Best Campgrounds near Brea, CA

Brea, California is surrounded by a range of camping options within a 30-minute drive, from urban RV parks to state park campgrounds. Established campgrounds like Anaheim Harbor RV Park and Rolling M. Ranch Campground in Chino Hills State Park provide contrasting experiences for visitors. The area features primarily developed campgrounds with amenities ranging from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV spaces, though few dispersed camping opportunities exist in this densely populated region. Most locations offer both tent and RV sites, with several properties specializing in family-friendly camping near attractions.

Camping in this region is heavily influenced by Southern California's mild climate, with most campgrounds operating year-round. Several campgrounds implement fire restrictions during dry seasons, particularly in natural areas like Chino Hills State Park. "This state park has 14,000 acres. It feels secluded, but the city is only 20 minutes away," noted one visitor about Rolling M. Ranch Campground. Reservations are strongly recommended at most established campgrounds, especially those near popular attractions like Disneyland. RV parks typically offer full hookups but may have limited space for larger rigs. Many campgrounds charge additional fees for pets, extra vehicles, or amenities like pool access, and local tax rates can significantly impact final pricing.

Campers report varying experiences based on proximity to urban areas versus natural settings. Urban RV parks like Anaheim Harbor provide convenience at the expense of scenic surroundings, with one reviewer describing it as "basically a parking lot with hookups, but it is fairly good." In contrast, Chino Hills State Park offers a more natural experience with hiking trails and seasonal wildflower displays. Several visitors mentioned the park's unique position as an oasis within the greater Los Angeles area. Campground facilities range from basic to comprehensive, with most offering restrooms and showers. Cell service can be limited in areas like Chino Hills, though some locations provide WiFi. The region's campgrounds reflect the diverse needs of travelers, from those seeking natural experiences to those prioritizing proximity to urban attractions.

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Best Camping Sites Near Brea, California (199)

    1. Bonelli Bluffs

    38 Reviews
    South El Monte, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 599-8355

    $76 - $88 / night

    "⭐⭐⭐⭐

    Our experience at Bonelli Bluffs Campground was mostly positive, but there were a couple of aspects that could be improved."

    "The views around the outskirts of B loop are just lovely, the staff has been so friendly and helpful (we’re RV newbies and had a ton of questions) the store was stocked with all of the little things we"

    2. Prado Regional Park

    21 Reviews
    Chino, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 597-4260

    $47 - $120 / night

    "I grew up around in the area so I have been to this park quite a few times for a few different reasons. It is a very expansive and versatile area."

    "It's a nice park great for long walks and trail riding on bikes great for the dog 🐕 also a bit windy so you need to keep a eye on your awning, great cell service with at&t ."

    3. Rolling M. Ranch Campground — Chino Hills State Park

    14 Reviews
    Chino Hills, CA
    8 miles

    $30 - $120 / night

    "This is a nice, small campground with easy access to many freeways.  "

    "That probably makes sense since a side entrance is only a mile down the road from us.

    We hike this several times a month."

    4. Anaheim Harbor RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Anaheim, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (714) 535-6495

    $55 - $70 / night

    "Nice bathrooms and hot showers with laundry on location. Good amount of space between sites. Very short drive or 20ish minute walk to Disneyland. Extremely helpful and kind staff."

    "Park is within walking to the Disneyland park.

    The tent sites are very small with a picnic table and AstroTurf."

    5. Orangeland RV Park

    9 Reviews
    Anaheim, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (714) 633-0414

    $75 - $90 / night

    "Anaheim transit makes on-demand stops her to Disneyland as well as Garden Walk. Very helpful, friendly staff. Many residents mixed with overnight era or vacationers. "

    "First time staying here, it will be our place to stay in California."

    6. China Camp State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Chino Hills, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (415) 456-0766

    $35 - $175 / night

    "You won't be able to drive up to your campsite. You have to carry your gear in a short distance from the parking lot."

    "Located on the west side of the San Rafael/Richmond Bridge, on San Francisco Bay, this park is extremely popular with mountain bikers. "

    7. Canyon RV Park

    6 Reviews
    Yorba Linda, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (714) 637-0210

    $90 / night

    "Been passing this exit on the 91 freewqy for 25 years and had no idea canyon Rv park was tucked in beween corona and yorba linda. I was quite amazed with the tidy faculitie a d wqs very peacefull."

    "Nothing stopped us from enjoying ourselves and relaxing. bike path nearby as well as washing and having fun."

    8. Newport Dunes RV Resort

    26 Reviews
    Newport Beach, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 765-7661

    $75 - $550 / night

    "As we expected, the sites are stacked up next to each other like dominoes with minimal foliage/fencing to separate the sites."

    "There's a nice bike trail that circles around the bay, which is great for kids. Also, lots of amenities for families, including playgrounds, water toys, movie nights and fire pits."

    9. Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park

    35 Reviews
    Laguna Beach, CA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 444-7275

    $25 - $75 / night

    "Luckily Booked last minute on reserve California (the worst web thing ever) on site 49. Looks like there is a oven view from every site. Close to beach and shopping."

    "There is an elementary school adjacent to the campground so you get a few PA announcements to start your day.

    There is a small visitor's center on site."

    10. Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground

    19 Reviews
    Huntington Beach, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (714) 846-3460

    $60 - $70 / night

    "Beachfront camping in the heart of southern California. Concrete/asphalt sites with water electric and dump station. Adjacent to PCH so road noise but steps away from great sand beaches."

    "Super convenient beach front parking with good restrooms and outdoor showers as well as a beach path perfect for walking, biking, rollerblading, etc."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 199 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Brea, CA

1213 Reviews of 199 Brea Campgrounds


  • B
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    Stunning but Safety Concerns

    I’ve camped at the Keller Peak yellow post sites more than two dozen times over the years and, at their best, they’re incredible. The scenery and isolation are superb—starry skies, quiet nights, and that deep-woods stillness that’s getting harder to find. For years this was my go-to spot. 

    Unfortunately, I’ve also watched trash and waste increase. Please, pack it out—these sites only stay special if we treat them with care. 

    My last trip was frightening enough that I haven’t returned. Late at night a group of locals came to the edge of my site, yelling and using threatening language. They assumed I was homeless despite my SUV and proper camping setup. I was using a portable propane fire pit—which is allowed—and I calmly explained that. I can understand why fire is an issue to locals.  I only felt safe because my small dog has a very loud bark, which kept them from coming closer. They said they were calling a ranger. I left the next morning, shaken. On my way out, I spoke with a park ranger who confirmed propane fire pits are permitted and told me they don’t patrol up there at night because of recurring issues like this. She also mentioned they were trying to move the site to a reservation system to deter homeless use; I’m not sure if that has happened yet. 

    It’s a shame, because this area is one of the best around. I’m sharing this so others can make an informed choice.  

    Pros - Spectacular views and true solitude Cool nights, dark skies, classic forest feel

    Cons -  Rising litter and human waste Nighttime safety concerns due to occasional rowdy visitors Limited ranger presence after dark

     I hope increased stewardship and enforcement can restore the magic here.

  • Wayne S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest

    Nice little park

    Very small campground. Camping sites are spread out. The access road is very narrow. We did it with a 22 foot fifth wheel. Space 41 could hold a much longer rig but it would be a challenge even getting to that space. There were only two other campers here while we were here. Lots of trees but not so thick you dont get some sun. The road getting to the campgrounds is somewhat narrow and has some hairpin turns so again it might be difficult for someone with a long trailer We camped at Applewhite Campground in a Fifth Wheel.

  • ROCKSTAR C.
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Hare School Park

    It’s the sports fields parking lot

    I’ve been here for a couple days and nobody’s mess with us. There’s other people that are staying in another parking lot attached that are homeless in their vehicles mostly cars and vans. I’m in a 25 foot Fleetwood RV. There’s a dog park kind of area with a big field they can run around and just clean up after them.There’s no public bathrooms, but there are trash cans so clean up after yourself please. It’s not tent friendly. I don’t believe.

  • Lizzette M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Hollywood RV Park

    Gem near the big city

    I came 3 days ago in my class C. Showers and restrooms were clean and supplied. The RV is cute very Hollywood movies vibes. Trees lovely gardens to walk the dogs. Commerce walking distance. I’m staying 8 more days.✌️

  • A
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    Bobcat Campsite

    Awesome campsite. Free showers. Electrical outlets by the restrooms at a handicap site. Water spigots scattered around the bobcat site. Dumpsters within walking distance from your site. The locals in the area will take your site if you arrive late. Just head back to the campground entrance and they will send a park ranger to remove them. The restrooms get cleaned daily around 8-10am. More than enough room at site 380

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Canyon RV Park

    Relaxed, clean, friendly, infor.ative, quiet

    Been passing this exit on the 91 freewqy for 25 years and had no idea canyon Rv park was tucked in beween corona and yorba linda. I was quite amazed with the tidy faculitie a d wqs very peacefull. When U are smake dab in the middle of asfalt jungle. I litteraly forgot where i was because its like a little bubble on you .exot the freeway a d e ter the park everything behind you just melts away and i felt like i was in the woods, and at times i swear i was the only camper here. If you are into easy going peacefull quite camp sites this is one of them

  • Tyler G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Dockweiler Beach RV Park

    Great spot, loud planes

    We loved this spot next to the beach. We got used to the planes, but they are certainly jarring at first.


Guide to Brea

Camping near Brea, California, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With beautiful campgrounds just a short drive away, you can enjoy nature while still being close to the city.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: There are plenty of trails to explore. For instance, at San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach, visitors appreciate the access to walking and biking trails. One reviewer mentioned, "Good access to walking and biking trails."

  • Beach Access: If you love the ocean, San Clemente State Beach Campground is just a short walk from the beach. A camper noted, "The walk to the beach was close, seemed maybe about 10 minutes till we reached the beach from our site."

  • Fishing and Water Activities: At Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground, you can enjoy fishing and other water activities. One visitor shared, "Great overall experience, campgrounds are general and basic."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review for Bonelli Bluffs stated, "Possibly the cleanest public bathroom I've ever seen."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer ample space between sites. A happy camper at Serrano said, "The campground was clean, quiet, and had a decent amount of space between sites."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate helpful staff. One reviewer at Dogwood Campground mentioned, "Camp hosts are friendly and knowledgeable."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Doheny State Beach Campground noted, "Every day and night multiple other campers had music blasting and were yelling and screaming."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park does not allow fires, which some campers found disappointing.
  • Crowded During Peak Times: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A camper at Malibu Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "Sites are pretty close together, some sites had limited sun in December."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer family-friendly activities. At Bonelli Bluffs, one family enjoyed the "beautiful view from our site" and found it a great spot for kids.
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring items to keep your family comfortable. A reviewer at San Mateo Campground suggested, "Bring dollar bills to change them into tokens for the shower."
  • Plan for Meals: Make sure to have easy meal options. A camper at Serrano appreciated the "clean restrooms and showers" but noted the need for nearby food options.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Doheny State Beach Campground mentioned, "If you are in an RV, you will be fine."
  • Bring Your Own Wi-Fi: Some campgrounds may not have good internet. A camper at Bonelli Bluffs noted, "NO WIFI IF YOU NEED THAT YOU MUST HAVE YOUR OWN."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Popular campgrounds can get busy. A reviewer at Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground said, "The campground itself is pretty nice," but noted the need for more rangers to manage noise levels.

Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or a fun family adventure, camping near Brea, California, has something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best camping sites near Brea, California?

The best camping sites near Brea include O'Neill Regional Park, located in nearby Trabuco Canyon with clean facilities, free showers, and excellent hiking and biking trails. Though tucked in a canyon, expect some road noise. Another excellent option is Bonelli Bluffs, which offers lakeside camping with good amenities, though it lacks playground facilities for children. For those willing to drive a bit further, Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park provides a peaceful oak grove setting that feels removed from suburban sprawl, while Prado Regional Park offers convenient camping with water and toilet facilities.

Are there any free or low-cost camping options near Brea?

Little Jimmy Trail Campground is one of the most affordable options within driving distance of Brea. Located in the Angeles National Forest, this first-come, first-served backcountry campground is accessible via a 2-mile hike from Angeles Crest Highway. It features around 7 sites with fire rings and vault toilets. Applewhite Campground in San Bernardino National Forest is another budget-friendly option, offering a natural setting just 5-7 miles from Highway 215. Note that it's closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.

What campgrounds in Orange County are closest to Brea?

The closest Orange County campgrounds to Brea include Caspers Wilderness Park, which offers a peaceful retreat under coastal live oak trees in the San Juan Capistrano area. Another nearby option is Doheny State Beach Campground, popular for its beachfront location, though be aware that middle sites are small and tight while outside edge sites offer more space. For those with RVs, Anaheim Harbor RV Park and Orangeland RV Park in Orange provide convenient access, both featuring full hookups and amenities like water and toilets within a short drive from Brea.