Camping opportunities around Castaic are plentiful in the surrounding Angeles National Forest, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to over 5,000 feet creating diverse camping microclimates. Summer highs regularly exceed 100°F at lower elevations while higher campsites can drop to the low 40s overnight, even in summer months. Many campgrounds near Castaic have limited or no potable water sources, so bringing adequate water supplies is crucial for safety.
What to do
Hike through movie history: Oak Flat Campground offers access to hiking trails with connections to film history. "Quaint and cute little campground nestled in the hills. Spots have picnic and fire pits available, with clean newly updated bathrooms near by. Lots of big boulders and trees on the landscape, providing ample shade and beautiful full trees in the summer," notes one camper at Oak Flat Campground.
Practice archery: Tapo Canyon Park includes a specialized archery range that's open to the public. "The archery range is one of the best in California. There is a members area and the original range is open to the public on Saturdays from 9-1, with a nominal $5 fee," explains a visitor to the park. The facility is highly regarded among archers in Southern California.
Disc golf and horseshoe competitions: Lake Piru Recreation Area offers activities beyond water sports. "The kids loved the disc golf course and horseshoe pit. Nice hiking trails. Its about an hour from LA so its a nice weekend getaway without going to far," mentions a camper at Lake Piru Recreation Area.
What campers like
Quiet weekday experiences: Many campsites near Castaic become significantly less crowded during weekdays. "I was here in November and it was pretty empty except for the weekend. Some people changed their minds about camping as often in California, there is high risk of fire and no campfires or BBQ's were allowed," shares a visitor at Los Alamos Campground at Pyramid Lake.
Clean facilities: Castaic Lake State Recreation Area maintains clean bathrooms and shower facilities. "Hot showers and picnic table available. Just a 1 min walk down the hill to the lake - a perfect place to have my morning coffee! They allowed pets which is awesome. Super quiet, lots of stars, and a beautiful view," explains a camper about their experience.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife. "Deer in site nightly, many movie companies film here at and around the lake. Boating, fishing, disc golf. I spent a couple months here, off season and rarely did I have neighbors except maybe on a weekend. Most of the time it was 90% empty," notes a long-term visitor at Lake Piru Recreation Area.
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary seasonally: Fire regulations at campsites near Castaic change based on conditions. "We were under fire warning all weekend, but faux wood (javalog or duraflame) and charcoal was still allowed. The camphost sold Javalogs, and there were plenty of options at the nearby Albertson's," reports a camper at Malibu Creek State Park Campground.
Adventure Pass requirements: Some campgrounds require special permits. "HEAD UP: You do need an Adventure pass to stay here, available at the 76 gas station near by - $5 a day or $30 for the whole year. FYI NO water available tho, so pack it in and pack it out," warns a visitor to Oak Flat Campground.
Limited cell coverage: Connectivity varies dramatically by carrier. "There is no cell service, unless you are with AT&T, so plan accordingly," mentions a camper at Lake Piru Recreation Area. Many canyon areas have spotty service or none at all.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play spaces: Some campgrounds offer designated areas for children. "There's a playground with an old school merry-go-round within sight of where our spot was. RV's are allowed as well, but those sites are separate from the tent sites, which is nice too," notes a family at Kenney Grove Park.
Consider wildlife encounters: Educate children about local wildlife. "Coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear. If you have a dog with you make sure they don't try join the pack," advises a camper at Malibu Creek State Park Campground.
Pack extra shade: Many campsites lack natural coverage. "There's very little shade though, and if you go on a hot weekend, like we did be prepared to sweat! There is the lake which can be refreshing, but sadly, because of the drought the level was very low," reports a visitor to Lake Piru Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site arrangements vary dramatically: Some RV sites have unusual layouts requiring planning. "The full hook up sites are for Model A's (stayed at 56). So hook ups are on the opposite side and really close to the 'entrance' so we couldnt back in, we had to parking our towing vehicle in the general parking area. We had our small travel trailer and thank God we had a 40 ft sewer hose," explains an RVer at Kenney Grove Park.
Consider size limitations: Many campgrounds have tight restrictions. "For a 43 footer this place is TIGHT. If you have a big rig, prolly not the best idea. But if you have a 28 footer, this place is Six Stars!!!! It has a pool and spa, great dog walking area. Propane and store are on site," advises a visitor to Castaic Lake RV Park.
Extended stay options: Some parks accommodate longer visits. "Weekly/monthly rates. 120 day max per year, seasonal limits. Full hookups at about 10-15 sites and the other 160 Mostly water/electric," notes a long-term camper at Lake Piru Recreation Area.
