Right off the bat, I know that this is off the normal topic of the boards. If it is deleted, I will understand and hold no grudges. However, I am new to the area and have few options than to ask the good people here for advice on this matter.
  I am wondering what campgrounds in San Diego you can suggest. I prefer to tent as opposed to the trailer. Also, I am looking for places that have fire rings(for the smores),and would prefer views of water(lakes or ocean). Thanks in advance and sorry if this non-topic post offends anyone.

All the State Beach Camping Grounds along the coast are cool. Most have fairly private parking and camping areas. Guests who drive in are allowed to park in the camp grounds to visit for a limited time (some 15 to 30 minutes). The state beach park grounds run from Carlsbad south to Encinitas. All if not most have access to the beach. Good clean showers and heads. Your best bet is to drive into one of them and ask for a brochure. I think there is a central number for all to call for a reservation. They are pretty strict about booze and have 0 to -5 tolerance on things such as "medicinal marajuana". Best to bring your own BBQ, however if memory serves me right,some have brick built in BBQ's. if you have any more specific questions about coastal camping grounde , be glad to help. I know of some nice julian spots in the mountains too.

Are you looking for a family camp( noise/kids ) or adult camp( no noise)?
Kisses & licks........
Mara

I realize that you were interested in campgrounds in San Diego proper, however... May I suggest a location just South of the Border??  
"Salsipuedes" is approx. an hour's drive & is located between Rosarito & Ensenada.
It costs less than $10 a day (the last time I checked) for a cliff-side spot...Absolutely Gorgeous!  By the way, if you are a surfer, then this spot is definitely for you!  
There are port-a johns, but I am unsure whether-or-not they have showers.  We had our own "Sun Shower" so it wasn't an issue at the time.
So, like I said, it is just a short drive into town for supplies, etc.  (ie: BEER) wink*wink
And there are also many restaurants that serve lobster for an AMAZING price just down the road at "Puerto Nuevo" (aka: Lobster Villiage) So that is an option, as well.
If you find that you are interestd & would like more information...Please feel free to e-mail me, alright?

Enjoy! ~ xoxo ~ Lara

San Onofre State Beach is great.  Just north of Camp Pendleton and you can usually find a secluded spot except for the busy traditional holidays (i.e. Memorial Day, Fourth of July).

Alright then!  I've seen trips to Vegas, trips to Mexico, and other places.  How about a TER camping trip?  I have room in my bag!

Just beware of the occasional train flying by at San Onofre.  I don't remember if they run all night.

First off, thanks to all that have responded. Rob, my first trip will be to Mount Laguna. To get the kids ready , we are first going to stay in a lodge to get them use to the outdoors a little. Either Mount Laguna Lodge or Lake Cuyamaca. After that, it will be tent time in the mountains or on the coast. Great question about the kids Mara. I should have stated that I would have them along. That is who the smores are for. LOL.
             Can you imagine a bunch of hobbyists and providers camping at the same campground at the same time. No on would ever sleep. Man, that would be fun. As stated earlier, I would prefer a place with fire rings for scary stories and smores. Shower and head are a must also. I would prefer to stay away from places that have steep cliffs with no railing. I am a little over-protective with the little ones. Thanks everyone who gave advice. If you have more, please let me hear it. Thanks again.

esp. for Mara and her friend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I would be interusted in some more info about camping in Julian. Thanks..