RV campgrounds near Pasadena, California offer options within 20-45 minutes of Los Angeles attractions and the San Gabriel Mountains. Most camping facilities in this urban-adjacent region operate year-round with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-95°F during peak season. Winter nights can drop to the mid-40s, requiring campers to prepare for moderate temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Water activities at Bonelli Bluffs: Located near San Dimas, this RV park sits adjacent to a recreational lake where campers can participate in fishing, kayaking, and swimming. A camper noted, "Beautiful views all around Sunrise, Sunset and Night sky. Sights of all kinds of birds like hawks and herons. Water park and mini golf for kids."
Historic district exploration: Rancho Jurupa RV Park offers convenient access to historical sites. One visitor explained, "We drove over to the Mission Inn (8 min drive) enjoyed lunch. Their is a pedestrian only shopping area with a Saturday farmer's market plus lots of restaurants."
Bird watching opportunities: Urban camping locations still offer wildlife viewing. At Golden Shore RV Resort, the waterfront location provides habitat for coastal birds, while other parks offer surprising natural encounters. A camper at Rancho Jurupa Park commented, "While setting up camp we watched wild parrots fly overhead."
What campers like
Family amenities: Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon includes recently updated facilities that families appreciate. A visitor mentioned, "Recently remolded lodge in 2019. Great place to stay if you are a TT member road to resort is windy and narrow but easily manageable with larger RVs."
Security features: Safety measures receive positive comments at multiple RV campgrounds near Pasadena. One camper at Rancho Jurupa Park wrote, "Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes. Ranger is on constant patrol."
Pool access: Most Pasadena-area RV parks maintain swimming pools for guest use, though reservation systems may apply. A visitor to Golden Shore RV Resort noted, "During COVID you need to reserve your time at the pool. The pool, showers, bathrooms are all spotless."
What you should know
Site spacing varies: While some parks offer spacious sites, others maximize capacity. At Fairplex RV Park, a camper warned, "Spaces are very tight. Good for 1 nite only stay. Staff was friendly and place is clean but not much room to maneuver a lg. rv. in."
Noise considerations: Hollywood RV Park offers urban camping with varying noise levels. One camper reported, "It's quiet at night. Just the white noise hum of the city and crickets. Really surprised with how well we've slept here given the location."
WiFi limitations: Internet connectivity varies significantly between parks and even within the same facility. A visitor to Californian RV Resort noted, "They list that there's WiFi but I was close to the office and was never able to connect."
Tips for camping with families
Splash pads for kids: Anaheim Harbor RV Park provides family-friendly water features beyond standard pools. A visitor shared, "Little tufts of fake grass with full hook ups. Nice bathrooms and hot showers with laundry on location. Good amount of space between sites."
Recreation programming: Parks often organize family activities, particularly during weekends and peak seasons. A camper at Rancho Jurupa Park mentioned, "There are some great kid friendly activities. Girls used Porta Potties. I'm hoping they have finished construction on something better since then."
Budget considerations: Pricing structures vary significantly, with many parks charging extra for children and amenities. A visitor noted at Anaheim Harbor, "Despite Disneyland being a family destination, their campsites are for 2 people only. You must pay for each additional person over 10 years old."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility features: Soledad Canyon provides accommodations for campers with mobility needs. One RVer explained, "This is one of the best handicap accessible shower and restroom areas we've seen. The larger pool had a roll in area but I do not know if they had a wheelchair that would allow you to actually use it."
Parking logistics: Many RV parks near Pasadena have specific parking arrangements. A camper at Rafael's RV Park shared, "Rafael was a friendly host and very helpful and made sure we were set up well. It's urban camping, so don't expect a scenic state park place."
Long-term stay policies: For extended visits, inquire about monthly rates and policies. At Hollywood RV Park, a camper observed, "Petty much the best rv park in the area for long term stay. There's such an interesting mix of people staying at this quirky place! Many friendly and helpful."
