Glamping near Fullerton, California offers an unexpected mix of urban convenience and outdoor recreation. Located in North Orange County at an elevation of about 200 feet, this area experiences a Mediterranean climate with warm summers averaging 85°F and mild winters rarely dipping below 45°F. Despite being in a heavily developed region, several campgrounds and RV parks create surprisingly natural settings within minutes of major attractions.
What to do
Horseback riding and trails: Canyon RV Park sits within a nature preserve with numerous trails for hiking and horseback riding. A camper noted, "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics... The views are incredible."
Water activities at the lagoon: Newport Dunes RV Resort features a protected lagoon where families can enjoy water recreation. "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," one visitor mentioned.
Biking along the coast: Dockweiler Beach RV Park provides direct beach access with an extensive bike path. "There's also a bike path that goes for miles both north or south - great for an early workout," reports a recent visitor who appreciated the convenient coastal recreation.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many camping areas near Fullerton offer surprising wildlife encounters. A visitor to China Camp State Park shared, "Lots of wildlife! A coyote walked right by us... We loved all the wildlife (birds, owls, deer, rabbits, raccoons)."
What campers like
Ocean views and beach access: At Moro Campground in Crystal Cove State Park, the terraced campsites provide panoramic ocean vistas. "The sites are terraced, so no matter which site you get you'll have a view of the ocean," explained one camper who visits frequently.
Convenient location to attractions: Bonelli Bluffs offers a strategic location for exploring the region. A visitor called it a "Hidden Gem" noting it's "located in the middle of the city, with the feel of the outdoor. Lots of trees, biking and hiking trails, fishing area, beautiful views, very peaceful."
Clean facilities with amenities: Luxury camping options maintain high standards for comfort. "Very good park, well kept and clean. Onsite bathrooms, showers, office and clubhouse. Small pool no hotub. Friendly neighbors great long term stay," noted a visitor to Anaheim Harbor RV Park.
Natural settings despite urban location: Glamping near Fullerton creates natural environments in surprising locations. "I loved this place, this hidden gem is located in the in the middle of the city, with the feel of the outdoor," reported one camper at Bonelli Bluffs.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites require advance booking, especially during peak periods. At Crystal Cove State Park, "This campground fills up fast so book early!" advised one frequent visitor.
Site spacing and privacy: Site separation varies significantly between campgrounds. "You're packed in pretty tightly like sardines," explained a camper at Fairplex RV Park, contrasting with Canyon RV Park where "The spaces are well spaced out and you're not right on top of your neighbors."
Environmental factors: Some campgrounds experience unique environmental considerations. "You will hear each and every of the planes taking off from LAX, but at one point you don't hear them anymore," mentioned a Dockweiler Beach visitor.
Fire restrictions: Fire policies differ between locations. At Crystal Cove, "No coal or wood fires :( Kind of a bummer since your evening ends early. You can bring propane pits yourself for fires though."
Tips for camping with families
Choose water-oriented sites: Newport Dunes RV Resort offers family-friendly water features. "They have a movie on the beach when we were there, and fun water toys out," reported one family, adding that despite the cost "there was a lot of fun things to do with the kids."
Look for designated play areas: Some campgrounds offer specific recreation zones for children. "There is a nice day area and trails within walking distance," reported a visitor to Moro Campground at Crystal Cove.
Pack sun protection: The Southern California sun can be intense, especially at beach locations. A Crystal Cove camper advised, "The hiking trails essentially have zero shade so it gets really hot. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen so you don't roast."
Consider noise levels: Urban camping locations may have unexpected noise. As one Canyon RV Park visitor noted, "The site is bordered by highways on both sides, and they create noise day and night," which may affect light-sleeping children.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Some glamping sites have strict size requirements. At Anaheim Harbor, spaces vary significantly—"Get a deluxe site if you can. The standard sites are essentially a large parking spot in a paved parking lot. The deluxe feel more like an RV site with a picnic table and grass."
Ask about parking arrangements: RV sites may have different policies for tow vehicles. "You must pay for your family pet. You will need to pay for the pool key but should get it back. Any standard site is a parking lot no grass," explained a visitor detailing Anaheim Harbor's policies.
Consider hookup configurations: Full-service sites offer various hookup options. A visitor to Fairplex RV Park explained, "They do offer full hookups they have a swimming pool among a few other activities," though cautioned that "the larger your RV is, little bit harder it might be to park."
Look for pull-through availability: Larger rigs may need specific site configurations. "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," warned a Fairplex visitor.
