Glamping close to Brea, California offers unique options within short driving distance of Southern California attractions. The area sits in the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains with average summer temperatures reaching 80°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 45°F. Most sites stay open year-round with peak booking periods during summer and holiday weekends.
What to do
Hiking trails and nature experiences: Canyon RV Park in Anaheim provides access to nearby wilderness areas. "I litteraly forgot where i was because its like a little bubble on you. Exit the freeway and enter the park everything behind you just melts away and i felt like i was in the woods," notes Matt K. about this location.
Water recreation options: The back bay area at Newport Dunes RV Resort offers water-based activities. "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. There are fantastic running/bike trails along the Back Bay," shares Karissa J.
Mountain biking trails: China Camp State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks. According to Nathaniel S., "Located on the west side of the San Rafael/Richmond Bridge, on San Francisco Bay, this park is extremely popular with mountain bikers. There are definitely better mountain biking trails in Marin but keep in mind that the bar is very high for mountain biking in Marin."
Beach exploration: At Moro Campground, coastal activities abound. "Crystal Cove is located in beautiful Marin County and is in close proximity to the San Rafael bridge. With several spots to hang out on the beach, you can view historical landmarks, camp out, or have a picnic right on the water," explains Erin G.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Many glamping spots near Brea offer well-designed camping areas. At Canyon RV Park, "The spaces are well spaced out and you're not right on top of your neighbors," says Kerry L., who stayed there for several months.
Ocean views: Luxury camping at Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park provides scenic vistas. "The sites are terraced, so no matter which site you get you'll have a view of the ocean," explains Amy H., who added that "The campsites are roped off and have a decent amount of distance between them."
Wildlife encounters: Glamping spots near natural preserves offer animal sightings. Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park features "Plenty of squirrels, bunnies, the occasional deer and coyotes at night, signs warning you are now in mountain lion territory," according to James, who appreciated the natural setting despite some road noise.
Historical elements: Some sites offer cultural experiences. At Los Alamitos Army Campground, a visitor noted, "To see the historic buildings is so cool especially because it's so well preserved! Here I can emerge yourself into history and stay the night!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most luxury camping sites require advance booking. For Bonelli Bluffs, a visitor shared, "We chose Bonelli for our shakedown trip in our new trailer (first time RVers). SO quiet. Numerous residents, but spots are mostly keep up nicely."
Site differences: Quality varies between standard and premium sites. At Anaheim Harbor RV Park, Tracey S. explains, "Ok, so it is just a parking lot, but they do it well! Little tufts of fake grass (real on one side, none on the cheap spots) with full hook ups."
Fire restrictions: Some glamping locations limit traditional campfires. China Camp has specific rules as one camper notes: "The raccoons here are AGGRESSIVE! They won't attack you, but they will walk right up to your camp and try to steal your food."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts the camping experience throughout the year. Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park can be "really hot in late summer early fall" according to Kelly E., who also mentioned that "They often have no burn times, these are dependent on the winds."
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Several glamping facilities offer swimming options. "The campground was not busy and this allowed me to pick a spot hidden away from others. There are many hiking opportunities and chances to see wildlife (deer, wild turkey, rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, and birds)," shares Tim J. about his experience at China Camp.
Kid-friendly activities: Los Alamitos Army Campground offers secure family accommodations. "Full hookup in both parks, Legacy (gravel for smaller RVs) and Sunset (cement spots with extra spot for a car)... For my very first RV experience, this was pretty awesome!" notes Angela P.
Safety considerations: Parents should check for specific hazards. At Crystal Cove, Sara W. warns, "BEWARE-- WEAR WATER SHOES and be careful if you swim here... there are tons of sharp rocks and oyster shells bits & pieces."
Bathroom facilities: Comfort stations vary by location. Berton M. notes that Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park "has three main camping areas that cater to campers, RVs and horses. There are a number of hiking trails around that range from a 1 to 12 miles. On Saturdays there's a nature walk."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choose sites based on specific needs. At Fairplex RV Park, one camper advises: "Although you are packed in pretty tightly like sardines it's a friendly environment very welcoming just the larger of your RV is little bit harder it might be to park they do offer full hookups."
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary by site. Chad M. explains at Newport Dunes, "We rented the Large Cottage in the back because we needed a kitchen for cooking all the food we'd packed. The small cottage would've been fine if we didn't need a oven, stove and large refrigerator."
Parking limitations: Some glamping locations have specific vehicle rules. "Nice place for a short stay. There are only Porto potties in the campground, but they were clean. It can be really hot in late summer early fall," notes Kelly about Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park.
