Crystal Cove State Park sits on coastal bluffs above the Pacific Ocean, with campsites ranging from 50 to 200 feet above sea level. Camping near Newport Beach provides access to more than 40 miles of coastline within Orange County, with most campgrounds open year-round due to the area's Mediterranean climate. Winter temperatures typically range from 45-65°F while summer temperatures hover between 60-85°F.
What to do
Hike the trails at Crystal Cove: The backcountry area offers primitive camping with several steep sections on the approach. "After the steep beginning, you feel a sense of being father in the wilderness then you really are. Tons of Hawks hunting all over the top of the hill," notes a camper at Crystal Cove Backcountry.
Bike along the coastline: Many campgrounds offer easy access to coastal bike paths. "There is a nice day area and trails within walking distance. The tide was high both times we tried to walk under the highway to get to the beach but there were parking lots just a short drive up the road," shares a visitor to Crystal Cove State Park.
Enjoy water activities beyond swimming: The protected bay areas offer calm water for beginners. "Take the family and bring the toys! This place is the best of both family and party atmosphere! Be warned it is not a sleepy RV park," reports a camper at Newport Dunes RV Resort.
What campers like
Oceanfront camping options: Several sites offer direct beach access or ocean views. "Beautiful beachfront camping steps from the sand. Dry camping with a dump station available. Great sunsets and beautiful sand," writes a reviewer at Doheny State Beach Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. "The bathrooms are spotless. They were being cleaned frequently. The showers are coin operated but it didn't take many coins to get a decent warm shower," notes a visitor to Moro Campground.
Beach access without crowds: Some parks offer more secluded beach experiences. "The walk up from the beach is a little tough, but the lifeguards are super nice and helpful if you need assistance. The upside of the walk is that there aren't as many people as down the beach by the public parking," comments a camper at San Clemente State Beach.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "This campground fills up fast so book early! I really like how clearly the sites are marked and how often the park rangers patrol," advises a Crystal Cove State Park visitor.
Fire restrictions vary by site: Some campgrounds prohibit wood fires. "No coal or wood fires :( Kind of a bummer since your evening ends early. You can bring propane pits yourself for fires though," warns a camper at Crystal Cove State Park.
Wildlife concerns: Be prepared for encounters with local wildlife. "You'll wake up to them chasing rabbits literally in your campsite. Pretty much the reason I haven't returned," shares a camper at San Clemente State Beach Campground regarding coyotes.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with family amenities: Some sites offer playgrounds and organized activities. "We stay here every year. They have activities for the kids like arts and crafts, an inflatable obstacle course or you can rent paddle boards or watch a movie on the beach," recommends a visitor to Newport Dunes RV Resort.
Consider sites with short hiking trails: Kid-friendly trails add value to the camping experience. "Great playground for children. Recently paved streets (perfect for scootering, skating, biking). Easy and fun 'Story Trail' hike for children. The hike features a new book every month, each page is mounted to a placard along the trail," shares a family who stayed at O'Neill Regional Park.
Bring ant prevention supplies: Several campgrounds report ant problems. "We made the mistake of not being prepared for the ANTS!!! We learned that comet around all points of contact with the ground keeps them down," advises a camper at San Mateo Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds offer terraced or tiered sites with different views. "The sites are terraced, so no matter which site you get you'll have a view of the ocean. It is in a developed area of Laguna Beach, so there is not much solitude or quiet enjoyment of nature," notes an RV camper at Crystal Cove State Park.
Expect tight spaces: Most coastal RV sites are close together. "Spaces are all concrete, very tight so you better be good at backing up your toys. Water and electric only but they do have a dump station," explains a camper at Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground.
Beach access varies by vehicle type: Check beach accessibility if traveling with an RV. "The roads that lead to the sites is a bit narrow, so if your towable is on the long side, you might have to work a bit to back it in. The maximum length is 38. We had 30/50 amp electrical and water," advises an RV owner at Crystal Cove State Park.
