Beach Camping Near Riverside, California, US: 12 Best Beach Campsites 2026

Riverside offers an easy escape into the natural beauty of Southern California, and mild weather makes beach camping comfortable year-round. About an hour drive from Riverside, Hipcampers can score a cottage on the Pacific Coast to enjoy beach camping comforts like kitchens, showers, spacious beds, and even a rare jacuzzi. RV campsites by the ocean with full hookups and added amenities provide a little comfort, while tent campgrounds in the area offer washrooms and shower access. Find some of the region’s best surfing at Thalia Street Beach in Laguna Beach, as well as opportunities for swimming and walks along the water. Nearby Newport Beach is also popular for relaxing on the sand, surfing or jet skiing, and enjoying the warm climate. Once you're through with the water, take a day trip to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and hike through the dunes, or visit San Bernardino National Forest for trails amid mountains, lakes, and trees.

100% (3)

Top-rated campgrounds near Riverside

Riverside offers an easy escape into the natural beauty of Southern California, and mild weather makes beach camping comfortable year-round. About an hour drive from Riverside, Hipcampers can score a cottage on the Pacific Coast to enjoy beach camping comforts like kitchens, showers, spacious beds, and even a rare jacuzzi. RV campsites by the ocean with full hookups and added amenities provide a little comfort, while tent campgrounds in the area offer washrooms and shower access. Find some of the region’s best surfing at Thalia Street Beach in Laguna Beach, as well as opportunities for swimming and walks along the water. Nearby Newport Beach is also popular for relaxing on the sand, surfing or jet skiing, and enjoying the warm climate. Once you're through with the water, take a day trip to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and hike through the dunes, or visit San Bernardino National Forest for trails amid mountains, lakes, and trees.

100% (3)

Top-rated campgrounds near Riverside

1. The Holidays Bell Tents

100%

(4)

38mi from Riverside · 8 sites · Lodging

The Holidays Camp Community offers memorable camping adventures with three unique accommodation options! Choose vintage trailers at San Clemente State Beach for a classic vibe, cozy up in Bell Tents at San Onofre-San Mateo State Campground for a glamping experience, or enjoy the convenience of delivery trailers to various state campgrounds in San Diego and Orange County, CA. You show up ready to camp, and we take care of the rest, ensuring a hassle-free getaway surrounded by nature.

2. Bonelli Bluffs RV Resort & Campground

25mi from Riverside · 376 sites

Nestled at the base of the stunning San Gabriel Mountains, Bonelli Bluffs offers a unique escape just 45 minutes east of Los Angeles. This serene campground provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life. At Bonelli Bluffs, you can immerse yourself in nature without ever leaving the grounds. The campground features a beautiful beach-front park, two sparkling swimming pools, and inviting outdoor fire pits, ensuring that there’s always something to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or engage in various activities, this RV resort has it all. In addition to the on-site amenities, Bonelli Bluffs is conveniently located near the charming attractions of San Dimas, California. Explore nearby hiking trails, discover local swimming holes, or indulge in delicious meals at nearby restaurants and shops. Experience the beauty of California firsthand at Bonelli Bluffs, where adventure and relaxation await.

3. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina

36mi from Riverside · 198 sites

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina stands out as a unique destination, offering an unparalleled blend of camping and luxury right along the stunning Newport Beach Back Bay. This resort provides RV campers with access to a wealth of amenities typically reserved for hotel guests, including direct beach access, inviting swimming pools, beachfront dining options, exciting water sports, and the largest inflatable water park in Southern California. Let Newport Dunes be your home base for exploring all that Newport Beach and Orange County have to offer. Our dedicated Concierge and Housekeeping teams are available seven days a week, 365 days a year, ensuring that your stay is tailored to create unforgettable memories for you, your family, and friends. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Newport Dunes is the perfect spot to enjoy the natural beauty and vibrant attractions of the area.

4. Lake Perris State Recreation Area

73%

(13)

409 sites · Moreno Valley, California

Hike, climb, swim, or take your boat out on the water at this SoCal reservoir.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Angeles National Forest

92%

(228)

791 sites · La Crescenta Montrose, California

Experience the beauty of nature without having to stray far from Los Angeles.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Lake Hemet Campground

45mi from Riverside · 74 sites

Lake Hemet stands out as a unique camping destination due to its breathtaking backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, offering visitors a serene escape into nature. Nestled in Mountain Center and close to the charming town of Idyllwild, this picturesque lake is surrounded by tall pines, manzanitas, sagebrush, and majestic giant oaks, creating a stunning natural environment that captivates all who visit. As one of Southern California's most sought-after spots for camping and fishing, Lake Hemet has recently enhanced its appeal with the addition of the Soaring Pines Cafe, which serves delicious meals, and the Splashing Eagle Swim Zone, perfect for family fun during the warmer months. When you visit, don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars. The area is teeming with wildlife, including majestic eagles and hawks that can often be seen soaring through the forest and campground. With its combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and convenient amenities, Lake Hemet is the ideal getaway destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

7. Big Bear Shores RV Resort

35mi from Riverside · 37 sites

Welcome to Big Bear Shores RV Resort, the only 5-star RV destination nestled in the stunning Big Bear Lake area! What sets us apart is our exclusive on-site Sales and Rental Office, ensuring you have everything you need for a perfect getaway right at your fingertips. Situated in the picturesque San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, Big Bear Shores offers an unparalleled RV experience. Our resort features a gated entrance for added security and peace of mind, along with a variety of amenities including a tennis court, swimming pool, spa, and private access to the serene lake. We provide full hookups for your convenience, including water, electricity, and sewer services. Whether you’re interested in fishing, golfing, hiking, boating, or simply unwinding in nature, our resort has it all. Explore the breathtaking backcountry, discover nearby swimming holes, or enjoy local restaurants and shops. At Big Bear Shores RV Resort, your adventure awaits!

8. Crystal Cove State Park

98%

(66)

59 sites · Newport Beach, California

Explore tidepools or hike through the backcountry at this multifaceted beach park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

9. Doheny State Beach

95%

(51)

114 sites · Dana Point, California

Sun, sand, surf, and Beach Boys vibes—Doheny is a classic slice of California.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

10. San Onofre State Beach

88%

(103)

471 sites · San Clemente, California

Perfect your surfing skills or check out sea life at this popular SoCal beach.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. San Clemente State Beach

92%

(85)

145 sites · San Clemente, California

Swim, snorkel, or just take in Pacific Ocean views at this Southern California camping beach.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. Bolsa Chica State Beach

80%

(10)

55 sites · Huntington Beach, California

Indulge in surf fishing or check out an amazing sunset beach at "Tin Can Beach."

Electrical hookup

Sewer hookup

Pets

Public campgrounds near Riverside

73%

(13)

Lake Perris Campground

13mi from Riverside · 409 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Perris State Recreation Area

83%

(3)

Manker Campground

26mi from Riverside · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

Lupine Campground

31mi from Riverside · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

Seriously gets cold up here! Pack layers.

100%

(2)

Guffy Campground

32mi from Riverside · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

Cabin Flat Trail Campground

33mi from Riverside · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Angeles National Forest

Blue Ridge Campground

34mi from Riverside · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

The road to the campground and past it to the general store at the top of the mountain is so pretty.

86%

(7)

Coldbrook Campground

35mi from Riverside · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

100%

(18)

Table Mountain Campground

36mi from Riverside · 39 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

98%

(66)

Moro Campground

36mi from Riverside · 57 sites · Tents, RVs · in Crystal Cove State Park

Beach Cottages

36mi from Riverside · 1 site · in Crystal Cove State Park

Appletree Campground

36mi from Riverside · 8 sites · in Angeles National Forest

Peavine Campground

36mi from Riverside · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

L

Lovina Zoe

November 2025

Weekend Trip to The Holidays Bell Tents

Amazing stay, beds were super comfortable - had the best time! Looking to book again in the near future:)

S

Sommer

October 2025

3 nights at The Holidays Bell Tents

It was a great tent. With everything you need! Very cool and comfortable

J

Jysiah

August 2025

With kids

1 night at The Holidays Bell Tents

Definitely the perfect glamping option. My girls loved the tent and the beds were comfy. Plenty of room, bedding and towels provided with close proximity to the bathrooms/showers. Plenty of room inside with chairs, tables and lights. Tent was a 10/10. For the location, the only thing we’d do different is bring some sort of ant deterrent to put around the tent as we would randomly get crawled on while hanging out or sleeping.