Camping spots near Buena Park, California largely consist of urban RV parks and beach campgrounds spread across Orange County's coastal zone. The Mediterranean climate offers mild temperatures year-round, with summer averages of 85°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 45°F. Most campsites sit at elevations between sea level and 300 feet, making them accessible for all types of camping vehicles and equipment.
What to do
Hiking trails: 14,000 acres of rolling hills at Rolling M. Ranch Campground provide numerous trail options for all skill levels. "The trails are varied, accessible by horseback, hiking, biking. Some trails are ready walking, some very strenuous. The hills are green in spring," notes one camper who enjoyed the contrast between wilderness and nearby urban areas.
Beach activities: Paddleboard and swim just steps from your campsite at Newport Dunes RV Resort. The resort features an inflatable obstacle course in their lagoon and weekly beach 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," explains a regular visitor.
Citrus picking: Free orange harvesting at Orangeland RV Park allows campers to enjoy fresh fruit during their stay. "Super friendly staff, super clean, 2 dog parks, offers really good wifi & cable. Can pick the oranges out of the tree," mentions a reviewer who appreciated this unique amenity not commonly found at urban campgrounds.
What campers like
Beachfront proximity: Ocean access within minutes at Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground provides RV spots directly facing the Pacific. "Sites next to the beach. Spots 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. Overall, we enjoyed it very much," shares one camper. The campground borders a miles-long boardwalk perfect for cycling or running.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms consistently receive positive mentions, particularly at Moro Campground. "The bathrooms are pretty clean, some of the showers run pretty hot but I didn't mind it. This campground fills up fast so book early! I really like how clearly the sites are marked and how often the park rangers patrol," reports a regular visitor who appreciates the organization and cleanliness.
Security features: Gated facilities provide peace of mind for equipment and personal safety. "On-site guard at night for safety. Would absolutely stay here over and over!" notes an Anaheim Harbor visitor. Most campgrounds implement quiet hours starting at 10pm with regular security patrols throughout the night.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: 3-6 months advance booking necessary for weekend stays, especially during summer months. Nearly all campgrounds require reservations and have strict cancellation policies. "Make sure you know that you want to stay here for the full time because there is not a generous refund policy. We were hoping to change our plans due to the bad air quality and we could not get a refund," warns a camper about Golden Shore RV Resort.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects most camping areas with traffic sounds from Pacific Coast Highway or nearby freeways. "Very very loud street noise. Great location. I mean what can I say to diminish a beach spot for 60 bucks? How about a motorcycle passing right outside your bedroom window at 12,000 rpm every two minutes all night long?" notes a camper at Bolsa Chica State Beach.
Space limitations: Compact sites are standard at urban campgrounds. "If you have a larger RV or slide-outs it is recommended you book Deluxe space or Deluxe space+ parking. Standard sites may be too narrow to extend awning," advises an experienced RVer about site selection at Anaheim Harbor RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Short drives to attractions make these campgrounds convenient bases for exploring. "We loved this RV park. Easy 15 min drive to Disney plus the ART bus picks up straight from the campground. A covered play area, helpful staff, heated pool as well as a hot tub. The grounds are very well kept and grocery stores within 10 min," shares a family visiting Orangeland RV Park.
Beach camping considerations: Plan for terrain when bringing children to oceanfront sites. "The walk down to the beach is steep but worth it. The lines in and out of the gate is long and annoying because even if you're already checked in and just wanting to get back to your site you gotta wait in a line of cars paying and checking in," notes a parent about accessing Crystal Cove State Park.
Military family options: Additional campgrounds available for service members and veterans. "Must have military clearance to rv here," states a reviewer about Seabreeze At Seal Beach, which offers reduced rates and enhanced security. "If you are military affiliated and are looking for a great RV Park close to the beach/Disney/Universal don't look any further! Everyone is friendly and you cannot beat the price!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Request spots away from highways when booking any Orange County campground. "We stayed in site number 43 in our 29 foot Class A. It was just fine," notes a Waterfront RV Park visitor, adding that sites in the "84-89 numbers, and the sites 26-36 are HUGE" for those needing more space.
Hookup capabilities: Full-service sites limited at certain campgrounds, particularly state parks. "We had 30/50 amp electrical and water. Dump station is on your way out, with 3 stations in that row," explains a Moro Campground visitor regarding the amenities at Crystal Cove State Park.
Length restrictions: Maximum 38 feet at many campgrounds, with narrow access roads requiring careful navigation. "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," advises an experienced RVer about Crystal Cove State Park.
