Best Campgrounds near Long Beach, CA
Camping options near Long Beach, California are primarily concentrated in developed RV parks and beach campgrounds rather than dispersed backcountry sites. The urban coastal region includes several established campgrounds like Golden Shore RV Resort in downtown Long Beach and Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground in nearby Huntington Beach. Most camping areas cater to RV travelers with full hookups, though several locations also accommodate tent camping. Waterfront camping is available at Newport Dunes RV Resort and Dockweiler Beach RV Park, providing ocean access and beach proximity within an otherwise metropolitan area.
Reservations are strongly recommended at all camping areas near Long Beach, particularly during summer months when beach locations fill quickly. Most campgrounds operate year-round due to Southern California's mild climate, though Bolsa Chica State Beach is closed in December. "Very clean, cement slab, walking paths well lit and near to many areas to explore," notes one visitor about the military-only Seabreeze at Seal Beach campground. Security and access restrictions vary significantly between locations, with some military campgrounds like Los Alamitos Army Campground requiring military ID for entry. Civilian RV parks typically offer gated security but have more accessible reservation systems.
Campground amenities throughout the Long Beach area generally include showers, restrooms, and hookups, with most sites featuring concrete or paved parking areas rather than natural surfaces. Several campers mention the convenient location for urban activities and beach access as primary benefits. According to reviews, Golden Shore RV Resort provides "a nice bike ride along the beach to Naples and the Queen Mary," highlighting the urban recreation opportunities. Traffic noise affects some locations, particularly those near highways or commercial areas. The coastal camping experience emphasizes convenience and proximity to attractions rather than wilderness immersion, with most sites offering good cell service and nearby shopping. Campground layouts tend to be organized for maximum capacity, with limited privacy between sites at most locations.
