Best Campgrounds near Agua Dulce, CA

Camping options around Agua Dulce, California span from established RV resorts to tent-friendly sites in the Angeles National Forest. Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon and LA RV Resort at Acton Camp provide full hookup sites for recreational vehicles, while Monte Cristo Campground and Chilao Campground offer more rustic camping experiences. Several locations feature cabin accommodations, including Art Farm Nature Space which provides unique glamping options. The terrain varies from desert landscapes to mountain settings, with most campgrounds positioned within 30 minutes of Agua Dulce proper. Both public and private facilities maintain year-round operations, though forest service campgrounds like Buckhorn and Chilao typically close during winter months.

Road conditions and seasonal factors significantly impact camping experiences in the region. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during peak summer periods when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. Higher elevation sites in Angeles National Forest provide cooler conditions but may have limited cell coverage. A recent review noted that "there's no functional WiFi or Cell service, so make sure you have some books, cards, movies, whatever." Train noise affects several campgrounds in the Soledad Canyon area, with tracks running close to both Thousand Trails and LA RV Resort properties. Flash flooding can occur during rainy periods, affecting road access and campsite conditions, particularly in lower elevation areas. Fire restrictions typically increase during summer and fall months.

Campers frequently mention the dramatic mountain views and desert landscapes as highlights of the Agua Dulce camping experience. Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon receives positive reviews for its swimming pool and spacious sites, though visitors note the campground is undergoing ongoing maintenance. Several visitors commented on train noise as a consistent challenge, with one stating that "about 4 trains a night will come by with horns blowing." Most developed campgrounds provide water and restroom facilities, with several offering shower amenities. Tent campers find more solitude at forest service sites like Chilao and Buckhorn, while RV travelers tend to favor the full-hookup options at Thousand Trails and LA RV Resort. Wildlife sightings, including ravens, rabbits, and coyotes, enhance the natural experience at campgrounds throughout the region.

Best Camping Sites Near Agua Dulce, California (183)

    1. Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon

    25 Reviews
    Acton, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "It's a very hot campground close to a road and train. Sites are big. Tons of things to do for adults and children."

    "Surrounded my mountains, which is nice. Staff is happy and helpful."

    2. LA RV Resort at Action Camp

    7 Reviews
    Agua Dulce, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (661) 268-1214

    $55 - $132 / night

    3. closed / no longer in operation

    4 Reviews
    Green Valley, CA
    8 miles

    "great walk in secluded rustic camp sites, super social fun camp sites , secluded places to park vans and Campers, and awesome gleaming cottages. best place to sleep is on the top of the mountain infinity"

    "I have been at ArtFarm Nature space 5 times now always bringing more friends. its the best and funnest campground anywhere and the team at ArtFarm is awesome and fun to be around."

    4. Monte Cristo Campground

    10 Reviews
    Mount Wilson, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (661) 269-2808

    $12 / night

    "Or one right next to you if you don't have one. The water does not taste too good, but it serves for washing. A bear was on our stuff the first night. I whistled and it ran away."

    "It’s Close to Hidden Springs and Switzer falls, surrounding area is very beautiful. I’ll be back!"

    5. Castaic Lake State Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    Valencia, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (661) 257-4050

    "Gorgeous location right on the lake, the waters clear and there’s a generous amount of trees surrounding for shade."

    "Just a 1 min walk down the hill to the lake - a perfect place to have my morning coffee! They allowed pets which is awesome. Super quiet, lots of stars, and a beautiful view. Couldn’t ask for better!"

    6. Chilao Campground

    17 Reviews
    Mount Wilson, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (818) 790-1151

    $12 / night

    "Campground We had been driving around the campground loops for more than an hour, and had just about given up, when we say the sign for overflow camping near the exit of the Chilao campground loop"

    "Great spot to get away from the big city being only a 45min drive from the Downtown, couldn’t ask for more"

    7. Californian RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Acton, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (661) 269-0919

    "Easy access to freeway small grocery and great coffee shop close."

    "Gated park high on a hill; like driving the hills of SF with a trailer. Lots of pull thrus. Well kept and landscaped. Front desk helpful and friendly."

    8. Hollywood RV Park

    17 Reviews
    San Fernando, CA
    23 miles
    Website

    "This location is conveniently situated near the heart of Los Angeles, making it an ideal spot for those looking to explore the city’s many attractions."

    "Trees lovely gardens to walk the dogs. Commerce walking distance. I’m staying 8 more days.✌️"

    9. Angeles National Forest Chilao Campground

    12 Reviews
    Mount Wilson, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (626) 574-1613

    "OKAY... seriously this one of the best campgrounds near Los Angeles. My ultimate go to spot for an overnight camping trip."

    "We were told that the water pumps were off but actually managed to camp right next to the one that was working. The bathrooms were super clean too!"

    10. Buckhorn Campground

    20 Reviews
    Juniper Hills, CA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (818) 899-1900

    $12 / night

    "Beautiful trails near by, next to a stream, gorgeous views, and of course that mountain air! Trees are perfect for hammocks."

    "It is set back from the road a little giving you a quieter experience away from the 2. This would be a good first car camping spot for families with young children."

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Recent Reviews near Agua Dulce, CA

860 Reviews of 183 Agua Dulce Campgrounds


  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Bonelli Bluffs

    Wish we could stay longer this trip

    We chose Bonelli for our shakedown trip in our new trailer (first time RVers). SO quiet. Numerous residents, but spots are mostly keep up nicely. Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking(!) and full hookups. We will be back for sure, especially since it's less than an hour from home.

  • Jake M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    Awesome Mountain View’s and spacious sites!

    Every friendly people. Nice open sites that are good for people who just want to be isolated. Showers and bathrooms available. No charging unless you can find an open one in the park. Site 27 is a very good site.

  • Lianne A.
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Monte Cristo Campground

    Nice Campground but Fire Restrictions!

    Monte Cristo is a nice campground not far from home. My husband and I visited this campsite for the first time just for one night. There was a fire restriction. No bonfires, no cooking on stoves and there was no water due to a leak. The bathroom that I was using I give it a 2 star.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Malibu Beach RV Park

    Great Family Vacation

    Perfect weekend getaway for the family! Loved the store and how close to the beach this place was. Will definitely be coming back!!

  • B
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Tapo Canyon Park

    Favorite spot near LA

    The Camp Hosts here are Very Friendly and welcoming, the campground has a lush grass area and nice covered playground. The showers and bathrooms are nice, we highly recommend Tapo Canyon.

  • Lee-Ann C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Steckel Park

    Beautiful location

    The camp host came over shortly after we arrived and was very kind and friendly. I appreciate that they enforce quiet hours! The lots were not very private but they were clean and having full hookups was great. The location is pretty, on a creek. And there’s a playground and aviary which our whole family enjoyed. We’ll plan to go back when it’s not so hot!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    Great trip/great site!

    This place is great! We stayed on site 59 and it had so much space you can fit a ton of people on the site. We had a beautiful, big tree and a great view in the back of the site. Site 62 had the most beautiful view but no shade, but I want to book it for the cooler months. Showers and bathrooms were pristine!! Can’t wait to go back!

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Spaceport RV Park

    Only used the dump & water

    Handy stop for water & dump! $2 bucks for water & $5 bucks for the dump


Guide to Agua Dulce

Camping options near Agua Dulce, California range from basic tent sites to full RV hookups at elevations between 2,500 and 6,000 feet. The region experiences temperature swings of 30-40°F between day and night, particularly at higher elevation campgrounds. Most sites require payment via self-registration envelopes with exact cash placed in drop boxes.

What to do

Hiking with goats: At Art Farm Nature Space, visitors can participate in unique guided hikes. "Their western Bar is the nicest looking bar anywhere and there is tons of fun activities including hiking with goats, volleyball etc etc," notes one camper who frequently returns to this distinctive property.

Waterfall trails: Buckhorn Campground connects to a moderate hiking trail leading to seasonal waterfalls. "There's a nice waterfall trail which will be 2.5 in & 2.5 miles back," shares a visitor who recommends sites 9-11 for larger groups seeking shade and a communal campfire circle.

Lake activities: Castaic Lake State Recreation Area offers water recreation opportunities, though swimming is restricted to designated areas. "Our campsite & the bathrooms were clean & well maintained," reports one tent camper, though they noted RVs can sometimes block lake views from tent sites.

What campers like

Mountain air at higher elevations: Buckhorn Campground sits at over 6,000 feet elevation, providing a true mountain camping experience. "Beautiful campground. A little over 6000 feet up in the pine trees. The campground fills quickly for the weekend. It's a first come/first serve so get there early," advises one regular visitor.

Stream access: Several campgrounds feature seasonal streams running through or near campsites. "Babbling brook to lull you to sleep at night. Very quiet after 10:00 pm. Great for families," reports a visitor to Buckhorn, highlighting the natural sound features that enhance the camping experience.

Wildlife sightings: Monte Cristo Campground offers opportunities to observe local fauna. "A bear was on our stuff the first night. I whistled and it ran away. In the morning today, we seen another, casually walking Into the grounds," reports one camper, noting the bears appeared more curious than threatening.

What you should know

Bear awareness: Proper food storage is essential at Monte Cristo Campground, where bear encounters occur. "It didn't seem aggressive or particularly interested in humans. It seemed more curious just to take a stroll and look. Yelling at it to leave worked super easy, but it isn't afraid," explains a camper regarding their wildlife encounter.

Connectivity limits: Cell reception is inconsistent or non-existent at most campgrounds. "There's no functional WiFi or Cell service, so make sure you have some books, cards, movies, whatever," advises a visitor to LA RV Resort at Acton Camp, suggesting alternative entertainment options.

Campground closures: Chilao Campground operates seasonally from April through November. "Gets dusty, and a bit hot sometimes. If you are trying to conduct business or take courses online wifi is an issue," notes a camper who stayed at nearby Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon.

Tips for camping with families

Avoid holiday weekends: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially Buckhorn. "It is however very popular, you need to get there early to get a good spot. It is set back from the road a little giving you a quieter experience away from the 2. This would be a good first car camping spot for families with young children," recommends an experienced camper.

Check for shade availability: Many Agua Dulce area campgrounds have limited shade. "Sites are big and easy to access. BUT, there's about 4 trains a night that will come by with horns blowing," advises a visitor to LA RV Resort at Acton Camp, highlighting both positives and challenges.

Bring cash for fees: Most Forest Service campgrounds require exact cash payment. "Proper dispersed camping, first come first serve $12 cash deposit box. About 20 decent sized spots with firepits, picnic tables & water," explains a Monte Cristo visitor, detailing the payment system and amenities.

Tips from RVers

Size restrictions: Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon accommodates larger RVs, but access roads can be challenging. "Road to resort is windy and narrow but easily manageable with larger RVs. The town of Acton is small rural town with a few stores. The area appears to be a flash flood area with heavy rains," notes a member who used the park as a base for exploring Los Angeles.

Flash flood awareness: Several campgrounds sit in flash flood zones, particularly in lower elevations. "This is a good location to explore LA and greater LA area, 45 min to Hollywood sign. Park is a large TT resort with recently remolded lodge in 2019," shares a Thousand Trails member who appreciated the campground's location despite noting that some amenities are typically under maintenance.

Water quality concerns: Water sources at campgrounds may require treatment. "The water does not taste too good, but it serves for washing," reports a Monte Cristo visitor, suggesting campers bring drinking water while using campground sources for dishes and hygiene.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping in Agua Dulce?

The Agua Dulce area offers several excellent camping options within a short drive. Hungry Valley State Vehicle Recreation Area provides spacious sites with ample room for privacy, making it ideal for both weekend getaways and longer stays. For RV enthusiasts, Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon near Acton offers drive-in access with full amenities including water hookups and toilet facilities. Both locations are a convenient drive from Agua Dulce and provide good access to the natural beauty of the region.

What amenities are available at Agua Dulce Lake for campers?

While there isn't a specific Agua Dulce Lake, nearby water recreation areas offer various amenities for campers. Los Alamos Campground at Pyramid Lake features three separate site loops with approximately 90 dry camping locations. Water spigots are available in some areas, though not for permanent hookup. For more extensive water recreation, Lake Piru Recreation Area provides lakeside camping with fire rings, picnic tables, and modern bathrooms, though water levels can vary seasonally due to drought conditions.

What camping is available near Agua Dulce, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Agua Dulce, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 183 campgrounds and RV parks near Agua Dulce, CA and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Agua Dulce, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Agua Dulce, CA is Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon with a 3.8-star rating from 25 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Agua Dulce, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Agua Dulce, CA.

What parks are near Agua Dulce, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Agua Dulce, CA that allow camping, notably Angeles National Forest and Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.