Cabin camping near San Clemente offers options for travelers seeking rustic to modern overnight shelter with proximity to both beaches and mountains. Located in Orange County where coastal temperatures average 70°F year-round, this region provides cabin accommodations within a 30-mile radius of the city. Several campgrounds maintain cabin rentals that remain available during winter months when tent camping might be less comfortable.
What to do
Beach access opportunities: At Moro Campground in Crystal Cove State Park, visitors can hike coastal trails with ocean views. According to a camper, "The best trail here stretches across the two parks -- No Name Ridge!! Amazing for EPIC SUNSETS!" The park features historic cottages from the 1920s-40s that can be explored along the beach.
Fishing activities: Dixon Lake Campground provides fishing access with boat rentals available. A visitor notes, "Bonus: No CA fishing license needed! Just the lake permit of $7 per adult. Big fish in this lake." The lake permits fishing from shore or rental boats with restrictions on swimming.
Water recreation: Launch Pointe Recreation Destination offers cabin guests access to Lake Elsinore with water activities. "We spent Spring break here with the family... Amenities are very good for young kids. Canopy Court area has easy and close access to the splash pad, the playground, a large grass area, and even the pool," reports a recent visitor.
What campers like
Clean facilities: San Onofre Recreation Beach maintains well-kept cabin accommodations near the ocean. A visitor reported, "We stayed in the cottages and it was nice. The organazational skills of their staff needs an overhaul but other than that it was a nice place to stay." The proximity to surfing spots makes this location popular with water sports enthusiasts.
Private settings: Guajome Regional Park offers cabins with natural surroundings. A camper shared, "Our site was elevated over the sites below giving us additional privacy. Even though it was mid-week, there were still quite a few families enjoying the park and going for walks." The park includes walking trails around a small lake with wildlife viewing opportunities.
Unique accommodations: At Crystal Cove Beach Cottages, historic buildings provide distinctive overnight options. As one reviewer described their experience, "Spot #24 is amazing" while another mentioned, "38D was the best." These cottages require booking far in advance due to their popularity and limited availability.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Temecula-Vail Lake KOA cabin rentals typically need advance booking, especially during peak times. A visitor advises, "Lots of hills. Bar, ice cream and pizza shop! No access to the actual lake. So don't plan on visiting a lake, unless they've resolved that issue." Some cabins include amenities while others provide basic shelter.
Military restrictions: Several beachfront cabin options require military ID for access. A camper at San Onofre explains, "Note that you do need to be military or have a connection. If you do, you're in luck! There's great surfing, and the campground has good facilities."
Seasonal considerations: Cabins at Newport Dunes RV Resort remain available year-round but prices increase during summer months. "We aren't used to staying at RV resorts like the Newport Dunes, but it was a fun change of pace... We rented the Large Cottage in the back because we needed a kitchen for cooking all the food we'd packed," a visitor shared about their experience.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Newport Dunes RV Resort provides family-oriented recreation options with cabin rentals. A visitor describes, "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." The resort maintains scheduled programming during summer months.
Kid-friendly amenities: Launch Pointe Recreation provides splash pads and playgrounds adjacent to cabin areas. A camper notes, "Great campground for families. Lots of activities for the kids to do, like smores by the fire, art, splash pad, and play ground. Facility was clean." Bathrooms remain accessible from all cabin locations.
Safety considerations: Parents should note wildlife concerns at some locations. A Dixon Lake visitor warned, "Critters heard roaming around campsite at night (either a raccoon or coyote came within 5 feet of our tent while we were sleeping)" and recommended to "Keep a light on over night at camp to deter critters."
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: Wilderness Lakes RV Resort offers cabins with varying proximities to amenities. One RVer advised, "I chose to stay at the far end, away from the crowds. I got a great site, with no one on either side, and 2 neighbors across the street." The resort features laundry facilities that accept tokens purchased at the camp store.
Supply preparation: Cabins vary significantly in what supplies they include. A camper at Via Del Gavilan Camp noted, "The RV provides comfortable beds and there is even an outdoor grill. Off the beaten path, this location is secluded and peaceful." Most cabin rentals require guests to bring their own linens, pillows, and cooking supplies.
