Dana Point camping offers options within 5-15 miles of this Southern California coastal city. The area features low coastal mountains with elevations between sea level and 1,500 feet, creating microclimates that vary between cool coastal zones and warmer inland canyons. Campground reservations often need to be made 3-6 months in advance, especially for beachfront sites during peak summer season.
What to do
Surf at Trestles Beach: A 1.5-mile hiking trail from San Mateo Campground leads to this popular surf spot. "Clean campground, most of the spots are super private! A fun little hike (1.5 miles) to the walk until tresels beach... The beach is beautiful, great for surfing!" notes Brianne S.
Hike No Name Ridge: This trail stretches across two parks and offers sunset viewing opportunities. At Crystal Cove State Park, "The best trail here stretches across the two parks -- No Name Ridge!! Amazing for EPIC SUNSETS!" says Chanel C.
Explore marine life: Low tide reveals ocean creatures along the shoreline. "The ocean wildlife is so cool, and at low tide you can see octopus, starfish, and all kinds of small fish/crabs," according to Andy H. who camped at San Onofre Recreation Beach.
Bike the Back Bay: The Newport area offers extensive paved trails for cyclists. "There are fantastic running/bike trails along the Back Bay," mentions Karissa J. about her stays at Newport Dunes RV Resort.
What campers like
Ocean proximity: Beachfront sites offer direct water access and nighttime ambiance. "I love the sound of the waves and the fog horn. There are great bike trails to ride on," says Karissa J. about Doheny State Beach.
Tiered campsites: Some campgrounds use terrain to maximize views. At Crystal Cove State Park, "The sites are terraced, so no matter which site you get you'll have a view of the ocean," explains Elly A.
Less crowded beaches: Certain campgrounds access more secluded shorelines. "You can't hear the freeway traffic. The beach is uncrowded, plus every camp site has a fire ring and picnic table," notes Terree R. about San Onofre State Beach.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and showers. "The bathrooms were being cleaned frequently... spotless," says Amy H. about her February stay at Crystal Cove.
What you should know
Ant problems: Several campers report persistent ant issues at San Mateo. "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," warns C M.
Challenging beach access: Some beach paths require careful navigation. "You can get to the beach if you're down to wade through 2-3 feet of still water that puddles under the highway underpass," explains Chanel C.
Reservation windows: Most state parks open reservations 6 months ahead at 8:00 am, with spots filling within minutes. Caspers Wilderness County Park offers more flexibility: "Part of OC Parks so getting a campsite is relatively easy compared to other online booking systems. We're usually able to book a site 2 weeks before we decide to go," says Chanel C.
Noise factors: Highway and railroad proximity can affect some campgrounds. "The campground is a little further from the beach than I expected... It's also very quiet as soon as the sun sets... everyone ends up going to bed around 8pm as to not disturb your VERY close neighbors," notes a Crystal Cove reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds have dedicated play areas. At O'Neill Regional Park, Johnny G. reports, "Great playground for children... 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."
Beach equipment: Inflatable water toys and rentals enhance the experience for kids. "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," shares Karissa J. about Newport Dunes.
Wildlife viewing: Several parks offer opportunities to see local animals. At Caspers Wilderness Park, campers report "Lots of wilderness sighting in the park -- snakes, deer" and "Plenty of squirrels, bunnies, the occasional deer and coyotes at night."
Sun protection: Coastal campgrounds often lack natural shade. "There are no shade structures or large trees, so definitely bring a canopy in the summer," advises Elly A. about Crystal Cove.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV site amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. At San Clemente State Beach, Paul N. notes they offer "Dry camping with a dump station available," while O'Neill Regional Park provides "Free dump station" according to Mike G.
Site spacing: Some RV areas pack units close together. Ray S. at Newport Dunes advises, "Be fully aware that these spaces can be very tight," though he still rated it highly overall.
Electric needs: Some parks have specific power requirements. James reports about Caspers Wilderness Park: "Lovely campsite with all sites on 30a + water spigot... Sites are pretty level, gravel and of a good size. My 24' + truck can fit lengthwise with room behind and plenty to the side."
Water considerations: Water availability can change seasonally. "The water is off for the time being. The dump station is very close by and easy to access," notes Ronald about Ortega Flats campground at Caspers Wilderness Park.
