Cabin camping near Valencia, California offers lodging options within Angeles National Forest and the Santa Clarita Valley region. Winter temperatures often drop below 40°F at higher elevations while summer days can reach 90°F in the valleys. Most cabin rentals remain open year-round, though Crystal Lake facilities operate seasonally from April through December.
What to do
Hiking with goats: At Art Farm Nature Space, you can explore trails with some unusual hiking companions. According to one visitor, "Their western Bar is the nicest looking bar anywhere and there is tons of fun activities including hiking with goats, volleyball etc etc. This spot has some amazing view areas to hike to and the stars at night are the best I have seen."
Explore nearby waterfalls: Millard Trail Campground provides access to seasonal waterfalls within a short hike. A camper notes, "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."
Visit Vasquez Rocks: Located near LA RV Resort at Acton Camp, these distinctive rock formations are worth exploring. "You're very close to the world famous Vasquez rocks," mentions one visitor who stayed at the campground for several weeks.
Wildlife observation: The Point Mugu Recreation Facility offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities along the coastline. "We watch seals, ducks and more swimming around the beach. We practically had it all to ourselves," shares one camper about their beach experience.
What campers like
Privacy options: Art Farm Nature Space offers various secluded accommodations. A camper explains, "This campground has So many options! great walk in secluded rustic camp sites, super social fun camp sites, secluded places to park vans and Campers, and awesome gleaming cottages."
Family amenities: Ventura Ranch KOA provides numerous facilities for children. "Lots of trails and activities for both kids and adults. I took my two dogs and they loved it," reports one visitor, while another mentions, "They have a big beautiful pool, but it was closed due to COVID."
Natural settings: Some cabins offer unique environmental features. A visitor to TINY TIKI RETRO HIDEAWAY simply stated, "Amazing spot and stunning views."
Reasonable rates: Basic accommodations at Crystal Lake Recreation Area remain relatively affordable. One camper reported, "Camping was $10 with our adventure pass. Firewood was $22 for a wheelbarrow (they won't let you purchase other amounts)."
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: At Crystal Lake Recreation Area, wildlife sightings are common around cabins and campsites. One visitor listed their observations: "ANIMALS SEEN: Black bear, deer (wandered through our site), red foxes, Stellar's Jays, woodpeckers, other birds."
Railroad noise: LA RV Resort at Acton Camp experiences regular train disruptions. A camper reports, "The train woke you up every two hour even at midnight," while another notes "there's about 4 trains a night that will come by with horns blowing."
Limited connectivity: Many cabin locations have poor connectivity. About LA RV Resort, one visitor mentions, "there's no functional WiFi or Cell service, or CATV. So make sure you have some books, cards, movies, whatever."
Fluctuating water levels: Seasonal changes affect water features at some locations. A Crystal Lake visitor noted, "Due to lack of rainfall and snow melt the lake is almost dry."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon offers various recreational options for children. A visitor notes, "Great place 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 awareness: At Millard Trail Campground, vehicle security requires attention. One visitor warns, "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."
Wildlife education: Unique animal encounters can become learning opportunities. At Ventura Ranch KOA, "Peacocks roam the grounds, but were not noisy," according to one camper, providing children with opportunities to observe wildlife up close.
Timing considerations: For optimal experiences, plan timing carefully. A visitor to Point Mugu Recreation Facility advises, "The weather was a little cooler than expected, but we had a blast! We watch seals, ducks and more swimming around the beach."
Tips from RVers
Leveling issues: At some cabin and RV sites, terrain can be challenging. One visitor to Ventura Ranch KOA mentioned, "Our lot was secluded, private and close to the entrance/exit. The only thing was the unlevel ground we were on. Our RV was a simple 30' rental without any leveling."
Dust management: Valencia Travel Village offers cabin rentals with better dust control than some alternatives. One RVer contrasted their experience with other locations: "This camp ground has the nicest staff out there. They are always friendly when I go in and they also have treats for your pups. Plenty of spots around the grounds with 30 and 50 amp hook ups."
Accessibility information: Some locations provide better access for those with mobility challenges. About Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, a visitor noted, "This is one of the best handicap accessible shower and restroom areas we've seen. The larger pool had a roll in area."
