Camping near Sunset Beach, California offers RV and tent options along the Pacific Coast Highway with direct beach access. Sites throughout the area typically open for reservations up to six months in advance, with state park campsites costing between $60-80 per night. Most locations operate on asphalt or concrete pads with limited privacy but convenient access to urban amenities and ocean recreation.
What to do
Beach walking and biking: At Newport Dunes RV Resort, campers enjoy both beach and bay activities. "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," notes Karissa J.
Kayaking opportunities: Visitors to Seabreeze At Seal Beach appreciate the water access. "This one is to die for when it comes to kayaking," says one visitor. Military credentials required for entry, providing a more secluded experience compared to public beaches.
Evening beach activities: From fall through spring, Huntington Beach RV Campground allows nighttime fires. "At night, you can build a bonfire, which is really fun and one of the few spots in Orange County that you can do this," shares Momma H. This campground only operates October through May when the parking lot converts from summer beach parking.
What campers like
Pool and hot tub amenities: Waterfront RV Park provides aquatic options beyond the ocean. "We also liked having the hot tub/pool at the end of the day. Our girls loved swimming and soaking," says Zach R. Sites are generally close together but the beach proximity compensates for the tight quarters.
Convenience to attractions: Proximity to Disneyland draws many families to Anaheim Harbor RV Park. "We walked to and back from Disney. Super easy. It's a mile each way," shares Jennifer H. The park offers both standard sites (essentially parking spaces) and deluxe sites with picnic tables and grass for only slightly more cost.
Shopping and dining access: Immediate access to restaurants and shops makes these urban camping options practical. "There are stores and restaurants nearby for those forgotten items or a quick meal," notes one camper. Most campgrounds are within walking distance of convenience stores and multiple dining options.
What you should know
Site privacy limitations: Most campgrounds in the area feature close-together sites with minimal separation. "The middle sites are small and tight, offering little privacy. You will be right next to your neighbor," reports one camper about state beaches. At Golden Shore RV Resort, "Spots are close together unless you end up with a larger spot."
Noise considerations: Proximity to Pacific Coast Highway means traffic noise affects most coastal sites. "The street racing nearby at night. Every time," reports Emily S. about one inland location. At beach campgrounds, expect both road noise and pedestrian activity from the boardwalk throughout the day.
Reservation timing: Seasonal restrictions impact availability across the region. Huntington Beach RV Campground operates "October 1 to May 31" while others like Bolsa Chica State Beach run "January 1 to November 30." For summer camping, inland options provide year-round availability.
Tips for camping with families
Theme park convenience: Orangeland RV Park offers transportation to major attractions. "Easy 15 min drive to Disney plus the ART bus picks up straight from the campground. A covered play area, helpful staff, heated pool as well as a hot tub," shares Amanda G. Many families use these campgrounds as bases for theme park visits.
Kid-friendly beach activities: Moro Campground at Crystal Cove State Park provides both beach and trail options for families. "The park has less crowds/tourists/homeless compared to other beaches. It's really quite and peaceful," notes one visitor. Tiered campsites ensure most spots have ocean views regardless of row placement.
Safety considerations: Multiple campgrounds in the area note security patrols and gated access. "Security at night," mentions Emily S. about Orangeland RV Park. Most state beach campgrounds have ranger presence throughout the day and evening hours.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For larger RVs, choosing specific site numbers makes a difference. "We stayed in site number 43 in our 29 foot Class A. It was just fine," shares Zach R. about Waterfront RV Park, while also recommending "sites in the 84-89 numbers, and the sites 26-36 are HUGE."
Hookup variability: Water and electric connections are standard at most locations, but sewer hookups vary. "Concrete/asphalt sites with water electric and dump station," describes the setup at state beaches, while private RV parks typically offer full hookups with sewage connections.
RV size restrictions: Maximum lengths range from 35-40 feet at most campgrounds. At Moro Campground, "The roads that lead to the sites is a bit narrow, so if your towable is on the long side, you might have to work a bit to back it in. The maximum length is 38," advises Patrick J.
