Camping options near Redondo Beach range from structured RV parks to more rugged experiences along the coastal canyons. Southern California's Mediterranean climate keeps temperatures moderate year-round, with average highs of 65-75°F even in winter months. Several campgrounds within an hour's drive provide access to both beach activities and hiking trails, with varying levels of amenities depending on proximity to urban areas.
What to Do
Hiking adventures: At Malibu Creek State Park Campground, explore a network of trails suitable for various skill levels. "There are about 60 camp spots and a lot of them are RVs, but it's nice because each row of 10 spots is elevated from the previous row (tiered campsites) so everyone gets a semi view," notes one visitor about the campground layout. The park features several movie and TV filming locations worth discovering.
Beach access: The coastline near Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground offers unique ocean experiences. "The best part about this campground is definitely the beach access- it's about a 10-minute walk from most sites, and you can explore some amazing tide pools and caves once you get there," reports a camper. Bring a wagon for hauling beach gear, as the walk can feel long with equipment.
Water recreation: For paddleboarding and kayaking enthusiasts, several campgrounds offer water access. "We kayaked around the area and loved it. At night we had deer walking directly through our site as we were eating dinner (seriously on a few feet away)," mentions a visitor at Two Harbors. Rental equipment is available at most coastal sites during summer months.
What Campers Like
Ocean views: Many campsites feature dramatic coastal vistas. At Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park, "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."
Urban convenience: The proximity to city amenities while still feeling outdoors appeals to many. A camper at Malibu Creek State Park noted, "Three miles from a the grocery and only minutes from north LA, you'll find a basic campground with flush toilets, coin showers, and easily accessible hiking trails. The sites are basic with campfire pit and grill, open space for a tent or rv, and picnic table."
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Redondo Beach, California, Anaheim Harbor RV Park offers alternative accommodations. "Ok, so it is just a parking lot, but they do it well! Little tufts of fake grass (real on one side, none on the cheap spots) with full hook ups. Nice bathrooms and hot showers with laundry on location," explains a satisfied customer.
What You Should Know
Reservation timing: Most coastal campgrounds require advance planning. "We spent 4 days at Leo Carrillo in site 128 last week. The campground is tucked away in a beautiful canyon setting with lots of shade trees, which was really nice for keeping cool," shares a camper who booked well in advance.
Noise considerations: Traffic and airport noise can affect certain locations. At Dockweiler Beach RV Park, "Review of dry campervan section of park only, which seemed considerably more quiet and less chaotic than the big RV area... Amazing beach front sites, expected noise from road and airport but you can still hear the ocean, super lively/loud beach on weekend, very chill weekdays."
Utility limitations: Hookup availability varies widely between campgrounds. "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 Dockweiler Beach visitor.
Tips for Camping with Families
Beach day preparation: Pack necessary gear for tide pool exploration. "The kids loved searching for hermit crabs and sea anemones. Bring a wagon if you're hauling beach gear though, as the walk can feel long with all your stuff," recommends a Leo Carrillo camper.
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer organized events. "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 visitor at Newport Dunes RV Resort.
Safety considerations: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions. A Malibu Creek State Park camper noted, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose locations based on your specific needs. "We chose site 59 which had a really nice shade tree and great views of a meadow and the cliffs out the back of the site. The sites are fairly open and close to each other, so be prepared to hear everything," advises a Malibu Creek visitor.
Facility access: Consider bathroom and shower proximity when selecting sites. "This is a very clean and well maintained park with a lot of amenities.This place is very family oriented and the staff is very nice. This location is close to good shopping and great dining options.We stayed in spot 2118 and it had a nice view of the bay," explains a Newport Dunes RVer.
Specialized camping options: For military families, unique opportunities exist. "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 to Los Alamitos Army Campground, highlighting another option for specialized yurt camping around Redondo Beach.
