Best Campgrounds near San Fernando, CA

Camping options around San Fernando, California range from developed RV parks to primitive sites in nearby Angeles National Forest. The area includes Valencia Travel Village and Tapo Canyon Park, which offer full hookups for RVs and cabin accommodations within 30 minutes of the city. Angeles Crest Overlook provides dispersed camping with views of Los Angeles, while Antfarm LA offers a unique tent and cabin experience just 15 minutes from San Fernando. Malibu Creek State Park and Castaic Lake State Recreation Area provide additional developed campground options within an hour's drive, featuring tent sites, RV spaces, and some glamping opportunities.

Road access varies significantly across the region's camping areas. Most developed campgrounds near San Fernando have paved roads suitable for all vehicles, while forest service areas may require high-clearance vehicles. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F in the valley, though higher elevation sites in Angeles National Forest offer cooler conditions. Cell service is generally reliable at developed campgrounds but becomes spotty in canyon areas and forest locations. Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend camping at established sites, particularly during summer months. As one visitor noted about Angeles Crest Overlook, "Great view but on the weekend we had multiple cars doing donuts really close to our van... During the week it's more quiet. Close to town so that is a plus."

Campers consistently mention the contrast between urban proximity and natural settings as a defining characteristic of the San Fernando camping experience. Several visitors highlighted the convenience of Malibu Creek State Park, which provides a forest environment despite being less than an hour from the city. The campgrounds at Castaic Lake receive positive reviews for water recreation opportunities, though they can become crowded during summer weekends. For those seeking more solitude, the Angeles National Forest sites offer greater privacy but fewer amenities. A camper described Little Jimmy Trail Campground as "a backcountry hike-in only campground nestled just 2 miles off the Angeles Crest Highway" with "vintage backcountry ovens" and access to the Pacific Crest Trail, representing the more rustic camping experiences available within reach of San Fernando.

Best Camping Sites Near San Fernando, California (177)

    1. Hollywood RV Park

    17 Reviews
    San Fernando, CA
    7 miles
    Website

    "This location is conveniently situated near the heart of Los Angeles, making it an ideal spot for those looking to explore the city’s many attractions."

    "Trees lovely gardens to walk the dogs. Commerce walking distance. I’m staying 8 more days.✌️"

    2. Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon

    25 Reviews
    Acton, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "It's a very hot campground close to a road and train. Sites are big. Tons of things to do for adults and children."

    "Surrounded my mountains, which is nice. Staff is happy and helpful."

    3. Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    El Nido, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (818) 880-0367

    $45 - $225 / night

    "It is prime location for some great hiking and at night it is super quiet. There are restrooms and showers as well."

    "The grounds were beautiful and well maintained, the camp host super friendly and helpful, the bathrooms well positioned and clean, and the sites had shade and everything we needed."

    4. Castaic Lake State Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    Valencia, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (661) 257-4050

    "Gorgeous location right on the lake, the waters clear and there’s a generous amount of trees surrounding for shade."

    "Just a 1 min walk down the hill to the lake - a perfect place to have my morning coffee! They allowed pets which is awesome. Super quiet, lots of stars, and a beautiful view. Couldn’t ask for better!"

    5. Tapo Canyon Park

    12 Reviews
    Simi Valley, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 654-3951

    "This is a very nice campground near everything but still away from it all. No issues parking our 42' 5th wheel here. Clean and quiet despite the peacocks. They can be rather loud when startled."

    "This campground happens to be very close to home so we went here to try out our brand new pull behind camper trailer for the very first time.
    The campground is small, quiet and very well-kept."

    6. Valencia Travel Village

    8 Reviews
    Valencia, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (661) 257-3333

    "A little remote and you have to drive to the nearest town(s), but clean grounds and nice site. Very easy to book online. 

    The RV park is pretty large so it's a nice daily walk."

    "I didn’t actually stay here as I was looking for a tent camping spot, but I did drive around the facility and it was super clean and looked like a great spot if you’ve got an RV."

    7. Malibu Beach RV Park

    28 Reviews
    El Nido, CA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 622-6052

    $80 - $300 / night

    "I absolutely love this campground, it’s perfectly situated in between the Malibu pier area (to your left) Dume, Zuma, and more beaches (to the right), + a lovely small beach across the street… oh let’s"

    "This is a great little campground just north of Malibu, California, and right off of the 101. So yes, the freeway is RIGHT. THERE."

    8. Antfarm LA

    2 Reviews
    Verdugo City, CA
    8 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."

    9. Rafael’s RV park

    3 Reviews
    Universal City, CA
    8 miles
    +1 (213) 321-5522

    $100 - $140 / night

    "We stayed here to be close to the Hollywood Bowl for a concert. Rafael was a friendly host and very helpful and made sure we were set up well."

    10. Angeles Crest Overlook to LA

    8 Reviews
    La Cañada Flintridge, CA
    15 miles

    "Great view but on the weekend we had multiple cars doing donuts really close to our van. I felt uncomfortable with that."

    "This is just a few parking lots that overlook the valley and gives a view of the city skyline in the distance."

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Showing results 1-10 of 177 campgrounds

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Recent Reviews near San Fernando, CA

960 Reviews of 177 San Fernando Campgrounds


  • B
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Tapo Canyon Park

    Favorite spot near LA

    The Camp Hosts here are Very Friendly and welcoming, the campground has a lush grass area and nice covered playground. The showers and bathrooms are nice, we highly recommend Tapo Canyon.

  • Lee-Ann C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Steckel Park

    Beautiful location

    The camp host came over shortly after we arrived and was very kind and friendly. I appreciate that they enforce quiet hours! The lots were not very private but they were clean and having full hookups was great. The location is pretty, on a creek. And there’s a playground and aviary which our whole family enjoyed. We’ll plan to go back when it’s not so hot!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    Great trip/great site!

    This place is great! We stayed on site 59 and it had so much space you can fit a ton of people on the site. We had a beautiful, big tree and a great view in the back of the site. Site 62 had the most beautiful view but no shade, but I want to book it for the cooler months. Showers and bathrooms were pristine!! Can’t wait to go back!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Dennison Park

    Great spot close to downtown Ojai

    Firstly camp host knocked it out of the park. Site had water which was a nice surprise and very well kept bathrooms. Pay attention to RV vs Tent sites. This was my backup as Wheeler has closed for a bit. It was nice to be so close to downtown and we went there for a bit to get away from the heat. No natural water on site so if you love a creek look elsewhere.

  • Michael R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    Malibu Creek State Park

    The campground is well laid out with plenty of shade available in most sites throughout the day. Sites aren’t too close to one another, restrooms are modern and clean and people were pretty quiet at night and in the early mornings. Main demographic was families when I camped here.

  • ROCKSTAR C.
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Hare School Park

    It’s the sports fields parking lot

    I’ve been here for a couple days and nobody’s mess with us. There’s other people that are staying in another parking lot attached that are homeless in their vehicles mostly cars and vans. I’m in a 25 foot Fleetwood RV. There’s a dog park kind of area with a big field they can run around and just clean up after them.There’s no public bathrooms, but there are trash cans so clean up after yourself please. It’s not tent friendly. I don’t believe.

  • Lizzette M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Hollywood RV Park

    Gem near the big city

    I came 3 days ago in my class C. Showers and restrooms were clean and supplied. The RV is cute very Hollywood movies vibes. Trees lovely gardens to walk the dogs. Commerce walking distance. I’m staying 8 more days.✌️


Guide to San Fernando

Camping near San Fernando, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and biking: Many campgrounds, like Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park, provide access to great trails. One reviewer mentioned, "Great location for beach, biking and hiking," highlighting the easy access to trails right from the campground.
  • Beach activities: If you love the ocean, check out Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park. A camper shared, "Awesome spot for boondocking! Can't beat camping on the beach," making it a perfect spot for sunbathing and beach games.
  • Fishing and boating: At Lake Casitas Recreation Area, you can enjoy fishing and boating. One visitor noted, "The lake itself is beautiful and right in the middle of the entire recreation area," making it a scenic spot for water activities.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Bonelli Bluffs stated, "Possibly the cleanest public bathroom I've ever seen," which is a big plus for many.
  • Scenic views: Many campgrounds offer stunning views. A camper at Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park said, "Almost every site has an ocean view of some kind," making it a picturesque place to stay.
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. One visitor at Wheeler Gorge Campground said, "Camp hosts greeted us upon arrival and gave us a run down," which adds to the welcoming atmosphere.

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park, have limited amenities. A reviewer mentioned, "The sites are small," which might be a concern for larger groups.
  • Crowded on weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A camper at Malibu Beach RV Park noted, "It's a huge campground... Sites are very tight," so plan accordingly.
  • No cell service in some areas: If you rely on your phone, be aware that some campgrounds have spotty service. A visitor at Lake Casitas mentioned, "We had cell reception, nice views," but others may not be as lucky.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. One family at Newport Dunes RV Resort said, "Wonderful spot for families looking for a place with lots to do," which is great for keeping the little ones entertained.
  • Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. A camper at Malibu Creek State Park Campground shared, "The sites are nicely spaced out," allowing for some fun family activities without feeling cramped.
  • Pack snacks and drinks: Having food on hand can make family outings easier. One reviewer at Bonelli Bluffs mentioned, "The park is clean and well maintained," making it a pleasant spot for picnics.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campground. A visitor at Malibu Beach RV Park noted, "Each site is fenced in so you have to stay within your fenced area," which can be limiting for larger RVs.
  • Be prepared for noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially near highways. A camper at Wheeler Gorge Campground mentioned, "The road noise as it sits very close to the highway," so consider bringing earplugs.
  • Plan for water access: Not all campgrounds have water hookups. A reviewer at Lake Casitas said, "The campground is broken down into a bunch of different camping loops," so check your site’s amenities before booking.

Camping around San Fernando, CA, offers a variety of experiences, from beachside fun to serene mountain retreats. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there family-friendly camping resorts in the San Fernando area?

Bonelli Bluffs offers a family-oriented experience, though reviews note it could use more dedicated children's amenities like playgrounds. For beachside family fun, Canyon Campground at Leo Carrillo State Park is a hidden gem providing access to a private beach with gorgeous California hill views—perfect for families. If you're willing to travel slightly further, consider Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground or Valencia Travel Village, which cater well to families with various amenities. When planning a family trip, look for campgrounds with clean facilities, adequate spacing between sites, and natural features that provide entertainment for children.

What tent camping options are available near San Fernando?

Tent campers near San Fernando have several excellent options to choose from. Dennison Park offers tent-friendly sites, though be aware that some locations may be on slopes—check site dimensions when reserving through the Ventura County website. Lake Campground provides large, flat tent sites with a lake within walking distance, though highway noise can be a factor. For a more secluded experience, consider Joshua Tree Ranch Los Angeles or Millard Trail Campground, which is just a short drive from Pasadena. Most sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early, especially on weekends, is recommended.

Where are the best camping sites in San Fernando?

The San Fernando area offers several excellent camping options within easy driving distance. Hungry Valley State Vehicle Recreation Area provides spacious sites with plenty of room to spread out, featuring fenced areas with picnic tables and pergolas. For those seeking a mountain retreat, Little Jimmy Trail Campground is a hidden gem accessible via a 2-mile hike from Angeles Crest Highway, offering primitive sites with fire rings and vault toilets. Other notable options include Los Alamos Campground at Pyramid Lake for water views and Millard Trail Campground for a quick escape close to the city. Each location offers unique terrain and amenities to suit different camping preferences.