Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Llano, CA has a lot to offer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Llano, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
$30 - $500 / night
"If you have a chance after - drive the whole Angeles crest highway! Worth the trouble. You are also located close to the PCT, take a hike!"
"We got a campsite that was on the outside of the loop. We were in Cherokee loop in campsite #87."
"We’ve done Crystal Lake probably 6 dozen times or more in our time in California and it never disappoints on the spectacular views."
"Whenever I need to get away from LALA Land, I head up here. I grew up in the mountains of western Pennsylvania, so , sometimes , I need to kick back and recharge."
$12 / night
"Beautiful trails near by, next to a stream, gorgeous views, and of course that mountain air! Trees are perfect for hammocks."
"It is set back from the road a little giving you a quieter experience away from the 2. This would be a good first car camping spot for families with young children."
"We left LA (Hollywood) on a Friday afternoon around 3, and were setting up camp by 5! Luckily a friend got to the campground before us though, as he snagged the last of the 20 or so sites there."
"Coldbrooke is a excellent campground that is relatively close to the city. The camp host was super helpful in explaining the fire restrictions and overall questions."
$100 / night
"Really close to the California Poppy preserve. Good times, clear skies."
"I'm quite certain the hiking here is very nice, but I wouldn't know as I was traveling with my dog and unfortunately the California State Park system hates dogs and doesn't allow them on trails. "
"The drive to the campsite is pretty rough but doable. It’s very close to a good stream of of water. There are fire pits in some spots just get there early to get a good spot."
"First come first serve, short drive from OC making it a nice option for a spontaneous getaway. Sites are pretty close to each other and you can hear some road noise from the 38."
$12 / night
"Campground We had been driving around the campground loops for more than an hour, and had just about given up, when we say the sign for overflow camping near the exit of the Chilao campground loop"
"Great spot to get away from the big city being only a 45min drive from the Downtown, couldn’t ask for more"
"This campsite is located in California and is one of my favorites."
"I hiked in while doing the Pacific crest trail from the south. great campground with bear lockers and many sites, also nearby spots along the pct. a short walk from little jimmy spring, where you can get"
"OKAY... seriously this one of the best campgrounds near Los Angeles. My ultimate go to spot for an overnight camping trip."
"We were told that the water pumps were off but actually managed to camp right next to the one that was working. The bathrooms were super clean too!"
$30 / night
"With the desire of getting out of Orange County, Lake Campground was a perfect destination that was not far and yet it put you in touch with solitude."
"The Area was beautiful, but it was also close to the road, so at night, it was fantastic, but in the day, you could hear the cars going by."
ScoutThis campsite is absolutely breathtaking. We arrived late on a Friday night and all of the designated spots were taken, but there are places you can pull off to the side and camp. The road in is about 1.5mi of washboard, but it's completely doable (our rented front wheel drive campervan had no issues). Wish we would've spent more time here!
RangerIf you are into ORV riding then this is your place. Tucked right off the freeway it is easy to find and not to much noise from the main highway. It is HUGE. Tons of room to spread out. It is not at all level but if you drive around you can find a spot that will work. If you don’t like dust think twice before coming. The ORV stir up a lot and are very noisy even into the late evening. We enjoyed watching the ORV racing up the hill and all around the park especially at night when they have all the fun lit antennas. There is a vault toilet toward the back of the entrance.
GuideSpent some time at Sawtooth Canyon Campground near Barstow, California, and wow—this spot is spectacular. The BLM offers 13 free, first-come-first-served sites nestled against dramatic rock formations. 🌵 Sunsets glow across the cliffs 🌅, and the moonrise over the rocks is unforgettable 🌕🔥.
The access road is washboarded, so take it slow 🚙💨. Once you’re there, it’s peaceful and wide open. Each site has a picnic table 🪑, fire ring 🔥, and vault toilets 🚻. Plenty of space for trailers and rigs 🚐, and the night sky is breathtaking 🌌.
If you’re passing through Barstow and want a quiet, beautiful free camping spot, Sawtooth Canyon is absolutely worth it.
ScoutWe chose Bonelli for our shakedown trip in our new trailer (first time RVers). SO quiet. Numerous residents, but spots are mostly keep up nicely. Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking(!) and full hookups. We will be back for sure, especially since it's less than an hour from home.
ScoutSites are nice, there is potable water and toilets BUT there is also a OHV staging area directly across from the campsites. The occasional dirt bike is fine right? So I thought. There was a group of 20+ people partying and playing corridos so loud I couldn’t fall asleep. They had a side by side with large speakers facing the campsite :/ I wouldn’t be annoyed if it was free but I paid $30 to camp and the camp host said this is their turf and there is nothing he can do.
GuideMonte Cristo is a nice campground not far from home. My husband and I visited this campsite for the first time just for one night. There was a fire restriction. No bonfires, no cooking on stoves and there was no water due to a leak. The bathroom that I was using I give it a 2 star.
ScoutI’ve camped at the Keller Peak yellow post sites more than two dozen times over the years and, at their best, they’re incredible. The scenery and isolation are superb—starry skies, quiet nights, and that deep-woods stillness that’s getting harder to find. For years this was my go-to spot.
Unfortunately, I’ve also watched trash and waste increase. Please, pack it out—these sites only stay special if we treat them with care.
My last trip was frightening enough that I haven’t returned. Late at night a group of locals came to the edge of my site, yelling and using threatening language. They assumed I was homeless despite my SUV and proper camping setup. I was using a portable propane fire pit—which is allowed—and I calmly explained that. I can understand why fire is an issue to locals. I only felt safe because my small dog has a very loud bark, which kept them from coming closer. They said they were calling a ranger. I left the next morning, shaken. On my way out, I spoke with a park ranger who confirmed propane fire pits are permitted and told me they don’t patrol up there at night because of recurring issues like this. She also mentioned they were trying to move the site to a reservation system to deter homeless use; I’m not sure if that has happened yet.
It’s a shame, because this area is one of the best around. I’m sharing this so others can make an informed choice.
Pros - Spectacular views and true solitude Cool nights, dark skies, classic forest feel
Cons - Rising litter and human waste Nighttime safety concerns due to occasional rowdy visitors Limited ranger presence after dark
I hope increased stewardship and enforcement can restore the magic here.
GuideThis spot isn't anything special, but desert camping under the stars is never a bad time. Once the wind settled in the evening, I made some tea and read a book. I saw a shooting star when I laid down in my tent. I really could not have asked for a better nights rest. There is a vault toilet and some rock fire pits scattered around the area. I was there on a Wednesday, didn't see another soul except for the couple that pulled off the highway for a quicky, LOL! The highway isn't too far but the noise is pretty minimal. It was pretty sandy, but not too bad for a street motorcycle
GuideHandy stop for water & dump! $2 bucks for water & $5 bucks for the dump
Camping near Llano, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Llano, California, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Llano, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Llano, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 188 campgrounds and RV parks near Llano, CA and 10 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Llano, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Llano, CA is Table Mountain Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 21 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Llano, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Llano, CA.
What parks are near Llano, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 parks near Llano, CA that allow camping, notably Angeles National Forest and Mojave River Dam.
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