Best Tent Camping near Redondo Beach, CA

Tent campers near Redondo Beach, California have access to several backcountry and walk-in tent camping options within driving distance. Notable locations include Musch Trail Camp in Topanga State Park, approximately 25 miles north, and the various tent campgrounds on Catalina Island accessible by ferry. Mount Lowe Trail Campground and Gould Mesa Trail Campground in the Angeles National Forest provide primitive tent sites within an hour's drive from the coast.

Most tent campgrounds in the area require hikers to pack in their own supplies, with limited facilities available on site. Picnic tables and fire rings are common at established sites, though fire restrictions vary seasonally and should be verified before arrival. Vault toilets are available at many locations, but drinking water is limited—campers should plan to bring or treat their own water. Several sites, including Parsons Landing on Catalina Island, provide food storage boxes to protect supplies from wildlife. At mainland tent campgrounds, parking is typically available at trailheads, with sites accessible via hikes ranging from under a mile to several miles.

Tent campsites in the mountains above Los Angeles offer a stark contrast to the coastal urban environment of Redondo Beach. Many locations provide shade from oak and pine trees, while island sites feature dramatic ocean views. The trail camps in Angeles National Forest attract day hikers, resulting in moderate foot traffic during daylight hours but quieter evenings. For those seeking greater solitude, Valley Forge Trail Camp provides a more secluded experience. On Catalina Island, Parsons Landing earns particular praise from tent campers. As noted in a review on The Dyrt, "One of the most amazing campgrounds I've ever stayed at. You're on a sandy beach with waves crashing on the shore. There's only a handful of sites, so try to book this early."

Best Tent Sites Near Redondo Beach, California (44)

    1. Musch Trail Camp — Topanga State Park

    5 Reviews
    Topanga, CA
    21 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."

    2. Two Harbors Campground

    10 Reviews
    Two Harbors, CA
    29 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."

    3. Millard Trail Campground

    9 Reviews
    Altadena, CA
    28 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."

    4. Parsons Landing Campground

    5 Reviews
    Two Harbors, CA
    28 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."

    5. Gould Mesa Trail Campground

    5 Reviews
    La Cañada Flintridge, CA
    28 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!"

    6. Mount Lowe Trail Campground

    6 Reviews
    Mount Wilson, CA
    30 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."

    7. Little Harbor Campground

    8 Reviews
    Two Harbors, CA
    33 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."

    8. Black Jack Campground

    8 Reviews
    Avalon, CA
    32 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."

    9. Antfarm LA

    2 Reviews
    Verdugo City, CA
    28 miles
    Website

    $50 / night

    "Very peaceful spot for a long weekend. 5 days was a little much unless you have a car to visit around and did I say it was gated too."

    10. Valley Forge Trail Camp hike in. no drive

    6 Reviews
    Mount Wilson, CA
    32 miles
    Website

    $5 / night

    "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 of the canyon."

    "Picnic tables and fire rings made food preparing especially easy. It has so much charm!"

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Tent Camping Reviews near Redondo Beach, CA

717 Reviews of 44 Redondo Beach Campgrounds



Guide to Redondo Beach

Discover the beauty of tent camping near Redondo Beach, California, where you can immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the coastal climate and stunning landscapes.

Tent campers should check out Musch Trail Camp

  • Experience a serene atmosphere at Musch Trail Camp, which offers a peaceful setting with well-maintained facilities and picnic tables.
  • This campground is accessible via a short hike from Trippet Ranch, making it an easy getaway for those looking to escape the city.
  • Enjoy the surrounding hiking trails that showcase the natural beauty of Topanga State Park, perfect for day hikes and exploration.

Tips for tent camping near Redondo Beach

  • For a unique experience, consider Two Harbors Campground, which requires a boat ride to reach and offers stunning views and a vibrant marine environment.
  • Bring your own supplies to Parsons Landing Campground, as it is a remote beachside site with limited amenities, ensuring a true back-to-nature experience.
  • Be prepared for a bit of a trek to Millard Trail Campground, which is popular for its proximity to beautiful hiking trails and a picturesque waterfall.

Local attractions near camping spots

  • Explore the scenic trails around Mount Lowe Trail Campground, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and rich history while hiking.
  • Visit the nearby Gould Mesa Trail Campground for a peaceful retreat with access to a refreshing stream and various hiking paths.
  • Experience the charm of Idlehour Trail Campground, known for its beautiful surroundings and proximity to a stunning waterfall, perfect for a day hike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Redondo Beach, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Redondo Beach, CA is Musch Trail Camp — Topanga State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Redondo Beach, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 44 tent camping locations near Redondo Beach, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.