Glamping near Lancaster, California provides access to both desert landscapes and mountain retreats within Angeles National Forest. Most glamping sites sit at elevations between 2,500-6,000 feet, offering temperature variations of up to 30°F cooler than Lancaster proper during summer months. Water restrictions are common throughout the area, with most facilities requiring conservation measures during peak season.
What to do
Hiking on desert trails: Near Castaic Lake State Recreation Area, visitors can explore multiple trail options with lake views. "Hardly anyone there when I went in March and felt like I had the place to myself! Just a 1 min walk down the hill to the lake - a perfect place to have my morning coffee!" noted Heather L.
Wildlife viewing: The desert landscape offers chances to spot native animals. At Little pine campground, campers often see wildlife on nearby trails. "Love this place. Makes you feel like you're on top of the world. This place is about 1 hour from Glendale," reports Jessica P., who recommends checking the information board at the entrance for wildlife alerts.
Star watching: The desert's clear skies make for excellent night viewing. "This spot has some amazing view areas to hike to and the stars at night are the best I have seen," shared a visitor about glamping options at higher elevations where light pollution is minimal.
What campers like
Desert temperature variations: The area's climate shifts dramatically between day and night. At Tehachapi Mountain Park, campers appreciate the cooler temperatures. "It was 100 in Mojave and 70 in the TMP. Gorgeous tall evergreens and some larger oaks, a few might be old growth," notes Shannon O.
Privacy options: Some sites offer more secluded glamping experiences. "Site #13 feels more secluded than other sites on the campground. Only problem was it's on a slope. Not perfectly flat. There is a clearing about 30 feet out but feels far from the firepit," reports Andres P. about Little pine campground.
Site amenities: Soledad Canyon RV and Camping Resort features recently upgraded facilities. "Park is a large TT resort with recently remolded lodge in 2019. Great place to stay if you are a TT member," writes Tyler V., noting its convenience to Los Angeles attractions.
What you should know
Train noise: Several glamping locations near Lancaster have railway lines nearby. "Very very close to railroad tracks and at night the loud train kept waking us up. The sites are dirt so be prepared to get lots of fine dessert dirt in the camper," warns Elizabeth C. about Soledad Canyon.
Service limitations: Cell coverage varies widely. "No WIFI and reception for Verizon was hit or miss," reports Keisha D. about a glamping stay near Lancaster. Higher elevation sites typically have better connectivity.
Water availability: Water sources can be unreliable. At West Fork Trail Campground, "You do have to hike out your own water or filter from the stream," explains David F., highlighting the importance of bringing sufficient water supplies.
Flash flood awareness: Some areas show evidence of previous flooding. "The area appears to be a flash flood area with heavy rains," notes one reviewer about camping facilities near Acton.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access planning: Bonelli Bluffs offers water recreation options for families. "We enjoyed the lake, the view, the weather... will definitely be returning you can stay for 20 days and then you have to leave for 60 days," says Sara H., recommending advance reservations during summer months.
Kid-friendly hikes: Look for shorter trails with natural features. "There is a nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups," recommends Tom P., noting that weekends get very busy.
Bathroom facilities: Campgrounds vary widely in facilities. "This is one of the best handicap accessible shower and restroom areas we've seen. The larger pool had a roll in area," reports Lara O. about Soledad Canyon, though she cautions that handicap-accessible locations aren't guaranteed.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For larger rigs, carefully research site options. "We started driving around to find the best site for our rig. We're a 32ft class A w/20ft enclosed cargo trailer tow. So, all in all about 55ft. Well, that wasn't easy," cautions one RVer about navigating camping options near Lancaster.
Leveling preparations: Many sites require leveling equipment. "Not perfectly flat," notes a camper about sites at Little pine campground, suggesting bringing leveling blocks.
Dust protection: The desert environment creates dusty conditions. "The sites are dirt so be prepared to get lots of fine dessert dirt in the camper," advises Elizabeth C., recommending keeping windows closed during windy conditions.
