Tent camping near Tustin, California typically involves warmer summer temperatures ranging from 75-90°F during daytime and 50-65°F at night. Many sites sit at elevations between 1,500-5,000 feet in the surrounding San Gabriel Mountains, with seasonal water availability varying dramatically between winter and summer months. Campgrounds often implement fire restrictions during high fire danger periods, typically from June through November.
What to do
Explore historic fishing villages: At China Camp State Park Campground, you can hike to the remnants of a Chinese shrimp fishing community. "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," notes Laura F.
Try mountain biking on established trails: Trails near these campgrounds offer various difficulty levels. "This park is extremely popular with mountain bikers. There are definitely better mountain biking trails in Marin (Tamarancho Boy Scout Camp, for example) but keep in mind that the bar is very high for mountain biking in Marin," shares Nathaniel S.
Fish in seasonal creeks: Fishing opportunities exist during wetter months. "If you're trying to bike_fish_ (it's a thing), this road is lined with fishing platforms for all sorts of trout, as the road follows a river the entire way," explains Kevin L. about Glenn Trail Camp Campground.
What campers like
Short hike-in accessibility: Many sites require minimal hiking from parking areas. "This walk-in campground is part of China Camp State Park. Only 33 tent-only sites! Wheeled totes can be borrowed to haul your gear up some little hills to your campsite under oak and bay trees," says Laura F.
Creek access in warmer months: Several campgrounds feature refreshing water sources. At Valley Forge Trail Camp, "In April the creek was full, with several creek crossings on the hike and crisp, fresh water along the campsite that contribute to a beautifully green owasis of a meadow. I would imagine it would be a sad/nonexistent creek flow in the summer," shares Kelly B.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The areas around Tustin offer chances to see local wildlife. "There are many hiking opportunities and chances to see wildlife (deer, wild turkey, rabbits, squirrels, racoons, and birds)," reports Tim J. about his stay at a local campground.
What you should know
Wildlife precautions required: Wildlife activity affects food storage requirements. "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. I stupidly left my tent unzipped for a few minutes to run up and use the bathroom at night and came back to find 2 rooting around my things," warns Rosie C.
Car security concerns: Some campgrounds have reported break-ins. "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.
Seasonal closures and restrictions: Access changes throughout the year. "The road has a gate on it, which is locked 8pm-6am. That was day 1 (we slept in our car). Once past that gate, you'll soon hit another, this one closed to all motorized vehicles," reports Andrei K. about a local campground.
Tips for camping with families
Select camps with amenities: Some campgrounds offer more family-friendly facilities. At Yucaipa Regional Park, "This is your typical regional park Campground. There's a lot to do here, including fishing, playgrounds, and even a waterpark in the summer. The bathrooms are decent, no showers," explains Mary F.
Consider terrain and hiking difficulty: Assess trails before bringing children. "Took some friends for their first ever backpacking trip, great intro to the "experience." Trail camp is in the canyon so it's an easy 3.5 mile hike in, but a tough hike out of the canyon," shares Kelly B.
Prepare for bugs in summer months: Insect protection is essential. "While bugs are an inevitable aspect of being outdoors, the biting gnats and/or mosquitos are very formidable in the summer. We had some 'natural' bug spray that had little to no effect, so you might want to bring your bug repellant A-game if bugs bother you," advises Kevin L.
Tips from RVers
Know your tent-only areas: Many sites near Tustin are tent-only with no vehicle access. "This is more of your traditional campground where you must carry all your food and gear to the campsite. It is a short hike from the parking lot to the camping area and the camp hosts can provide containers to carry your items," explains Tim J.
Check water access before arrival: Water availability varies widely. "This is a dry camp with the only water available coming from the stream, if any," notes Tom P. about Hoegees Trail Camp Campground, reminding campers to "Check for fire restrictions."
Consider weekday visits: For quieter camping experiences, avoid weekends. "Very peaceful midweek," notes Laura F. about her tent camping experience, while Anthony K. mentions, "Stayed here last week & it's still great."
