Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, CA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.
$45 - $60 / night
"It was a quick drive up the coast and onto this hidden gem. You get access to a private beach with gorgeous California hill views of PCH behind you. Perfect place for families or even RVs."
"The campground is tucked away in a beautiful canyon setting with lots of shade trees, which was really nice for keeping cool."
$35 / night
"Not crowded and a place you can rarely camp beachfront in souther California. I have to note the bathrooms are absolutely terrible."
"You are so close to the water and there is plenty of space between you and your neighbor. When we were there many people had RVs so there were only a few tents."
$45 / night
"Fantastic body surfing, some good surf waves up the highway a bit. There is a backpacking access site as well up the canyon about 3 miles."
"If you love Fall and trees and the California golden sun... this place is the place to be! It has it all in one."
$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."
$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."
"The tent sites are very basic and very close together, but the surroundings are worth it!"
"This is a wonderful campground right next to the beach however it is only available to the military and their families."
$75 - $85 / night
"The Lodge at Deer Creek is new to the Dyrt and has the perfect location where the mountains meet the ocean. Check them out and leave a review about your stay on the Dyrt!"
"Its only a short 5 minute windy road drive from pch and you still get cell service."
$35 / night
"We arrived in the middle of the night: easy parking short walk and easy access to the campground. The view is fantastic, the site is very close to the highest point of Santa Monica mountains"
$150 / night
TravelerThis was our first stop out of LA, great location. The beach was nice but beware of tar staining. The showers required tokens but the token machine was out of order. A bit annoying for the price of the site.
ScoutDid not expect the bathrooms to be very clean. They have running water to flush the toilets, and to wash your hands
ScoutThe 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.
ScoutThe park staff is amazing, Susan and Jake. The location to Shopify and eatery’s absolutely perfect.
ScoutThe 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!
ScoutThis 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!
TravelerFirstly 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.
TravelerGreat ADA spot with plenty of room. A short walk to the beach across the way but if you take the tunnel it’s even better!!!!
GuideSanta Cruz non-hook-up sites have: asphalt parking (close to level); picnic table; fire pit. Individual restrooms with flush toilets and hot/cold water sinks cleaned daily but get lots of use. Showers (tokens) cleaned but may have beach sand on floors. Check feet / shoes for TAR from beach before entering tent / RV! Baby oil helps take it off... plastic bag(s) helps to contain shoes. Spaces can be tight... neighbor's RV was about two feet from ours. Non-hook-up fee was $43.00 plus $8.25 online reservation fee. "Enroute" camping may be available if campground is "full"... no hook-ups or tables - and have to leave by 9am - but you might have more space! Inquire at front gate even if sign says "campground full". Quiet after 10pm on Friday night even though campground and group sites were very full. Thanks fellow campers! Nice wide and safe swimming beach - close to quaint town - make this a CALIFORNIA CLASSIC.
Camping near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.
Camping near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, California, offers a unique blend of nature and adventure. Just be prepared for the quirks of each campground, and you'll have a great time!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area?
According to TheDyrt.com, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area offers a wide range of camping options, with 124 campgrounds and RV parks near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and 8 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 53 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.
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