Tent campsites near Dana Point, California include several options that require advance planning due to their limited availability. The coastal region's Mediterranean climate maintains mild temperatures year-round, with summer highs averaging 75°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 50°F. Morning fog commonly affects coastal campgrounds in this region, which can impact gear placement and campsite selection.
What to do
Beach activities and water sports: Doheny State Beach Campground offers direct beach access for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. "Sweet campsite at Dana point surf break. Had a big crew along for spring break. Super nice but book early!" notes Rich J.
Hiking the Trans-Catalina Trail: The 38.5-mile trail connects multiple Catalina Island campgrounds. At Parsons Landing Campground, "The hike from Two Harbors is fairly flat and along a road so it's easy. We stayed two nights in June and it was great," reports Jonathan G.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings provide the best opportunities for spotting Catalina's native species. "In one day we saw deer, quail, woodpeckers and the famous Catalina fox," writes Jonathan K. about Hermit Gulch Campground.
Ferry transportation: Most campers reach Catalina Island via ferry from Dana Point or nearby harbors. Service schedules vary seasonally. "The boat to and from Catalina only operates on certain days so make sure they fit your camping schedule," advises Amber about Two Harbors.
What campers like
Secluded beach access: Little Harbor Campground offers beachfront sites with fewer crowds than mainland beaches. "Such a beautiful campground, and if you're lucky enough (like we were) you may get the whole place to yourself. The beach is beautiful, and there's nothing like the sunsets here," shares Morgan F.
Clear water visibility: Catalina's protected coves provide excellent conditions for underwater activities. "Beach and cove is great for spearfishing or snorkeling. Rock cliffs wrap both north and south of the beach for miles," explains Jon C. about Little Harbor.
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution on Catalina creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. "Stargazing was prime as well since there are virtually no lights in Two Harbors," notes Katie R.
Proximity to amenities: Some island campgrounds offer convenient access to facilities. "Only 30 mins walk or 5 minute bus ride from downtown Avalon. I highly recommend using the bus for the first and last trip when arriving as trying to walk there with all your gear can be quite challenging," advises Jonathan K. about Hermit Gulch.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: All Catalina Island campgrounds require advance booking, with holiday weekends filling months ahead. "This stay would have been our 2nd cancellation due to storms we have been having. We where determined not let that happen this time," shares Manuel P. about Doheny State Beach Campground.
Site spacing and privacy: Many sites have limited separation between neighbors. "The sites are on top of each other. No privacy and are definitely built for RVs and Trailers," Morgan F. explains about Doheny State Beach.
Wildlife precautions: Secure food storage is mandatory. "The birds there are relentless and will poke holes in everything including water jugs if you turn your back for even a second. They even know how to get into unlocked lockers," warns Mandy E. about Parsons Landing.
Weather preparation: Morning condensation affects all island campgrounds. "Thick fog soaks everything so use the gear box overnight to keep your stuff dry," advises Sarah M. about Black Jack Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for kids: Look for level, spacious areas with nearby facilities. "Site 29 is much larger than the other sites. I think it's because it's at the end and it's not big enough to make into 2 separate sites," recommends Cassie R. about Hermit Gulch.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. "After traffic noise dies down and in between the trains that rumble by, you can almost hear the ocean at the sites that back to the street," notes Lee D. about Doheny State Beach.
Transportation planning: When camping with children, consider logistics carefully. "I am camping with my husband and 3 kids and our puppy... We are at spot 21 and the hike up the hill to our walk on spot is rough...they do have bins you can use to carry all your stuff up," advises Veronica H. about China Camp State Park Campground.
Bathroom facilities: Amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. "There are more than sufficient restrooms located throughout the park; some are combos with toilet and sink while others are traditional restrooms. No paper towels or soap," reports Lee D. about Doheny State Beach.
Tips from RVers
Beach sites limitations: Two Harbors Campground accommodates smaller RVs only. "We camped at two harbors in May of 2015 and had a lot of fun. We took the ferry to two harbors and walked up all of our gear to the site. It is a bit of a walk if you aren't packed correctly (we brought a cooler and it was a bit rough getting it up there)," cautions Corey B.
Hookup availability: "Dry camping with a dump station available. Great sunsets and beautiful sand," explains Paul N. about Doheny State Beach, indicating limited services for RVs.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on terrain and access. "Avoid these spots in case of rain: 12-17, 75-45 beach side. Odd numbers only," advises Manuel P. about Doheny State Beach.
Dump station information: "Dump site: When we first arrive it was out of order with a 'clogged signed'. It was fixed the following day. There is a $10 fee, they have a convenient credit card machine. There's a hose there to use for clean up or flushing tank. Dump site is narrow so watch your sides," notes Manuel P.
