offers 42 miles of rugged hiking and scenic views. Or set your sights on Kumeyaay Lake Campground as an overflow option — just two miles away. And downtown San Diego’s attractions are only a 20‑minute drive when you’re ready to swap fishing for five-star dining and world-class entertainment.
Make your reservation today for Santee Lakes, 619-596-3141.
