Dispersed camping near Calabasas, California requires navigating a patchwork of regulations across multiple public land areas. At elevations ranging from 800 to 3,500 feet, these sites experience significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. Most dispersed sites in the region require campers to pack out all trash and practice strict fire safety protocols during high-risk seasons.
What to do
Hiking access: The Big Cone Camp in Santa Paula Canyon offers primitive camping with trail access to natural water features. "This is a fairly easy hike through what would not be considered a typical hike. It starts off going through Thomas Aquinas College, winding through horse property and oil fields, before finally opening up into Santa Paula Canyon," notes reviewer robherr of Big Cone Camp - Santa Paula Canyon.
Dog exercise areas: Some parking areas near Calabasas allow overnight vehicle camping with pet-friendly spaces. A camper at Hare School Park reports, "There's a dog park kind of area with a big field they can run around and just clean up after them. There's no public bathrooms, but there are trash cans so clean up after yourself please."
Sunset viewing: Several roadside pull-offs in the Angeles National Forest provide city skyline views. "The view is gorgeous in the morning sunrise! That being said, it did seem like maybe a teen hangout or something - cars did flow in and out occasionally through the night until around midnight," explains Valerie about her experience at one overlook.
What campers like
Free overnight parking: Vehicle campers appreciate the accessibility of certain spots near Calabasas. Julia G. confirms, "You can overnight park here with your RV without problems," regarding Hare School Park, demonstrating the availability of free camping near Calabasas for those in self-contained vehicles.
Natural swimming spots: The hiking trails near some primitive campsites lead to seasonal water features. At Big Cone Camp - Santa Paula Canyon, "From Big Cone Camp you can easily reach the waterfalls and pools that make this area known as the 'punch bowls'. Depending on weather and water conditions there are some nice water rock slides, and a few pools you can jump from the cliffs into."
Dark skies: Despite proximity to urban areas, some dispersed sites offer minimal light pollution. Jaydon C. reports about his experience at Angeles Crest Overlook to LA, "I loved car camping here! When I stayed, there were no other people who stayed the night, but quite a few people came throughout the night just for 20 minutes at a time or so. Wasn't too noisy at all."
What you should know
Restricted camping zones: Not all public lands near Calabasas permit dispersed camping. Paul O. warns about Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp, "There is a nice hike-in campsite about 1.5 miles up the Chorro Grande trail called Oak Camp. I think the other review here might be unintentionally implying that camping along the 33 is allowed. It isn't."
Vehicle security concerns: Some roadside areas experience nighttime activity that may disturb campers. Joseph R. cautions, "It's basically car camping along the Angeles Crest highway, there's small pull out spots and, some spots overlooking the forest but kids do tend to party up here and, drive about 100 miles a hour up and, down the road all hours of the night."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping around Calabasas provides minimal to no amenities. Iris A. notes about one location, "There are no toilets, campfire sites or shade but good cell service." Free camping opportunities near Calabasas require self-sufficiency and proper waste management.
Tips for camping with families
Trail selection: For families with children, certain hiking routes offer more manageable terrain. One camper shares about Santa Paula Canyon, "It is one of my favorite spots simply because it is close and when my kids were young it was a fairly easy hike to get to, and there's a nice reward when you get there."
Alternative camping options: Families seeking more facilities might prefer established campgrounds over dispersed sites. Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area offers Cottonwood Campground with basic amenities including picnic tables and trash collection, though it's partially closed at times.
Safety awareness: Parents should research each location carefully before bringing children. Nicole D. advises about one area, "If you have dogs I would recommend the trail pull off my dogs really enjoyed the hike," suggesting that certain locations may be better suited for families with pets than others.
Tips from RVers
Parking lot options: RV campers have identified several parking areas suitable for overnight stays. ROCKSTAR C. describes their experience: "I've been here for a couple days and nobody's mess with us. There's other people that are staying in another parking lot attached that are homeless in their vehicles mostly cars and vans. I'm in a 25 foot Fleetwood RV."
Vehicle limitations: Many roadside dispersed camping options are suitable only for smaller vehicles. Andrew S. clarifies about one location, "This is literally just a roadside pull-off. Only really useful in a pinch. No space for a tent. Sleep in your vehicle."
Weather considerations: Wind exposure affects comfort in high-elevation dispersed sites. One review of Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness warns, "Situated high on a bluff it gets lots of wind, and with very little shelter around to break it, if you camp here you will get the brunt of it."
