Glamping options near South El Monte are situated at the edge of the San Gabriel Mountains where elevations range from 300 to 3,000 feet within a short drive. This transitional zone creates varied camping microclimates, with Little Pine Campground recording temperature differences of 10-15°F compared to the valley floor during summer months. Winter camping remains viable at most locations when mountain sites might be inaccessible.
What to do
Waterfront activities: At Bonelli Bluffs, visitors can explore multiple water-based activities beyond standard camping. "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," notes Jessica P., highlighting the diversity of recreation options.
Mountain biking trails: The network of trails accessible from Little Pine Campground offers varied terrain for cyclists. Most trails connect to larger systems within Angeles National Forest. "Easy campground to get to and close by. First come first serve sites. Does get crowded in summer season," explains Stacy C. about the convenience of access.
Beach walks: While not immediately adjacent to South El Monte, Dockweiler Beach RV Park provides beachfront glamping with ocean access. "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," reports Ignasi M.
What campers like
Creek-side accommodations: At West Fork Trail Campground, glampers appreciate the water features that create a cooler microclimate. "Great location - especially for southern CA where so much of the camping/backpacking is scrubby and in the sun, etc. Most of this trail is under cover, beautiful and well maintained. The sites are right along the creek and very peaceful," David F. explains.
Proximity to attractions: Anaheim Harbor RV Park serves as a strategic base for glamping visitors planning theme park visits. "There are only two tent sites (T1 and T3), the rest are for RVs. The price was super affordable at only $40 per night. They have a nice, small pool area, bbq areas, a club house, clean bathrooms and showers and WiFi. The R.V. Park is within walking to the Disneyland park," notes Jessica R.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple glamping locations offer wildlife observation opportunities. "I've been to this campground several times. It's one of my favorites. I go in March/April so the stream has plenty of water to drink. I have woke in the morning to deer on several occasions," Will B. shares about their experience at West Fork Trail Campground.
What you should know
Site selection strategy: Different campgrounds offer varying site qualities. At Millard Trail Campground, "There is a road that leads to the campsite but it's been blocked off. Only the campsite managers use that road so it's not accessible by RV, just tents. There's about six campsites and their first come first serve, no reservations," explains a camper named jonnysunami.
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns impact glamping experiences differently based on elevation. "I bet on the weekends they can fill up pretty fast. It's in Bear country so they provide food storage for each campsite also trash containers too," notes jonnysunami about Millard Trail Campground.
Security awareness: Some locations require specific security precautions. "Make sure to leave your car doors unlocked, and nothing of value inside. You'd rather have someone root through your car and walk away empty handed than have a window broken and items stolen," advises Mathew H. about Millard Trail Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Tent platforms: The limited tent sites at glamping locations often feature improved surfaces. At Anaheim Harbor RV Park, "The tent sites are very small with a picnic table and AstroTurf. There was only just enough space for my REI Hobitat 6 and VERY close to the neighboring tent site and bathrooms," reports Jessica R., offering insight for families bringing larger tents.
Entertainment options: Soledad Canyon RV and Camping Resort provides structured activities for younger children. "The only good thing was the Saturday activities. However if you have older kids forget it! The activities are for ages 5-7 maybe! They did have a movie night the last night," notes a reviewer, suggesting selective planning for family entertainment.
Water accessibility: Multiple family-friendly locations offer controlled water environments. "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," reports Veronica H. about her experience glamping with children.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: At several glamping locations, understanding site measurements prevents booking issues. At Anaheim Harbor RV Park, "Their site measurements are for your camping unit ONLY. If you have a tow vehicle or are towing a vehicle you must pay per night for a parking spot, whether it fits on the site or not," warns Prentice F. about unexpected charges.
Hookup reliability: Electrical and water service varies significantly between locations and seasons. "We would have been five stars if they had showers and running water. I didn't see any bears although there was an animal outside my tent at one point in the night I could hear him nosing around. So it's important to keep all of your food and anything with any kind of smell in the bear boxes," advises jonnysunami.
Noise considerations: Environmental noise affects different glamping sites. "We stayed here 2 nights because it's a Thousand Trails campground and we're TT members. It's in the middle of nowhere in the desert. It's very very close to railroad tracks and at night the loud train kept waking us up," notes Elizabeth C. about Soledad Canyon.
