Glamping close to El Toro, California offers access to Mediterranean coastal terrain with elevations ranging from sea level to 1,200 feet in nearby wilderness areas. Summer temperatures average 72-85°F with minimal rainfall, while winter camping sees 60-70°F days and occasional precipitation. Local campgrounds maintain stricter quiet hours than many Southern California destinations.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Access singletrack directly from camping areas at Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park. This campground connects to both Crystal Cove State Park and Laguna Coast Wilderness Park trails. "Crystal Cove State Park and Laguna Coast Wilderness Park are adjacent to each other, and a small pedestrian gate separates them. The best trail here stretches across the two parks -- No Name Ridge!! Amazing for EPIC SUNSETS!" shares Chanel C.
Beach exploration: Discover tide pools and marine life at Crystal Cove Beach Cottages. Renovated historic cottages provide direct beach access with abundant marine environments to explore. "We popped in and luckily was able to get the best view in house, please check them out and support the cottages!" says Kenny T. about his stay in cottage 38D.
Kayaking: Rent watercraft at Newport Dunes RV Resort for back bay exploration. The protected waters offer calm conditions suitable for beginners and children. "Take the family and bring the toys! This place is the best of both family and party atmosphere! Be warned it is not a sleepy RV park," notes Derrick.
What campers like
Tiered camping views: Elevated campsites at Moro Campground provide unobstructed ocean panoramas. Each row of sites sits higher than the previous, ensuring most campers enjoy ocean views. "There are about 60 camp spots and a lot of them are RVs, but it's nice because each row of 10 spots is elevated from the previous row (tiered campsites) so everyone gets a semi view," explains Chanel C.
Wildlife viewing: Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park offers frequent encounters with native California species. The park's 8,000 acres host diverse ecosystems with regular wildlife sightings. "Lots of squirrels, bunnies, the occasional deer and coyotes at night, signs warning you are now in mountain lion territory," James notes.
Night sky viewing: Clear nights showcase stars despite proximity to urban areas. Campgrounds further from the coast typically have less marine layer interference for astronomy. "In the morning we were high up above the marine layer which was really cool to see," says Torye C. about backcountry camping at Crystal Cove.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book San Onofre Recreation Beach months in advance for summer dates. Military-only access means availability is limited but crowds are smaller. "It is more for surfing than playing in the waves on the beach, there are rocks spread out making it less enjoyable for kids, but our crew were happy there," Leslie M. explains.
Strict quiet hours: Rangers actively enforce noise regulations at most area campgrounds. Expect regular patrols and enforcement of 10pm quiet hours. "The only bad part is they strictly enforce quiet time at 10pm. I felt like a kid being told to go to bed," notes Marcella D. about her stay at Launch Pointe.
Fire restrictions: Several coastal campgrounds limit or prohibit wood fires. Crystal Cove State Park prohibits wood and charcoal fires completely. "No coal or wood fires :( Kind of a bummer since your evening ends early. You can bring propane pits yourself for fires though," advises Chanel C.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Launch Pointe Recreation Destination offers multiple kid-friendly water features beyond the lake. The facility includes both swimming pools and splash pads designed for younger children. "Amenities are very good for young kids. Canopy Court area has easy and close access to the splash pad, the playground, a large grass area, and even the pool," reports Bryan H.
Beach access considerations: Factor in steep descents when planning Crystal Cove beach trips with children. Some trails from campgrounds to beaches require moderate hiking ability. "The walk down to the beach is steep but worth it," notes Brandice S. about Crystal Cove's beach access.
Educational programming: Check visitor centers for ranger-led activities scheduled throughout summer months. Many local parks offer nature walks, junior ranger programs, and wildlife presentations. "On Saturdays there's a nature walk," mentions Berton M. about Caspers Wilderness Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Bring extra leveling blocks for sites at Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park. The campground has notoriously uneven spots requiring adjustment for comfort. "The sites were all uneven. Every camper we saw had to do major leveling efforts," notes Brian C.
Urban proximity: Anaheim Harbor RV Park provides full hookups near urban conveniences while maintaining camping atmosphere. This facility offers a compromise between glamping amenities and access to metropolitan areas. "Clean, quiet, friendly staff and great to visit Disneyland! Perfect spot to stay in central orange county. Nice amenities. Clean bathrooms. Well functioning rv hook ups," shares Derrick.
Backup sewage hose length: Standard 15-foot sewer hoses may be insufficient at some area campgrounds. Connection points often require longer hoses than standard equipment. "You must have a 25ft sewage hose," advises Prentice F. about requirements at Anaheim Harbor RV Park.
