Dispersed camping near Marina del Rey typically requires traveling to Angeles National Forest, with most sites located 25-40 miles northeast. These primitive camping areas operate under variable forest regulations that change seasonally based on fire danger, weather conditions, and forest management policies. During extreme fire danger periods, camping may be restricted entirely regardless of what information appears online.
What to do
Explore dog-friendly areas: Near the Angeles Crest Overlook, some pullouts connect to trails suitable for pets. "If you have dogs I would recommend the trail pull off my dogs really enjoyed the hike," shares Nicole D. about the Angeles Crest Overlook to LA area.
Visit waterfalls: The Santa Paula Canyon trail leads to the "punch bowls" waterfall area from Big Cone Camp. Depending on seasonal conditions, some sections feature natural water slides and cliff jumping opportunities. The hike passes through Thomas Aquinas College property, horse pastures, and oil fields before reaching the canyon.
Watch sunrise: Multiple overlook areas along Angeles Crest Highway provide views of the valley and city skyline. "The view is gorgeous in the morning sunrise!" notes Valerie about the overlooks, which attract both overnight campers and visitors stopping briefly throughout the evening.
What campers like
Convenient urban access: Free camping near Marina del Rey is limited but some locations provide proximity to urban areas while still offering forest views. "It's hard to find free places to sleep with a great view like that when traveling through cities," mentions Valerie about Angeles Crest Overlook to LA.
Budget-friendly overnight stops: Hare School Park offers overnight parking suitable for vehicle campers and RVs without formal fees or reservations. "You can overnight park here with your RV without problems," states Julia G., making this a practical option for travelers needing a place to stop without committing to formal campground fees.
Dark sky viewing: Some pullouts along Angeles Crest Highway provide decent nighttime sky viewing conditions despite proximity to the city. "Dark, fairly quiet, good view! I loved car camping here!" reports Jaydon C., though noting cell service can be inconsistent depending on carrier and exact location.
What you should know
Vehicle security concerns: Reports indicate some safety issues at roadside pullouts. "Be careful though there's a white van that teams up with a black truck they tried to break in my car while I was sleeping. It is very dangerous," warns Joseph R. about certain areas along Angeles Crest Highway.
Non-traditional sites: Many locations listed as dispersed camping are actually parking lots, roadside pullouts, or overflow areas rather than designated campgrounds. "It is not a real campground, just a the parking area of a view point," explains Iris A., noting these areas often have traffic throughout the night.
Forest order verification: Forest regulations change frequently based on conditions. "Camping outside established campgrounds within the Angeles National Forest is sometimes prohibited, you have to be on top of reading recently published orders," advises Les R. about Heaton Flats, recommending checking the official Angeles National Forest alerts page before planning a trip.
Tips for camping with families
Choose appropriate hikes: Some dispersed camping areas like Big Cone Camp require hiking but are manageable for families with children. "It is one of my favorite spots simply because it is close and when my kids were young it was a fairly easy hike to get to, and there's a nice reward when you get there," shares robherr about Big Cone Camp.
Limit roadside camping with children: Angeles Crest Highway pullouts experience nighttime traffic and activity that may be disruptive for families. "Cars did flow in and out occasionally through the night until around midnight," mentions Valerie, while other reviewers note more concerning nighttime activities including cars performing donuts in parking areas.
Pack adequate water: No reliable water sources exist at most dispersed sites near Marina del Rey, necessitating bringing sufficient water supplies for the duration of your stay, especially when traveling with children during warm weather months when dehydration risks increase.
Tips from RVers
School parking lots: Some school parking areas permit overnight RV parking. "I've been here for a couple days and nobody's mess with us. There's other people that are staying in another parking lot attached that are homeless in their vehicles mostly cars and vans. I'm in a 25 foot Fleetwood RV," reports ROCKSTAR C. about Hare School Park.
Size limitations: Most dispersed areas around Marina del Rey accommodate only smaller vehicles. No pullouts or parking areas readily accommodate trailers or large motorhomes over 25 feet, and backing up on narrow mountain roads presents significant hazards.
Limited amenities: No dispersed camping areas near Marina del Rey provide hookups, dump stations, or potable water. RVers must arrive self-contained and prepared to manage waste appropriately, with sufficient fresh water and empty waste tanks before arrival.
