Los Angeles camping options span from sea level beach sites to mountain retreats at elevations up to 7,000 feet in Angeles National Forest. Weather conditions remain mild year-round with summer highs reaching 90°F in inland areas and winter temperatures rarely dropping below 40°F at most campgrounds. Many locations accommodate both tent and RV camping, with notable variations in site privacy and noise levels.
What to do
Beach exploration: 15 minutes from Point Mugu State Park where hiking and swimming combine for perfect day trips. "Camping, hiking, animal watching, fishing, room enough to throw a frisbee or play catch" notes reviewer Bradly W., highlighting diverse activities in one location.
Mountain biking: Miles of trails accessible from Malibu Creek State Park Campground with routes suitable for beginners and advanced riders. "You can road bike up to the famous roadside seafood, or out to agoura on mtn bike through the canyon trail," explains one reviewer who appreciated the connectivity between destinations.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime viewing hours at various locations. "The wildlife is abundant. There is plenty of birdwatching, and coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear... I came across a pair of bobcats—mom and cub—making their way to a running creek," reports Ryan W. after visiting Malibu Creek.
What campers like
Urban convenience with natural surroundings: Golden Shore RV Resort provides proximity to city amenities while maintaining a natural feel. "Clean, comfortable sites near Long Beach Marina and downtown. Good biking, walking lanes. Pool & jacuzzi are nice," writes Denise P., appreciating the balance between urban access and outdoor recreation.
Ocean views and sounds: The coastal campgrounds earn high praise for their sensory experiences. "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," shares Prince C. from Dockweiler Beach, highlighting the immersive oceanfront experience.
Fire rings for evening gatherings: Where allowed, campfire areas become social hubs. "Campgrounds are pretty standard, but they are spacious and have some privacy from neighboring sites. They come with a picnic table and there are coin-operated showers nearby," explains one camper who found the balance of privacy and amenities satisfactory.
What you should know
Airport noise affects some locations: Several campgrounds experience aircraft noise, particularly Dockweiler Beach RV Park. "You will hear each and every of the planes taking off from LAX, but at one point you don't hear them anymore. It was not really annoying, but that flight at 5a was..." mentions Ignasi M., suggesting noise adaptation happens quickly.
Reservation requirements vary seasonally: Summer weekends require bookings 3-6 months in advance at popular sites. "It's a beautiful spot with ocean view. It's also near Santa Monica and Venice beach. Space is big enough for a bigger RV," reports Mara C., indicating the popularity justifies planning ahead.
Fire restrictions change frequently: Many areas implement strict fire rules during dry seasons. "The campground was 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," advises a camper regarding adaptable solutions.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with bathroom access: Locations with flush toilets simplify family camping. "Campground is beautiful!! Spacious campsites with fire pits, and clean bathrooms (bring your own hand soap). Be aware of the limited hours for entering with a vehicle (8am-10pm)," advises Lizzie C. about facilities at Leo Carrillo State Park Campground.
Consider weather impacts: Summer heat affects comfort at some locations. "I came here during the summer and it was extremely HOT. Typically during the summer season, I like to find campgrounds that have a lot of lush trees so we can be under the canopies and stay cool," warns Chanel C., suggesting spring or fall visits offer more comfortable conditions.
Plan for wildlife encounters: Prepare children for seeing local fauna. "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," cautions a visitor, emphasizing the need for animal awareness with families.
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations affect site selection: Bonelli Bluffs offers varying site dimensions. "A little pricey but very nice facility. All hookups 30/50 amp. Cable TV. There's a pool. A tent area. Some spaces monumentally better than others," notes Dennis B., highlighting the importance of researching specific sites before booking.
Site selection priorities: Ocean view sites command premium prices but deliver memorable experiences. "We had a Mountain View site but you can still enjoy the view on the ocean. The parking is a challenge when the park is busy," explains Christian D., suggesting compromise options for budget-conscious travelers.
Full-hookup availability varies: Dog friendly campgrounds near Los Angeles offer different utility options. "We stayed in site 59 which had a really nice shade tree and great views of a meadow and the cliffs out the back of the site. The sites are fairly open and close to each other, so be prepared to hear everything," advises Ryan W., noting proximity considerations for pet owners.
