Tent camping near Beverly Hills, California requires short hikes into surrounding wilderness areas, with most sites situated between 1,500-5,000 feet elevation in Angeles National Forest and the Santa Monica Mountains. Seasonal temperatures vary significantly, with summer highs reaching 90°F at lower elevations and winter conditions bringing occasional snow to higher campsites. Most trail camps remain accessible year-round, though seasonal fire restrictions typically limit campfires from May through November.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: During spring months, multiple seasonal waterfalls become accessible from trail camps. From Millard Trail Campground, a 30-minute hike leads to Millard Falls, with one camper noting, "Wild life all over the place and a great stream in the wet season through summer."
Mountain biking trails: Several campgrounds serve as bases for mountain biking routes. At Gould Mesa Trail Campground, the trail attracts bikers throughout the day, with a reviewer observing, "There were a dozen or so mountain bikers and about the same amount of hikers runners that venture by the campground throughout the day."
Overnight backpacking: Many sites offer excellent first backpacking experiences within 2-4 miles of trailheads. A camper at Valley Forge Trail Camp shared, "Took some friends for their first ever backpacking trip, great intro to the 'experience.' Trail camp is in the canyon so it's an easy 3.5 mile hike in, but a tough hike out of the canyon."
What campers like
Creek access: Many tent sites near Beverly Hills feature seasonal water sources. At Bear Canyon Campground, one camper described the terrain as "Creek Gorgeous-ness" and added: "Follow the creek (which is GORGEOUS with waterfalls and shade in the spring) and go all the way to the end."
Solitude on weekdays: Despite proximity to urban areas, weekday visits often provide remarkable solitude. A camper at Mount Lowe Trail Campground shared: "It was eerily quiet at night. We were the only ones there and can hear our own hearbeats laying there at night."
Historical features: Several camping areas contain remnants of historical structures and interpretive displays. A reviewer noted Mount Lowe has "many info plaques with photos from the old tavern on site," providing context to the area's past development.
What you should know
Parking challenges: Most trailheads have limited parking that fills quickly on weekends. For Hoegees Trail Camp, a camper advised: "Parking fills up within an hour on weekends so get there as soon as the parking lot opens at 6am."
Vehicle security concerns: Car break-ins occur at some trailheads. A Millard Trail Camp camper warned: "Make sure to leave your car doors unlocked, and nothing of value inside. You'd rather have someone root through your car and walk away empty handed than have a window broken and items stolen."
Wildlife encounters: The area hosts diverse wildlife requiring appropriate precautions. One camper at Hoegees Trail Camp noted: "There are bears in the area so hang your food and keep your campsite clean."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: For families new to backcountry camping, several sites offer accessible introduction experiences. A camper at Valley Forge Trail Camp shared: "Great intro to the 'experience.' Trail camp is in the canyon so it's an easy 3.5 mile hike in, but a tough hike out of the canyon."
Short-distance options: For families with young children, Gould Mesa provides a manageable introduction to tent camping near Beverly Hills. A reviewer described it as "a nice little getaway without leaving the city, perfect for a one nighter or to backpack in with the kiddos."
Educational opportunities: Multiple camps offer natural learning experiences. At Spruce Grove Trail Campground, scout groups frequently visit, with one leader noting it was "Great spot with beautiful hikes! We were there with a larger group for a scout trip and it was great. Lots of room for our tents."
Tips from RVers
Alternative accommodations: While tent camping dominates near Beverly Hills, some properties offer cabin alternatives. At Antfarm LA, visitors can experience secluded accommodations without backpacking gear, with one guest reporting: "It's a spot where you can truly be away. We spent 5 days and didn't really see a soul."
Road access limitations: RV access is virtually impossible at most camping locations near Beverly Hills. One frustrated visitor to Mount Lowe reported: "The road has a gate on it, which is locked 8pm-6am. That was day 1 (we slept in our car). Once past that gate, you'll soon hit another, this one closed to all motorized vehicles."
Pack-in requirements: Vehicle-based campers must adapt to hiking conditions. For Millard Trail Camp, a reviewer explained: "Parking is about 150 yards away, down a hill, so be prepared to haul your gear."
