Beverly Hills camping options offer a surprising range of terrain spanning from sea level beach sites to mountain campgrounds at elevations above 5,000 feet. Temperatures can drop dramatically at night in canyon areas even during summer, while coastal locations maintain more consistent temperatures. The Angeles National Forest campgrounds become particularly crowded during spring wildflower season when vibrant displays attract weekend visitors.
What to do
Morning hikes on established trails: At Malibu Creek State Park Campground, visitors can explore trails showcasing former movie sets. "The state park is a former movie set and is filled with easily accessible trails for hiking and some for mountain biking. The primary trails were open fire roads with off-shoots to lakes, pools, meadows, and more," notes Ryan W.
Ocean activities near RV parks: Campers at Dockweiler Beach RV Park have immediate beach access with multiple water activity options. "The RV park has a hookup area and a dry camping area... The park is right next to the beach, walk 1 minute and you're there. There's also a bike path that goes for miles both north or south - great for an early workout," says Ignasi M.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area's campgrounds provide excellent wildlife observation chances. "The wildlife is abundant. There is plenty of birdwatching, and coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear. On a hike right out of the park a few hundred yards, I came across a pair of bobcats—mom and cub—making their way to a running creek," reports a camper at Malibu Creek State Park.
What campers like
Alternative to hotel accommodations: Malibu Beach RV Park offers a more affordable option compared to local hotels. "I absolutely love this campground, it's perfectly situated in between the Malibu pier area (to your left) Dume, Zuma, and more beaches (to the right), + a lovely small beach across the street… oh let's not forget Malibu Seafood is right next door!" writes Andrea G.
Proximity to urban amenities: Visitors appreciate how Golden Shore RV Resort combines nature with city access. "Very well maintained campground. The spots are groomed and clean when you come in. Great Long Beach location, a nice bike ride along the beach to Naples and the Queen Mary," states Theo A.
Relative seclusion within city limits: Despite being near urban centers, some campgrounds offer surprising isolation. At Antfarm LA, campers report, "It's a spot where you can truly be away. We spent 5 days and didn't really see a soul. If you like to read, enjoy sunsets, exercise and travel to local spots of interest or just stay put. This is a spot for you."
What you should know
Water availability concerns: Many Angeles Forest campgrounds lack reliable water sources. At Mount Lowe Trail Campground, visitors note: "New outhouse built within the last year. There's no water right now but that could change after first rain or snow," and "No water, fountain is capped now."
Limited reception in canyon areas: Cell service can be nonexistent in mountain campgrounds. At Angeles Crest Overlook, one reviewer reports, "Unfortunately I didn't have any service (Visible/Verizon), so that was a little scary."
Traffic patterns at viewpoints: Popular overlooks can get busy during specific hours. "It did seem like maybe a teen hangout or something - cars did flow in and out occasionally through the night until around midnight, so that wasn't great but not awful either," notes a visitor at Angeles Crest Overlook.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly hiking options: Gould Mesa Trail Campground offers accessible trails for children. "It's a nice little getaway without leaving the city, perfect for a one nighter or to backpack in with the kiddos. It's around 2 miles to camp on a leveled surface with a few stream crossings," explains Tony C.
Wildlife education opportunities: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Beverly Hills provide chances to teach children about local animals. One visitor at Mount Lowe shared: "Quiet at night. We were the only ones there and can hear our own heartbeats laying there at night. We went in May this year so not much people around."
Running water for hot days: Streams provide welcome relief during warmer months. A camper at Gould Mesa Trail Campground notes: "Go behind campsite one and you will find a 6 mile hike in and out to two different waterfalls. Really fun and refreshing, limited shade in hike, so a dip at the end is so nice!"
Tips from RVers
Beach access considerations: RVers at Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground should know about specific vehicle restrictions. "Attention pour avoir accès à la mer, le véhicule doit faire moins de 8 feet!" warns martins A.
Alternative to full hookup areas: Dockweiler Beach RV Park offers options for smaller rigs seeking more space. "The dry camp provides much more space, but only relatively small RVs," explains Ignasi M. Another camper adds, "Review of dry campervan section of park only, which seemed considerably more quiet and less chaotic than the big RV area."
Utility limitations at pet-friendly sites: For RVers bringing pets to the pet friendly campgrounds around Beverly Hills, utility access varies significantly. "There aren't sewer or water hook ups, electrical only, but for me that's perfectly fine for a long weekend or short week with 2 kids and 2 adults. They do have 3 dump stations, too, so that made it nice!" notes Steve L. from Leo Carrillo State Park.
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