Family Glamping at San Diego KOA

Many, many of my dearest friends consider “roughing it” staying in a hotel room without air conditioning or having to share a bathroom. They like their time in nature, but they’re not willing to sleep out under the stars in order to get it.

Enter glamping – traditional camping all glammed up with perks such as four walls, beds and bathrooms.

Last year, we gave it a try when we spent a night in a fancy teepee at Ventura Ranch KOA. This year, we were invited to spend a couple of nights in the Deluxe Cabins at San Diego KOA.

Deluxe Cabin accommodations
Here’s what our Deluxe Cabin accommodations at San Diego KOA included:

• Private bath with shower
• Fully furnished kitchen
• 1 Bunk bed set (in a separate room)
• 1 queen bed (in a separate room)
• TV
• Air conditioning
• Linens provided
• Loft (great for quiet time, play time)
• Gas grill
• Fire ring

I know what you’re thinking. “That’s NOT camping!” Remember that said deluxe cabin is located right across from RV and tent campers. As soon as you walk out your front door, you’re welcomed into a community that feels very much like a traditional campsite.

With a few more perks, of course. San Diego KOA didn’t win the 2013 KOA Campground of the Year Award for nothing. The kids won’t be lacking for something to do. Here you’ll find:

• A playground
• A 2-acre grass field (nicknamed “The Backyard”)
• A pool with a hot tub
• Bike rentals
• Common area outdoor kitchen space
• Tons of seasonal activities (like a rock climbing wall, Sunday pancake breakfasts, outdoor movie nights, hayrides, camping bingo & more)

Our two cents on glamping at San Diego KOA
The Explorers loved, loved, loved their bunk bed space. They were busy, active and outdoors during our entire stay. Their favorite activity: Testing out all the different bikes for rent and riding around the campground. The pool was nice, too.

Compared to the two other KOA sites we’ve stayed at, this one was huge – and quite full (though it didn’t feel crowded). The biggest drawback: Its location in Chula Vista is about as urban as it gets. Aside from the 2-acre grass field at the farthest end of the campground, you certainly won’t feel like you’re out in nature.

The bottom line – these deluxe cabins are sweet. If you’re accustomed to traditional camping, this will seem quite luxurious. Just remember that “deluxe” comes with a price tag. (These cabins go for more than any of the hotel rooms we stayed at during our recent road trip adventure. Many of the camp activities also have a small fee.)

Where to explore nature near San Diego KOA
Located just 15 minutes from downtown, San Diego KOA makes a great home base. You have ready access to beaches, parks, museums and more. A few of the many nearby nature attractions include:

• Living Coast Discovery Center
• San Diego Zoo
• SeaWorld
• Wild Animal Park

San Diego KOA is located at:
111 North Second Ave.
Chula Vista, CA 91910
(619) 427-3601

Note: We enjoyed a complimentary two-night stay in a Deluxe Cabin and access to all campground activities in exchange for providing an honest review with you. Read my full disclosure policy for more information.