Tent campsites near Redondo Beach, California range from trail camps in Angeles National Forest to beach campsites on Catalina Island. These locations typically sit between 1,400-5,700 feet elevation, creating significant temperature differences between coastal and mountain sites. During summer, forest campgrounds often reach daytime temperatures of 80-90°F while dropping into the 50s at night, requiring campers to pack accordingly for temperature shifts.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: From Millard Trail Campground, access a half-mile trail leading to Millard Falls. "About a 20 minute hike and you can end up at a waterfall which is very pretty. But there are several trails to take for hiking and biking and I saw lots of people doing that," notes Jonnysunami in a review.
Water activities on Catalina: At Little Harbor Campground, campers can enjoy ocean-based recreation. "Beach and cove is great for spearfishing or snorkeling. Rock cliffs wrap both north and south of the beach for miles and there are kayaks for rent on the beach, but need to pre-order," writes Jon C.
Stargazing: The distance from city lights makes night skies particularly clear at many campgrounds. A Two Harbors Campground visitor reported, "Stargazing was prime as well since there are virtually no lights in Two Harbors."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between tent sites at Valley Forge Trail Camp. "Campgrounds are spread out well giving each site plenty of space," according to CodyRay C., who adds, "Picnic tables and fire rings made food preparing especially easy."
Clean facilities: Several tent camping areas maintain better-than-expected facilities. Marcos P. noted about Musch Trail Camp, "Did not expect the bathrooms to be very clean. They have running water to flush the toilets, and to wash your hands."
Wildlife encounters: Black Jack Campground on Catalina Island offers opportunities to see native species. "Bison frequent the area so give them their space," warns Mandy E., while another camper mentions, "The fox are no joke and aren't afraid to get close. Keep all food and scented items locked up."
What you should know
Vehicle security concerns: At some trailheads, car break-ins can occur. Mathew H. warns about Mount Lowe Trail Campground: "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."
Variable water conditions: Many campgrounds have seasonal water sources that require treatment. At Valley Forge Trail Camp, a reviewer mentions, "We filtered water from the West Fork San Gabriel River that seems more like a creek," while another notes water conditions can change: "I would imagine it would be a sad/nonexistent creek flow in the summer."
Crowds and noise levels: Daytime traffic varies significantly at tent sites near Redondo Beach. At Millard Trail Campground, Jessica P. observes, "First of all this campground is not a campground if you want to get away from people because there is a lot of people passing by looking at you."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access options: For families with young children, consider tent camping locations with shorter approaches. At Antfarm LA, James K. reports, "Went on a beautiful hike with my son and explored the area. Nice views of the Angeles National Forset Mountains."
Wildlife education opportunities: Use animal encounters as teaching moments. At Black Jack Campground, campers frequently spot island wildlife: "Foxes are common on this campground as they look for any food, campers may leave behind so make sure you clean up after yourself," notes Luis N.
Water sources for kids: Look for sites with accessible water features. Valley Forge Trail Camp offers a stream that children enjoy: "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."
Tips from RVers
Transportation planning: For Catalina Island camping, coordinate various transportation methods. For Little Harbor Campground, Jon C. advises, "Took the ferry from San Clemente to Avalon (45 mins to 1 hour). Then a bus from Avalon to the campsite (1 to 1.5 hours depending the stop at the airport)."
Supply logistics: When tent camping on Catalina Island, careful planning is essential. "Once you leave Avalon, you are at the mercy of the bus schedules in order to get back to a store, which buses only come by the campsite a limited amount of times through the day or week," warns a Little Harbor camper.
Equipment transport strategies: Two Harbors Campground requires planning for gear transport. Amber shares, "You do have to walk to your site which involves a few hills but I took a few breaks along the way and it was fine. You can pay to get your luggage delivered to your site I am unsure of the price. We got a foldable wagon to lug all our stuff to our site."
