Santee Lakes: A San Diego RV Oasis for Anglers, Nature Lovers, and Outdoor Adventurers
Cast a line, take a hike, or participate in a fun activities in a 190-acre Shangri-la
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Escape to a serene 190-acre retreat just minutes from San Diego — Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve is a gem in Southern California. With seven scenic lakes, lush landscapes, and a wide range of recreational amenities, it’s a must-stay for RV travelers seeking relaxation, outdoor fun, and family-friendly events all year round.
Fishing, Boating & Lakeside Fun
Photo: Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve
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.
Santee Lakes is a paradise for anglers. Lakes 1-5 are open to the public, while Lakes 6 and 7 are reserved exclusively for campers, stocked regularly with catfish in summer and trout in winter. No California fishing license is required; you will only need a fishing permit from the General Store.
Love to be on the water? Rent a pedal boat and explore the lakes with the family. Ducks paddle alongside as you cruise through the calm waters, so don’t forget the duck food.
Photo: Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve
RV Camping & Cabins Rentals
With 300 full-hookup RV sites, there’s space for every setup—from travel trailers to big rigs. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and room for slide-outs. Prefer a cozy stay? Book one of the 7 waterfront cabins or 3 floating cabins floating on Lake 7 with views and modern amenities.
Campground guests also enjoy clean restrooms, hot showers, laundry facilities, and easy access to Wi-Fi. Guests can also find most of everything they need in the General Store including groceries, snacks, ice, games, apparel, firewood, and RV supplies.
Trails, Wildlife & Outdoor Adventure
Photo: Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve
Santee Lakes offers over five miles of scenic trails for walking, biking, or birdwatching. The park is home to more than 230 bird species, including herons, egrets, and osprey. Especially for the kids, don’t miss Boulder Island, where adventurous little ones can scramble over boulders or get out all the wiggles at the other 5 playgrounds throughout the park and campground. There is also a Sprayground for those days that needs a little cooling off.
Eats & Gathering Spaces
Photo: Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve
Whether you’re grabbing a bite at Topwater Grill (American California Cuisine) or packing your own picnic, you’ll have plenty of places to dine with a view. Lakeside gazebos and picnic areas can be reserved for birthdays, reunions, or casual lakeside meals.
Events & Seasonal Fun
Photo: Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve
Santee Lakes goes big on seasonal activities. Throughout the year, you’ll find:
- Fishing events like the Catfish Opener, Night Fishing, Stockzilla, and Trout Opener
- Outdoor movie nights under the stars
- Summer laser tag, crafts, and campfire & s’mores nights
- Spooktacular October: Trick-or-treating every Saturday, Halloween parties, haunted crafts, and more
- December will bring holiday cheer and special events for everyone
Check the park’s monthly calendar or social media for up-to-date schedules and new event additions.
Pet & Accessibility Friendly
Photo: Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve
Bring the whole family—dogs are welcome on the dog walk on leash, and an off-leash Bark Park is available for campers. Santee Lakes is also ADA-friendly, with accessible fishing docks, trails, and facilities.
Explore Nearby
Photo: Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve
If you’re craving more adventure, hike the nearby Mission Trails Regional Park or enjoy several attractions in San Diego like Balboa Park, or some of the most beautiful beaches in California just 20 minutes away.
Plan Your Stay
Whether you’re coming for the fishing, the fun, or just to relax by the water, Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve offers a safe, scenic, and activity-filled escape for every camper. Your next camping stay just got easier with our new App. You can now download it at the App Store, just search Santee Lakes.
Reserve your campsite or cabin today at www.santeelakes.com or call 619-596-3141.
