Los Alamitos Army Campground

For Californians with military affiliation, finding a convenient and affordable place to stay can be a significant benefit when traveling or exploring our diverse state. Los Alamitos Army Campground, located on the Joint Forces Training Base (JFTB) in Los Alamitos, California, is designed specifically to serve Active Duty, Retired Military Personnel, and DoD Employees. It's important for prospective visitors to understand that this is not a public campground open to the general public, but rather a facility tailored to those who have served or are currently serving our nation.

The Joint Forces Training Base (JFTB) is a significant military installation, and its RV park offers a unique opportunity for eligible individuals to stay close to many Southern California attractions. However, it's equally important to approach this "campground" with accurate expectations, as highlighted by some candid reviews from fellow military members. While the idea of a military RV park is appealing, recent feedback suggests that the facilities may present a more utilitarian experience than some might anticipate from a typical recreational campground.

Reviews indicate that while the location within the base offers security and convenience for eligible users, the sites themselves can be "cramped and uneven," with some expressing concerns about maintenance and cleanliness. It's described more as an "RV park" than a traditional "campground" with extensive amenities. This distinction is crucial for planning your visit. Eligibility verification through military identification is required for entry to the base and access to the RV park. Understanding these aspects upfront will help military families and personnel make informed decisions when considering Los Alamitos Army Campground for their next Southern California stay.

Los Alamitos Army Campground is situated at 4745 Yorktown Ave, Los Alamitos, CA 90720, USA. This address places it directly within the Joint Forces Training Base (JFTB) Los Alamitos, a key military installation in Orange County, Southern California.

Its location is a significant advantage for eligible military personnel and DoD employees due to its proximity to numerous popular Southern California attractions. The base is centrally located, offering relatively easy access to beautiful beaches, major shopping centers, and world-renowned theme parks like Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm, as well as Universal Studios. For those traveling with an RV, the access to the base is typically straightforward, though it requires valid military identification for entry. Directions often guide visitors via major freeways, such as the I-605, taking the Katella Ave exit. While on base, specific directions to the RV park (often referred to as Sunset RV Park or Legacy RV Park) and the Billeting office (Building 19) for check-in are provided, usually involving specific turns like Lexington Drive, Saratoga, and Independence. This makes it a convenient hub for eligible travelers exploring the vibrant Southern California landscape, with the added security and controlled environment of a military installation.

Based on available information for the Joint Forces Training Base (JFTB) RV Park (which Los Alamitos Army Campground falls under, often comprising Sunset RV Park and Legacy RV Park), the following services are generally offered for eligible personnel:

• RV Sites with Full Hookups:

  Both Sunset and Legacy RV Parks offer full hookups, which typically include electric (30/50 amp service), water, and sewer connections at each site. This is a critical amenity for RV travelers, as the individual RV units are required to be self-contained with working restrooms and showers, given that there are no public restroom or shower facilities provided at the RV park itself.

• Concrete Pads (Sunset RV Park):

  The Sunset RV Park section is noted to have "great big level concrete pads," which can provide a more stable and cleaner setup for RVs compared to gravel or dirt sites.

• Gravel Sites (Legacy RV Park):

  The Legacy RV Park, often described as more basic, typically features gravel sites suitable for smaller RVs.

• On-Base Security:

  Being located within a military base, the campground benefits from the inherent security and controlled access of the installation, with a main gate and security personnel.

• Proximity to Base Services:

  Guests have access to various on-base services, which may include fitness centers, dining facilities (like a pub with food), and potentially other MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) facilities, though specific access may vary.

• RV and Vehicle Storage:

  The JFTB also offers RV and vehicle storage options for eligible personnel, which can be useful for long-term needs.

• Pet-Friendly:

  Pets are generally allowed within the RV park, provided they are leashed (limit 10 feet), under control, and owners are responsible for waste disposal (maximum of three domestic pets per RV).

• Laundry Facilities:

  While not directly at every RV site, laundry facilities are available at the billeting office area (Building 19) for a fee (e.g., $1.25 per load).

• Exclusive Access for Military/DoD:

  The primary distinguishing feature is its restricted access, catering exclusively to Active Duty, Retired Military Personnel, and DoD Employees, creating a community of shared experience.

• Central Southern California Location:

  Its placement within the Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos offers unparalleled convenience for exploring major attractions, beaches, and shopping in Orange County and beyond.

• Full Hookup RV Sites:

  The provision of full hookups (water, electricity, sewer) at each site is a significant highlight for RV users, ensuring a comfortable and self-sufficient stay.

• Secure Environment:

  Being on a military base provides a high level of security, with a gated entrance and controlled access, offering peace of mind for guests.

• Affordable Option for Eligible Personnel:

  Compared to civilian RV parks in the highly sought-after Southern California area, military campgrounds often offer more budget-friendly rates for eligible users.

• Proximity to Training Activities:

  While some reviews mention distant gunfire from training exercises, for those interested in or accustomed to military environments, this can be an intriguing aspect of staying on an active base.

• Pet-Friendly Policies:

  The allowance for pets (with adherence to leash and cleanup rules) is a plus for military families traveling with their furry companions.

Address: 4745 Yorktown Ave, Los Alamitos, CA 90720, USA

Phone: (562) 795-2124 (Billeting Office)

Mobile Phone: +1 562-795-2124

Reservations are required and can be made up to one year in advance, with a maximum stay of 30 days (though extensions may be possible based on availability). Eligibility (Active Duty, Retired Military Personnel, DoD Employees) will be verified with military identification upon check-in at the Billeting office (Building 19). For the most current information on rates, availability, and specific policies, it is strongly advised to contact the Billeting office directly via phone or visit the official Joint Forces Training Base (JFTB) NAF-MWR website, which often provides detailed information on their RV parks.

For eligible Californians who are Active Duty, Retired Military Personnel, or DoD Employees, Los Alamitos Army Campground offers a highly suitable and practical option for RV travel and temporary stays in Southern California. While it's crucial to manage expectations regarding amenities – understanding that it functions primarily as an RV park with hookups rather than a full-service recreational campground – its value lies in its specific benefits for its intended audience.

The primary advantage for locals is its unparalleled location. Situated within the Joint Forces Training Base, it provides a secure and controlled environment, which is often a priority for military families. More significantly, it offers incredible access to Southern California’s premier attractions. Imagine having Disneyland, pristine beaches, and major shopping destinations just a short drive away, all while staying in an affordable and secure on-base facility. This convenience significantly reduces travel time and costs associated with exploring the region.

Despite some reviews mentioning basic facilities and a need for upkeep in certain areas, the availability of full hookups (electricity, water, sewer) is a key feature for RVers, enabling comfortable, self-contained living. For those who prioritize location, security, and affordability within the military community, Los Alamitos Army Campground serves as a valuable and strategic base for enjoying the vast offerings of Southern California. It’s a resource designed with their specific needs in mind, providing a functional and well-positioned home base for their adventures in the Golden State.

Los Alamitos Army Campground

4745 Yorktown Ave, Los Alamitos, CA 90720, USA