Discover the Best Camping Spots Near Los Angeles

Camping near Los Angeles has become a beloved escape for both locals and visitors seeking to reconnect with nature in Southern California’s iconic landscapes. While hotels offer luxury, the immersive experience of camping provides something even more unique: a chance to fully unwind and unplug amidst serene beaches, majestic mountains, and quiet forests—all within a short drive from the city. Camping allows you to fall asleep under star-lit skies, wake up to fresh mountain air, and enjoy days filled with outdoor adventure, from hiking scenic trails to swimming in hidden lakes. It’s the perfect option for anyone looking to balance city life with peaceful getaways, whether you're a family with kids, a couple seeking a romantic escape, a group of friends, or solo adventurers. This more intimate connection with nature is what makes camping near Los Angeles truly magical, allowing for budget-friendly stays that cater to every type of traveler.

For those ready to trade room service for a campfire, camping offers a level of freedom and tranquility that simply can’t be found within hotel walls. From beachside bliss to forested hideaways, here are the best camping spots near Los Angeles that promise unforgettable experiences and easy access to California’s natural beauty. Let’s dive into the top destinations for camping near Los Angeles!

Here’s an expanded guide to the best camping near Los Angeles, with each location offering unique landscapes, activities, and amenities. These camping spots are perfect escapes from the city, with natural beauty that will make you want to plan your trip immediately.

1.Malibu Creek State Park

• Distance: 40 minutes from Los Angeles
• Overview: Malibu Creek State Park, one of the closest camping spots to Los Angeles, immerses you in the rugged beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains. With over 8,000 acres of picturesque valleys, rocky cliffs, and flowing streams, it’s ideal for those who love to hike, rock climb, or swim in the creek’s serene waters. Whether you're looking to connect with nature or just want to relax by the water, this park offers a perfect mix of adventure and peace.
• Nearby Highlights: Just a short drive away, you can explore the Malibu Pier and the renowned Adamson House.
• Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, and hot showers are available, ensuring comfort amid nature.
• Cost: $45/night, and reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity among locals and tourists.

2. Leo Carrillo State Park

• Distance: 1 hour
• Overview: If you’re searching for a stunning beach camping experience near Los Angeles, Leo Carrillo State Park is a dream come true. This park offers direct beach access with tide pools, coastal caves, and scenic cliffside views. Wake up to the sound of waves and spend your days exploring sea life or enjoying the warm sand. Perfect for families, surfers, and anyone who loves the ocean, Leo Carrillo is both convenient and captivating.
• Nearby Highlights: Point Dume, with its panoramic ocean views, and Zuma Beach are close by for those looking to explore more of Malibu’s iconic coast.
• Amenities: The campground includes restrooms, showers, RV hookups, and picnic tables, providing all you need for a comfortable beachside stay.
• Cost: $45/night, with reservations recommended for oceanfront campsites.

3. Crystal Lake Recreation Area

• Distance: 1.5 hours
• Overview: Located in the serene San Gabriel Mountains, Crystal Lake Recreation Area offers one of the best camping experiences near Los Angeles for those craving a tranquil forest setting. The campground, surrounded by lush pine forests, sits beside Crystal Lake, which is ideal for fishing, leisurely picnics, or simply soaking up the mountain air. The calm and scenic atmosphere makes this a fantastic spot to unwind.
• Nearby Highlights: The nearby Mount Baldy area is perfect for day hikes, offering some of the best panoramic views of the mountain ranges around Los Angeles.

• Amenities: This campground includes basic facilities like restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings for cozy campfire evenings.
• Cost: $12/night, making it an affordable yet charming mountain escape.

4. Point Mugu State Park

• Distance: 1 hour
• Overview: Set along five miles of breathtaking oceanfront, Point Mugu State Park combines beach access with mountain views, making it one of the most scenic camping sites near Los Angeles. It’s a dream for hikers, with trails leading through coastal canyons, meadows, and ridges that offer sweeping views of the Pacific. This campsite invites you to explore some of the best of California’s natural beauty.
• Nearby Highlights: The famous Mugu Rock, a local landmark along the Pacific Coast Highway, is just a short distance away.

• Amenities: The campground provides picnic tables, restrooms, and beach access, making it a great choice for both comfort and adventure.
• Cost: $45/night, and early booking is recommended to secure a spot with ocean views.

5. Lake Arrowhead

• Distance: 1.5 hours
• Overview: Lake Arrowhead offers one of the most unique camping experiences close to Los Angeles, with water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding readily available. This forested haven provides lake views, trails, and relaxing spaces for those seeking a peaceful retreat from city life. Lake Arrowhead’s crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings are perfect for families or couples looking for a picturesque nature getaway.

• Nearby Highlights: Lake Arrowhead Village is nearby, providing charming shopping spots, local dining, and lakeside views.
• Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, fire pits, and boat rentals are available, creating an enjoyable camping experience for all ages.
• Cost: Around $30/night, with fees varying depending on the season.

6. Buckhorn Campground

• Distance: 1.5 hours
• Overview: Tucked away in the Angeles National Forest, Buckhorn Campground is a hidden gem for campers seeking peace and natural beauty. Located at an elevation that brings cooler air, it offers shady groves, meandering trails, and beautiful waterfalls nearby. Known for its tranquility, this campground is perfect for those looking to unwind in nature and enjoy stargazing at night.

• Nearby Highlights: Don’t miss Cooper Canyon Falls, a scenic hike nearby that ends with a beautiful waterfall—a true hidden treasure.
• Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, and fire pits make this a comfortable choice for rustic camping.
• Cost: Free, with a first-come, first-served system, so arrive early for a spot at this popular campground.

7. Doheny State Beach

• Distance: 1.5 hours
• Overview: Located along the stunning coast of Dana Point, Doheny State Beach offers beachside camping with a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. Perfect for those who love sand and surf, this spot has direct beach access, where you can swim, surf, or simply relax. It’s one of the best beach camping locations near Los Angeles for soaking up the sun and enjoying vibrant sunsets over the Pacific.

• Nearby Highlights: Dana Point Harbor and the Ocean Institute are close by, offering boat rentals, whale-watching tours, and marine education activities.
• Amenities: Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and BBQ pits are available, making it an excellent choice for a beach weekend.
• Cost: $40-$60/night, depending on campsite location. Reservations are highly recommended.

8. Sycamore Canyon Campground

• Distance: 1 hour
• Overview: Sycamore Canyon Campground in Point Mugu State Park is where beach and mountain camping meet. This unique spot provides access to both Sycamore Cove Beach and numerous hiking trails through the Santa Monica Mountains. Enjoy the ocean by day and the warmth of a fire pit by night—it’s the ideal campground for those who want to experience the best of California’s coast and hills.

• Nearby Highlights: The scenic Backbone Trail is accessible from here, offering views of the Pacific and coastal canyons.
• Amenities: Campfire rings, restrooms, and showers are available to ensure a comfortable stay.
• Cost: $45/night. Book early to secure a spot with prime beach access.

9. Lake Casitas Recreation Area

• Distance: 1.5 hours
• Overview: Lake Casitas Recreation Area offers a versatile camping experience with something for everyone. Known for its spacious sites, this campground is ideal for families, with activities like fishing, boating, and a nearby water park. The scenic lake and mountain views make it one of the best camping spots near Los Angeles for both relaxation and adventure.

• Nearby Highlights: Just a short drive away, you’ll find the charming town of Ojai, filled with art galleries, boutiques, and local eateries.
• Amenities: Showers, restrooms, picnic areas, and RV hookups make it a fully equipped camping option.
• Cost: $30-$50/night, depending on site location and season.

10. Joshua Tree National Park – Black Rock Campground

• Distance: 2 hours
• Overview: Located in the northern section of Joshua Tree National Park, Black Rock Campground offers a one-of-a-kind desert camping experience close to Los Angeles. Known for its dramatic landscapes and iconic Joshua trees, the area is perfect for hiking, stargazing, and taking in unique desert views. The trails here are especially popular among rock climbers and nature photographers.

• Nearby Highlights: Just outside the campground, discover the famed Hidden Valley, ideal for both rock climbing and bouldering.
• Amenities: Restrooms, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings, making it a comfortable yet rugged experience.
• Cost: $25/night. Reservations are encouraged during peak season.

11. San Clemente State Beach

• Distance: 1 hour
• Overview: San Clemente State Beach combines beach relaxation with a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere, offering one of the closest beach camping options to Los Angeles. Known for its stunning bluffs and wide sandy shore, it’s ideal for sunbathing, surfing, and fishing. The rolling waves and scenic sunset views make it a must for any beach-loving camper.

• Nearby Highlights: Head into the town of San Clemente for charming shops and eateries along Avenida Del Mar.
• Amenities: Full RV hookups, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables are available, making it perfect for both tent and RV campers.
• Cost: $40-$50/night, with reservations recommended for oceanfront campsites.

12. El Capitan State Beach

• Distance: 1.5 hours
• Overview: El Capitan State Beach offers coastal beauty and a peaceful retreat with bluffs overlooking the Pacific. With lush sycamore and oak trees surrounding the campground, it’s a unique coastal spot near Los Angeles where campers can enjoy both beach access and shaded areas. Surfing, swimming, and tide pooling make it an exciting destination for ocean enthusiasts.

• Nearby Highlights: The town of Goleta and the popular Santa Barbara Zoo are a short drive away.
• Amenities: Restrooms, showers, and picnic areas provide everything needed for a comfortable stay.
• Cost: $35-$45/night, depending on campsite location.

13. Big Bear Lake – Serrano Campground

• Distance: 2 hours
• Overview: Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, Serrano Campground offers lakeside camping with nearby forest trails, making it one of the most scenic camping destinations close to Los Angeles. Enjoy fishing, kayaking, and swimming in Big Bear Lake’s sparkling waters while being surrounded by dense pine trees and mountain peaks.
• Nearby Highlights: The Big Bear Alpine Zoo and various mountain trails are nearby, perfect for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts.

• Amenities: Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and RV hookups are available, making it a convenient choice for a lake getaway.
• Cost: $37/night, with reservations advised during summer months.

14. Little Jimmy Campground

• Distance: 1 hour
• Overview: For those seeking a true backcountry camping experience, Little Jimmy Campground offers secluded tent camping in the Angeles National Forest. Known for its incredible views and serene pine forests, this campsite is accessible only by a 2-mile hike, providing an authentic outdoor adventure just outside Los Angeles.
• Nearby Highlights: The Pacific Crest Trail runs nearby, offering endless hiking options for the adventurous.

• Amenities: Fire pits and vault toilets, but campers should bring their own water and supplies.
• Cost: Free, on a first-come, first-served basis.

15. Chino Hills State Park

• Distance: 1 hour
• Overview: Chino Hills State Park offers a rolling landscape of golden hills and wildflower fields, especially beautiful in the spring. It’s a favorite for mountain bikers and hikers, with trails that wind through scenic grasslands and oak woodlands. Ideal for families and nature lovers, this spot brings a bit of rustic charm close to the city.
• Nearby Highlights: Visit Brea for shopping and dining, or explore more trails within the park itself.
• Amenities: Picnic tables, restrooms, and fire rings make it a convenient and family-friendly camping spot.
• Cost: $30/night, with reservations encouraged during peak seasons.

16. Ventura River Group Campground

• Distance: 1 hour
• Overview: Just a short drive up the coast, Ventura River Group Campground is a peaceful spot close to the Ventura River and nearby beaches. With a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot for group camping or large family gatherings. You can enjoy nearby trails for hiking and biking or head to the coast for a day on the beach.
• Nearby Highlights: The coastal city of Ventura offers charming shops, local dining, and Ventura Harbor for boat rentals and marine tours.
• Amenities: Group picnic areas, restrooms, and fire pits are available, making it convenient for group gatherings.
• Cost: $30-$40/night, and reservations are recommended for large groups.

17. Millard Campground

• Distance: 1 hour
• Overview: Nestled in the Angeles National Forest, Millard Campground is a secluded spot with a lush forest setting. Known for its tranquil ambiance, it offers a cozy camping experience just outside Pasadena. The nearby Millard Canyon Trail is a highlight, featuring a beautiful waterfall—perfect for those who enjoy short hikes and scenic views.
• Nearby Highlights: The quaint city of Pasadena is close by, offering botanical gardens, museums, and charming cafes for a post-camping visit.
• Amenities: Vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings make it a basic but enjoyable camping choice.
• Cost: Free, first-come, first-served basis, so plan to arrive early to claim a spot.

18. Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

• Distance: 1.5 hours
• Overview: Silverwood Lake is a beautiful lakeside escape with plenty of activities like fishing, swimming, and boating. Surrounded by pine trees and gentle hills, it’s a scenic spot for families and friends looking to spend time on the water or hike the nearby trails. This campground combines adventure and relaxation, providing one of the best lake camping experiences near Los Angeles.
• Nearby Highlights: Nearby hiking trails in the San Bernardino Mountains offer picturesque views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.

• Amenities: Full facilities include restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and RV hookups, making it a great spot for multi-day stays.
• Cost: $45/night, with reservations recommended during peak season.

19. Blue Jay Campground

• Distance: 1.5 hours
• Overview: Located in the Cleveland National Forest, Blue Jay Campground is a favorite for those looking to camp in a peaceful mountain setting. With cool mountain breezes and shaded pine trees, it’s a refreshing retreat from city heat. The nearby trails are popular with hikers and mountain bikers, and there are plenty of quiet spots for picnics and relaxation.
• Nearby Highlights: Nearby San Juan Loop Trail is perfect for hikers of all levels, offering beautiful views and waterfall stops.

• Amenities: Basic facilities include restrooms and picnic tables, making it a great choice for those seeking a rustic camping experience.
• Cost: $20/night, first-come, first-served, with affordable rates making it a popular choice.

20. Dockweiler State Beach RV Park

• Distance: 30 minutes
• Overview: Dockweiler State Beach RV Park offers beachfront camping within a stone’s throw of Los Angeles. Set on a three-mile stretch of sandy beach, this campground is ideal for those who love the ocean and want a quick, easy getaway. With facilities to accommodate RV campers, it’s popular for sunset views, swimming, and watching planes take off from LAX.
• Nearby Highlights: Nearby, explore the restaurants and attractions of Playa del Rey and Venice Beach for some cityside fun after a day on the sand.

• Amenities: RV hookups, showers, restrooms, and picnic tables make it a comfortable and convenient choice for beach campers.
• Cost: $65/night, reservations recommended for oceanfront RV spots.