The El Toro area in Orange County sits at an elevation of approximately 400 feet, positioned between coastal influences and inland valleys. Summer temperatures inland can reach 90°F while coastal campgrounds stay 10-15 degrees cooler. Winter camping throughout the region requires preparation for nighttime temperatures that frequently drop into the 40s, with inland sites experiencing more significant temperature swings than coastal camping spots near El Toro, California.
What to do
Hiking on wilderness trails: At Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park, numerous trails accommodate various skill levels. "LOTS OF HIKING TRAILS! If you love hiking, they have so many trails to choose from, from easy to strenuous. There is a trail for everyone. Also great for cyclists," notes one visitor. The park features trails where visitors might spot wildlife including deer.
Beach activities beyond swimming: Doheny State Beach Campground offers excellent beach access with recreational options. "Good day-use facilities with toy rentals (bikes, tandems, surreys, etc.), beach volleyball and many picnic tables. Walking distance to town with coffee shops, and other shops," reports one camper. At low tide, beach walking routes extend to nearby towns.
Mountain biking: Trails throughout the region support riders of varying abilities. "This site is great if you like hiking, biking, MTB, and running. It is very clean, and the showers are free and clean as well," writes a visitor to O'Neill Regional Park. Many campgrounds connect to trail systems suitable for both casual riders and more experienced mountain bikers seeking challenging terrain.
What campers like
Surprisingly secluded experiences: Despite proximity to urban areas, O'Neill Regional Park provides unexpected isolation. "ONeil is a great little park that's tucked away among the urban sprawl of Orange County. Once in the park you feel like you're far out in the wilderness. It makes for a great weekend great away," explains one reviewer. Sites here offer a wilderness experience without extended travel.
Clean facilities: San Mateo Campground maintains high standards for restrooms and common areas. "Clean campground, most of the spots are super private! A fun little hike (1.5 miles) to the walk until tresels beach," writes one camper. Another mentions that "bathrooms and showers are standard," providing reliable amenities.
Easy access for beginners: Multiple campgrounds accommodate those new to outdoor recreation. "You can be camping 20-30 mins away from Irvine. Facilities are clean and well maintained," notes a visitor to O'Neill Regional Park. This accessibility makes the area perfect for first-time campers wanting to test equipment without committing to remote locations.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially beach locations. At Crystal Cove State Park's Moro Campground, "This campground fills up fast so book early! I really like how clearly the sites are marked and how often the park rangers patrol," advises one camper. Reservations often open six months in advance.
Wildlife awareness: Several campgrounds report regular wildlife encounters. "Lots of wildlife sighting in the park -- snakes, deer," notes one Caspers Wilderness Park visitor, while another warns "Lots of snakes (including rattle snakes) so be careful where you step." Other locations report coyote sightings, particularly at dusk.
Fire restrictions: Rules vary significantly between locations. "No coal or wood fires. Kind of a bummer since your evening ends early. You can bring propane pits yourself for fires though," explains a Crystal Cove visitor. Some parks prohibit fires during high wind or drought conditions regardless of the season.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreational facilities: San Clemente State Beach Campground provides family-friendly amenities. "We go every summer and the group keeps getting bigger. I love the trees, views and even the skunks (the are tame and love pizza)," shares one regular visitor. Each campsite includes a fire container, barbecue, and picnic table under a trellis structure.
Site selection strategies: When camping with children, location matters. "If you're camping with kids, it doesn't get much better than this! We stayed at campsite #58 which we felt was very large are private," recommends an O'Neill Regional Park visitor who rated it five stars for kid-friendliness. Sites near restrooms offer convenience for families with small children.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer interpretive programs. "On Saturdays there's a nature walk," mentions a Caspers Wilderness Park camper. San Mateo Campground features a "Story Trail" for children with monthly rotating books mounted on placards along an easy hiking route, making learning accessible for young campers.
Tips from RVers
Parking and setup challenges: Many sites have specific limitations. At Newport Dunes RV Resort, "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," warns one RVer. Site dimensions vary significantly between campgrounds, with coastal locations typically offering smaller spaces.
Electrical requirements: Power options differ between parks. "Stayed for 2 nights and we didn't want to leave. Security was great and super friendly. Roomy camping spots and amazing views," reports a Crystal Cove visitor. Some sites provide 30-amp connections while others offer 50-amp, necessitating appropriate adapters.
Water and dump station access: Facilities can be limited or seasonal. "Dump site is narrow so watch your sides," advises a Doheny State Beach camper. Some parks have recently restricted water access due to drought conditions, requiring campers to arrive with full tanks.
