Seal Beach offers glamping options within 30 miles of the Pacific Coast, positioned at sea level with year-round mild temperatures averaging 65-75°F. The camping region features a coastal marine layer that often burns off by mid-day, creating distinct morning and afternoon microclimates that affect camping conditions near the shore.
What to do
Beach access options: At Crystal Cove State Park Campground, visitors can explore numerous coastal trails. "China Camp is located in beautiful Marin County and is in close proximity to the San Rafael bridge. With several spots to hang out on the beach, you can view historical landmarks, camp out, or have a picnic right on the water," shares one camper about the seaside opportunities.
Water recreation: Seabreeze At Seal Beach offers excellent kayaking opportunities. According to one visitor, "This one is to die for when it comes to kayaking." The protected waters near military installations provide calmer paddling conditions compared to open ocean areas.
Mountain biking: Trail networks connect many camping areas. "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."
Hiking options: The terrain offers both easy and challenging routes. "The campground is off the main road that parallels the bay. It's located just past a meadow, and in the increasingly rare wet months, there's a creek that runs through the park."
What campers like
Tiered camping layouts: The Moro Campground features a unique design where "the sites are terraced, so no matter which site you get you'll have a view of the ocean." This structural approach maximizes views for all campers regardless of site location.
Convenient urban proximity: Anaheim Harbor RV Park offers an urban camping experience with surprising amenities. "Clean, quiet, friendly staff and great to visit Disneyland! Perfect spot to stay in central orange county. Nice amenities. Clean bathrooms. Well functioning RV hook ups. Everything worked as planned."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms. "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! I really like how clearly the sites are marked and how often the park rangers patrol."
Accessible nature: Even in developed areas, wildlife viewing remains possible. "There are many hiking opportunities and chances to see wildlife (deer, wild turkey, rabbits, squirrels, racoons, and birds)." Sites include practical amenities like "fire pits, picnic tables, and food storage box."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular glamping sites near Seal Beach fill quickly. "This campground fills up fast so book early!" Sites at premium locations can book out 6 months in advance, particularly during summer months.
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by site. "No coal or wood fires. Kind of a bummer since your evening ends early. You can bring propane pits yourself for fires though. Also, it can get extremely cold at night in the canyons, even if it's in the high 80s during the day."
Space limitations: Dockweiler Beach RV Park has distinct camping sections with different experiences. "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."
Environmental conditions: Coastal weather patterns affect camping comfort. "It is in a developed area of Laguna Beach, so there is not much solitude or quiet enjoyment of nature. There are no shade structures or large trees, so definitely bring a canopy in the summer."
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Bonelli Bluffs offers diverse activities for children. "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics, you can use your jet skies in designated areas, swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more."
Water activities: Many locations feature family-friendly water recreation. "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. There are fantastic running/bike trails along the Back Bay."
Beach access considerations: Understand pathway logistics before visiting with children. "You can get to the beach if you're down to wade through 2-3 feet of still water that puddles under the highway underpass. It's a little inconvenient if you're with children or carrying a lot of beach equipment."
Wildlife awareness: "Be careful of rattlesnakes" in certain areas. Additionally, "The raccoons here are AGGRESSIVE! They won't attack you, but they will walk right up to your camp and try to steal your food."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Newport Dunes RV Resort, choose locations carefully. "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. Be fully aware that these spaces can be very tight."
Utility considerations: Check hook-up availability before booking. "We have camped at new port dunes several times, they have a beach front for group tent camping on the sand, and also have tent camping in the resort. You can camp with RVs, Trailers, tents, and they also rent out cabins."
Space constraints: Many glamping locations near Seal Beach have tight spacing. "I hope you like cozy. Neighbor in campsite next to us yapped his belligerent drunken mouth all weekend." Plan for close proximity to other campers.
Access limitations: Military campgrounds offer exceptional value but with restrictions. "This is a military only RV Park. Very clean, cement slab, walking paths well lit and near to many areas to explore. Wetlands on the base and birds galore."
