Camping options near Lomita, California span from beachfront RV parks to mountain retreats. This coastal region averages 280 sunny days per year with moderate temperatures rarely exceeding 85°F. Many campsites within 30 miles of Lomita require reservations up to six months in advance, especially for holiday weekends when occupancy reaches 95%.
What to do
Beachfront activities: At Dockweiler Beach RV Park, campers have immediate ocean access with fire rings on the sand. "We parked right by the Pacific Ocean, watched planes from LAX fly overhead, and soaked in a stunning sunset. It was the ideal place to settle into our campervan life," reports Prince C. The park sits directly on the shoreline with volleyball courts and a bike path.
Hiking trails: Malibu Creek State Park offers multiple trails through diverse terrain. "The state park is a former movie set and is filled with easily accessible trails for hiking and some for mountain biking. The primary trails were open fire roads with off-shoots to lakes, pools, meadows, and more," notes Ryan W. Wildlife sightings include bobcats and coyotes along the park's 8+ miles of trails.
Water recreation: Newport Dunes RV Resort features an inflatable water obstacle course during summer months. "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," says Karissa J. The sheltered bay location provides calmer waters ideal for beginners.
What campers like
Ocean views: Malibu Beach RV Park sits atop coastal bluffs with panoramic Pacific views. "Most amazing views of the pacific from the ocean view sites. Friendly staff at check in and wonderful experience, even despite the pouring rain," shares Nicole M. The cliff-top location provides unobstructed ocean vistas from nearly every site.
Urban convenience: Golden Shore RV Resort offers proximity to Long Beach attractions. "Great Long Beach location, a nice bike ride along the beach to Naples and the Queen Mary. Highly recommended," remarks Theo A. Campers appreciate the marina-adjacent setting with multiple restaurants within walking distance.
Clean facilities: Many reviewers highlight facility cleanliness as a standout feature. "The bathrooms were clean and park is located close to many LA attractions. Also, RV parking is very limited in this area - it is LA," notes Darlene M. about Dockweiler Beach RV Park. Most campgrounds maintain 24-hour bathroom access except Anaheim Harbor, which locks facilities from 8pm-7:30am.
What you should know
Flight noise: Dockweiler Beach RV Park sits directly under LAX flight paths. "We loved this spot next to the beach. We got used to the planes, but they are certainly jarring at first," Tyler G. explains. Flights begin around 5:30am and continue until midnight.
Limited tent options: Most facilities cater primarily to RVs. "No tents," states Constance M. simply about Dockweiler Beach. Anaheim Harbor RV Park offers only two designated tent sites. "The tent sites are very small with a picnic table and AstroTurf. There was only just enough space for my REI Hobitat 6," Jessica R. reports.
Military-only access: Some facilities require 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," William M. explains about Los Alamitos Army Campground. These restricted facilities typically offer lower rates but enforce strict access policies.
Tips for camping with families
Disney proximity: Anaheim Harbor RV Park provides budget-friendly Disney access. "It's a mile each way. Nice showers. Stores and restaurants super close. We had PF Changs delivered," Jennifer H. shares. The park offers a pool and clubhouse for post-park relaxation.
Beach movie nights: Newport Dunes schedules regular beach movies during summer. "They had a movie on the beach when we were there, and fun water toys out. It was rather expensive though," notes Kimberly A. Movie nights typically run Friday and Saturday evenings from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Wildlife watching: Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground offers wildlife observation opportunities. "The boardwalk was endless and great to walk the dog and go for a run! Restaurants all around to have dinner at!" says Gabriela M. The adjacent ecological reserve features 300+ bird species along 1.5 miles of elevated boardwalk trails.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Dockweiler Beach, dry camping areas provide more space. "The RV park has a hookup area and a dry camping area. The hookups are full of large rigs, very close one with another, in a parking lot style. The dry camp provides much more space," advises Ignasi M. Sites 125-128 are particularly recommended by frequent visitors.
Reservation timing: Book well in advance for pet friendly camping near Lomita, California. "Make sure you know that you want to stay here for the full time because there is not a generous refund policy," warns Anna about Golden Shore RV Resort. Most parks require deposits 30-90 days in advance with limited cancellation options.
Site dimensions: At Waterfront RV Park in Huntington Beach, larger RVs should select specific sites. "In all, I would totally come back here. If I were again to come, I would stay in a site in the 84-89 numbers, and the sites 26-36 are HUGE," recommends Zach R. These sites accommodate larger rigs with slideouts while maintaining modest privacy.