Tent camping near Rancho Santa Margarita, California offers access to diverse terrain ranging from 1,100 feet to over 5,000 feet in elevation across the Santa Ana Mountains. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F in lower elevations while higher mountain sites can drop below 40°F at night, even in summer months. Fire restrictions change frequently throughout the region, with complete bans common during extreme drought conditions from July through October.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Access scenic trails leading to seasonal waterfalls from Spruce Grove Trail Campground, located in the Angeles National Forest. "Beyond the falls, the trail takes on a greater feeling of wilderness immersion. This section of Gabrielino Trail gets less foot traffic, making it a great retreat for those times when you need to feel far from LA," notes a visitor to Spruce Grove Trail Campground.
Mountain biking: China Camp State Park offers extensive trail systems particularly popular with mountain bikers. "Located on the west side of the San Rafael/Richmond Bridge, on San Francisco Bay, this park is extremely popular with mountain bikers. There are definitely better mountain biking trails in Marin but keep in mind that the bar is very high for mountain biking in Marin," reports a camper who stayed at China Camp.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide prime opportunities for wildlife observation. One camper at Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Sites noted, "Beautiful, private, and secluded. Beautiful hiking trails and wildlife. I didn't want to leave! Make sure you have a vehicle that is 4WD - getting up the mountain is long and rugged."
What campers like
Affordable sites: Falcon Group Campground offers budget-friendly options for groups near Lake Elsinore. "The campground was very well priced and it had bolted toilets and a water spout. No showers or sinks," shares a visitor who took 14 first-time campers to the site.
Easy access to beaches: Proximity to coastal areas from inland campgrounds provides versatility. A camper at Doheny State Beach Campground explained, "This campground is sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and some active train tracks. But it's quite possibly the most beautiful yet easiest camping you'll do, shy of setting up a tent in your yard."
Quiet weekday camping: Less crowded experiences available Monday through Thursday at most campgrounds. "The campground was not busy and this allowed me to pick a spot hidden away from others," notes a camper who stayed at China Camp State Park Campground in September.
What you should know
Seasonal wildlife challenges: Various animals frequent campsites depending on season and location. At Hoegees Trail Camp Campground, a camper warns, "There are bears in the area so hang your food and keep your campsite clean. Bring your own toilet paper."
Water access varies: Many sites require campers to filter or treat natural water sources. "There's no running water but the creek is usually running so come prepared with your own water and something to treat the creek water with," explains a camper at Spruce Grove Trail Camp.
Vehicle requirements: Some campgrounds demand high-clearance vehicles for access. A visitor to Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Sites warned, "Make sure you have a vehicle that is 4WD - getting up the mountain is long and rugged."
Tips for camping with families
Quiet areas for kids: Choose sites away from main roads for better sleep. At Yucaipa Regional Park, a camper noted, "The newer sites don't have a lot of mature trees, the older sites have a little more wear and tear but also bigger trees. Nice splash zone."
Wildlife education opportunities: Use wildlife sightings as teaching moments. One family staying at China Camp State Park shared, "I am camping with my husband and 3 kids and our puppy. The hosts are friendly, cheap firewood, China beach village is just down the road and perfect to explore and swim."
Seasonal activities: Check for summer water parks or swimming areas. "Great tent camping facilities, privacy from neighbors, access to Zanja Peak Trail head, 3 lakes for fishing, water park during the summer, and friendly helpful staff," reports a camper who visited Yucaipa Regional Park.
Tips from RVers
Beach access considerations: Plan for no hookups at premium beachfront locations. A visitor to Black Jack Campground advised, "Each site has a picnic table and fire pit. You have to find or bring in your own wood for the fire. There's two bathrooms and a public, open shower. Fresh water is available too."
Weather preparedness: High elevation sites experience significant temperature fluctuations. "It was very hot during this time so we ended up going down to the Lake to cool off," notes a camper at Falcon Group Campground who visited in July.
Dump station availability: Check for dump stations when planning longer stays. At Doheny State Beach, a camper reported, "Dump site: When we first arrive it was out of order with a 'clogged signed'. It was fixed the following day. There is a $10 fee, they have a convenient credit card machine."
