Top Tent Camping near Santa Monica, CA

Searching for a tent campsite near Santa Monica? Find the best information on tent camping near Santa Monica, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Santa Monica, California's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Santa Monica, CA (53)

    Camper-submitted photo from Musch Camp Trail and Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Musch Camp Trail and Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Musch Camp Trail and Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Musch Camp Trail and Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Musch Camp Trail and Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Musch Camp Trail and Horse Camp

    1. Musch Camp Trail and Horse Camp

    4 Reviews
    8 Photos
    174 Saves
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    • Drinking Water

    $7 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Millard Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millard Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millard Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millard Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millard Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millard Trail Campground

    2. Millard Trail Campground

    8 Reviews
    39 Photos
    208 Saves

    Gate may be closed due to High Fire danger. Elevation: 1900-Foot ElevationAmenities: 6 hike-in__campsites- Picnic tables and campfire rings, vault toilets, no piped water.__Seasonal stream water may be available (treat before using). However, water flow may be low or non-existent due to reduced rainfall.Hiking: Just a short hike__to the 50' Millard Falls. __Fees: Camping - Adventure Pass/America the Beautiful Pass Required. Campsites are first come-first served. No reserving or holding of campsites allowed._ Day use -__Adventure Pass/America the Beautiful Pass Required.Millard Trail Camp may occasionally be closed due to bear activity. Be Bear Aware.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Gould Mesa Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gould Mesa Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gould Mesa Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gould Mesa Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gould Mesa Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gould Mesa Trail Campground

    3. Gould Mesa Trail Campground

    5 Reviews
    16 Photos
    305 Saves

    Water is from a stream - come prepared with your own or have a way to filter/purify 5 Hike-in campsites- Picnic tables and campfire rings, vault toilets, trash receptacles, no piped water available. Seasonal stream water (treat before using). However, water flow may be low or non-existent due to reduced rainfall. Please bring enough water for cooking, cleaning, drinking, and extinguishing campfires. Equestrian: Hitching Rail (52 linear feet). Gould Mesa Trail Camp is a hike-in campground located 2 miles from Ventura Street on the Gabrielino Trail. Being only a few miles away La Canada-Flintridge, it offers a quick-respite for the weary hiker. Those choosing to start in Altadena near the Jet Propulsion Laboratories will walk through riparian groves along a tranquil steam surrounded by steep ridges. The trek to Gould Mesa Trail Camp is 5.1 miles round trip with 300 feet of elevation change.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Lowe Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Lowe Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Lowe Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Lowe Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Lowe Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Valley Forge Trail Camp    hike in. no drive
    Camper-submitted photo from Valley Forge Trail Camp    hike in. no drive
    Camper-submitted photo from Valley Forge Trail Camp    hike in. no drive
    Camper-submitted photo from Valley Forge Trail Camp    hike in. no drive
    Camper-submitted photo from Valley Forge Trail Camp    hike in. no drive
    Camper-submitted photo from Valley Forge Trail Camp    hike in. no drive
    Camper-submitted photo from Antfarm LA
    Camper-submitted photo from Antfarm LA
    Camper-submitted photo from Antfarm LA
    Camper-submitted photo from Antfarm LA
    Camper-submitted photo from Antfarm LA
    Camper-submitted photo from Antfarm LA

    6. Antfarm LA

    2 Reviews
    30 Photos
    136 Saves

    Please note: There are no RV sites only one camper van site. The parking is on a hill and you walk in your gear.

    This is a great spot for a group who doesn’t mind getting out of the way of people in exchange for a short hike. Parking is a short but steep hike away from the campsite, and it is unlikely that you’ll see any other campers during your stay. The weather is warm, the sunsets are epic and the views are spectacular looking towards Angeles crest national forest. We do have stoves however open fires aren’t allowed within the city limits, and it is a very high fire area. Stoves and fire extinguishers are available for the cost of fuel as well as full camp gear if you are worried about not having stuff. From the campground you can hike some awesome trails, and be able to really get out in nature. There is water a 100 ft away, and there is a bathtub for the adventurous bather that overlooks the city. There is one restroom as well as one shower stall and a small kitchenette shared with 2 other campsites. We like city locals looking for a place to test out backpacking and camping gear while being 5 min driving distance to a Starbucks.

    This LA based bohemian homestead farm is a great camping stop. We have 20 hillside acres nestled in the hills of Sunland / North Los Angeles, CA We have tent only sites with picnic benches, flat soft campsites, no fire pits, but amazing views of the valley and mountains. Great for a short getaway in the LA area.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Market
    • Trash

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hoegees Trail Camp Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hoegees Trail Camp Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hoegees Trail Camp Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hoegees Trail Camp Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hoegees Trail Camp Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hoegees Trail Camp Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Grove Trail Campground - CLOSED DUE TO FIRE
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Grove Trail Campground - CLOSED DUE TO FIRE
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Grove Trail Campground - CLOSED DUE TO FIRE
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Grove Trail Campground - CLOSED DUE TO FIRE
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Grove Trail Campground - CLOSED DUE TO FIRE
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Grove Trail Campground - CLOSED DUE TO FIRE

    9. Spruce Grove Trail Campground - CLOSED DUE TO FIRE

    4 Reviews
    12 Photos
    241 Saves

    2022 - Closed due to the Bobcat Fire. Elevation: 3100-Foot Elevation Amenities: 7 Hike-in campsites- picnic tables and klamath stoves, vault toilets, no trash receptacles, no piped water available. Seasonal stream water (treat before using). However, water flow may be low or non-existent due to reduced rainfall. Please bring enough water for cooking, cleaning, drinking, and extinguishing campfires. Pack In-Pack Out. Hiking: Access to the Upper Winter Creek Trail and the Gabrielino National Recreation Trail.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Harbors Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Harbors Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Harbors Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Harbors Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Harbors Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Harbors Campground

    10. Two Harbors Campground

    10 Reviews
    63 Photos
    72 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
Showing results 1-10 of 53 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews In Santa Monica

732 Reviews of 53 Santa Monica Campgrounds


  • I B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hollywood RV Park
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Hollywood RV Park

    Nice and friendly Staff, clean site

    Everything was fine. We stayed for 1 night to Visit L.A. . It was clean and the Staff was very nice. We called a night before and got a Site for our RV.

  • Thomas F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hollywood RV Park
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Hollywood RV Park

    6/10

    This place offers a convenient location near the heart of Los Angeles, making it an excellent base for exploring the city's attractions. The facilities are well-maintained, with clean restrooms and helpful staff who are eager to assist guests. However, Block Blast noise from the surrounding area can be an issue, so those seeking a peaceful retreat might want to consider this before booking.

  • Kim N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Thornhill Broome Beach
    Sep. 3, 2024

    Thornhill Broome Beach

    Great site with no amenities

    Loved the quietness of this campsite. No water, no dump station, only portable bathrooms on site from what we can see. We were in an RV so we didn't mind at all. Went to Sycamore campground to fill up on water. Youre packed right on the beach next to the sand. Combo of tent and rv campers. Wifi is great at this location. We have tmobile

  • Kim N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Mugu State Park
    Sep. 3, 2024

    Point Mugu State Park

    no wifi

    No tmobile wifi. we dropped by to fill up water since we were camping at thornhill Broome. Water refill was free. We didn't  dump there. Can't comment on anything else.

  • Suly&Fabian L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Southfork Campground
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Southfork Campground

    Nature beautiful, human horrible

    There are 21 campsites and not all have tree’s but its walking distance from the creek. Its nestled between mountains and the night sky is gorgeous. We saw wild ducks too and some other desert critters. Has it not been for the nasty animals called inconsiderate humans blasting their music and fighting amongst themselves bringing their family drama until 6am, the camp site would have been marvelous. No ranger to domesticate those animals and remind them of quiet hours. Another group even brought a dj and karaoke. Seriously, no consideration for the rest of the campers. They want to get away from the hustle and bustle and be with nature but they can’f live without the modern day amenities and bring that noise we are all trying to escape to a place of nature. They even had BB guns and shooting them within the campsite. Idiots. The day the ranger did come by he was giving tickets to vehicles with no pass. Wish he came at night when he was most needed. Bathrooms are poorly maintained too. Never coming back for an overnight stay, a day trip will suffice.

  • Anita A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Bonelli Bluffs

    Less crowded ocale while visiting family nearby

    Visiting family in Santa Ana and LA. Not to far for them to come to us and all to go to beach. Park clean and well maintained, personnel very kind and friendly Beautiful view from our site on area B. Crowded on weekend, much less during week Campground is not associated to adjacent Frank Bonelli Regional. Charge $12 to enter with vehicle but no fee to ride in on bikes

  • Kim N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Cove State Park Primitive
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Crystal Cove State Park Primitive

    beautiful beach

    Clean dump station, beautiful sites, very strict on rules. We came 10 minutes early before check in time, they made us wait. Campsite comes with wifi but very weak. We have t mobile and had bad reception. Would come back again for beautiful views, small hike, sandy beaches with lots of sand crabs.

  • Jamie C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Buckhorn Campground
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Buckhorn Campground

    Perfect peaceful getaway

    Just stayed 8/15-18/24, although hot during the day, it was the getaway we needed. The Burkhart trail to the waterfall was beautiful. Clean campsites. Some neighboring camps were louder than you'd hope but it is what it is. Our second trip here and will return for sure.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Bolsa Chica State Beach
    Aug. 14, 2024

    Bolsa Chica State Beach

    Beach view

    The parking lot is next to the beach on the one side but also next to the highway on the other side. So the view and the breeze is beautiful, but the traffic noise in the evening and morning is not so nice. With earplugs everything is fine! ;) The host Jim is very kind and helpful!

  • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Placerita Canyon State Park Group Campsites
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Placerita Canyon State Park Group Campsites

    Haven't stayed, by reservation only for groups

    I haven't stayed in this campground, but I added it to the Dyrt so people can find it as an option if they are searching for large group camping. You MUST call in advance to get permission and reserve for group camping.

    Things to do:

  • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Danielson Group Multi-Use Area
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Danielson Group Multi-Use Area

    Haven't stayed, looks a little run down

    I came across this group campsite while on a long hike with a friend. I had no idea it existed, so I'm adding it to the Dyrt so more people can find it if they are looking for a group campsite. You can reserve it for large groups of 10-50 people. Some of the communal areas and fencing looked like it could use some resfreshing. Facilities available: Drinking Water, Flush Toilets, Showers, Tent Spaces, and Fireplace.

    I recommend visiting in the spring, when things are greenest, and there are beautiful wildflowers.

  • Julian M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Malibu Creek State Park
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Malibu Creek State Park

    Amazing experience, beautiful sunset

    Great campground, Great spots but unfortunately bit expensive .Very disappointed about the rules regarding fire, but I understood. I left from the campground after the sunset...fire allowed only with courchal...

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Castaic Lake State Recreation Area
    Jul. 20, 2024

    Castaic Lake State Recreation Area

    Nice view, not bad, needs work

    We stayed in Loop A on a Thursday night in July. For us, it was a convenient overnight stop. It was a lot less crazy/ crowded than we expected for an LA County campground in the middle of summer! This site is on the lagoon, not the main lake, but had nice views and a good breeze in the heat. Very minimal space, not much shade. But the real issue was that the bathroom stalls in our loop (A) had no doors. I also doubt they are cleaned daily, though it wasn't terrible. Being close to the city, there were a ton of people meandering around, but they all seemed to be doing their own thing (e.g fishing or just walking), few suspicious characters. Lots of families and kids made it feel fairly safe for an urban campground. Not our favorite, but we would stop over here again in a pinch.

  • merlinda M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Piru Recreation Area
    Jul. 5, 2024

    Lake Piru Recreation Area

    Great campsite

    Campsite was established, picnic table, fireplace, and electricity. Floor is gravel in some areas so bring a rake or broom for tent area. Our site was pretty close to bathrooms that had showers. 1.50 for 8 minutes, uses quarters. Has hot water. Rangers drive by selling wood and ice.

  • Michelle W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Steckel Park
    Jun. 28, 2024

    Steckel Park

    Much better than I expected

    I had a giant campsite overlooking the heavily flowing creek. The creek was so clean and beautiful. The amazing thing is I brush-crashed for hours and didn’t get a single bug bite. The site was a bit messy when I arrived, but the ranger pulled up right as I got there to empty the trash bin. He said the crows scatter the garbage. A family of 2 peahens, a peacock, and 3 babies hung out near the creek. Beautiful birds. After walking around the creek for an hour, I came back to see a few bundles of wood left for me. I think the ranger found them at a site and gifted them to me. Very nice person!

  • Tammy P.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Los Alamos Campground at Pyramid Lake
    Jun. 19, 2024

    Los Alamos Campground at Pyramid Lake

    Close to the lake, can be very hot during the summer

    It usually stay empty and easy to get a site even in the peak season summer and spring but there is limited shades in most campsites and can get very hot during the days. There are not many trees around, Site 42 has really good shade but be aware of pocky leaves from those trees. My air mattress pop both times we camp there. There is not much around to do except pyramid lake close by which is nice and convenient to get to the water and go fishing or tubing. Also close by six flag.

  • joel G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sawmill Campground
    Jun. 15, 2024

    Sawmill Campground

    Forest road camping outside of Yosemite

    Having to find a spot kind of late at night after other spots were full pretty level spot overlooking a meadow and review of the sunset roads a little rough getting back in there used four-wheel drive pulling a teardrop

  • Donna H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hollywood RV Park
    Jun. 1, 2024

    Hollywood RV Park

    As good as it gets for LA

    This quirky campground was safe, and that was what I needed while visiting friends in LA. This isn't a self-park park...the spaces are so close together that they use a cart to park you. On the upside, the bathrooms and showers were clean and plentiful, there was an area at the back of the park that was fenced for pups, and although the spaces were small, the park was landscaped such that you had some privacy. On the downside, the park is right next to the departure/arrival runway for Burbank and so if you don't fancy airplanes, you may not appreciate the noise. There is quite a bit of noise, but then again, you are in downtown Burbank. The owner is quite a character and told me that they even have an entertainment space where they offer musical performances, plays, etc. by local artists. He also mentioned that most of the park's customers were long-term residents that support the local production companies. I'm not sure if I would stay there again, but then again I'm not sure I'm interested in visiting Burbank again either.

  • Roxanna L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Canyon RV Park
    May. 21, 2024

    Canyon RV Park

    Anaheim CA

    This is our second stay here and probably our last. It was super expensive this time and we were put in the back (overflow) lot which name I use loosely as when it rains it floods. Had to park the car at the office so it wouldn’t float away. Upon our arrival my husband pulled up in our 42’ 5th wheel and parked to go into the office. There is a painted line on the curb where I guess you’re supposed to park but our unit would have been longer and wider than that space provided. She also could have used some tact and nicely asked if he could park the unit in the space provided but she was asking for a fight. He went to register and a lady with longer gray hair and glasses, who I’d seen there before, greeted him with..you need to park by the curb in the designated area- you’re blocking my driveway!! That kinda set the tone. He said I thought you’d open the gate so I could get out of the way. About that time I pulled up in the car and he was storming out the bldg saying I have to get out of the way- park in the designated area! So I went in and couldn’t understand why he hadn’t registered already. She very hatefully said I told him to move he was blocking my drive! (There was nobody out there but us). The tone could have been better, but I wasn’t in the mood for a confrontation- she took my information and said you’ve been here before so you know where you’re going! Maybe she is the owner or maybe an employee but it wasn’t a great way to start off our 2 wk stay at the rate of $2k! She was a real bitch!

  • Malina S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Little pine campground
    May. 19, 2024

    Little pine campground

    Great weekend get away spot

    Nice sized spot. We stayed on site 15, with a great view. Fire pit came in handy with a cooking grate and parking spaces are large enough for a small RV.

  • Matthew W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonelli Bluffs
    May. 3, 2024

    Bonelli Bluffs

    Quiet & Peaceful

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐

    Our experience at Bonelli Bluffs Campground was mostly positive, but there were a couple of aspects that could be improved. As a family with young children, we were hoping for playgrounds or similar amenities to keep them entertained throughout our stay. Unfortunately, the absence of such facilities meant we had to get creative in finding ways to occupy their time during downtime.

    Additionally, while the campground's proximity to the lake was appealing, the walk to get there was longer than expected, especially with little ones in tow. This made spontaneous trips to the lake less feasible and slightly inconvenient.

    However, despite these minor inconveniences, the campground itself was well-maintained, and the surrounding natural beauty made for a peaceful retreat. The staff were also friendly and helpful, adding to the overall positive experience.

    In summary, while Bonelli Bluffs Campground could benefit from adding playgrounds and reducing the distance to the lake, it still offers a pleasant camping experience for families looking to reconnect with nature.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Mugu State Park
    May. 2, 2024

    Point Mugu State Park

    Compact Little Campground

    Small little campground adjacent to Sycamore Canyon. This is great for trail runners and mountain bikers. 

    The spaces are pretty small, so they are not meant for large RVs. The facilities are Okay. I don't think there was hot water when I went there. 

    There is no reception for T-Mobile users. However, I used my WeBoost and got two bars. I was able to stream music, text and some internet. 

    It's nice to ride down PCH on this stretch towards Camarillo. You can visit the Missile Park in Point Magu or the Light House in Hueneme.

  • Roxanna L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Prado Regional Park
    Mar. 10, 2024

    Prado Regional Park

    Prado Regional Park: Has been one of our fav’s

    This the second time we’ve stayed here. It’s always very scenic and SO quiet it’s very peaceful. But lucky us this time some campers came in apparently for the wknd and played their music so loud you could hardly hear TV. Why do people do this? I don’t enjoy other people’s parties and prefer not to hear it. Camper walls are pretty thin. Whatever wood they were burning gave us both headaches and the loud music they shared with the park didn’t help. If you want to play music outside that’s your prerogative but it’s my prerogative to not hear it!!!!!!!



Guide to Santa Monica

Camping near Santa Monica, California, offers a mix of beautiful beaches and scenic parks. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds are just a short walk from the beach. For example, at Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park, campers enjoy the unique experience of beachfront camping. One reviewer said, "Really a special spot. Not crowded and a place you can rarely camp beachfront in Southern California."
  • Hiking Trails: If you love hiking, check out Malibu Creek State Park Campground. A visitor mentioned, "Nice, small campground with hiking trails easily accessible."
  • Water Activities: At Lake Casitas Recreation Area, you can enjoy fishing and boating. One camper noted, "The lake itself is beautiful and right in the middle of the entire recreation area."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park. A happy camper shared, "Almost every site has an ocean view of some kind."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like Bonelli Bluffs, are praised for their cleanliness. One review stated, "Possibly the cleanest public bathroom I've ever seen."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peaceful environment at places like Wheeler Gorge Campground. A visitor mentioned, "Great campground for kids, we always have a good time."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Thornhill Broome Beach, have minimal facilities. A camper warned, "The bathrooms are absolutely terrible. Really detracts from the experience."
  • Crowded on Weekends: Expect busier conditions during weekends at popular spots like Doheny State Beach Campground. One reviewer noted, "The middle sites are small and tight, offering little privacy."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, especially at Wheeler Gorge Campground. A camper shared, "They let us know there was a bear in the area."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Lake Casitas Recreation Area, which has activities for kids. One review mentioned, "Good for families or big groups."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A family camper at Bonelli Bluffs suggested, "We had to get creative in finding ways to occupy their time during downtime."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Malibu Creek State Park Campground noted, "The sites are nicely spaced out."

Tips from RVers:

Camping near Santa Monica, California, offers a variety of experiences, from beachside relaxation to hiking adventures. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Santa Monica, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Santa Monica, CA is Musch Camp Trail and Horse Camp with a 4.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Santa Monica, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 53 tent camping locations near Santa Monica, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.