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."