The urban areas surrounding Tustin, California offer a mix of glamping accommodations tucked between mountain ranges and coastal regions. Located in Orange County at around 138 feet above sea level, Tustin experiences a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters, making it suitable for glamping year-round. The area's mix of park preserves and resort-style accommodation options creates unique alternatives for overnight stays within a short drive of suburban environments.
What to do
Hiking trails accessible from camp: At Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park, trails range from easy to strenuous with varying distances. "The park has a day-use area and 4 campgrounds: Ortega Flats(13 RV only sites), Live Oak Campground(tents and campers), Star Mesa Equestrian Campground, and Owl/Quail Group Campground," notes a camper who particularly enjoyed the mountain biking opportunities.
Beach access for swimming: Crystal Cove State Park has tide pools and rock formations to explore along its beach. "You can hike there from the campground (8 miles round trip) and see spectacular views of the bay and its marshlands. Trail is shared with mountain bikes and horses. Snack bar is open on weekends. Swim in the bay," reports one visitor about the coastal options.
Water recreation: Newport Dunes RV Resort offers water activities in their lagoon. "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," writes one repeat visitor who appreciates the family-friendly amenities.
Wildlife viewing: Casual nature observation is possible from most Tustin-area glamping locations. "We watched wild parrots fly overhead. After setting up camp we had REALLY nice showers, then we spent time in the pool," shares a visitor to Anaheim Harbor RV Park, highlighting unexpected wildlife encounters in urban settings.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Moro Campground, campers appreciate the defined spaces. "The campsites are roped off and have a decent amount of distance between them. There is some vegetation between them but not enough to be totally private," writes one reviewer who stayed in February.
Clean facilities: Bathroom maintenance stands out at most Tustin-area glamping sites. "Bathrooms are cleaned the whole day through, the hiking trails were closed when I was there. But the birds are flying around you and the squirrels are free to welcome you when you get there," notes a visitor who particularly enjoyed the wildlife at Crystal Cove State Park.
Proximity to shopping and dining: Glamping near Tustin means never being far from urban amenities. "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," cautions a visitor to Newport Dunes RV Resort, noting both advantages and limitations.
Views from elevated sites: Bonelli Bluffs offers panoramic scenery for glampers. "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," summarizes a visitor who especially enjoyed the views while horseback riding.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Most glamping spots near Tustin require advance planning. "This campground fills up fast so book early! I really like how clearly the sites are marked and how often the park rangers patrol," advises a visitor to Moro Campground at Crystal Cove State Park.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some glamping locations. "The 91 freeway is overhead and loud. Nothing stopped us from enjoying ourselves and relaxing. Bike path nearby as well as washing and having fun," reports a visitor to Canyon RV Park who still managed to enjoy their stay despite the urban sounds.
Beach access logistics: Getting to the beach from camping areas sometimes requires extra effort. "The campground is a little further from the beach than I expected from looking at photos online. There is no direct beach access so you'll have to go to the day use area and pay for parking ($15 parking)," notes a Crystal Cove visitor.
Cost variations: Glamping costs more during peak seasons. "Very good park, well kept and clean. Onsite bathrooms, showers, office and clubhouse. Small pool no hotub. Friendly neighbors great long term stay," writes a visitor to Anaheim Harbor RV Park, though others mention pricing concerns during busy periods.
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Timing matters for family glamping experiences. "We were woken up by the Disneyland fireworks, however. That was okay though. We watched the show and went back to bed," reports a family who camped at Anaheim Harbor RV Park, highlighting unexpected entertainment.
Site selection for space: Larger sites provide better family comfort. "Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking(!) and full hookups," notes a first-time RVer at Bonelli Bluffs who appreciated the features that made their family stay comfortable.
Safety measures: Wildlife encounters require preparation in Tustin-area glamping. "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," warns a visitor to China Camp State Park, advising families to secure food items properly.
Kid-friendly amenities: On-site attractions keep children entertained. "My girls LOVED staying here. I'd stay here again in a heartbeat with my kids for a Disneyland vacation," shares a parent who tent camped at Anaheim Harbor RV Park and appreciated the pool, showers, and proximity to attractions.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Understanding exact space limitations helps RV glampers. "A 40X14ft standard site can accommodate a travel trailer of 20 feet or less BUT a motorhome of 40 ft or less," explains a reviewer about space limitations at Anaheim Harbor RV Park.
Hookup availability: Utility connections vary significantly between glamping locations. "All hookups 30/50 amp. Cable TV. There's a pool. A tent area. Some spaces monumentally better than others," advises a visitor to Bonelli Bluffs, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right site.
Site surface conditions: Ground conditions impact RV leveling and comfort. "Our site was flat, and it was easy ground for stakes. Although keep an eye out for critter holes," advises a Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park visitor, noting the importance of site preparation.
Parking logistics: Vehicle placement matters at tighter glamping sites. "I went in and couldn't understand why he hadn't registered already. She very hatefully said I told him to move he was blocking my drive!" recounts one visitor's challenging check-in experience at Canyon RV Park, highlighting the importance of understanding parking procedures.
