Discover the best campgrounds near Los Angeles, California with campfires

United States
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California
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Los Angeles

89% (661 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Los Angeles

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12 top campgrounds near Los Angeles with campfires

93%

(388)

Malibu Beach RV Park

298 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Malibu, CA

Malibu RV is set on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, California. Founded in the 1970s, Malibu RV offers RV Sites, Van Sites and Tent Camping, a communal ambiance, and a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of your travels along the California Coast. Whether you are a digital nomad, a surfer looking to shack up for the night, or an adventurer looking for an extended stay, we would love to have you.

Rosemead Near Los Angeles

5 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Rosemead, CA

Experience Los Angeles from the comfort of your own RV! Our lot in Rosemead, CA, provides the ideal base for exploring the city. Enjoy the privacy and convenience of parking on our secure property, free from the unpredictability of Airbnb or hotels. With amenities including free water, electrical hookups, and wifi, as well as 24/7 security cameras, you can relax and feel at home. We also offer flexible monthly rental options for extended stays.

100%

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Urban Glamping at La Boheme!

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Los Angeles, CA

This historical 1904 Craftsman home, known as The Liddell "La Boheme" Home, is nestled on 1/2 an acre of land smack in the middle of Los Angeles' hippest, historical gem: Highland Park. When on the property, surrounded by fruit trees and rolling hills -- you can't believe you are in a city, let alone Los Angeles! I was introduced to the delights of Glamping at El Capitan in Santa Barbara which was amazing and I wanted to stay there forever!! -- BUT with a busy city life of raising kids and building my own small food business -- I wanted to jump from Glamp-life to City-life (and back again) with more ease and share it with others. In my opinion, the beauty of So-Cal living is that you can literally spend the morning surfing in Malibu and that same evening find yourself skiing in Big Bear! (After 25 years of living here -- that reality still amazes me) To mirror this unique juxtaposition - at La Boheme, you will find a tranquil Safari Tent Glamping experience - with hiking/biking trails and all sorts of outdoor activities anywhere from a 5 minute walk to 30 minutes away by car---- but you can also hop on the Gold Line train (which is a 1 minute walk out the back door) and in choosing one direction, you are a couple of stops from Chinatown or Downtown LA's rich cultural experiences & exciting nightlife. If you decide to explore in the other direction, Metro's Gold Line (in 1 stop) will take you to the heart of Highland Park's bustling scene - offering a smorgasbord of eateries, coffee-shops, speakeasies, boutiques, yoga studios and art galleries - including LA's oldest bowling alley: Highland Park Bowl. Take the train further and you're in the heart of glorious Pasadena (home to The Rose Bowl and exceptional Norton Simon Museum)-- or continue out to beautiful Sierra Madre -- where there is hiking and exploring galore! At La Boheme you can grill onsite, order take-out, dine out, stay-in and book a personal masseuse (that will change your world!) You can find places to hike, bike, play tennis, come back and shower (with hot water) - enjoy some bubbly with your honey on the deck -- take the train downtown to catch a concert at the Staples center -- Uber back - light the chiminea -- roast a s'more or two and crawl into your super comfy REAL bed in your REAL Safari Tent! Remember -- this is URBAN Glamping -- a friendly reminder that there can be normal city noises throughout your stay -- like a Fire Engine answering a call - or the train running behind the property -- or a kid crying in the apartment next door. It happens. Life happens. Of the several people who have already enjoyed the Glamping experience of La Boheme -- normal city noise/life hasn't dampened the experience at all-- only made it more intriguing! There is both a fan for air circulation and/or "white noise" as well as a heater, if you should need either of them. Plenty of extra blankets are available as well as a cot if you are a booking for 3 guests. La Boheme also is a venue for weddings and other events -- so we love hosting and want to do whatever we can to make your stay the best it can be for you! Please reach out with any questions or recommendations for the area. If you are new to the area - definitely spend a little time Googling ALL that is available to you - and I'll do my best to fill any blanks-- ha! Looking forward to meeting and hosting you at La Boheme. - Hillary

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Prospector Ranch

5 sites · Lodging, RVs10 acres · Thousand Oaks, CA

Prospector Ranch which is an 1800's style ranch located right next door to the acre used for Hipcamping. The ranch is made up of their home and is also a venue for filming, photo shoots and small events. When not being used, camping guest are welcome to enjoy the area down around the authentic saloon, use the picnic area under large Oak trees and hike the property. They purchased the ranch 3 years ago and love being outside of the city in the mountains. Star gazing is a must when staying there! The camp site is NEXT DOOR to Prospector Ranch which is our 1800's style ranch tucked away in the Santa Monica mountains, close to beaches, vineyards, amazing hiking, biking to the beach and the city! The wide open empty lot looks out at the beautiful mountains. Enjoy stunning sun sets and Picnic under the grand Oak Trees at the ranch or maybe come by the saloon next door for a cold beverage if we are around. :-). We are happy to point you in the direction for what ever you want to do. There are so many things to do in Thousand Oaks!

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Camp RainDale

6 sites · Tents30 acres · Santa Paula, CA

There is a road that leads to the site when you enter the gate the road runs between the stream and the mountain there are 4 Camps to choose from so far. Many more on the way and you can ask if you would like to camp somewhere else on the property and we can work it out. The site runs along a flowing stream consisting of paths from camp to stream. There are many trees enclosing the entire camping area.

Malibu Creek Orchard Retreat

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Calabasas, CA

A retreat in a steep canyon with beautiful ridgelines in the Malibu Creek area. Private camp spots and hidden trails away from it all, but yet so close. Only 30 Minutes from the Santa Monica Pier or 15 Minutes to the beaches of Malibu, still it feels like being a world away. You wouldn't expect nature to be so pristine and exciting that close to the city. Prior to check-in guests will need to sign the property’s lease agreement which requires a $300 fully refundable security deposit hold on the travellers credit card. For larger groups of five guests and more the deposit will be 50% of the total rent.

HIPTRIP Basecamp + Wildlife Habitat

2 sites · Tents3 acres · Santa Clarita, CA

A NATURAL AMPHITHEATER SPACE – come tent-camp under the stars – at the base of desert chaparral rolling hills – on a secluded, flat, circular, primitive camp area 50 feet in diameter – within a three-acre wildlife habitat – along the edge of a quiet suburban neighborhood. ACCESS INCLUDES shaded concrete patio with gas-fired firepit (no wood). 18+ only. No pets. Pee anywhere, but bring your own camp toilet, please. NEARBY – Six Flags Magic Mountain, San Fernando Valley, Castaic Lake, Angeles National Forest, Pyramid Lake, Pacific Crest Trail, Antelope Valley Poppy Preserve, Southern Sierra Mountains, Mojave Desert. Downtown L.A., 60 minutes away. Orange County, 90+ minutes away. ONE HOUR NORTH OF DOWNTOWN L.A. – off I-5 at Newhall Ranch Road. Perfect for overnight stays before heading elsewhere in California – north or south. Friendly onsite host and property owner.

95%

(146)

Redwoods Bend Retreat

14 sites · Lodging, Tents38 acres · Orick, CA

The Redwoods Bend Retreat is a place to get away from it all. Located on the Yurok reservation right on the Klamath River just outside Orick, CA, we are "off the grid", through a Redwood forest and over a mountain down into the Klamath River valley. We have a 5 acre meadow, and orchard with 50 trees, peaches pears, apples, cherries, plums, pluots, apricots and grapes. We are right on the Klamath river. It's a great place to come and recharge your internal batteries. There is no cellphone service and none of our sites have internet service. Our Main House was built in 1952 and retains the flavor of the 50’s. It houses a kitchen, dining hall, a living room, two bedrooms and a bathroom with a bathtub and shower. Our log-built Lodge overlooks the Klamath River with 3 bedrooms, a full kitchen, bathroom and wrap-around covered porch. Our Pumpkin and Blue Cottages each sleep 4-5 people. They are close to the double Yellow Shower house and toilets, and they have hot and cold running water, a propane cooktop, and a wood stove for heat. We do NOT have refrigeration, and our solar batteries or generator provides us lights at night. Campers who use our Cottages may use their own sleeping bags, but we have beds with mattresses and pillows and clean bedding. We also have an Upper Barn bedroom and half-bath rental. Our two-story Riverview Yurt appeals to folks who want a full kitchen, a private shower and flush toilet overlooking the Klamath river from our 50 x 50 foot upper deck. Luscious to sit outside and watch the river flow by during the day, and to let the water lull you to sleep at night. For families (up to 8), folks who like to fish, or old friends who just want a very special get-away. Each of our six campsites have a picnic table and a fire pit. Our Maple River, Grotto River and Pepperwood River sites overlook the gorgeous Klamath River. Our Morning Meadow, Orchard Meadow, and Deer Meadow sites are close to our 5 acre meadow where blacktail deer graze in the evenings. We have a Yellow double Shower House with two separate sides, each with a toilet, sink and shower and on demand hot water, so folks don't have to wait. There's also a new Camp Shower at the corner of the orchard for our campers, along with two outhouses for camper use, one at the bottom of the road down to the meadow, and another in the woods just past Deer Meadow Camp. We see lots of wildlife; silver foxes, a bald eagle and a family of river otters downstream, vultures, blue heron, occasionally an osprey will fly overhead clutching a freshly caught salmon and call to each other to brag about it! There are rare sightings of timid black bears who run from humans, but sometimes can be seen grazing in the meadow with the black-tail deer. We're surrounded by old logging trails made by the lumber companies 80 years ago when they clear cut the old growth redwood on our side of the mountain, and now it's completely reforested with 200 ft tall Doug Fir, Madrone, Cedar, Oak, other pine species and Pepper wood trees, and we have written permission from the Green Diamond company to allow guest to hike on their adjacent properties.

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Zorthian Ranch

1 site · Tent45 acres · Altadena, CA

For over 70 years, the Zorthian Ranch has stood as a haven for artists and intellectuals, functioning as both a community and arts center, and providing a natural respite from the city. Conveniently located just 15 miles from Downtown Los Angeles and bordering the Angeles National Forest, Zorthian Ranch spans 45 acres of mountains, valleys, forests, structures, and sculptures. Its distinctive architecture, handcrafted by the renowned Jirayr Zorthian, a popular and eccentric artist in the area, adds a unique touch. The ranch features vintage vehicles, a variety of farm animals, agriculture, and a diverse landscape, creating a vibrant setting for community events, art, music, and permaculture. Additionally, the ranch has served as a film location for over 20 years, hosting popular TV shows, movies, and music videos. Campers have various options for their stay. Those seeking a tranquil, wilderness-immersed experience can choose campsites accessible by foot trail, offering shaded areas and expansive overlooks with views stretching to Santa Catalina Island. For car campers, campsites within the developed portion of the ranch are accessible by vehicle and nestled in a lively garden oasis. The property boasts extensive wilderness with numerous private trails available to campers. Scenic outlooks and open flat rest areas with tables and chairs are scattered throughout the private wilderness trails. Campers also have access to a vast network of public trails and sites in the San Gabriel Mountains, including Millard Canyon Falls Trail, Sunset Ridge Trail, Mt Lowe Trail, and Echo Mountain Trail. The dominant plant communities within and around the ranch create a diverse mosaic, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, coast live oak, Engelmann oak woodland, riparian habitat, and ephemeral wash habitat. The undeveloped foothill and mountainous terrain within the Angeles National Forest to the north serve as the core habitat for large mammals and birds. Wildlife movement within and through the ranch features daily and seasonal patterns for both large and small vertebrates, with shaded canyon bottoms acting as vital corridors. Regular wildlife sightings include bobcats, coyotes, bears, deer, rabbits, squirrels, and a variety of birds. In the developed portion of the ranch, terrain can be steep and uneven in certain areas, with dirt pathways that result in dust during hot summers and mud during the wet season. Campers should take this into consideration when packing and come prepared with sunscreen, hats, sturdy footwear, and water bottles for exploring the property.

Skoolie in the Forest

1 site · Lodging12 acres · Littlerock, CA

This was originally a Girl Scout camp called Singing Pines back in the 30’s. You’ll see as you roam around some of the original buildings and structures. It hasn’t been in operation as a Girl Scout camp for over 20 years. The neighbor camp bought the lease but haven’t had the funds to revive it yet. DIRECTIONS: Take Exit for Angeles Crest Hwy (Hwy 2) from the 210 Go North, up the mountain for 29 miles Turn left on Sulpher Springs Rd Go about a mile and you will see a Singing Pines sign up on a hill on the right sided. There is a white gate which is usually open but if it's closed go ahead and open it. Go down that driveway about a mile and turn left at the fork. Follow that road down and around the lake staying to the right. Once you passed the lake there will be a little uphill and the location is on the left. Learn more about this land: The Skoolie is a converted short bus with two love seats that convert to an RV queen bed, sink, stove top, dinette, and over head lights. Outside is a private meadow with a short walk to a small lake. You can take out the provided sit on top kayak or bring your fishing gear. Outside the Skoolie is a picnic table, fire pit (firewood included) and a hammock. Up the hill, a very short walk is the private campground toilet facility. This is not shared with anyone else. No cell phone reception no linens bring a sleeping bag or warm blankets. You can charge your phone in the Skoolie for a sunrise alarm or just to take pictures.

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(1)

Infinity Harvest Farm & Campgrounds

2 sites · Lodging80 acres · Val Verde, CA

Enjoy the sounds of nature, spectacular views and cozy accommodations when you stay at Infinity Harvest Farm and glampground. The campsite offers 2 RVs; 1 Keystone Travel Trailer & 1 Fifth Wheel as accommodations. No shared camping, private groups only. 360 views of 40 acre farm; hiking trails, farmers store and private hay rides can be booked. Guests may enjoy our hosted RV accommodations and/or bring their own! Tents and Camping gear welcome. RVs fee is $100 per trip. Come make memories ….

100%

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Desert mountain

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Agua Dulce, CA

Learn more about this land: Desert mountain view of the open sky with lots of stars Covered picnic area with games fire pit seating area tables heat lamps in western Decour Two horses chickens ducks dogs with clean comfort walking distance to Le Chen Restaurant

Under $50

84%

(22)

Rosemead Near Los Angeles

5 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Rosemead, CA

Experience Los Angeles from the comfort of your own RV! Our lot in Rosemead, CA, provides the ideal base for exploring the city. Enjoy the privacy and convenience of parking on our secure property, free from the unpredictability of Airbnb or hotels. With amenities including free water, electrical hookups, and wifi, as well as 24/7 security cameras, you can relax and feel at home. We also offer flexible monthly rental options for extended stays.

Zorthian Ranch

1 site · Tent45 acres · Altadena, CA

For over 70 years, the Zorthian Ranch has stood as a haven for artists and intellectuals, functioning as both a community and arts center, and providing a natural respite from the city. Conveniently located just 15 miles from Downtown Los Angeles and bordering the Angeles National Forest, Zorthian Ranch spans 45 acres of mountains, valleys, forests, structures, and sculptures. Its distinctive architecture, handcrafted by the renowned Jirayr Zorthian, a popular and eccentric artist in the area, adds a unique touch. The ranch features vintage vehicles, a variety of farm animals, agriculture, and a diverse landscape, creating a vibrant setting for community events, art, music, and permaculture. Additionally, the ranch has served as a film location for over 20 years, hosting popular TV shows, movies, and music videos. Campers have various options for their stay. Those seeking a tranquil, wilderness-immersed experience can choose campsites accessible by foot trail, offering shaded areas and expansive overlooks with views stretching to Santa Catalina Island. For car campers, campsites within the developed portion of the ranch are accessible by vehicle and nestled in a lively garden oasis. The property boasts extensive wilderness with numerous private trails available to campers. Scenic outlooks and open flat rest areas with tables and chairs are scattered throughout the private wilderness trails. Campers also have access to a vast network of public trails and sites in the San Gabriel Mountains, including Millard Canyon Falls Trail, Sunset Ridge Trail, Mt Lowe Trail, and Echo Mountain Trail. The dominant plant communities within and around the ranch create a diverse mosaic, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, coast live oak, Engelmann oak woodland, riparian habitat, and ephemeral wash habitat. The undeveloped foothill and mountainous terrain within the Angeles National Forest to the north serve as the core habitat for large mammals and birds. Wildlife movement within and through the ranch features daily and seasonal patterns for both large and small vertebrates, with shaded canyon bottoms acting as vital corridors. Regular wildlife sightings include bobcats, coyotes, bears, deer, rabbits, squirrels, and a variety of birds. In the developed portion of the ranch, terrain can be steep and uneven in certain areas, with dirt pathways that result in dust during hot summers and mud during the wet season. Campers should take this into consideration when packing and come prepared with sunscreen, hats, sturdy footwear, and water bottles for exploring the property.

Camp RainDale

6 sites · Tents30 acres · Santa Paula, CA

There is a road that leads to the site when you enter the gate the road runs between the stream and the mountain there are 4 Camps to choose from so far. Many more on the way and you can ask if you would like to camp somewhere else on the property and we can work it out. The site runs along a flowing stream consisting of paths from camp to stream. There are many trees enclosing the entire camping area.

HIPTRIP Basecamp + Wildlife Habitat

2 sites · Tents3 acres · Santa Clarita, CA

A NATURAL AMPHITHEATER SPACE – come tent-camp under the stars – at the base of desert chaparral rolling hills – on a secluded, flat, circular, primitive camp area 50 feet in diameter – within a three-acre wildlife habitat – along the edge of a quiet suburban neighborhood. ACCESS INCLUDES shaded concrete patio with gas-fired firepit (no wood). 18+ only. No pets. Pee anywhere, but bring your own camp toilet, please. NEARBY – Six Flags Magic Mountain, San Fernando Valley, Castaic Lake, Angeles National Forest, Pyramid Lake, Pacific Crest Trail, Antelope Valley Poppy Preserve, Southern Sierra Mountains, Mojave Desert. Downtown L.A., 60 minutes away. Orange County, 90+ minutes away. ONE HOUR NORTH OF DOWNTOWN L.A. – off I-5 at Newhall Ranch Road. Perfect for overnight stays before heading elsewhere in California – north or south. Friendly onsite host and property owner.

Booked 1 time

High Desert Camping

15 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Elizabeth Lake, CA

Veteran owed & Veteran friendly! Amazing stargazing site, excellent sunrise and sunsets surrounded by Golden rolling hills. Amazing chances to take professional pictures of the California poppies that grow in the surrounding areas. The Poppy reserve national park is a quarter mile away. Excellent roads and canyons to test your abilities on mountain bikes and all other types of bikes and motorbikes.

Dog-friendly getaways

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Skoolie in the Forest

1 site · Lodging12 acres · Littlerock, CA

This was originally a Girl Scout camp called Singing Pines back in the 30’s. You’ll see as you roam around some of the original buildings and structures. It hasn’t been in operation as a Girl Scout camp for over 20 years. The neighbor camp bought the lease but haven’t had the funds to revive it yet. DIRECTIONS: Take Exit for Angeles Crest Hwy (Hwy 2) from the 210 Go North, up the mountain for 29 miles Turn left on Sulpher Springs Rd Go about a mile and you will see a Singing Pines sign up on a hill on the right sided. There is a white gate which is usually open but if it's closed go ahead and open it. Go down that driveway about a mile and turn left at the fork. Follow that road down and around the lake staying to the right. Once you passed the lake there will be a little uphill and the location is on the left. Learn more about this land: The Skoolie is a converted short bus with two love seats that convert to an RV queen bed, sink, stove top, dinette, and over head lights. Outside is a private meadow with a short walk to a small lake. You can take out the provided sit on top kayak or bring your fishing gear. Outside the Skoolie is a picnic table, fire pit (firewood included) and a hammock. Up the hill, a very short walk is the private campground toilet facility. This is not shared with anyone else. No cell phone reception no linens bring a sleeping bag or warm blankets. You can charge your phone in the Skoolie for a sunrise alarm or just to take pictures.

Rosemead Near Los Angeles

5 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Rosemead, CA

Experience Los Angeles from the comfort of your own RV! Our lot in Rosemead, CA, provides the ideal base for exploring the city. Enjoy the privacy and convenience of parking on our secure property, free from the unpredictability of Airbnb or hotels. With amenities including free water, electrical hookups, and wifi, as well as 24/7 security cameras, you can relax and feel at home. We also offer flexible monthly rental options for extended stays.

Camp RainDale

6 sites · Tents30 acres · Santa Paula, CA

There is a road that leads to the site when you enter the gate the road runs between the stream and the mountain there are 4 Camps to choose from so far. Many more on the way and you can ask if you would like to camp somewhere else on the property and we can work it out. The site runs along a flowing stream consisting of paths from camp to stream. There are many trees enclosing the entire camping area.

Malibu Creek Orchard Retreat

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Calabasas, CA

A retreat in a steep canyon with beautiful ridgelines in the Malibu Creek area. Private camp spots and hidden trails away from it all, but yet so close. Only 30 Minutes from the Santa Monica Pier or 15 Minutes to the beaches of Malibu, still it feels like being a world away. You wouldn't expect nature to be so pristine and exciting that close to the city. Prior to check-in guests will need to sign the property’s lease agreement which requires a $300 fully refundable security deposit hold on the travellers credit card. For larger groups of five guests and more the deposit will be 50% of the total rent.

Malibu Beach RV Park

298 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Malibu, CA

Malibu RV is set on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, California. Founded in the 1970s, Malibu RV offers RV Sites, Van Sites and Tent Camping, a communal ambiance, and a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of your travels along the California Coast. Whether you are a digital nomad, a surfer looking to shack up for the night, or an adventurer looking for an extended stay, we would love to have you.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Angeles National Forest

La Crescenta Montrose, California

Mountains cascading in the marine layer in the early morning

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Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Malibu, California

95%

(13)

Malibu Lagoon State Beach

Malibu, California

We saw a lot of beautiful sunsets on our trip across the country, but nothing quite compared to finally arriving at the coast to this.

96%

(113)

Leo Carrillo State Park

Lake Sherwood, California

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Point Mugu State Park

Camarillo, California

The sunsets get better with time on this beach!

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Crystal Cove State Park

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Malibu Creek State Park

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Bolsa Chica State Beach

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Castaic Lake State Recreation Area

Castaic, California

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Los Angeles with campfires guide

Overview

Los Angeles has long been known for its film industry and big-city vibes, and while LA certainly does sprawl, it’s really more of a conglomeration of lots of smaller, interconnected areas. There’s a ton to do here, from taking in comedy shows to checking out major league sports games. While most visitors to the city stay in hotels, there’s a surprisingly large number of camping options in LA County, from the RV park at Dockweiler State Beach, right by the airport, to wooded tent sites up in the Malibu Hills

Frequently Asked Questions About Camping Near LA

Can you camp on the beach in Los Angeles?

You can go beach camping near LA in certain areas, but you have to head outside city limits to get to the coast and camping in the sand is rarely allowed on public land. Once you hit coastal towns like Santa Monica and Long Beach, beach camping options open up. Dockweiler State Beach is best for RV campers (no tents allowed), while Point Mugu State Park’s Thornhill Broome Beach Campground accommodates some tents in the sand and offers waterfront RV spots. RV camping with hookups is also available at Bolsa Chica State Beach. At the Leo Carrillo State Park campground in Malibu, sites are inland of Highway 1, about a five-minute walk from the waterfront. Find more beach camping near LA.

Where can I camp in my car in Los Angeles?

Although the law changes regularly, it’s best to avoid car camping on Los Angeles city streets because more often than not, it’s illegal to sleep overnight or live in a car in LA. The rules become less clear when you’re parked at least 500 feet away from residences and school zones, but sleeping in your car is still frowned upon and time limits usually apply. For the best and safest car camping experience near Los Angeles, head just outside of town to a private Hipcamp campsite.

Where can you camp for free in Los Angeles?

Most primitive BLM camping near LA is free, but some campgrounds do require a fee, and Leave No Trace principles always apply. Most Angeles National Forest campsites are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Out toward Joshua Tree National Park, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park’s, Blair Valley Campground and Fish Creek are popular primitive camping spots. Farther afield and about 4 hours’ drive north, Alabama Hills and the Sequoia National Forest both offer free dispersed camping.

Where can I buy camping gear in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has plenty of stores selling camping supplies, backpacking gear, and RV essentials. REI is in Santa Monica, and dozens of Walmarts dot the city. Dick's Sporting Goods can be found in Glendale, El Segundo, and Torrance. Local favorite camping gear stores include Hatchet Outdoor Supply Co. and the Texino Camp Store. Other name brand shops in the area include 5.11 Tactical in Commerce and Patagonia in Santa Monica, plus Arc'teryx and Fjällräven in La Brea. Check out the best places to rent camping gear in LA.

Is camping allowed in the Angeles National Forest?

Yes, camping is allowed in Angeles National Forest, home to dozens of established campgrounds, but dispersed camping may not be allowed at any given time. Campers can stay at any one first-come, first-served site within the forest for up to 14 days at a time. A small parking fee usually applies, and campers should always stay aware of any wildfire notices from the US Forest Service. Consider purchasing a National Forest Adventure Pass when going dispersed camping in the area’s national forests.

Where to go

California's Central Coast

Extending from Ventura County up the coast to the Monterey Bay area, California's Central Coast region offers gorgeous stretches of coastline, a mix of sandy and cliff-lined beaches, and tons of great camping areas. You'll find beachfront camping galore in the southern reaches of the region, with extra options if you're camping in your RV. Head further north up to the Big Sur coast for forest camping, hot springs, and arguably the best ocean views in the state.

Coastal Southern California

While Los Angeles County offers a number of noteworthy beaches, hiking trails, and campgrounds to choose from, you’ll find plenty more in the southernmost coastal counties of the state: Orange County and San Diego County. Orange County's San Clemente State Beach is worth a visit, with separate tent and RV areas, while San Elijo State Beach in Encinitas has campsites with views right over the beach. Other camping parks in the area include South Carlsbad State Beach and the RV-only Silver Strand State Beach.

The Mojave Desert

If you’re visiting during the cooler months, you may want to make a trip inland to the Mojave Desert, home to some of the region’s most interesting natural features. This massive expanse encompasses both the otherworldly Joshua Tree National Park as well as Death Valley National Park and the Mojave National Preserve.

When to go

Los Angeles is truly a year-round destination, with pleasant, mild sweater weather in the wintertime and hot, dry summers. If you like swimming, summer is the best time to visit, when the typically cold Pacific waters make for a refreshing cool-me-down. The spring and fall shoulder seasons see fewer crowds, but there aren’t always lifeguards on duty at area beaches outside of the June-August high seasons. Note that June can be muggy and overcast, a phenomenon dubbed “June Gloom” by locals.