Calabasas Hills features a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, nestled within the Santa Monica Mountains at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,000 feet. The area's canyon setting creates unique microclimates that can differ significantly from coastal conditions, with average summer temperatures reaching 90°F during peak camping season and cooler 50°F nights during winter months.
What to do
Hike to the rock climbing area: At Malibu Creek State Park Campground, visitors can explore both gentle and challenging trails with unique geological features. "Lots to do nearby! There are some decent hiking trails nearby if you can bear the heat, but all the creeks are dried up so you can't really take a dip. It's much nicer and greener during the Spring or Fall," shares Chanel C.
Explore tide pools: The ocean access at Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground provides fascinating marine life viewing opportunities during low tide. "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," notes Alfred.
Disc golf course: Lake Casitas Recreation Area offers a complete disc golf course alongside its fishing and boating options. "There are several campsites around the lake. Some lakefront and some wooded... Also there is a disk golf course. So much to do and see!" according to Shannon R.
What campers like
Natural wildlife encounters: Oak Park campers enjoy the wooded setting with various wildlife sightings. "We're tucked into a surrounding of trees and a lake view. Highly recommend this campsite," writes Stephanie M., while another camper mentions the shade and quiet environment.
Spacious sites with privacy: Many campgrounds offer generously sized sites that campers particularly appreciate. "The sites are pretty standard, but they are spacious and have some privacy from neighboring sites," explains Chanel C. from Malibu Creek. At Castaic Lake State Recreation Area, Kenneth M. reports, "Great place to camp the bathrooms were clean and the lake is only 50 or 60ft for the camp site."
Beach proximity: Campgrounds near the ocean offer the sound of waves and easy beach access. "We parked right by the Pacific Ocean, watched planes from LAX fly overhead, and soaked in a stunning sunset. It was the ideal place to settle into our campervan life," writes Prince C. from Dockweiler Beach RV Park.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Many campgrounds have strict fire regulations, particularly during dry seasons. "Great campground for a big state park. Good for Hiks and bikes. Some interesting movie TV sets in the area. Decent cell coverage. Best for tents, tight for RVs," notes Rick L. from Malibu Creek State Park.
Water access limitations: Several lakes have specific rules about water activities. "Swimming only allowed at their 'swimming beach' and only while life guard on duty. And to use my inflatable kayak, I have to use their boat launch and pay a $9.00 fee," warns Van S. about Castaic Lake.
Wildlife precautions: Local wildlife can be persistent at campsites. "Squirrels are very aggressive and will eat your food if left unattended," cautions Tim J. from Leo Carrillo. At Kenney Grove Park, Samantha W. reminds visitors that "it's one of those rare places where the light pollution is truly minimal and you can really see the stars at night."
Tips for camping with families
Bring a wagon for beach gear: When glamping in Calabasas Hills, California near beaches, come prepared for the walk. "Bring a wagon if you're hauling beach gear though, as the walk can feel long with all your stuff," suggests Alfred from Leo Carrillo.
Reserve water park access early: During summer months, water features are popular. "The most fun is the water park. You can take a break from the heat and tube down the lazy river," shares Shannon R. about Lake Casitas Recreation Area, though another visitor notes, "We waited hours just to swim for thirty minutes."
Visit playgrounds between sites: Ventura Ranch KOA offers extensive child-friendly activities. "There are playgrounds, zip lining and a massive bounce pad were all on site. Make sure you hike down to the creek!" recommends Khaled A., while Christina S. adds, "They have a very large jumping pillow for kiddos, my 6 year had a blast playing on it."
Tips from RVers
Early reservations essential: Premium RV sites with views book quickly. "We stayed in site 59 which had a really nice shade tree and great views of a meadow and the cliffs out the back of the site," says Ryan W. about Malibu Creek State Park.
Check hookup positions: At some campgrounds, hookups may be placed unconventionally. "The full hook up sites are for Model A's... So hook ups are on the opposite side and really close to the 'entrance' so we couldn't back in," Crystal notes about Kenney Grove Park.
Prepare for compact spacing: Many RV areas have tight spacing arrangements. "The RV site was directly in front of the lake between our tent & the lake! So when a monstrous RV drove in all we could see was the side of the thing," explains Laura S. about the layout at Castaic Lake.
