Camping near Long Beach, CA centers around paved RV spaces rather than traditional wooded sites due to the urban coastal setting. Winter temperatures remain mild with daytime averages of 65-70°F, making year-round camping viable despite December closures at some locations. Most campsites require advance booking through reservation systems that open 6-7 months before arrival dates.
What to do
Beach access opportunities: Several campgrounds provide direct beach proximity for water activities. At Newport Dunes RV Resort, "they have activities for kids like arts and crafts, an inflatable obstacle course or you can rent paddle boards or watch a movie on the beach. There are fantastic running/bike trails along the Back Bay," notes one camper who visits annually.
Biking paths exploration: Many campsites connect to extensive coastal bike paths. A visitor to Dockweiler Beach RV Park observed, "We did a 12 mile loop to the north, and a ride along the coast on some bike paths," making the area ideal for cyclists looking to explore between camping sessions.
Urban attractions access: The camping options provide convenient bases for exploring city amenities. From Anaheim Harbor RV Park, one visitor reported, "Walking distance to Disneyland," while another mentioned "Close to shopping and restaurants. We had PF Changs delivered." The park operates a shuttle service to nearby attractions.
What campers like
Coastal views: Tiered camping layouts at several sites ensure ocean visibility. At Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park, "The sites are terraced, so no matter which site you get you'll have a view of the ocean," explains one regular visitor, adding practical information about the surroundings: "It is in a developed area of Laguna Beach, so there is not much solitude or quiet enjoyment of nature."
Security measures: Many campers appreciate the safety features at Long Beach area campgrounds. A visitor to Golden Shore RV Resort noted, "Really appreciated that this RV park was gated. Felt safe and secure the whole time I was here," highlighting the importance of security in this urban camping environment.
Convenient amenities: The developed nature of local campgrounds means modern facilities. Regarding Waterfront RV Park, a camper shared, "They have a great pool, maintained laundry rooms bathrooms and showers separated by men and woman for that privacy you need. Overall an incredible rv park and very impressed by it being well kept and clean."
What you should know
Military ID requirements: Several campgrounds require military credentials. At Los Alamitos Army Campground, one visitor noted, "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." Similar restrictions apply at Seabreeze at Seal Beach.
Noise considerations: Urban proximity means sound issues at many locations. Regarding Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground, a reviewer warned, "Great location. I mean what can I say to diminish a beach spot for 60 bucks? How about a motorcycle passing right outside your bedroom window at 12,000 rpm every two minutes all night long?"
Additional fees structure: Many campgrounds charge beyond base rates. At Anaheim Harbor RV Park, "You must pay for each additional person over 10 years old" and "You must pay for your family pet," explains a visitor who documented the comprehensive fee structure, noting "Tax is not included 7.75% CA Tax AND transient occupancy tax of 15%."
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Several campgrounds feature swimming facilities for children. A visitor to Orangeland RV Park appreciated the "covered play area, helpful staff, heated pool as well as a hot tub," noting it's an "easy 15 min drive to Disney plus the ART bus picks up straight from the campground."
Beach activities: Waterfront campgrounds offer supervised water recreation. A family at Newport Dunes mentioned, "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."
No-fire policies: Several campgrounds prohibit traditional campfires. Crystal Cove State Park has "No coal or wood fires :( Kind of a bummer since your evening ends early. You can bring propane pits yourself for fires though," one visitor explains, adding "it can get extremely cold at night in the canyons, even if it's in the high 80s during the day."
Tips from RVers
Site measurement policies: Understanding how RV sites are measured prevents booking problems. At Anaheim Harbor, "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," warned one experienced RVer.
Hookup specifications: RV campers should verify utility connections before booking. At Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground, "Concrete/asphalt sites with water electric and dump station. Adjacent to PCH so road noise but steps away from great sand beaches," notes one reviewer, providing context for the trade-offs involved.
Parking configurations: Several parks have specific requirements for vehicle placement. At Waterfront RV Park, "The full hookups were nice and welcomed. We stayed within our area no problem. Its simply a open lot with the hookups," explained an RVer who stayed in a 29-foot Class A motorhome, adding practical site selection advice: "If I were again to come, I would stay in a site in the 84-89 numbers."
