Home to nearly four million people, Los Angeles is one of the largest cities in the country. In the middle of this sprawling metropolis, it can be hard to imagine anything but buildings and concrete stretching for miles. Yet, this city has lots of outdoor space where you can escape. Surrounded by mountains, beaches, and the desert, there is a plethora of campgrounds close by to relax and reset. From beachside retreats to mountain getaways, here are five of our favorite camping destinations just a short drive from Los Angeles.
Leo Carrillo State Park Campground
Address: 35000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Distance from Downtown Los Angeles: 45 miles
How to Book: Campsites are booked via a reservation, which becomes available six months in advance of the arrival date at 8 AM Pacific Time. For example, those planning a trip on July 1 can book a campsite starting at 8 AM on January 1. Additionally, any available campsites within the six-month reservation window can be claimed at any time. Reservations can be made online at Reserve California or by calling (800) 444-7275. Campsites start at $45 per night.
Leo Carrillo State Park Campground was the first place I camped as a kid. I remember running around with my friends, cooking s’mores over a campfire, and slowly falling in love with the outdoors. Now as an adult, it’s still one of my favorite camping sites near Los Angeles. Tucked away in the Santa Monica Mountains and with large sycamore trees overhead, you feel a world away from the city. However, you won’t have to sacrifice many amenities. It features potable water, flush toilets, showers, and even a camp store that sells food and supplies.
There are also tons of recreation opportunities within walking distance. Nearby are many hiking trails, including the Nicholas Flat Trail which offers expansive mountain and ocean views. After working up a sweat, walk to the beach to cool off. You can check out the tidepools, explore sea caves, or simply relax on the sand. Leo Carrillo is a premier surf spot too, so pack your board and catch some waves. There are options for everyone here, making it a great escape for those just dipping their toes into nature and the experienced outdoor enthusiast.
Thornhill Broome Campground at Point Mugu State Park
Address: 9000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Distance from Downtown Los Angeles: 50 miles
How to Book: Campsites are booked via a reservation, which becomes available six months in advance of the arrival date at 8 AM Pacific Time. For example, those planning a trip on July 1 can book a campsite starting at 8 AM on January 1. Additionally, any available campsites within the six-month reservation window can be claimed at any time. Reservations can be made online at Reserve California or by calling (800) 444-7275. Campsites start at $35 per night.
If you’re looking to camp just steps away from the shore, you’ll need to stay at the Thornhill Broome Campground at Point Mugu State Park. It’s one of the few camping spots near Los Angeles that allow you to set up your tent on the beach, giving you unparalleled access to the gorgeous Malibu coastline. Each site comes with a picnic table and a fire ring, making it a perfect place to spend the night with friends on the beach.
This campground has a lot to offer in addition to its oceanside location. A short drive away is the Ray Miller Backbone Trail, which offers expansive views of the ocean and mountains. Or head to the giant sand dune nearby for some sand sledding. Back at camp, take a dip in the Pacific Ocean before watching the sunset over the horizon. Just keep an eye out on the tides before you go—this campsite can flood during tidal surges.
We recently spent a weekend at the Thornhill Broome Campground! Click below to read about our experience.
Chilao Campground
Address: Chilao Campground, Palmdale, CA 93550
Distance from Downtown Los Angeles: 40 miles
How to Book: Campsites are first-come, first-served and start at $12 per night.
Nestled in the heart of the San Gabriel Mountains, Chilao Campground is one of the most accessible forest camping spots in the Los Angeles area. Sitting at 5,300 feet in elevation, you’re well removed from the busyness of the city below. Stay at the most southwestern-facing campsites for the best views of Big Tujunga Canyon and the mountain peaks.
When camping here, check out the nearby Chilao Visitor Center to learn more about the area, or take a hike on one of the countless nearby trails, including the iconic Pacific Crest Trail. You also can head to Newcomb’s Ranch, a historic restaurant in the San Gabriel Mountains that’s been around since 1939. At sunset, watch as the light paints the landscape in beautiful orange, red, and purple hues. It’s a true escape from the city, just an hour outside of downtown.
Buckhorn Campground
Address: Buckhorn campground, Pearblossom, CA 93553
Distance from Downtown Los Angeles: 50 miles
How to Book: Campsites are first-come, first-served and start at $12 per night.
Buckhorn Campground is one of my all-time favorites. Just a few miles north of Chilao Campground, this site is a true mountain escape. Sitting at 6,300 feet and featuring tall pine trees, it’s a lush, forested paradise that’ll make you forget how close you are to the city. In fact, it’ll feel like you’re high in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, despite being only 50 miles from downtown. It’s a popular campground, especially on the weekends, so try to visit midweek if possible.
During your stay check out the Burkhart Trail to see Cooper Canyon Falls, one of the best waterfalls in all of Los Angeles County which features a swimming hole. You also can take a hike on the Pacific Crest Trail, which routes nearby. If you’re looking for classic, forest camping with a Yosemite-esque feel, then Buckhorn Campground is a must-visit.
Manker Flat Campground
Address: 7980 Mt Baldy Rd, Mt Baldy, CA 91759
Distance from Downtown Los Angeles: 50 miles
How to Book: Campsites are first-come, first-served and start at $12 per night.
If you’re looking to experience some of Southern California’s highest peaks, then Manker Flat Campground makes a great basecamp. At 6,000 feet, you can escape heat from down below and acclimate before your adventure. From your campsite, you’ll have easy access to many trails that lead to Mount San Antonio (AKA Mount Baldy), the highest point in Los Angeles County at 10,064 feet, as well as Cucamonga and Ontario Peaks, which both sit above 8,000 feet in elevation.
If high alpine adventure isn’t your speed, there are still plenty of things to do. Hike along the easy 1.4-mile trail to San Antonio Falls, a powerful 75-foot waterfall on the side of Mount Baldy. Alternatively, take the lifts up to 7,800 feet to enjoy expansive mountain views and dine at the Top of the Notch Restaurant. You also can head into Mount Baldy Village and experience the shops and restaurants of this quaint mountain town. No matter what your plans are, Manker Flat Campground is a great camping getaway for those living in Los Angeles.
We can’t wait for you to experience one (or all) of these camping destinations near Los Angeles! If you’re looking for extra help on your next camping trip, let us know! We at GoForth are experts at turning your outdoor dreams into a reality, and we’d love to help curate an unforgettable trip. Click on the button below to learn more about our offerings, and contact us if you’re ready to take the first step toward a life outdoors!
