Glamping in Orange, California offers camping experiences with modern amenities within a highly developed urban setting. The region sits at the northern end of the Santa Ana Mountains with elevations ranging from 200 to 800 feet, creating varied terrain for different camping styles. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, making it comfortable for outdoor activities year-round with minimal rainfall outside winter months.
What to Do
Hiking trails: At Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park, visitors can explore numerous trails spanning from 1 to 12 miles. "There are a number of hiking trails around that range from a 1 to 12 miles. On Saturdays there's a nature walk," notes a camper. The park's 8,000 acres provide ample space for trail enthusiasts.
Wildlife viewing: Crystal Cove State Park offers opportunities to spot local fauna. "We watched wild parrots fly overhead. The birds are flying around you and the squirrels are free to welcome you when you get there," according to one visitor. Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Water recreation: Canyon RV Park provides access to the Santa Ana River. Nearby bike paths allow for exploration along waterways. One reviewer mentions, "Bike path nearby as well as washing and having fun," highlighting the recreational options available beyond the campsite.
What Campers Like
Tiered campsites: Moro Campground offers elevated views due to its terraced design. "The sites are terraced, so no matter which site you get you'll have a view of the ocean," explains a regular visitor. This arrangement maximizes views for all campers regardless of site location.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained amenities. "The bathrooms are pretty clean, some of the showers run pretty hot but I didn't mind it. This campground fills up fast so book early!" Another reviewer notes, "The showers are coin operated but it didn't take many coins to get a decent warm shower."
Privacy options: Despite urban surroundings, some sites offer seclusion. At Bonelli Bluffs, campers appreciate the spacing: "Dog friendly, clean, quiet, love the grass and trees nicely kept property." Site selection matters significantly for privacy, with corner sites often providing more separation from neighbors.
What You Should Know
Reservation timing: Popular glamping locations fill quickly, especially during summer. At Crystal Cove, "This campground fills up fast so book early! I really like how clearly the sites are marked and how often the park rangers patrol."
Noise considerations: Being in an urban setting means some road noise is inevitable. At Anaheim Harbor RV Park, "Despite Disneyland being a family destination, their campsites are for 2 people only. You must pay for each additional person over 10 years old."
Fire restrictions: Some locations limit campfires. Crystal Cove State Park prohibits wood fires. "No coal or wood fires :( Kind of a bummer since your evening ends early. You can bring propane pits yourself for fires though."
Wildlife precautions: "Be careful of rattlesnakes," warns one Crystal Cove camper. Another visitor to Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park notes, "Lots of snakes (including rattle snakes) so be careful where you step."
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly sites: Newport Dunes RV Resort offers numerous children's activities. "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," shares a frequent guest.
Playground access: Several parks feature dedicated play areas. Canyon RV Park includes "a cute playground for kids" while other locations offer recreational fields suitable for family games.
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of nature centers. At Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park, one visitor appreciated "a nature center where you can enjoy viewing through the telescope overlooking almost all of the 8,000 acres of the Caspers WP."
Pool availability: Swimming options vary by location. "They had a movie on the beach when we were there, and fun water toys out," notes one Newport Dunes visitor, while another mentioned, "We were just a short walk to the bathrooms which were spotless."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: At Bonelli Bluffs, RVers should note the precise measurements. "We chose Bonelli for our shakedown trip in our new trailer. Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking(!) and full hookups."
Hookup availability: Different parks offer varying levels of service. At Anaheim Harbor RV Park, "The sites are big and well spaced, with 30 amp electric," while another reviewer notes, "You stay here to do Disney. Get a deluxe site if you can. The standard sites are essentially a large parking spot in a paved parking lot."
Parking considerations: Some locations charge for additional vehicles. At Anaheim Harbor, a camper advises: "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."
