Several RV campgrounds near Lakewood, California offer alternatives beyond the popular oceanfront parks. Inland options within 20-30 miles provide different amenities and often more space between sites. Summer temperatures typically range from 65°F to 85°F, while winter lows rarely drop below 45°F, making year-round camping viable throughout the region.
What to do
Explore local wildlife areas: Visitors to Seabreeze At Seal Beach can enjoy kayaking in the adjacent wetlands. "Wildlife reserve adjacent to the park made it nice for walking the dogs, too," notes Chuck T. Military ID required for access.
Experience urban attractions: At Anaheim Harbor RV Park, campers can take advantage of transportation to nearby theme parks. "We walked to and from Disney. Super easy. It's a mile each way," reports Jennifer H. The campground offers on-site pickup for the Anaheim Resort Transit system.
Visit local historic districts: Camping at Rancho Jurupa RV Park positions visitors near Riverside's historic area. "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," explains Jody R.
What campers like
Security features: Many parks in the region employ various security measures. At Rancho Jurupa, campers appreciate the "great placement of the gates for safety purposes" and that the "Ranger is on constant patrol," according to Troy A.
Recreation options beyond beaches: Bonelli Bluffs offers diverse inland activities away from coastal crowds. "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," writes Jessica P.
Fresh produce access: At Orangeland RV Park, campers enjoy a unique perk. "You can pick all the oranges you want!" shares Brian C. The park features numerous citrus trees throughout the property that guests are welcome to harvest.
What you should know
Military-only options: Some camping areas have restricted access. Seabreeze at Seal Beach requires military credentials. "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," explains William M.
Seasonal availability: Certain beachfront campgrounds close during peak summer months. Huntington Beach RV Campground "opens back up in October due to the high traffic of summer visitors... Basically a parking lot on the beach that you can stay and enjoy beachfront," notes Brittney C.
Parking regulations: Many RV parks in the region have specific vehicle policies. Anaheim Harbor requires payment for parking vehicles that don't fit on sites. "If you have a larger RV or slide-outs it is recommended you book Deluxe space or Deluxe space+ parking," advises Prentice F.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for children: Several parks offer special water recreation. Rancho Jurupa provides "Fishing and a splash water park. This place has two campgrounds. Cottonwood and Lakeside. Cottonwood is the nicest of the two," recommends Michele N.
Structured activities: Parks often provide organized options for children. "We spent time in the pool. After that I cooked dinner at our site while my daughters watched television in the adjacent club house," recounts Jessica R. at Anaheim Harbor RV Park.
Space considerations: Family groups should research site sizes carefully. At Orangeland RV Park, "Large concrete pads, easy backing in and hooking up. Lots of grass, great place to camp in groups," states Paul C. about nearby Rancho Jurupa Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When choosing spots at parks with varying quality, research is essential. At Bonelli Bluffs, "Some spaces monumentally better than others. Occasionally they run a special," advises Dennis B.
Duration restrictions: Many parks limit continuous stays. Bonelli Bluffs allows campers to "stay for 20 days and then you have to leave for 60 days," according to Sara H.
Hookup variations: RV campgrounds near Lakewood offer different utility connections. At Golden Shore RV Resort, "Spots are close together unless you end up with a larger spot," notes Anna, who recommends researching options in advance.