RV campgrounds near Brea, California typically feature dedicated tent sites with access to clean restrooms and hot showers. Located in northern Orange County at an elevation of approximately 340 feet, Brea serves as a convenient base for accessing several RV parks within a 15-30 mile radius. Winter temperatures average 50-70°F while spring offers moderate 60-80°F conditions ideal for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Hiking trails: Explore the natural areas surrounding Bonelli Bluffs where multiple trails offer views of the nearby lake. "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 who found the views "incredible."
Water recreation: Enjoy the lagoon activities at Newport Dunes RV Resort where families can cool off during warmer months. "They have a movie on the beach when we were there, and fun water toys out," shares a camper, though they note "it was rather expensive." The resort features an inflatable obstacle course and paddle board rentals.
Mini golf and splash pad: Visit the recreational facilities at Rancho Jurupa Park for family entertainment options. "Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities," reports one reviewer, making it particularly appealing for families with children looking for activities beyond traditional camping.
What campers like
Fruit picking: Sample fresh citrus at Orangeland RV Park where guests can harvest oranges during their stay. "Free citrus picking!" exclaims one enthusiastic reviewer. The park maintains orange trees throughout the property that campers are welcome to enjoy.
Clean facilities: Appreciate the well-maintained amenities at several parks. "The showers are clean and water is hot," notes a camper at Anaheim Harbor RV Park. Another visitor at Golden Shore RV Resort reports, "The pool, showers, bathrooms are all spotless."
Beach proximity: Access coastal areas easily from Waterfront RV Park in Huntington Beach. "We are about a 2 minute walk to the sand, and 4 minutes to the oceanfront," explains one reviewer who appreciated having "the hot tub/pool at the end of the day."
What you should know
Security concerns: Consider the varying security levels between parks. "Security at night for safety" is noted as a positive at Orangeland RV Park, while a Waterfront RV Park visitor warns, "Be careful and aware when staying here. My husband and I had our mountain bikes stolen when sleeping."
Site spacing: Expect significant differences in how tightly packed sites are between parks. At Canyon RV Park, "the spaces are well spaced out and you're not right on top of your neighbors," while at Fairplex RV Park, you're "packed in pretty tight you better make sure that you like your neighbors."
Noise considerations: Plan for varying noise levels depending on location. Canyon RV Park is "bordered by highways on both sides, and they create noise day and night," while Newport Dunes offers a more resort-like atmosphere though some note "the close proximity of sites."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Schedule time for children to enjoy the water features at several parks. At Newport Dunes, "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."
Pool access requirements: Remember that some facilities require special access. At Anaheim Harbor, "Pool needs a separate key (they gave us one on arrival)," and at other parks, pool hours or reservations may be required during busy periods.
Child-friendly areas: Choose parks with dedicated play spaces for younger campers. Rancho Jurupa RV Park offers "playground plus lots of grassy areas" and one reviewer notes there are "lots of families with children, fishing for catfish in the little lake which is shaded with trees and plenty of tables to picnic by the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Request specific areas within parks based on your needs. At Anaheim Harbor RV Park, "If you have a larger RV or slide-outs it is recommended you book Deluxe space or Deluxe space+ parking" and "get a deluxe site if you can. The standard sites are essentially a large parking spot in a paved parking lot."
Hookup variations: Verify the exact utilities available at your specific site. At Golden Shore RV Resort, hookups are consistently maintained, while at Rancho Jurupa Park, a camper notes "I have had water hookup at all of my spots (changed spots cause i kept booking one night at a time)."
Parking considerations: Confirm whether your tow vehicle will fit on your assigned site. Some parks charge additional fees for parking vehicles that don't fit on the site, while others like Canyon RV Park offer "large concrete pads, easy backing in and hooking up."
