Glamping and cabin camping options near Marina del Rey occupy a unique stretch of Southern California coastline where the Los Angeles basin meets the Pacific Ocean. The region sits at sea level with mild temperatures year-round, averaging 65-75°F during summer months. Winter camping can bring periodic rain and cooler nights, with December to February temperatures dipping to 50°F, requiring campers to pack extra layers.
What to do
Beach activities: Dockweiler Beach RV Park offers beachfront camping just 15 minutes from Marina del Rey. "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, but only relatively small RVs," notes a camper who appreciated the direct beach access.
Biking trails: Leo Carrillo State Park Campground provides access to coastal biking routes. "The camp store was handy for forgotten supplies and firewood. Cell service is virtually non-existent in the canyon, but you can get signal up at the beach if needed," shares one visitor who enjoyed the beach access and nearby trails.
Wildlife viewing: Bonelli Bluffs offers nature watching opportunities in a more inland setting. "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," explains a camper who valued the variety of activities available.
What campers like
Privacy options: Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon provides a more secluded experience 45 minutes north. "This is a good location to explore LA and greater LA area, 45 min to Hollywood sign. Park is a large TT resort with recently remolded lodge in 2019," notes a visitor who used it as a base camp for exploring.
Ocean views: Moro Campground at Crystal Cove offers tiered camping with excellent vistas. "Beautiful sunsets! We stayed February 5th and 6th at site #23 but it looked like most of the sites had great views of the Pacific. The campsites are roped off and have a decent amount of distance between them," shares one camper who enjoyed the clean facilities.
Family facilities: Newport Dunes RV Resort provides extensive amenities for families seeking glamping in Marina del Rey and surrounding areas. "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. There are fantastic running/bike trails along the Back Bay," reports a frequent visitor.
What you should know
Airport noise: Dockweiler Beach RV Park sits beneath LAX flight paths. "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... Planes are loud but fun. We had a dry campsite a bit further from the airport, so the plane noise was much less," explains a camper who found the location convenient despite noise.
Military access restrictions: Seabreeze At Seal Beach requires military ID or pre-approval. "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," notes a visitor, highlighting this important requirement for those considering this glamping option near Marina del Rey.
Fire regulations: Malibu Creek State Park Campground has specific fire rules. "The campground was under fire warning all weekend, but faux wood (javalog or duraflame) and charcoal was still allowed. The camphost sold Javalogs, and there were plenty of options at the nearby Albertson's," explains a camper who managed despite restrictions.
Tips for camping with families
Tent site limitations: Anaheim Harbor RV Park has minimal tent options. "There are only two tent sites (T1 and T3), the rest are for RVs. The price was super affordable at only $40 per night. They have a nice, small pool area, bbq areas, a club house, clean bathrooms and showers and WiFi," shares a tent camper who found the space adequate despite limited options.
Entertainment options: Malibu Creek State Park Campground offers kid-friendly trails and movie history. "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," explains a visitor who found numerous activities.
Wildlife encounters: Leo Carrillo State Park provides educational opportunities. "The wildlife is abundant. There is plenty of birdwatching, and coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear. If you have a dog with you make sure they don't try join the pack," warns a visitor who encountered diverse wildlife during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Bonelli Bluffs has varied site configurations. "Good camp ground if you like being 6 ft away from your neighbors. More of a group or community campground. Shared fire pit and tables. Not the place to go if you are trying to get away from people," advises an RVer seeking more privacy.
Seasonal considerations: Millard Trail Campground offers a different experience throughout the year. "Bikepacked in for a quick overnighter. Settled on one of the 6 tent sites. Nice campground, active stream in the middle of summer. Waterfall 30 minutes hike upstream. It was a bit busy during the day," notes a visitor who enjoyed the quieter evenings.
Reservation planning: Crystal Cove State Park requires advance booking. "This campground fills up fast so book early! I really like how clearly the sites are marked and how often the park rangers patrol," advises a regular camper who appreciates the well-maintained facilities despite the challenge of securing a spot.
