Crystal Cove State Park offers glamping close to Newport Beach, California with terraced oceanfront campsites for unobstructed Pacific views. The campground sits directly off Pacific Coast Highway, making it accessible yet exposed to some traffic noise. Newport Beach has a Mediterranean climate with year-round mild temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F during summer months, creating ideal conditions for coastal camping.
What to do
Hiking at Crystal Cove: Access multiple trail systems ranging from easy to strenuous paths connecting to adjacent wilderness areas. "I stayed at the lower campsite, I believe it's #31 on the map, and I think this was the best spot in the campground as it had an unobstructed view of the water and was far enough away from others, but still easy to get to the restroom if needed," notes a visitor at Crystal Cove State Park Moro Campground.
Beach exploration and tidepools: Observe marine life during low tide along rocky shoreline sections. "The ocean wildlife is so cool, and at low tide you can see octopus, starfish, and all kinds of small fish/crabs. The views are spectacular!" explains a camper at San Onofre Recreation Beach.
Water activities in protected areas: Try paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming in Newport's Back Bay or ocean-side locations. "We stayed in spot #2118 and it had a nice view of the bay," mentions a visitor from Newport Dunes RV Resort. The resort offers equipment rentals on-site.
What campers like
Historic cottage stays: Experience renovated beachfront buildings dating from the 1920s-1940s at Crystal Cove Beach Cottages. "Sound of rhythmic waves, sand, smell of salt in the air...Crystal Cove Beach Cottages...Home away from home," shares one visitor about these unique accommodations.
Sunrise and sunset ocean views: Many campsites offer direct views of colorful sky displays over the Pacific. "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," states a Crystal Cove camper. Morning fog layers create dramatic views from higher elevation sites.
Secluded beaches: Access less crowded coastline sections compared to main public beaches. "The beach has less crowds/tourists/homeless compared to other beaches. It's really quite and peaceful," notes a visitor about Crystal Cove State Park's beach areas.
What you should know
Site reservation challenges: Premium beachfront locations require advance planning. "This is a gem of a campground. Almost every site has an ocean view of some kind," explains a visitor to Moro Campground, adding "Check in is at 3pm. They are hard on this. If you arrive early, you can register, but will be directed to Reef Point back down PCH."
Beach access considerations: Some glamping sites near Newport Beach require navigating steep paths. "Be fully aware that these spaces can be very tight," warns a Newport Dunes RV Resort visitor about premium waterfront sites.
Fire restrictions: Many coastal campsites have strict fire rules. "No coal or wood fires. Kind of a bummer since your evening ends early. You can bring propane pits yourself for fires though," explains a camper about Crystal Cove regulations.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreational areas: Several parks offer dedicated children's facilities. "There's a nice bike trail that circles around the bay, which is great for kids. Also, lots of amenities for families, including playgrounds, water toys, movie nights and fire pits," describes a visitor to Newport Dunes.
Nature programs: Participate in ranger-led activities at certain parks. "On Saturdays there's a nature walk," shares a visitor to Caspers Wilderness County Park, located just 15 minutes inland from coastal areas.
Water safety considerations: Ocean conditions vary significantly by location. "The beach is rocky in some parts and soft sand in others, if you are a surfer you must go catch a wave here," explains a San Onofre camper about beach conditions affecting swimming safety.
Tips from RVers
RV site dimensions: Many Newport area RV sites have specific length restrictions. "The maximum length is 38. We had 30/50 amp electrical and water. Dump station is on your way out, with 3 stations in that row," shares a Crystal Cove camper about their site specifications.
Hookup availability: Water conservation measures impact some parks. "I had electric hookup but no water because of the drought," notes a camper at Caspers Wilderness Park, highlighting the importance of bringing additional water supplies.
Parking considerations: Some glamping facilities near Newport Beach charge extra for additional vehicles. "The roads that lead to the sites is a bit narrow, so if your towable is on the long side, you might have to work a bit to back it in," cautions an RV camper at Crystal Cove State Park.
