Best Campgrounds near Los Angeles, CA

Camping near Los Angeles offers a fantastic escape from the city hustle, with beautiful landscapes and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a beachside retreat or a mountain getaway, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

• Beach Camping: Enjoy the sun and surf at Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park. Campers love the beachfront spots, with one reviewer saying, "Really a special spot. Not crowded and a place you can rarely camp beachfront in Southern California."
• Hiking: Explore trails at Malibu Creek State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Nice, small campground with hiking trails easily accessible," making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Fishing and Boating: Head to Bonelli Bluffs for a day on the water. A camper noted, "The park clean and well maintained, personnel very kind and friendly," perfect for a family outing.

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views at Malibu Beach RV Park. One guest said, "Every spot has a great view of the Pacific Ocean from high upon a cliff!"
• Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness at Bonelli Bluffs. A reviewer stated, "Possibly the cleanest public bathroom I've ever seen," which is a big plus for families.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness at Buckhorn Campground. One visitor shared, "Although hot during the day, it was the getaway we needed," highlighting the campground's serene environment.

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: At Thornhill Broome Beach, there are no water hookups or dump stations. A camper mentioned, "Loved the quietness of this campsite. No water, no dump station," so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
• Crowded Weekends: Many campgrounds, like Bonelli Bluffs, can get busy on weekends. One reviewer noted, "Crowded on weekend, much less during the week," so consider visiting during the week for a quieter experience.
• Wildlife Encounters: Be aware of wildlife, especially at Chilao Campground. A camper shared, "We have been encountered by a bear once at night," so keep food secured and be cautious.

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby beaches or lakes, like Thornhill Broome Beach. One family enjoyed, "Cooked on the beach and enjoyed throwing rocks into the ocean!"
• Space for Kids to Play: Choose campgrounds with open areas, such as Malibu Creek State Park Campground. A visitor mentioned, "Nice short walk to the beach where dogs are welcome," which is great for family outings.
• Plan for Limited Internet: Many campgrounds, like Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park, have spotty cell service. One camper noted, "No wifi or data," so bring games or books to keep the kids entertained.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site, especially at places like Sycamore Canyon Campground. A reviewer said, "The spaces are pretty small, so they are not meant for large RVs."
• Bring Your Own Firewood: Some campgrounds, like Bonelli Bluffs, don’t provide firewood. One camper mentioned, "NO firewood," so stock up before you arrive.
• Expect Noise on Weekends: If you're camping at popular spots like Malibu Beach RV Park, be ready for noise. A visitor noted, "Do not expect any quiet on the weekends," so plan accordingly.

Camping near Los Angeles offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, with plenty of options to suit every camper's needs. Whether you're in an RV or pitching a tent, there's a perfect spot waiting for you.