RV parks near Altadena, California sit at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains where elevations quickly rise from 1,300 feet to over 5,000 feet. This creates distinct microclimates affecting camping conditions throughout the year. While summer temperatures in RV parks often exceed 90°F, winter brings cooler weather with occasional rain and temperatures dropping into the 40s at night.
What to do
Hiking access: Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park provides numerous trails with lake views. "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics, you can use your jet skies in designated areas, swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more," notes one visitor at Bonelli Bluffs.
Water activities: Many campgrounds include water features for recreation. At Rancho Jurupa RV Park, "fishing for catfish in the little lake which is shaded with trees and plenty of tables to picnic by the lake" is popular according to a camper at Rancho Jurupa RV Park.
Entertainment options: Some RV parks near Altadena offer unexpected cultural activities. Hollywood RV Park features an "entertainment space where they offer musical performances, plays, etc. by local artists," according to one camper.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cleanliness consistently ranks high in camper reviews. At Malibu Beach RV Park, "They have ports potty's and a nice stretch of beach between houses that you can enjoy privately," mentions one reviewer appreciating the maintenance.
Family-friendly amenities: Parks often include recreational features beyond basic camping. "Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities," notes one visitor about Rancho Jurupa Park, highlighting the additional activities available.
Urban proximity with nature: The balance between city access and natural settings appeals to many. "This place is surprisingly nice for being in the middle of the city. It was very well-kept and clean nice family environment," comments a visitor to Rancho Jurupa Park.
What you should know
Security considerations: Many parks have implemented security systems. "Gated park high on a hill; like driving the hills of SF with a trailer. Lots of pull thrus. Well kept and landscaped," notes a visitor to Californian RV Resort.
Tight spacing: Most RV parks maximize capacity, resulting in minimal space between sites. One camper at Golden Shore RV Resort mentions the park is "kept very clean. Spots are close together unless you end up with a larger spot."
Noise factors: Urban locations mean varied noise levels. At Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, "a train that ran around 3:30am every morning was a disturbance and my Verizon cell service was nonexistent."
WiFi reliability: Internet connectivity varies widely between parks. "Small spots, but level, clean, cement, and full hook up. Bathrooms have great showers, extremely clean, pool and hot tub. 40 to 50 mins to LA and 1 hr to Longbeach," reports a Californian RV Resort camper.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Look for parks with dedicated children's facilities. "The family camping was fine! Girls used Porta Potties. I'm hoping they have finished construction on something better since then. However, there are some great kid friendly activities," shares a Girl Scout leader who visited Rancho Jurupa Park.
Swimming options: Many parks offer water recreation. "We stayed in the natural area with hook-ups everything worked great. Neighbors were nice, cute set ups with twinkle lights and people enjoying outdoor fire pits," mentions a Rancho Jurupa visitor.
Budget considerations: For families visiting Disneyland, tent camping offers significant savings. "I tent camped here for one night before meeting friends at their timeshare for a Disneyland vacation. There are only two tent sites (T1 and T3), the rest are for RVs. The price was super affordable at only $40 per night."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Many RV parks offer varying site qualities. At Hollywood RV Park, "the site size depends on where you are in the park. Most of it is an affordable community for locals to live. We were lucky and got a middle spot with wonderful shade trees!"
Reservation timing: Advance planning becomes essential during peak periods. "This is a good location to explore LA and greater LA area, 45 min to Hollywood sign. Park is a large TT resort with recently remolded lodge in 2019," explains a visitor to Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon.
Access considerations: Some parks have challenging approaches. "Not the place to go if you are trying to get away from people. Located right under the flight path of the nearby airport. Only plus each site have full hookups and sewer," warns a camper about proximity issues.
