Dockweiler Beach RV Park offers oceanfront camping within an hour of West Hollywood. Located 22 miles southwest, this urban beach campground provides direct Pacific Ocean access with separate areas for hookup RVs and dry camping. The campground sits beneath the LAX flight path, creating a unique camping environment with convenient beach access and recreational opportunities.
What to do
Beach activities and biking: At Dockweiler Beach RV Park, campers have immediate beach access. "The park is right next to the beach, walk 1 minute and you're there. There's also a bike path that goes for miles both north or south - great for an early workout," notes a visitor who appreciated the convenient coastal recreation.
Hiking trail exploration: Millard Trail Campground offers hiking opportunities 30 minutes from West Hollywood. "There is a stream that runs through the campground which makes it very pretty. About a 20 minute hike and you can end up at a waterfall which is very pretty," explains one camper who appreciated the accessible natural features.
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds in the Angeles National Forest area provide opportunities to observe local fauna. One visitor at Malibu Creek State Park noted, "The wildlife is abundant. There is plenty of birdwatching, and coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear."
What campers like
Oceanfront setting: Campers consistently praise the beachfront locations. A reviewer at Leo Carrillo State Park explained, "The best part about this campground is definitely the beach access- it's about a 10-minute walk from most sites, and you can explore some amazing tide pools and caves once you get there."
Urban convenience: Many campsites provide proximity to Los Angeles attractions while offering natural surroundings. At Bonelli Bluffs, a camper appreciated this balance: "I loved this place, this hidden gem is located in the middle of the city, with the feel of the outdoor. Lots of trees, biking and hiking trails, fishing area, beautiful views, very peaceful."
Campsite amenities: Comfort features receive positive mentions. One camper at Dockweiler described their experience: "The bathrooms were clean and park is located close to many LA attractions. Also, RV parking is very limited in this area - it is LA."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "It's in Bear country so they provide food storage for each campsite also trash containers too. Each side has a picnic bench and a fire pit," notes a visitor at West Fork Trail Campground.
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds near West Hollywood experience urban noise. According to one Castaic Lake camper: "The view of the lake is beautiful. I enjoyed seeing all the ducks on the lake. Each campsite has a table and fire ring. The bathrooms have flush toilets and the campground is kept clean and trash cans are emptied daily."
Wildlife precautions: Campers should prepare for wildlife encounters. "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," warns a Millard Trail Camp visitor about security concerns.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Not all lakes permit swimming throughout their entirety. A Castaic Lake visitor cautions: "Swimming only allowed at their 'swimming beach' and only while lifeguard on duty. And to use my inflatable kayak, I have to use their boat launch and pay a $9.00 fee."
Kid-friendly trails: Some campgrounds offer hiking suitable for children. A camper at Little Pine Campground shared: "Love this place. Makes you feel like your on top of the world. This place is about 1 hour from Glendale. It is easy to get here, does get crowded as well."
Shade availability: Summer heat can be intense, so look for shaded sites. One Malibu Creek camper noted, "The sites are basic with campfire pit and grill, open space for a tent or rv, and picnic table. The inner circle of sites abuts the bathrooms and is better for groups. The outer rings on three sides have nice views."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campers should check utility options before booking. At Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, a visitor observed: "Many levels to this park and most didn't have a decent WiFi signal. Some sites had dumpsters blocking them from being a true 'pull-thru'. That left us with about two areas to choose from."
Site selection strategy: RV sites vary significantly in size, shade, and privacy. One Leo Carrillo State Park camper advised: "They have a camp store right in the middle of the campground that has essentials. Bathrooms were nice. Walking distance to the beach. Best part."
Height restrictions: Some camping areas have vehicle height limitations. An international visitor to Leo Carrillo State Park warned: "Attention pour avoir accès à la mer, le véhicule doit faire moins de 8 feet!"
