Ultimate Guide to Camping in Long Beach, California – 2025 Edition

 

Long Beach, California, offers a unique blend of urban excitement and coastal charm, making it an ideal destination for campers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Whether you're an RV enthusiast, a tent camper, or someone looking for a glamping experience, Long Beach has something to offer. This comprehensive guide will explore the best camping options in and around Long Beach for 2025, including campgrounds, activities, seasonal considerations, and tips to make your stay unforgettable.

🏕️ Top Campgrounds in Long Beach

1. Golden Shore RV Resort

Located in the heart of Long Beach, Golden Shore RV Resort offers a prime waterfront setting with easy access to downtown attractions. The resort provides full-hookup RV sites, modern amenities, and is within walking distance to the beach, restaurants, and shops. It's an excellent choice for those looking to combine camping with urban exploration. (tripadvisor.com, longbeach.gov)

2. Dockweiler RV Park

Situated in Playa del Rey, just a short drive from Long Beach, Dockweiler RV Park is Los Angeles County's only beachfront RV campground. With full hookups, picnic tables, and direct access to the beach, it's perfect for RV campers seeking ocean views and a laid-back atmosphere. (beaches.lacounty.gov)

3. El Dorado East Regional Park

For tent campers and those seeking a more natural setting, El Dorado East Regional Park in Long Beach offers group campsites surrounded by lakes, trails, and picnic areas. It's an excellent spot for families and groups looking to enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. (en.wikipedia.org)

4. Huntington Beach RV Campground

Located just south of Long Beach, Huntington Beach RV Campground offers beachfront camping with easy access to the ocean and nearby attractions. The campground is open from the Tuesday after Labor Day through May 31, making it a great option for off-season camping. (hbrv.org)

5. Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground

Situated in Huntington Beach, Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground provides a coastal camping experience with tent and RV sites. It's a popular spot for surfing, beach volleyball, and picnicking, offering a quintessential Southern California beach experience.(yelp.com)

🚐 RV Camping Near Long Beach

For those traveling in RVs, several campgrounds near Long Beach cater to RV campers:

  • Waterfront RV Park: Located in Huntington Beach, this park offers full-hookup sites and is close to the beach and local attractions.

  • Orangeland RV Park: Situated in Orange, this park provides spacious sites, a pool, and is within driving distance to Disneyland and other major attractions. (goodsam.com)

  • Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina: Located in Newport Beach, this resort offers luxury RV sites with waterfront views, a marina, and various recreational activities.

🏖️ Beach Camping Options

While Long Beach itself doesn't have traditional beach campgrounds, nearby areas offer excellent beach camping opportunities:

  • Crystal Cove State Park: Located in Laguna Beach, this park offers both tent and RV camping with stunning ocean views and access to hiking trails.

  • San Onofre State Beach: Situated near San Clemente, this beach offers camping with oceanfront sites, ideal for surfers and beach lovers.

🌿 Nature and Tent Camping

For those seeking a more rustic camping experience, consider these options:

  • San Bernardino National Forest: Approximately 90 minutes from Long Beach, this forest offers dispersed camping, group sites, and cabins, along with hiking trails and scenic views. (hipcamp.com)

  • Camp Tahquitz: Located in Angelus Oaks, this 640-acre forested area provides tent camping, hiking, and nature programs, making it ideal for scout groups and youth organizations. (longbeachbsa.org)

🌟 Glamping and Unique Stays

For a more luxurious camping experience, consider glamping options:

  • The Holidays Bell Tents: Located in San Clemente, these bell tents offer a glamping experience with proximity to surf beaches and nature trails. (campspot.com)

  • Down-to-Earth Ecoshire: Situated in the Inland Empire, this site offers eco-friendly glamping with amenities like composting toilets and solar showers. (hipcamp.com)

🗓️ Best Times to Camp in Long Beach

Long Beach enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best times to camp are during the spring and fall months when temperatures are moderate, and the city is less crowded. Summer can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C), making spring and fall more comfortable for outdoor activities.

🧭 Tips for a Successful Camping Trip

  • Reservations: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. It's advisable to make reservations well in advance through the campground's official website or reservation system.

  • Permits and Regulations: Check for any required permits, fire regulations, and pet policies before your trip.

  • Pack Accordingly: Bring layers of clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and sufficient water. Evenings can be cooler, so it's essential to be prepared for varying temperatures.

  • Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment and preserve the natural beauty of the area.

📍 Nearby Attractions

While in Long Beach, take the time to explore the city's attractions:

  • The Queen Mary: A retired British ocean liner turned hotel and museum, offering tours and dining experiences.

  • Aquarium of the Pacific: A family-friendly attraction showcasing marine life from the Pacific Ocean.

  • Shoreline Village: A waterfront shopping and dining area with entertainment options.

  • Long Beach Museum of Art: Features a collection of American and European art, along with rotating exhibitions.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Camping in Long Beach, California, offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the coast while enjoying the amenities of a vibrant city. Whether you're looking for a traditional camping experience, a luxurious glamping getaway, or an RV adventure, Long Beach has a variety of options to suit your preferences. By planning ahead and considering the best times to visit, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable camping trip in this Southern California gem.

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