Glamping sites near Brandeis, California provide seasonal access to mountain vistas at elevations ranging from 800 to 3,500 feet. The region experiences moderate temperatures ranging from 50-85°F throughout most of the year, making it suitable for year-round camping. Winter nights can drop below freezing at higher elevations, so proper preparation is essential for cold-weather camping trips.
What to do
Hiking through diverse terrain: Multiple trails connect from Malibu Creek State Park camping areas, offering varied difficulty levels. "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., highlighting the park's interconnected trail system.
Winter water activities: Lake activities remain available during cooler months at Lake Casitas Recreation Area. "The lake offers fishing and boating, no body contact. There are several campsites around the lake. Some lakefront and some wooded," explains Shannon R. While swimming isn't permitted, boating and fishing opportunities continue year-round.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours offer prime wildlife spotting at several glamping locations near Brandeis. "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 Malibu Creek visitor.
What campers like
Quiet camping options: Kenney Grove Park provides a less-crowded alternative to popular glamping sites. "This campsite feels like it's right in the midst of a neighborhood. It's tucked away from the street and you almost wouldn't know it's there! Loved this small and well kept campsite," shares Bower. This location offers a quieter experience compared to busier facilities.
Beach proximity: Canyon Campground at Leo Carrillo State Park combines mountain glamping with coastal access. "The best part about this campground is definitely the beach access- it's about a 10-minute walk from most sites, and you can explore some amazing tide pools and caves once you get there. The kids loved searching for hermit crabs and sea anemones," according to Alfred.
Varied terrain: Glamping sites offer diverse landscapes from mountains to beaches. "Our space was F-11 and after driving through all of the campgrounds, and there are many, we felt that the Fox site was best suited for us... There is a small market should you forget anything and need it while on your getaway," notes a Lake Casitas visitor about site selection options.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites require advance planning, especially during summer months. "We stayed for 21 days and had a pretty good experience. My main complaint is loud music and barking dogs late at night and early in the morning. No WIFI and reception for Verizon was hit or miss," explains Keisha D. about Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon.
Weather variations: Despite southern California's reputation for mild weather, glamping areas experience significant temperature fluctuations. "I came here during the summer and it was extremely HOT. Typically during the summer season, I like to find campgrounds that have a lot of lush trees so we can be under the canopies and stay cool," shares Chanel C. about Malibu Creek State Park.
Wildlife interactions: Proper food storage is essential at all camping sites. "Must put away all your food because the raccoons will get into it. Overall it's a nice local place to camp if you live in Santa Clarita, Ca," warns Patty M. about Castaic Lake. Similar wildlife concerns exist at most regional campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate activities: Ventura Ranch KOA offers specific facilities for children. "Lots of fun activities for kids, like crafts, making your own rocket to launch, etc. They have a very large jumping pillow for kiddos, my 6 year had a blast playing on it. They also have a zip line, but it was damaged in the large fire last year," Christina S. explains about the family-friendly options.
Structured recreation areas: Multiple glamping locations include designated play zones. "There's a nice park, but small, for the little campers. Each site had a fire pit and a picnic table. There were restroom facilities that were all clean and well-kept," notes a visitor to Kenney Grove Park.
Family site selection: Choosing appropriate camping areas improves family experiences. "The inner circle of sites abuts the bathrooms and is better for groups. The outer rings on three sides have nice views, but some sites on the south side are shorter and abut a fence," advises Ryan W. about Malibu Creek State Park layout considerations.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: RV glamping sites vary significantly in accommodation ability. "Nice campground for a big state park. Good for Hikes and bikes. Some interesting movie TV sets in the area. Decent cell coverage. Best for tents, tight for RVs," Rick L. notes about Malibu Creek State Park's limitations.
Hookup availability: Utilities differ substantially between glamping locations. "This trip we stayed down near the welcome center instead of Lot N and the experience didn't even seem like the same RV Park. No loud music, no barking dog, less dust, and dirt," explains Keisha D. about Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, highlighting how site selection affects experience quality.
Terrain challenges: Some glamping locations present unique parking considerations. "This is a nice campground. Pricey though at $41 a night+$2.50 for pets. There are water spigots at every site and there are RV hook ups if you have an RV," Annie G. reports about site conditions at Kenney Grove Park.
