Cabin options around Marina del Rey range from rustic forest retreats to beach-adjacent accommodations within a 10-35 mile radius. The coastal influence moderates temperatures with average summer highs rarely exceeding 80°F, while winter lows typically stay above 45°F. Fog can appear suddenly along coastal cabin sites, especially during May and June mornings.
What to do
Hiking trails near cabins: Crystal Lake Recreation Area offers several hiking paths directly from cabin sites, with the main trail leading to a seasonal waterfall. One visitor noted, "Wild life all over the place and a great stream in the wet season through summer. Park in the lot at end of road and walk 200 yards up the the camp sites."
Beach activities: For cabin campers preferring coastal recreation, Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park provides direct beach access from its cabin accommodations. "The beach has less crowds/tourists/homeless compared to other beaches. It's really quite and peaceful," reports one camper about this location just 25 miles from Marina del Rey.
Wildlife viewing: Many cabin locations provide opportunities for animal watching without leaving your site. At Point Mugu Recreation Facility, one reviewer shares that the cabins offer "Great place to go fishing, watch Sea Lions and Birds. Walking my dog on the beach. Watching the sun rise and beautiful sunsets."
Mountain biking: Several cabin sites connect to extensive trail networks. A visitor at Moro Campground notes it has "surfer meets, backpacker meets, mountain biker meets, beach comber meets, just about anything you can think of other than activities that require snow!"
What campers like
Privacy levels: Some cabin rentals offer substantial seclusion despite proximity to urban areas. Camp at the Historic Zorthian Ranch, located 30 miles from Marina del Rey, features cabins spaced far apart on a 45-acre property. Visitors appreciate its "Quaint spot that may or may not be currently open, has beautiful hiking and a small spot for picnic."
Beach proximity: Newport Dunes RV Resort receives high marks for its location. "You can camp with RVs, Trailers, tents, and they also rent out cabins. In the middle of the lagoon they have blow up obstacle in the water to climb on," explains one reviewer about this facility 32 miles southeast of Marina del Rey.
Views from cabins: Many cabins offer memorable vistas despite being close to urban areas. A visitor at TINY TIKI RETRO HIDEAWAY describes it as having "Amazing spot and stunning views," making it worth the 28-mile drive from Marina del Rey.
Accessibility features: Some cabin facilities provide accommodations for guests with mobility needs. A camper at Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon explains, "This is one of the best handicap accessible shower and restroom areas we've seen. The larger pool had a roll in area."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Cabins book quickly, particularly at coastal locations. At Millard Trail Campground, "There's about six campsites and their first come first serve, no reservations. I went during the week and was the only one camping. This place is heavily used for day camping and hiking."
Temperature variations: Despite the coastal proximity, cabin sites can experience significant temperature fluctuations. One visitor warns, "It can get extremely cold at night in the canyons, even if it's in the high 80s during the day. Be prepared."
Terrain challenges: Some cabin sites feature difficult terrain that requires preparation. A camper at Crystal Lake Recreation Area notes, "Most sites have tree coverage," but adds that "Lots of Mosquitoes and bugs" can be an issue during certain times of year.
Quiet hours enforcement: Enforcement of quiet times varies significantly between cabin locations. A visitor at Valencia Travel Village explains, "The people here are so nice, the pool is clean and rarely busy from what we have seen. The shop has everything we have needed."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Valencia Travel Village cabins receive strong ratings from families. "The people here are so nice, the pool is clean and rarely busy from what we have seen. The shop has everything we have needed and the views are gorgeous," reports one family visitor.
Safety considerations: Parents should check trail conditions when staying at cabin locations with hiking access. At Millard Trail Campground, a visitor advises, "About a 20 minute hike and you can end up at a waterfall which is very pretty. But there are several trails to take for hiking and biking and I saw lots of people doing that."
Cabin capacity limits: Family groups should verify cabin sizes, as many accommodate only 4-6 people maximum. According to a guest at Crystal Cove State Park, "Each row of 10 spots is elevated from the previous row (tiered campsites) so everyone gets a semi view."
Entertainment options: Several cabin locations offer planned activities for children. A visitor to Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon mentions, "The only good thing was the Saturday activities. However if you have older kids forget it! The activities are for ages 5-7 maybe!"
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon allows both cabin and RV camping but requires planning. One visitor advises, "Road to resort is windy and narrow but easily manageable with larger RVs. The town of Acton is small rural town with a few stores."
Weather preparedness: RVers staying in cabins should prepare for coastal conditions. A camper notes, "The area appears to be a flash flood area with heavy rains. We enjoyed our stay and mainly used it as a base camp to explore/sight see LA."
Off-season benefits: Several cabin rental locations offer significant advantages during non-peak times. "If you go off peak it is very nice and quiet. Stay in the back side of the park as a rail line runs in front of the front side of the park," suggests one experienced RVer.
