Glamping alternatives near El Nido, California provide luxury camping experiences at several Southern California parks and recreation areas. The region sits near the Santa Monica Mountains with average summer temperatures reaching 85°F and mild winters rarely dropping below 45°F. Tent sites, RV locations and upscale accommodations can be found within a 45-minute drive from El Nido.
What to do
Beach exploration: 3 miles from Malibu Creek State Park Campground: Former movie set grounds offer day hikes with nearby beach access for swimming and water activities. "Campground is beautiful!! Spacious campsites with fire pits, and clean bathrooms. Be aware of the limited hours for entering with a vehicle (8am-10pm)," notes Lizzie C.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple locations around Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground: Walk 10 minutes from campsites to explore tide pools and sea caves. "The best part about this campground is definitely the beach access. The kids loved searching for hermit crabs and sea anemones. Bring a wagon if you're hauling beach gear though," advises Alfred.
Fishing opportunities: Available at most lake parks: Cast for bass and other freshwater species or saltwater fishing at coastal sites. A Dockweiler visitor mentioned, "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."
What campers like
Off-base beach exclusivity: Point Mugu Recreation Facility: Military families enjoy direct ocean access with fewer crowds. "This is probably my favorite beach campground yet! Being on the Military base reduces the number of people trying to get to it. The beach is on the base, and has a protected wetland," explains Danielle P.
Riverside relaxation: Quiet camping alongside natural waterways: Many campsites feature creek or lake access with peaceful water sounds. "We stayed the 1st in a large teepee. It had beds for a total of six people. It was hot in the daytime, and got really cold at night, so we switched to a Glamping tent," reports Christina S.
Shaded sites: Essential for summer glamping in El Nido area: Trees provide critical coverage during hot months at select campgrounds. One Lake Casitas camper noted, "The sites at Bass are relatively large with a good amount of space between sites. We were tucked into a surrounding of trees and a lake view."
What you should know
Military-only access: Some premium locations restricted: Certain beachfront glamping sites require military ID or sponsorship. John C. explains, "This is a wonderful campground right next to the beach however it is only available to the military and their families. The spots are all paved with most having all the hookups."
Seasonal wildlife concerns: Plan accordingly: From aggressive squirrels to roosting peacocks, wildlife interactions vary by location. "There are many beautiful Peafowl, and they can be loud too. They poop everywhere, even on top of our trailer," warns Belinda C. from Ventura Ranch KOA.
Limited swimming access: Check before booking: Not all water features allow swimming, especially at drought-affected lakes. A Castaic Lake visitor complained, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Amenities for kids: Bring extra quarters: Shower tokens cost $1-2 at most campgrounds with timed hot water. "The kids will love it. ZIP Lines, bike track, pool - it also has a labyrinth walking trails. For a KOA it was expensive," notes Steven B.
Activity planning: Schedule around peak usage: Pool areas and water facilities have limited capacity during summer weekends. A Lake Casitas visitor shared, "The water park. You can take a break from the heat and tube down the lazy river. Also there is a disk golf course."
Site selection strategy: Research carefully: Not all glamping sites near El Nido are equal in space or privacy. "We couldn't have been more pleased with the location we chose!! Our space was F-11 and after driving through all of the campgrounds, and there are many, we felt that the Fox site was best suited for us," advises a Lake Casitas Recreation Area camper.
Tips from RVers
Early reservations: Critical for premium spots: Book up to six months ahead for weekend glamping during summer months. A Kenney Grove Park visitor noted, "Well maintained. Some of the sites are a little different with their arrangements. Smaller sites with only 30amp services. Some have full hookups, most don't, and no dump station in the park."
Noise considerations: Check location details: Train tracks and flight paths impact some otherwise peaceful sites. "We stayed in site 128 last week. The campground is tucked away in a beautiful canyon setting with lots of shade trees, which was really nice for keeping cool," reports an Alfred from Leo Carrillo.
Utility variations: Call to confirm hookups: Many glamping facilities near El Nido have varying electrical and water connections. "RV's are allowed as well, but those sites are separate from the tent sites, which is nice too," notes Brian L. from Kenney Grove Park.
