Summary
Los Angeles camping may seem unlikely, but it offers a unique experience for those on a budget, traveling in an RV, or who simply enjoy sleeping under the stars. The campgrounds in the Los Angeles metropolitan area provide a variety of options.
Understanding the geography of the region can enhance your camping experience. Los Angeles is the second-largest city in the United States and also encompasses its own county. The area commonly referred to as the “basin” is surrounded by coastal mountains and includes major locales such as Pasadena, Hollywood, and Long Beach, where many of the city’s top tourist attractions are situated.
Campgrounds in the Los Angeles Basin
Although busy, crowded Los Angeles has limited camping options, a few noteworthy sites remain, including one right on the beach.
- Dockweiler Beach: This popular campground is situated just beneath the LAX runways and offers stunning beach views. Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for tents, but RV parking is available.
- Golden Shore RV Resort, Long Beach: Located on the waterfront in downtown Long Beach, this resort allows tent trailers but not traditional tents.
Camping in Malibu
These campgrounds are found along the picturesque south-facing coastline in Malibu, west of Los Angeles, along CA Hwy 1. The following options are ordered from east to west, beginning with the closest to LA.
- Malibu Beach RV Park: With nearly 100 sites for RVs and tents, this park is perched on cliffs above Dan Blocker State Beach.
- Malibu Creek State Park: A frequent filming location, this park offers both tent and RV camping options.
- Leo Carrillo State Beach: Located 28 miles north of Santa Monica, this site accommodates both tent and RV campers.
- Point Mugu State Park: Offering scenic beachside camping, you can choose between campsites in Sycamore Canyon or those along the shore.
Campgrounds in Other Parts of the Los Angeles Area
As Los Angeles spans a vast area, some of these campgrounds may be a considerable drive from popular tourist attractions. A reliable map will help you determine their suitability for your travel needs.
- Disneyland Area Camping: If you’re visiting the Disneyland Resort or nearby attractions in Orange County, numerous campgrounds are available.
- Catalina Island: Accessible by boat, this charming destination offers a peaceful escape. Discover where to camp and necessary details for your visit.
- More Beach Camping in Southern California: You’ll find additional beachside camping opportunities in this short list across Southern California.
East of Los Angeles
- Pomona Fairplex KOA: Located approximately 35 miles from downtown Los Angeles, this KOA is near the Pomona Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual Los Angeles County Fair. It provides both RV and tent camping options.
- East Shore RV Park, San Dimas: Situated about 25 miles from downtown LA, this park offers camping accommodations at Puddingstone Lake, with spots for both RVs and family tents.
North of Los Angeles
- Valencia Travel Village: Located north of the Los Angeles Basin off I-5, this well-equipped campground is near Magic Mountain, featuring over 350 RV sites and various amenities.
- Walnut RV Park, Northridge: Although a bit outside the Los Angeles basin, Northridge is still convenient for visits to Universal Studios and Magic Mountain, being just 20 miles from downtown LA.
- Balboa RV Park, Van Nuys: Located near the intersection of I-405 and US Hwy 101, this large park offers full hookups and facilities such as a laundry room, cable TV, and internet access.
For more travel inspiration, consider exploring The Best Things to Do in Los Angeles.
