Cabin accommodations near Cerritos range from beachfront cottages to mountain retreats within a 60-mile radius. The area experiences mild Mediterranean climate with average summer temperatures between 75-85°F and winter temperatures rarely dropping below 45°F. Cabin camping options vary seasonally, with mountain facilities like Crystal Lake Recreation Area operating primarily from April through December due to potential snow closure at higher elevations.
What to do
Water activities at Newport Beach: The lagoon at Newport Dunes RV Resort offers family-friendly water recreation. "They have a movie on the beach when we were there, and fun water toys out," notes Kimberly A. The resort features "an inflatable obstacle course or you can rent paddle boards or watch a movie on the beach," according to Karissa J.
Hiking at Crystal Cove: Trails connect Crystal Cove State Park with adjacent wilderness areas for day hiking. "The best trail here stretches across the two parks -- No Name Ridge!! Amazing for EPIC SUNSETS!" according to Chanel C. Another camper mentions that there are "lots of hiking trails in the park. We did a 12 mile loop to the north, and a ride along the coast on some bike paths."
Mini golf and splash pad: Rancho Jurupa Park offers land-based recreation for families. "Water park and mini golf for kids. Showers and laundry convenient," reports Xochiquetzal G. Another visitor noted the park has "LOTS of activities for families (splash pad)."
What campers like
Historic beach cottages: The preserved 1920s-1940s cottages at Crystal Cove Beach Cottages provide unique accommodations. "Worth the expense. Expensive but beautiful and romantic," notes one reviewer. Another adds, "Sound of rhythmic waves, sand, smell of salt in the air… Crystal Cove Beach Cottages…Home away from home."
Mountain views and wildlife: Crystal Lake Recreation Area offers higher elevation cabin camping surrounded by natural beauty. "There are beautiful views of the mountains," states Katarina A. Another camper reported wildlife sightings: "Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained cabins and grounds. At Moro Campground, a visitor noted "Beautiful sunsets! We stayed February 5th and 6th at site #23 but it looked like most of the sites had great views of the Pacific. The campsites are roped off and have a decent amount of distance between them... The bathrooms were spotless."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most cabin accommodations require advance booking, particularly for weekends and summer months. At Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park, "This campground fills up fast so book early!" according to Elly A.
Noise considerations: Some locations experience noise from nearby roads. "It is in a developed area of Laguna Beach, so there is not much solitude or quiet enjoyment of nature," mentions a reviewer at Crystal Cove. At Canyon RV Park, a camper noted "The site is bordered by highways on both sides, and they create noise day and night. They're also clearly visible."
Fire restrictions: Fire policies vary significantly between locations. "No coal or wood fires :( Kind of a bummer since your evening ends early. You can bring propane pits yourself for fires though," reports a camper at Crystal Cove State Park. Always check current fire restrictions before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Choose locations with child-specific amenities: Canyon RV Park offers facilities designed for families. "Campground is well-organized, with cabins, RV spots, a youth area, tent spots and a ropes course. A pool, flushable toilets and hot showers are available to all campers for free," notes Christina S.
Pack for temperature fluctuations: Evening temperatures can drop significantly even in summer. "It can get extremely cold at night in the canyons, even if it's in the high 80s during the day. Be prepared," advises a Crystal Cove camper.
Consider wildlife education opportunities: Many locations offer wildlife viewing as educational experiences. At Crystal Lake, campers report seeing "Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds." Pack binoculars and wildlife identification guides.
Tips for RVers
Space limitations: Some cabin camping areas have tight access roads or size restrictions. At Fairplex RV Park, a visitor cautions, "No longer a KOA. Spaces are very tight. Good for 1 nite only stay. Staff was friendly and place is clean but not much room to maneuver a lg. rv. in."
Full hookup availability: Check whether cabin sites include utility hookups. At Newport Dunes, one camper appreciated that "Located in the back bay of Newport Harbor ND has it all. This place is super clean and super accommodating. They have cottages for rent if needed and you can have up to 1 tent on an RV spot."
Gate access hours: Some campgrounds restrict late-night entry. At Rancho Jurupa Park, "Friendly staff to check us in gates close at 10:pm your provided with a security gate code to get back in if your out late," notes Jody R.