Urban camping options near Culver City range from beachfront locations to canyon sites within 30 miles. Elevations vary from sea level at beach campgrounds to over 1,000 feet in the Santa Monica Mountains, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F at coastal sites and 85-95°F inland. Most campgrounds require advance booking, with reservations often needed 6 months ahead for summer weekends.
What to do
Beach activities at Dockweiler Beach RV Park: Located directly on the beach with dedicated fire rings for evening gatherings. "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," notes Prince C. The park sits alongside a bike path extending for miles in both directions.
Hiking at Malibu Creek State Park Campground: Former movie set with multiple trail options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. "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 Ryan W.
Tide pool exploration at Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground: Located about a 10-minute walk from most campsites. "The best part about this campground is definitely the beach access, 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.
What campers like
Sunset views at Malibu Beach RV Park: Situated on bluffs overlooking the Pacific. "We had a great spot overlooking the bay. Every spot has a great view of the Pacific Ocean from high upon a cliff," says Carl R. The park features a communal area along the cliff edge for evening relaxation.
Urban convenience at Hollywood RV Park: Themed streets with murals and artistic elements throughout. "Every street is themed with murals and art everywhere! The site size depends on where you are in the park. We were lucky and got a middle spot with wonderful shade trees," reports Clean Slate D., who adds, "It's quiet at night. Just the white noise hum of the city and crickets."
Secluded camping at Musch Trail Camp — Topanga State Park: Hike-in site located one mile from Trippet Ranch parking lot. "It's an easy hike and very quiet. Nice views during the day," notes Andrea A. The campground features running water for toilets and hand washing, which campers find unexpectedly convenient for a trail camp.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Most campgrounds have partial or complete fire bans, especially during summer and fall. At Malibu Creek State Park, "the campground was under fire warning all weekend, but faux wood (javalog or duraflame) and charcoal was still allowed. The camphost sold Javalogs," reports Ryan W.
Aircraft noise at Dockweiler Beach RV Park: Constant air traffic from nearby LAX. "We loved this spot next to the beach. We got used to the planes, but they are certainly jarring at first," says Tyler G. The dry camping area tends to be quieter: "We had a dry campsite a bit further from the airport, so the plane noise was much less," notes Prince C.
Cell service varies by location: Signal strength depends on terrain and proximity to urban areas. At Malibu Creek State Park, visitors report "decent cell coverage," while coastal sites generally offer better connectivity than canyon locations.
Car security concerns at trail camps: At Millard Trail Campground, "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," warns Mathew H.
Tips for camping with families
Bring a wagon for beach gear: Canyon Campground at Leo Carrillo State Park requires a 10-minute walk to reach the beach. "Bring a wagon if you're hauling beach gear though, as the walk can feel long with all your stuff," suggests Alfred.
Choose weekdays for quieter experience: Most campgrounds fill quickly on weekends. "During a holiday weekend the trails were fairly busy with day-use hikers, but even then, it was easy to get away and be on trails alone if you wanted," notes Ryan W. about Malibu Creek State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer animal sightings. At Millard Trail Campground, "There is a stream that runs through the campground which makes it very pretty. About a 20 minute hike and you can end up at a waterfall which is very pretty," reports jonnysunami, making it suitable for families with children interested in nature.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many RV parks have restrictions on larger rigs. Hollywood RV Park uses "a cart to park you" because "the spaces are so close together," notes Donna H., who adds that most residents are long-term.
Expect urban parking conditions: Even at premium locations, RV sites tend to be compact. At Malibu Beach RV Park, Tim Z. notes, "Every spot has a great view of the Pacific Ocean from high upon a cliff!" but space is limited compared to rural campgrounds.
Book utilities according to needs: At Golden Shore RV Resort in Long Beach, "RV Park that is kept very clean. Spots are close together unless you end up with a larger spot," notes Anna, highlighting the importance of requesting specific spaces when available.
