Tent camping near Torrance, California offers diverse terrain options across multiple mountain elevations and coastal locations. The Angeles National Forest's tent sites range from 2,000 to 5,700 feet elevation, creating temperature variations of 10-15 degrees between campgrounds. Several trail camps require permits during fire season (typically May through November), with regulations updated weekly based on fire danger levels.
What to do
Snorkeling at island campsites: Little Harbor Campground features clear water ideal for wildlife viewing. "The water is clean and great for snorkeling and the campsites all have amazing views of the cove," notes one camper who appreciated the unique ocean access.
Buffalo spotting: Black Jack Campground sits in prime bison territory on Catalina Island. "Bison frequent the area so give them their space," advises one visitor who camped at this 1,600-foot elevation site where wildlife encounters are common during morning and evening hours.
Trail connections: Mount Lowe Trail Campground offers multiple access routes to scenic lookouts. "Fantastic views on a clear day and quite a few hikers pass through here on the weekend," reports one camper who recommends checking fire restrictions before visiting.
Creek exploration: Millard Trail Campground features seasonal waterfall hikes. "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," shares a visitor who appreciated the diversity of water features.
What campers like
Remote beach settings: Two Harbors Campground offers waterfront sites with minimal development. "The views from our site were stunning. Stargazing was prime as well since there are virtually no lights in Two Harbors," writes one visitor who valued the night sky visibility.
Accessibility with wilderness feel: Gould Mesa Trail Campground provides quick access with substantial wilderness experience. "It's a nice little getaway without leaving the city, perfect for a one nighter or to backpack in with the kiddos. It's around 2 miles to camp on a leveled surface with a few stream crossings," notes a camper who appreciated the gentle terrain.
Island exclusivity: Parsons Landing Campground delivers true beach camping in a controlled-access setting. "The campground is a secluded beach with a rock wall on one end. Site 1 is tucked around next to the wall - very cool!" explains a visitor who found the rock formations particularly useful for wind protection.
Isolation from urban noise: Valley Forge Trail Camp offers canyon quiet despite proximity to Los Angeles. "Campgrounds are spread out well giving each site plenty of space. We filtered water from the 'river' - seemed like a creek to me," states a visitor who found the noise reduction significant compared to other Angeles National Forest sites.
What you should know
Water sources: Most backcountry sites require filtration equipment. "There is a stream that might or might not have water in it. Bring a way of making the water potable," advises a Hoegees Trail Camp visitor, emphasizing seasonal variations.
Permits and reservations: Catalina Island campgrounds require advance planning. "You have to reserve on Reserve America. The sites are pretty expensive and charge by the person. $27-$29 (Winter- Summer pricing) for each person with a $10 reservation fee," explains a Two Harbors camper who noted the comprehensive cost structure.
Parking challenges: Musch Trail Camp requires specific parking procedures. "You can pay at the Entrance Station at the Trippet Ranch Parking Lot or the Iron Ranger at the camp. If you are parking your vehicle overnight in the parking lot please leave a note on your dashboard so that the Rangers are aware that you are camping," notes a visitor who highlighted the overnight registration requirements.
Wildlife security: Island campgrounds require consistent food management. "The birds there are relentless and will poke holes in everything including water jugs if you turn your back for even a second. They even know how to get into unlocked lockers," warns a Parsons Landing camper who experienced equipment damage.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Valley Forge Trail Camp offers manageable terrain for first-timers. "Took some friends for their first ever backpacking trip, great intro to the 'experience.' Trail camp is in the canyon so it's an easy 3.5 mile hike in, but a tough hike out of the canyon," explains a visitor who planned a family introduction to backpacking.
Water activities: Little Harbor Campground features protected swimming areas. "The beach is beautiful, and there's nothing like the sunsets here," comments a camper who found the sheltered cove ideal for younger swimmers.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Deer frequently visit mountain campsites at dusk. "At night we had deer walking directly through our site as we were eating dinner (seriously on a few feet away). They didn't both anyone and were really cool to watch," reports a Two Harbors camper who enjoyed the safe wildlife encounters.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds feature historic remnants. "Hoegee's is 2 miles hike from Chantry Flats by way of the Lower Winter Creek Trail. The site is named for Hoegee's resort which stood just upstream. The concrete foundation in the center of the campground was a private cabin which burned down decades ago," notes a visitor who appreciated the historical context.
Tips from RVers
Island RV access: Two Harbors accommodates limited RV camping with advance planning. "We visited Two Harbors in late April and stayed in the campground for 1 night. The views from our site were stunning. The facilities include temporary toilets, running water, and showers .25 miles away back in to town," shares a visitor who managed the limited facilities.
Equipment storage and security: Parking areas near trail camps require specific security practices. "WARNING: 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," advises a Millard Trail Camp visitor who experienced security issues.
