Cabin camping near Universal City, California offers access to rustic and developed accommodations within the Angeles National Forest area. Most cabin sites sit at elevations between 2,000 and 4,500 feet, creating temperature differences of 15-20 degrees cooler than downtown Los Angeles during summer months. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevation cabin sites.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: Crystal Lake Recreation Area provides several trails leading to scenic water features. One reviewer notes, "Lots of trails all around with a nice hike of about 1/2 mile up to Millard Falls that is easy for kids and grown ups. Wild life all over the place and a great stream in the wet season through summer."
Beach activities at nearby lakes: Newport Dunes RV Resort offers water-based recreation options. According to a camper, "They have activities for the kids like arts and crafts, an inflatable obstacle course or you can rent paddle boards or watch a movie on the beach. There are fantastic running/bike trails along the Back Bay."
Mountain biking and trails: Millard Trail Campground provides access to multiple trail systems popular with cyclists. One visitor mentioned, "Bikepacked in for a quick overnighter. Nice campground, active stream in the middle of summer. Waterfall 30 minutes hike upstream."
What campers like
Privacy at select locations: Antfarm LA provides a secluded cabin experience within reach of city amenities. A guest shared: "It's a spot where you can truly be away. We spent 5 days and didn't really see a soul."
Convenience to urban areas: Cabin options near Universal City require minimal travel time. One visitor at Valencia Travel Village noted, "This was a great stop over for a week. A little remote and you have to drive to the nearest town(s), but clean grounds and nice site. Very easy to book online."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many cabin sites offer chances to observe local fauna. At Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground, a camper reported: "ANIMALS SEEN: Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain cabin locations experience significant temperature fluctuations. A visitor at Crystal Lake noted, "Stayed here two nights in August, it was nice and cool a good break from the heat."
Noise factors at some locations: Some cabin sites experience noise pollution. At LA RV Resort at Action Camp, campers report: "BUT, there's about 4 trains a night that will come by with horns blowing. Also, there's no functional WiFi or Cell service, or CATV."
Variable amenities: Facilities differ significantly between cabin properties. At Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, a camper noted: "Great TT park. This is a good location to explore LA and greater LA area, 45 min to Hollywood sign. Park is a large TT resort with recently remolded lodge in 2019."
Security concerns at some locations: Some areas require additional precautions. At Millard Trail Camp, a reviewer warned: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin camping with safety measures: When selecting cabins with children, consider security features. At Newport Dunes, "The campground is clean and right on the beach."
Finding kid-friendly activities: Look for locations with structured recreation. At Valencia Travel Village, one parent shared: "The people here are so nice, the pool is clean and rarely busy from what we have seen. The shop has everything we have needed and the views are gorgeous."
Choosing cabins with bathroom access: For families, bathroom proximity matters. At Millard Trail Campground, "There is one restroom on-site which also serves the day-hikers. It is not maintained well, and often smells bad."
Pack for bug protection: Some cabin areas have significant insect activity. One visitor at Crystal Lake advised: "TIPS: Bring bug spray."
Tips from RVers
Proximity to urban attractions: RV-accessible cabin locations offer convenience to city attractions. At Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, a camper noted: "This is a good location to explore LA and greater LA area, 45 min to Hollywood sign."
Reservation strategies: Book well in advance for peak seasons. At Newport Dunes RV Resort, "We rented the Large Cottage in the back because we needed a kitchen for cooking all the food we'd packed. The small cottage would've been fine if we didn't need to a oven, stove and large refrigerator."
Full hookup options: Some locations provide utility connections for RVs alongside cabins. According to one Valencia Travel Village camper: "Plenty of spots around the grounds with 30 and 50 amp hook ups. WiFi is included with 3 pools and a hot tube, small store, and a really nice laundry facility."
