Family camping opportunities near La Palma offer access to varied landscapes within Orange County and Los Angeles metropolitan areas. Located approximately 20 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles at an elevation of 75 feet, La Palma's mild Mediterranean climate supports year-round camping options. Most RV sites near La Palma maintain temperatures between 50-80°F throughout the year, with summer temperatures occasionally reaching into the 90s.
What to do
Water activities at Newport Dunes: For families seeking waterfront recreation, Newport Dunes RV Resort offers multiple water-based options. "We stay here every year. 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," explains one camper. The lagoon features inflatable water toys that are especially popular with children.
Biking along coastal paths: Huntington Beach RV Campground provides direct access to beach paths. "Take the family and bring the toys! This place is the best of both family and party atmosphere," notes one visitor. The campground sits directly on the boardwalk, making it convenient to cycle along the coast.
Nature trails for hiking: Sites in the Long Beach area connect to nature trails. "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 a camper about nearby attractions from Rancho Jurupa RV Park.
What campers like
Security features: Rancho Jurupa RV Park receives praise for safety measures. "This place was nice. Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes. Ranger is on constant patrol," shares one visitor. The security gates close at 10 pm, with after-hours access provided through security codes.
Beach proximity: Huntington Beach RV Campground offers oceanfront camping from October through May. "Yes, it's a parking lot, but you won't get any closer to the beach than this! Our kids had a blast staying here since it's right on the boardwalk and super close to the HB pier. At night, you can build a bonfire," notes a recent visitor.
Clean facilities: Many RV sites near La Palma prioritize cleanliness. "Great park. It may not seem nice when you are passing through town to get in, but once you enter the gates it's beautiful. Large concrete pads, easy backing in and hooking up," mentions one visitor about Rancho Jurupa RV Park. This sentiment is echoed across several campgrounds in the area.
What you should know
Site sizing variations: Anaheim Harbor RV Park has specific measurement requirements visitors should understand before booking. A camper warns: "Their site measurements are for your camping unit ONLY. If you have a tow vehicle or are towing a vehicle you must pay per night for a parking spot, whether it fits on the site or not." Understanding these requirements prevents unexpected fees.
Seasonal availability: Some campgrounds operate seasonally. Huntington Beach RV Campground is only open October through May, using the space for beach parking during summer months.
Reservation requirements: Most RV campgrounds in this densely populated region require advance booking, especially for weekend stays. Military-only facilities like Seabreeze At Seal Beach have additional access requirements: "A well kept secret with one drawback; everyone has to have an ID card to get on the base or be pre approved by base security."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Bonelli Bluffs offers multiple recreational options. "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," shares one visitor about the diverse activities available.
Group camping considerations: Family group camping requires planning. "Took Girl Scouts here for group camping. Rocky and sand. The family camping was fine! Girls used Porta Potties. However, there are some great kid friendly activities," notes a visitor about Rancho Jurupa RV Park.
Safety awareness: Parents should maintain awareness of surroundings at urban campgrounds. Some facilities implement security measures including gates that close at night, on-site rangers, and security personnel.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up specifications: Golden Shore RV Resort in Long Beach provides full-service sites with reliable utilities. "Stayed at Golden Shore RV resort in Long Beach, CA for several days. The grounds are kept in excellent condition - very clean and secure. The pool, showers, bathrooms are all spotless," writes a recent visitor.
Size limitations: Many parks have restrictions on RV length. "Waterfront RV Park, CA. Located in Huntington Beach California. This site is right across the street from the beach. There is a pool and a hot tub and a small dog park," notes a visitor, though size limitations prevent big rigs from accessing this location.
Alternative locations: Orangeland RV Park provides a central option for those looking to access multiple destinations. "We have family in Orange County and we stay here whenever we come out. Centrally located and best for easy access coming from or leaving to the east of the Los Angeles area," explains one repeat visitor.
