Tent camping near Laguna Woods, California presents access challenges due to its suburban location in Orange County. Many tent sites require 20-40 minute drives from Laguna Woods to reach nearby state parks and wilderness areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F at most tent camping locations, with coastal fog common at sites near Dana Point and other ocean-adjacent campgrounds.
What to Do
Beach camping options: North Loop at Doheny State Beach Campground provides beach access camping with amenities. "I love the sound of the waves and the fog horn. There are great bike trails to ride on. There are no hook ups but the price is right for beach front camping," notes Karissa J.
Water activities: Little Harbor Campground features swimming and snorkeling opportunities in a protected cove. "Beach and cove is great for spearfishing or snorkeling. Rock cliffs wrap both north and south of the beach for miles and there are kayaks for rent on the beach, but need to pre-order," reports Jon C.
Hiking access: Various trails connect campgrounds with scenic areas on Catalina. "If you're backpacking the Trans-Catalina trail, this is one of the best spots. Great views of the sunset, spaced out campsites with water spouts at each one and a 6 mile hike from airport in the sky," writes Ken about Little Harbor.
What Campers Like
Privacy levels: Yucaipa Regional Park offers tent sites with vegetation barriers. "Great tent camping facilities, privacy from neighbors, access to Zanja Peak Trail head, 3 lakes for fishing, water park during the summer, and friendly helpful staff," reports Bryan H.
Transportation convenience: Hermit Gulch Campground on Catalina Island offers public transit access. "Only 30 mins walk or 5 minute bus ride from downtown Avalon. I highly recommend using the bus for the first and last trip when arriving as trying to walk there with all your gear can be quite challenging," advises Jonathan K.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers appreciate animal encounters at campsites. "In one day we saw deer, quail, woodpeckers and the famous Catalina fox. This campsite is positively a must camp if you are on Catalina Island," reports Veronica H. about her stay at Hermit Gulch.
What You Should Know
Reservation systems: Many campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer. "Sweet campsite at Dana point surf break. Had a big crew along for spring break. Super nice but book early!" advises Rich J. about Doheny State Beach.
Site layout variations: Two Harbors Campground offers terraced campsites with different amenities. "The sites are large and can fit multiple tents. There are picnic tables and fire pits. It seemed like it should have been packed but I think the price and ease of arrival keeps people away," notes Hayley K.
Cost factors: Catalina camping involves ferry transport costs plus site fees. "The price is steep especially counting in the ferry, but it was a lot of fun and I'd do it again," shares Corey B. about Two Harbors Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water recreation: Millard Trail Campground features creek access. "There is a stream that runs through the park. Lots of trails all around with a nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups," notes Tom P.
Gear assistance: Some walk-in sites provide transport help. "Wheeled totes can be borrowed to haul your gear up some little hills to your campsite under oak and bay trees. Some sites are along a level trail," explains Laura F. about Back Ranch Meadows in China Camp State Park.
Seasonal attractions: Many campgrounds offer additional family activities. "Great campground. Well maintained. Large concrete pads that can handle any rig. So much to do all around a park. Does get very cold, was in the teens overnight when I was there in Feb. Fires allowed which is nice," writes Paul C. about Yucaipa Regional Park.
Tips from RVers
Shore access: Black Jack Campground allows access to coastal areas. "Black Jack is the highest campground on catalina. Solid views and sites. I'd recommend it only for backpackers. A bit of a hike from Avalon and Airport in the sky, so pack what you need," suggests Ken.
Limited services: Many campgrounds have restricted amenities. "This is your traditional campground where you must carry all your food and gear to the campsite. It is a short hike from the parking lot to the camping area and the camp hosts can provide containers to carry your items," explains Tim J. about China Camp State Park.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations affect comfort. "We were only there for one night and arrived at Dusk. Its not the best campground but it had water and a bathroom, it did its job but it isnt somewhere I would use a destination," notes Morgan F. about Black Jack Campground.
