Tent campsites near Calabasas Hills, California are scattered throughout the Santa Monica Mountains at elevations ranging from 200 to 3,000 feet. The region's Mediterranean climate brings warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters with temperatures averaging 50-90°F depending on season and elevation. Many camping areas require permits that can sell out quickly during spring and fall weekends when weather conditions are most favorable.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: At Millard Trail Campground, several trails offer access to seasonal water features. One camper noted, "Lots of trails all around with a nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups," while another mentioned, "Wild life all over the place and a great stream in the wet season through summer."
Explore wildlife centers: Visit the Placerita Canyon Nature Center near Placerita Canyon State Park Group Campsites to see live animal exhibits. As one camper shared, "Things to do: visit the Placerita Canyon Nature Center, including live animal exhibits, Ranger-led educational programs, hike to waterfalls."
Try backpacking loops: Musch Trail Camp offers access to longer trails. A visitor explained, "If you want a longer hike you can hike up the East Topanga Fire Road and then drop down into Musch Camp on the Backbone Trail from Eagle Junction. This will add a few more miles to your hike and allow you to make a loop."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms at Musch Trail Camp. One reviewer was pleasantly surprised: "Did not expect the bathrooms to be very clean. They have running water to flush the toilets, and to wash your hands." Another camper called the facilities "Very Friendly and Very Clean."
Privacy options: Antfarm LA offers secluded tent camping with minimal crowds. A camper shared, "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."
Budget-friendly options: Oak Flat Campground provides free camping with an Adventure Pass. As one reviewer explained, "Free with the purchase of the adventure pass. I was here during the week and it was quiet and uneventful. Plenty of shade and simple. A bit of traffic noise but not too bad."
What you should know
Adventure Pass requirements: Many camping areas require permits. At Oak Flat Campground, "You do need to purchase a $5 Adventure Pass in order to stay here and someone will come around to check in the morning. The fine if you don't have a pass is over $500."
Seasonal restrictions: Fire bans are common during dry periods. One reviewer at Oak Flat noted, "You cannot have any cooking or fires right now. Only cooking inside."
Security concerns: Vehicle break-ins can occur at some locations. A Millard Trail 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 awareness: Be prepared for encounters with local fauna. At Antfarm LA, one camper reported, "I did see my first rattlesnake and heard the coyotes at night."
Tips for camping with families
Short hikes for children: Consider Millard Trail Campground for kid-friendly activities. A reviewer mentioned, "Lots of trails all around with a nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups."
Group sites for large family gatherings: Danielson Group Multi-Use Area accommodates family camping events. A regular visitor described, "We have been camping this site every Spring for about 6 years. We do a family style tent camping. 15-40 ppl. Young kids to elderly adults. Everyone always loves it!"
Family-friendly amenities: Look for sites with practical features. At Danielson, a camper noted the benefits for families: "Facilities are clean and well maintained, the area is safe, electricity on light poles, running water, use of massive fireplace, lots of shade, plenty of tables, climbing trees, space for horse shoes and other games."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent campsites near Calabasas Hills are not suitable for larger RVs. At Circle X Ranch Group Campground, a reviewer noted, "The campground itself though is pretty sparse. Pretty easy to get reservations for 10+ people, but the camp sites are in a dirt area with a wooden fence around it."
Early arrival recommended: RV spots with drive-in access fill quickly. One camper at Circle X Ranch shared, "We arrived in the middle of the night: easy parking short walk and easy access to the campground."
Consider alternatives: Smaller vans may find suitable spots at some tent-oriented campgrounds. A visitor to Oak Flat Campground said, "I stayed here as part of my 2 month camping journey through SoCal. Really easy site to find."
