Best Tent Camping near Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

Catalina Island offers the closest tent camping options to Rancho Palos Verdes, California, with several established tent-only campgrounds accessible by ferry and hiking trails. Two Harbors Campground and Parsons Landing Campground provide walk-in tent sites with ocean views, while Little Harbor Campground features beachside tent camping with basic amenities. Black Jack Campground, situated at higher elevation on Catalina Island, offers tent campers a different perspective with mountain views rather than oceanfront settings. Mainland options include Musch Trail Camp in Topanga State Park, approximately 25 miles north of Rancho Palos Verdes.

Most tent campgrounds near Rancho Palos Verdes require advance planning for transportation and site reservations. Catalina Island campgrounds typically provide flat, designated tent pads with picnic tables and food storage boxes. Water availability varies significantly between locations, with some sites requiring campers to purchase water in advance or filter from natural sources. Vault toilets are standard at most primitive tent sites, though shower facilities are limited. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly at coastal tent sites where wind protection becomes essential. Food storage is critical at all locations due to persistent wildlife, particularly birds and small mammals that target unattended supplies.

Tent campers frequently comment on the unique coastal camping experience available on Catalina Island. According to reviews, Parsons Landing offers "a sandy beach with waves crashing on the shore" and only eight tent sites, making advance reservations essential. One visitor noted that "the birds there are relentless and will poke holes in everything including water jugs if you turn your back for even a second." At Black Jack Campground, campers should be prepared for wildlife encounters, as "bison frequent the area so give them their space." Walk-in tent sites at Musch Trail Camp provide an accessible backcountry experience with just a one-mile hike from the parking area. The primitive tent camping options throughout the region offer varying levels of seclusion, with midweek visits typically providing the quietest experience for tent campers seeking solitude.

Best Tent Sites Near Rancho Palos Verdes, California (38)

    1. Two Harbors Campground

    10 Reviews
    Two Harbors, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 778-1487

    "I am glad we pitched in a tent instead of paying for the high price hotels in town. The campground have toilets, running water, and showers."

    "We took the ferry to two harbors and walked up all of our gear to the site."

    2. Parsons Landing Campground

    5 Reviews
    Two Harbors, CA
    23 miles
    Website

    "Sites have rocks stacked up as a wind shield, it really helps! You’ll also have a picnic table, food storage box, and a fire pit. Vault toilets are available."

    "This is the final campgound on the Trans Catalina Trail and one of my favorites."

    3. Little Harbor Campground

    8 Reviews
    Two Harbors, CA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (310) 510-4205

    "If you’re backpacking through here, I highly recommend you stay the night. A camp site includes potable water, fire pit, picnic table, food storage box. Everything you need. Porta potties available."

    "If you’re backpacking the Trans-Catalina trail, this is one of the best spots. Great views of the sunset, spaced out campsites with water spouts at each one and a 6 mile hike from airport in the sky."

    4. Black Jack Campground

    8 Reviews
    Avalon, CA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (310) 510-8368

    "Great campground that is very accessible to the trans Catalina trail."

    "Each site has a picnic table and fire pit. You have to find or bring in your own wood for the fire. There’s two bathrooms and a public, open shower. Fresh water is available too."

    5. Musch Trail Camp — Topanga State Park

    5 Reviews
    Topanga, CA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (310) 455-2465

    $7 / night

    "If you want a longer hike you can hike up the East Topanga Fire Road and then drop down into Musch Camp on the Backbone Trail from Eagle Junction."

    "Currently closed for repairs though."

    6. Hermit Gulch Campground

    6 Reviews
    Avalon, CA
    30 miles
    Website

    "Only 30 mins walk or 5 minute bus ride from downtown Avalon."

    "I stayed here Labor Day weekend for tent camping! So, since I don't plan to camp here again for awhile, I should let you in on the secret(?) that the best campsite is Site 29!!!"

    7. Millard Trail Campground

    9 Reviews
    Altadena, CA
    34 miles
    Website

    "Cool drive to get to the campground. You drive up and down these hilly roads up the mountain to get there. Once there, there's a parking lot that fits about 20 cars."

    "When you can’t do a 2h hike before setting camp, but you also don’t want to camp close to your car, Millard campground is perfect. The parking lot is just behind the corner out of view."

    8. Gould Mesa Trail Campground

    5 Reviews
    La Cañada Flintridge, CA
    34 miles
    Website

    "This is a nice hike-in campground with about ten sites available and a privy. Lots of hikers up here on the weekend ( and weekdays too)."

    "Go behind campsite one and you will find a 6 mile hike in and out to two different waterfalls. Really fun and refreshing, limited shade in hike, so a dip at the end is so nice!"

    9. China Camp State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Chino Hills, CA
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (415) 456-0766

    $35 - $175 / night

    "The campground was not busy and this allowed me to pick a spot hidden away from others. There are restrooms and a place to get water, but when I was there the showers were closed.  "

    "This walk-in campground is part of China Camp State Park. Only 33 tent-only sites! Wheeled totes can be borrowed to haul your gear up some little hills to your campsite under oak and bay trees."

    10. Mount Lowe Trail Campground

    6 Reviews
    Mount Wilson, CA
    35 miles
    +1 (818) 899-1900

    "No water, fountain is capped now"

    "There's no water right now but that could change after first rain or snow.

    Stayed here last week & it's still great."

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Tent Camping Reviews near Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

689 Reviews of 38 Rancho Palos Verdes Campgrounds



Guide to Rancho Palos Verdes

Tent camping near Rancho Palos Verdes, California, offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to escape the city.

Local Activities for Tent Campers

  • Enjoy kayaking and snorkeling at the stunning beaches near Two Harbors Campground, where clear waters and marine life await.
  • Hike the scenic trails around Parsons Landing Campground for breathtaking views and a chance to spot local wildlife.
  • Experience frisbee golf and scuba diving at Little Harbor Campground, making it a fun spot for both relaxation and recreation.

Nearby Attractions for Nature Lovers

  • Visit the charming town of Avalon, accessible from Two Harbors Campground, where you can enjoy local dining and shopping.
  • Explore the Wrigley Botanical Garden, just a short distance from Hermit Gulch Campground, offering a peaceful retreat amidst beautiful flora.
  • Discover the unique landscapes and hiking opportunities at Black Jack Campground, known for its elevated views and proximity to the Trans Catalina Trail.

Tips for Tent Camping Near Rancho Palos Verdes

  • Be prepared for a hike to your site at Parsons Landing Campground, as it requires a boat-in or hike-in access, ensuring a more secluded experience.
  • Bring your own water and food supplies when camping at Little Harbor Campground, as amenities are limited, but the views are worth it.
  • Reserve your spot early at Two Harbors Campground to secure a place during peak seasons, as it can fill up quickly due to its popularity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Rancho Palos Verdes, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Rancho Palos Verdes, CA is Two Harbors Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 10 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Rancho Palos Verdes, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 38 tent camping locations near Rancho Palos Verdes, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.