Tent campsites near Marina del Rey, California range from free hike-in sites to reservable locations with basic amenities. Most are situated in the San Gabriel Mountains between 2,000-5,500 feet elevation, with seasonal creek access and variable fire regulations depending on drought conditions. Campgrounds typically require 30-90 minute drives from Marina del Rey followed by hikes ranging from 1-8 miles.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: From Millard Trail Campground, take the half-mile trail to Millard Falls. A reviewer notes, "There is a stream that flows close to the campground and there are toilets (no water)" adding that "the waterfall is 30 minutes hike upstream."
Overnight skill-building: Bear Canyon Campground offers a chance to practice wilderness skills in a manageable setting. According to a camper, "Three fire pits, dig your own commode, lots of water year round, but little wood. Expect to forage far if you want a fire."
Multi-day loop trails: Mount Lowe Trail Campground serves as an excellent basecamp for extended hiking. "You can get here multiple ways but once you do it's totally worth it. Secluded campground with toilets, fire pits & many info plaques with photos from the old tavern on site," explains one visitor.
Creek exploration: Several camping areas feature seasonal water access. At Valley Forge Trail Camp, "In April the creek was full, with several creek crossings on the hike and crisp, fresh water along the campsite that contribute to a beautifully green owasis of a meadow."
What campers like
Night solitude: Many campsites offer genuine quiet after dark, with one visitor to Mount Lowe Trail Campground noting, "It was eerily quiet at night. We were the only ones there and can hear our own hearbeats laying there."
First-time backpacking: Valley Forge Trail Camp makes an excellent introduction to overnight hiking. As one camper reported, "Took some friends for their first ever backpacking trip, great intro to the 'experience.' Trail camp is in the canyon so it's an easy 3.5 mile hike in, but a tough hike out."
Filtered water options: Most sites near creeks allow for water filtration rather than carrying all your water. At Gould Mesa Trail Campground, "Running stream at site so no need to bring a lot of water, just a filtration system and a jug."
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds throughout the region offer wildlife spotting opportunities. At Antfarm LA, a camper shared, "I did see my first rattlesnake and heard the coyotes at night. Very peaceful spot for a long weekend."
What you should know
Vehicle security concerns: At Millard Trail Campground, car break-ins can occur. One camper warns, "Make sure to leave your car doors unlocked, and nothing of value inside. You'd rather have someone root through your car and walk away empty handed than have a window broken and items stolen."
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by location and season. At Musch Trail Camp, "FIRES ARE NOT ALLOWED," while at Hoegees Trail Camp Campground, "You can get a free fire permit from the pack station."
Day-use traffic: Many camping areas double as popular day hiking destinations. A camper at Millard Trail noted, "You can't really be isolated or have privacy even though it is a campground. People come here to hike into the trails to the waterfall."
Limited cell service: Most locations have spotty coverage at best. A visitor to Musch Trail Camp reported, "There is limited cell service at the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Short introduction hikes: Gould Mesa Trail Campground offers family-friendly introduction to backpacking. One visitor explains it's "perfect for a one nighter or to backpack in with the kiddos. It's around 2 miles to camp on a leveled surface with a few stream crossings."
Clean facilities: Unexpected amenities can be found at certain campgrounds. At Musch Trail Camp, a visitor was pleasantly surprised: "Did not expect the bathrooms to be very clean. They have running water to flush the toilets, and to wash your hands."
Teaching opportunities: Valley Forge Trail Camp serves as an outdoor classroom. "Great intro to the 'experience.' Trail camp is in the canyon so it's an easy 3.5 mile hike in, but a tough hike out of the canyon."
Nearby attractions: Most campgrounds are within reasonable distance of other activities. At Hoegees Trail Camp Campground, "Finish your hike with burgers from the pack station they really hit the spot!"
Tips from RVers
Alternative accommodations: Since most tent campsites near Marina del Rey require hiking, RV campers should look for nearby alternatives. At Sage Ranch, managed by a conservancy organization, "it is open for day use ($5 parking) and reserveable for camping."
Cabin options: Several camping areas offer cabin rentals for those seeking more shelter. At Antfarm LA, "It's a spot where you can truly be away. We spent 5 days and didn't really see a soul. If you like to read, enjoy sunsets, exercise and travel to local spots of interest or just stay put."
Roadside accessibility: Vehicle access varies widely between campgrounds. For Millard Trail Campground, "Parking is about 150 yards away, down a hill, so be prepared to haul your gear. The campground is situated at a popular trailhead."
