Discover the best river, stream, or creek glamping in Southern California

United States
—
California
—
Southern California

95% (1173 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Southern California

6 top river, stream, or creek glamping sites in Southern California

Dog-friendly getaways

99%

(134)

Creekside Vintage Cabins w/hot tubs

3 sites · Lodging1 acre · Forest Falls, CA

Two Cabins to choose from, each with its own vintage charm. Both on the same dirt road across the street from each other, separate properties, both with their own private hot tubs, kitchen, claw foot tub in bathroom, heating. Rent separate or rent both and bring your friends! Here are the special additions at each cabin: Creekside Cabin: 468 sq. ft, a beautiful deck backing up to the national forest, with propane fire pit(you supply your own propane tank), and charcoal bbq(you bring your own charcoal), overlooking fresh water creek, outdoor shower, large fireplace, open floor plan, living room with cozy queen bed, open to upstairs loft 2 full beds, and a twin bed. This cabin has the option to add the vintage trailer in the driveway June - October only as an additional space. Does not have electricity, bathroom or heating for $75 per day. Trailer not available other times of the year due to cold night temps. Vintage 1937 Cabin: larger indoor space 1304 sq. ft. , a rock front patio, Wood stove in living room, open to upstairs loft 2 full beds, private large bedroom with another wood stove w/ queen bed and twin fold out couch, laundry room, enclosed patio with gas bbq, and a charcoal bbq on front patio(you supply your own charcoal).. Both cabins: Require 4 wheel drive and chains or two wheel drive and chains during winter storm snow days due to remote location. Big falls waterfall is just a short hike away, as well as the trailhead for Vivian creek Trail. Come spend time nestled in the Coulter Pines, oaks, and maple trees. Your neighbors are raccoons, and bears, property is situated on the edge of the San Bernardino National Forest at the top of the mountain. You truly feel like you're in the high Sierras just 1.5 hours from Los Angeles. Big Bear Lake is a 45 minute drive away. In town you will find Elkhorn General Store and El Mexicano Mexican Restaurant, both close early:). San Bernardino County Short Term Residential Rental Unit Permit CESTRP-2022-00524

The Honey Bear Cabin

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Green Valley Lake, CA

Welcome to our stunning Honey Bear Cabin within 5 min walking distance of Green Valley Lake. Step inside to discover a stylish interior adorned with sleek furnishings and chic decor. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, the Honey Bear Cabin is the perfect escape for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying all the comforts of home. Book your stay today and experience the magic of Green Valley Lake firsthand! First floor- living room with pull out couch full bed, outdoor enclosed sunroom, patio, bathroom, kitchen Second floor-loft with trundle style single day bed (two singles) and one bedroom with a king size bed -During winter snow weather please be aware you may need vehicle chains to come up the mountain if you do not have a 4x4 vehicle with snow tires or all wheel drive. -During High winds and Extreme Weather situations, for safety reasons, power company (Edison) may shut off electricity to town for indefinite time. -If power is ever shut off during the cold season , please use all gas fireplace (electricity, not needed) located in the corner of living room. -During summer fire restrictions no bonfire or charcoal grills -Sunroom has zero privacy due to it being a room with large windows designed to allow in a lot of sunlight and a place to enjoy the scenery. Pet rules -only 2 dogs per stay, max weight 20 lbs per pet -$40/night per pet -furry friends aren’t allowed on furniture (ie. couches, beds, etc.) -do not leave your furry friends unsupervised or alone in the home -please pick up after your pet inside and outside House Rules - No shoes allowed inside -Smoking is allowed only in back yard area away from patio and sunroom. Ashes should be disposed of responsibly. Forest fire awareness area. -Maximum number of people allowed to stay at rental is 6 people no exceptions -No diving or jumping into jacuzzi -No food in jacuzzi -Cover jacuzzi with proper jacuzzi lid and clips after use. High wind area. -When done using the jacuzzi please lower temperature to 80 degrees and turn off. -No extremely loud music. Please be courteous to neighbors across the street. -Do not move furniture from designated areas

Bailes Farm

5 sites · Lodging60 acres · Fallbrook, CA

One of the last remaining undeveloped parts of Southern California, De Luz Heights is located adjacent to the Cleveland National Forest, and the Santa Margarita River (just a few miles from the campsite). On my 60 acres, there are no major roads going through or next to the property. My land is 13 miles from the Pacific ocean and enjoys a relatively mild yearly climate. Giant boulders provide topographical relief and offer platforms from which to enjoy the view of the nearby Santa Margarita Mountains. The valley views are filled with olive and avocado groves, vineyards, and horse ranches. The Camp Pendleton Marine Corps base is nearby, so you might hear some artillery in the distance on some occasions. The campsite embraces all the comforts of "glamping": a hot shower, composting toilet, beds with sheets provided, gas grill with a stovetop, pots and pans, kitchenware, a sink, picnic table, shaded deck, sofa, lounge chairs, and propane fire pit. The basics are provided: toilet paper, paper towels, purified drinking water, towels, sheets, cooking oil, etc. Campers need to bring their own blankets. I've created a network of hiking trails for especially fit hikers looking for a more rigorous hike than the nearby Santa Margarita River Trail. My trails lead through creek beds, over boulders, through rocky crags, with views of the Pacific ocean on a clear day. Hikers on my trails need to wear proper hiking boots with good traction. Sections of my trails will require bouldering with hands and feet. Expect to have fatigued quadriceps, some scrapes, and a sweaty hat brim. The campsite is accessible with a two-wheel drive vehicle; I drive a Kia Forte out there regularly. However, some tips when driving a two-wheel drive car: when going uphill on a dirt road, try to keep some momentum of about 12-15 MPH. If you stop and try to start again, your tires will spin out. If that happens, just reverse down the hill, and try it again with more momentum.

Wrightwood Log Cabin W/Hot Tub

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Wrightwood, CA

Log cabin with jacuzzi and gazebo private with curtains. Close to Mt. High ski resort 6 minutes and downtown 2 minutes. Enjoy the mountain air. Propane BBQ. Fireplace. Cookware included. Anything with locks is off limits. Kitchen fully equipped. Window AC units. Noise complaints and fines will be fined to guests so follow rules please. Turn off lights and appliances before leaving. Pet friendly. Hot tub heated 24/7 no charge. No need to make beds or fold towels just put in hamper.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Exploring the beautiful vast landscapes with friends, family, or a solo adventure will be an experience you won’t soon forget.

River, stream, or creek glamping in Southern California guide

Overview

The Pacific shoreline, vast deserts, snow-capped mountains—Southern California has it all. Whether you're looking to hike or surf, the state parks, and beaches are a great starting point for your SoCal adventure.

If you want to hear the waves from your tent, stake your claim at a beach campground with epic ocean views. There are tons of state beaches in Santa Barbara and San Diego Counties. One local favorite is Carpinteria State Beach. Windsurfing, fishing, and surfing are a few ways to enjoy this sandy stretch of the ocean shore.

If you're looking for adventure, Joshua Tree National Park may be calling your name. The rocky desert landscape is a hot spot for hiking and rock climbing. For those who want to escape the crowds, there are plenty of remote places to pitch a tent across the Mojave Desert.

For spectacular mountain views, venture into San Bernardino National Forest, just outside of Los Angeles. In this sprawling wilderness, you find tons of cabins and camping spots, especially near Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake.

If you're looking for something just outside Malibu, you can't beat Malibu Creek State Park. The 8,000-acre rocky wilderness hosts 15 miles of hiking trails and a volcanic swimming hole.

While the rugged landscape lends itself to tent camping, Glamping is also a big deal in SoCal. Keep an eye out for decked-out yurts, cabins, and cottages with spectacular views.

Southern California is known for its fair weather year round. That said, it can get chilly in the winter. Remember to bring a jacket (and a wet suit if you plan on surfing). To beat the summer rush, try to plan your camping trip for late spring or early fall.