Camping options near Duarte, California extend beyond traditional RV parks. The region sits at the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains with elevations ranging from 450 to 1,000 feet, creating varied camping experiences between urban amenities and mountain terrain. Winter temperatures average 45-65°F while summer months can reach 90-100°F, influencing when visitors prefer certain campgrounds.
What to Do
Hiking opportunities: At Bonita Ranch Campground, campers can access trails directly from their sites. "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 Jessica P., who particularly enjoyed the trails.
Water activities: Many rv campgrounds near Duarte provide water-based recreation options. "The family camping was fine! Girls used Porta Potties. I'm hoping they have finished construction on something better since then. However, there are some great kid friendly activities," reports Janet S. about Rancho Jurupa RV Park, which features fishing and splash pads.
Local entertainment: When staying at campgrounds in the Duarte area, you're close to urban attractions. "We drove over to the Mission Inn (8 min drive) enjoyed lunch. Their is a pedestrian only shopping area with a Saturday farmer's market plus lots of restaurants," shares Jody R., describing day trips from Rancho Jurupa RV Park.
What Campers Like
Natural surroundings: Despite being in urban areas, many campgrounds maintain natural elements. "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. Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking(!) and full hookups," reports Aostara K. about Bonelli Bluffs.
Convenient locations: Campers appreciate proximity to attractions. "This is a good location to explore LA and greater LA area, 45 min to Hollywood sign. Park is a large TT resort with recently remolded lodge in 2019," notes Tyler V. about Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon.
Amenities for families: "This place was nice. Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes. Lots of food spots within 10 minutes. Spaces are one of the cleanest I seen. Ranger is on constant patrol," writes Troy A. about the safety features at Rancho Jurupa RV Park.
What You Should Know
Site spacing considerations: Campground density varies significantly across Duarte-area rv parks. "Good camp ground if you like being 6 ft away from your neighbors. More of a group or community campground. Shared fire pit and tables. Not the place to go if you are trying to get away from people," cautions Michael S. about his experience at Bonelli Bluffs.
Seasonal factors: Weather impacts camping conditions year-round. "We initially thought they double charged me, went to clarify only to realize the 2nd charge was for the 2nd night. So for 2 nights it was $142! Not worth it. Not coming back," warns another visitor about pricing at Bonelli Bluffs during peak season.
Noise considerations: At Canyon RV Park, a reviewer noted: "The site is bordered by highways on both sides, and they create noise day and night. They're also clearly visible." Similarly, at Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, a camper mentioned: "The downfall is the trains! A train runs around 3:30am every morning that was a disturbance."
Tips for Camping with Families
Affordable options: Look for campgrounds with reasonable rates and family activities. "This seems to be one of the best places to stay with an RV to visit LA, since driving and parking and RV in LA can be challenging and parking an RV in west LA is not allowed," explains Manon S. about Hollywood RV Park, noting they took Uber to explore.
Water features: "Beautiful views all around Sunrise, Sunset and Night sky. Sights of all kinds of birds like hawks and herons. Water park and mini golf for kids. Showers and laundry convenient. Camping spots all have fire pit and spacious area for Rvs and tents," shares Xochiquetzal G. about Rancho Jurupa RV Park's family amenities.
Safety considerations: "Very well maintained and clean campsites! Splash pad, park, mini golf great amenities. Nice staff! Would of liked to be on grass like the sites across but they were clean! Only downside was that the ranger said to lock up bikes and be careful leaving out items because a local has been coming in stealing," cautions Marcella D. about potential security issues.
Tips from RVers
Hookup details: At Orangeland RV Park, visitors note specific amenities: "Super friendly staff, super clean, 2 dog parks, offers really good wifi & cable. Can pick the oranges out of the tree," reports Alivia R. Unlike some other parks, fires aren't permitted here, but 50-amp electrical service is available.
Parking logistics: "No longer a KOA. Spaces are very tight. Good for 1 nite only stay. Staff was friendly and place is clean but not much room to maneuver a lg. rv. in," warns Lawrence P. about Fairplex RV Park, important information for those with larger rigs.
Long-term options: "Came in for a convention in Ontario, better alternative than Fairplex park. Very spacious and good for big rigs. LOTS of activities for families (splash pad)," notes Kaitlynn B., who appreciated Rancho Jurupa's policies: "You can stay for 20 days and then you have to leave for 60 days and that's fine with me."
