Lake Camping Near Lake Los Angeles, California, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2026

Looking to camp near Lake Los Angeles, California and indulge in some lake activities? Look no further than Hipcamp, where you can choose from over 300 options specifically catered to your lake-loving desires. With options as low as $20 per night, you can find the perfect campsite to suit your budget. Check out popular campsites like DESERT DAISY - Joshua Tree rural (295 reviews), Spirit Walk - Private Retreat (202 reviews), and Owlbee Farm (175 reviews) to see what other campers have loved about these spots. Enjoy popular amenities like trash disposal, pet-friendliness, and the option to have campfires. Engage in exciting activities like exploring historic sites, biking, and paddling. Start planning your lake camping adventure today!

87% (198)

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Los Angeles

Looking to camp near Lake Los Angeles, California and indulge in some lake activities? Look no further than Hipcamp, where you can choose from over 300 options specifically catered to your lake-loving desires. With options as low as $20 per night, you can find the perfect campsite to suit your budget. Check out popular campsites like DESERT DAISY - Joshua Tree rural (295 reviews), Spirit Walk - Private Retreat (202 reviews), and Owlbee Farm (175 reviews) to see what other campers have loved about these spots. Enjoy popular amenities like trash disposal, pet-friendliness, and the option to have campfires. Engage in exciting activities like exploring historic sites, biking, and paddling. Start planning your lake camping adventure today!

87% (198)

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Los Angeles

1. SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

95%

(193)

50mi from Lake Los Angeles · 39 sites · Lodging

Escape to the San Bernardino mountains and experience the ultimate mountain retreat! Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin for a romantic getaway, or a spacious lodge for a family vacation, we've got you covered. With a dozen stunning cabins to choose from, we offer the perfect accommodation for all seasons and activities. Embrace the winter wonderland with skiing and snowboarding, or explore the great outdoors with hiking, rock climbing, and fishing. Or simply unwind and relax in the serene mountain surroundings. Our cabins are conveniently located in Green Valley Lake, Big Bear, Running Springs, and Lake Arrowhead, each offering its own unique charm and adventure. Let us be your host and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Book your stay with us today and discover the magic of the San Bernardino mountains!

2. Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

88%

(76)

32mi from Lake Los Angeles · 14 sites · Tents, RVs

Discover Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat, a premier camping, overlanding, and RV destination nestled in the heart of the Mojave Desert, just 90 minutes from Los Angeles. Our quaint and peaceful campsite offers a tranquil escape under the expansive celestial canopy, perfect for stargazing enthusiasts, nature lovers, and RV travelers. Nearby Attractions: Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve (4 mi): Stunning wildflowers and trails. Lake Hughes (10 mi): Fishing, hiking, scenic views. Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park (12 mi): Iconic Joshua Trees. Campsite Features: Our five spacious campsites each include a solar lamp, space for tents or RVs (Campervans, Trucks, Class B RVs), and access to a shared outhouse. Discover Local Flora and Fauna: During daylight, soak in the beauty of the Mojave Desert's natural landscape. Watch out for the local wildlife like quail, roadrunners, and jackrabbits. As night cloaks the desert, you're presented with a mesmerizing spectacle of a starlit sky, making it a dream location for stargazers. During the spring you will be immersed in a sea of wildflowers.Unique Photo Opportunity: Capture memories at our whimsical 'Portal to Nowhere'—a freestanding doorframe set against the desert backdrop. Amenities & Tips: Please note, our amenities are basic to preserve the authentic charm of the surroundings. There no fire pits on site, and we encourage campers to bring along any additional necessities, including extra lighting, for their comfort. We do have a shared outhouse. Stargazing Highlight: Magic Portal sits within a designated dark sky zone, one of the closest to Los Angeles. Experience unmatched celestial views nightly. Reserve your adventure at Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat today!

3. Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

100%

(2)

30mi from Lake Los Angeles · 1 site · Tent

Escape to a living oasis on our family land lab in the middle of the Great Mojave Desert! Located right off Historic Route 66, Wild Wash Ranch is situated at the top of a hill boasting 360 degree views of the Mojave River to the West, The San Bernardino Mountains to the South, Silver Lakes to the North, and the vast open desert to the East. THIS IS A WORKING REGENERATIVE FARM. We harvest rainwater from our farm structures, produce our own energy, grow and raise fruit trees, fodder trees, native plants, chickens, rabbits, and dogs. Our farm is carefully managed every day in order to ensure a regenerative future of local ecological resilience. We welcome anyone interested in learning about and participating in protecting our desert and working with nature to produce abundance for all! Less than 5 miles away from the farm is the community of Silver Lakes, with grocery stores, restaurants, beaches, and parks. Very close by you’ll find famous Route 66 attractions such as Elmers Bottle Ranch, Cross Eyed Cow Pizza, and Antique Station. Locals in this area also frequent nearby attractions such as Palisades Ranch, Deep Creek Hot Springs, and Silverwood Lake. Immerse yourself in the future of farming at our evolving, experimental ranch, where dryland innovation meets off-grid charm. Unplug, unwind, and witness the beauty of dynamic desert resilience as you explore our rolling landscape. Watch the sunset over the Mojave River, camp under the stars and join us on a journey to redefine sustainable living – a unique adventure awaits on this eco-friendly retreat! Wild Wash Ranch is a working regenerative farm serving as the flagship demonstration site for Seeds Of Succession, a permaculture nonprofit working to empower local communities through land stewardship practices aimed toward reversing desertification, and promoting food sovereignty. Fire pit, firewood, and outdoor seating provided, as well as a rocket stove for quick, fuel efficient outdoor cooking so you won’t have to miss the sunset to prepare dinner!

4. Angeles National Forest

92%

(228)

791 sites · La Crescenta Montrose, California

Experience the beauty of nature without having to stray far from Los Angeles.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. San Bernardino National Forest

94%

(151)

863 sites · La Quinta, California

Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Beautiful Lake House In The Mountains

100%

(1)

41mi from Lake Los Angeles · 1 site · Lodging

Relaxin Cabin is the perfect getaway. Located ½ a mile from Lake Gregory & 15 mins from Lake Arrowhead. This top floor unit has a fully stocked kitchen, full bathroom, 2 bedrooms, and a dining table. The vaulted ceiling living room has a toasty wood burning fireplace, wifi, a flat screen TV with access to Netflix. outside on the deck enjoy amazing views from the patio swing and couch. Relaxin Cabin has all that you need making it the perfect place for your next mountain getaway! The space Bedroom 1: Queen Bed Bedroom 2: 2 Full Size Beds Full Hallway Bathroom Guest access This listing is for the private top unit (and attached deck) only. It is separated from the bottom unit. Bottom unit is owner occupied. Other things to note We love pets at our cabin! It's a perfect place to take a walk with them while enjoying incredible views of the lake and mountains. Inflatable kayak available for rent. Additional master suite with queen bed and full bathroom available upon request.

7. Cozy Hilltop Cabin

41mi from Lake Los Angeles · 2 sites · Lodging

Newly renovated two story cabin designed with attention to details. This beautiful cabin is in the San Bernardino National Forest. Located in Crestline, the closest mountain town to the major cities of Southern California, surrounded by alpine vistas and home to the beautifully serene Lake Gregory. Cabin is nestled and surrounded by pine trees, makes you feel like you are separated from the world! Quiet and romantic, it's the perfect place to unwind. The space This two-story mid century cabin home was built in 1960 in the historic San Moritz neighborhood. The space has been artfully renovated to a modern luxury standard while preserving beautiful original elements from the 60s. Put the well equipped full kitchen to work and make meals for yourself or the whole family. Eat at the bar or seat everyone in the dining space, or the warmer months, outside on the deck surrounded by nature. In the morning, you'll find a stocked coffee station. Take advantage of convenient on-site laundry for longer stays or snow days. Get cozy in your choice of three bedrooms. The upper floor bedroom features a queen-size bed with a private work space and also a beautiful, spacious master bathroom. The lower level bedroom #1 bunk beds with a queen size bed on the bottom and full-size bed on top bedroom #2 has a queen size bed. All beds feature extra comfortable memory foam mattresses and down comforters. Feel refreshed in the two bathrooms. One conveniently located on the main level, which includes a toilet and shower. One on the upper level as an en-suite off of the queen bedroom. Relax and recharge in the large soaking tub, or enjoy a nice rain shower with botanical body wash and shampoos.

8. Bonelli Bluffs RV Resort & Campground

36mi from Lake Los Angeles · 376 sites

Nestled at the base of the stunning San Gabriel Mountains, Bonelli Bluffs offers a unique escape just 45 minutes east of Los Angeles. This serene campground provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life. At Bonelli Bluffs, you can immerse yourself in nature without ever leaving the grounds. The campground features a beautiful beach-front park, two sparkling swimming pools, and inviting outdoor fire pits, ensuring that there’s always something to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or engage in various activities, this RV resort has it all. In addition to the on-site amenities, Bonelli Bluffs is conveniently located near the charming attractions of San Dimas, California. Explore nearby hiking trails, discover local swimming holes, or indulge in delicious meals at nearby restaurants and shops. Experience the beauty of California firsthand at Bonelli Bluffs, where adventure and relaxation await.

9. Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

93%

(15)

142 sites · Crestline, California

Beat the SoCal heat with a camping trip at this popular lakeside spot.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

10. Castaic Lake State Recreation Area

86%

(11)

50 sites · Castaic, California

Take advantage of lakefront camping a short jaunt from the heart of Los Angeles.

Campfires

Toilets

Picnic table

Public campgrounds near Lake Los Angeles

88%

(4)

Sycamore Flats Campground

14mi from Lake Los Angeles · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

100%

(3)

Southfork Campground

15mi from Lake Los Angeles · 42 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

Big Rock Campground

16mi from Lake Los Angeles · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

100%

(1)

Mountain Oak Campground

16mi from Lake Los Angeles · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

100%

(1)

Lake Campground

16mi from Lake Los Angeles · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

Peavine Campground

16mi from Lake Los Angeles · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

Jackson Flats Campground

17mi from Lake Los Angeles · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

Appletree Campground

17mi from Lake Los Angeles · 8 sites · in Angeles National Forest

100%

(18)

Table Mountain Campground

17mi from Lake Los Angeles · 39 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

The actual trail camp was full, so we doubled back and stayed at this site that was right on the trail by the creek crossing.

Cooper Canyon Trail Camp

18mi from Lake Los Angeles · 6 sites · in Angeles National Forest

80%

(7)

Little Jimmy Trail Camp

18mi from Lake Los Angeles · 16 sites · in Angeles National Forest

90%

(43)

Buckhorn Campground

19mi from Lake Los Angeles · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angeles National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

F

Francisco

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

Great, spacious layout with nice big windows. Cozy fireplace. Well kept and clean. Owner gives great instructions. I want to go back again!

Jared

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

A beautiful spot with excellent views, and a pleasant surprise visit from some cattle on our way up to the location. I strongly suggest bringing something that can off-road a bit, it wasn't a rough drive, but I know my sedan would have gotten stuck or struggled toward the end. The provided outhouse is a welcome addition. It's a nice, quiet spot for a good getaway with a killer view of the stars all around.

X

Xiaoyan

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

Great place to stay and so close to Lake Gregory! My family and I walked there and the scenery as we walked was amazing. We enjoyed board games at night as well as the TV. Upstairs had an amazing studio styled home with a wonderful array of vinyls to listen to! The Sky Bear Cabin was also very cozy, there was a loft where you can bask in the sun.

S

Sara

July 2025

With kids

2 nights at SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

Very cute cabin. Very clean and updated. Would recommend

C

Chrystelle

July 2025

3 nights at Beautiful Lake House In The Mountains

This cabin is great! Clean, cozy, and comfortable. Just minutes from Gregory Lake which has great hiking, fishing, and an inflatable water park. We were able to watch birds, deer, and squirrels from the patio. The host was responsive and really nice. Check in/out was easy and the cabin info was clear and well organized. It was our first time in Crestline and we loved the small town vibe. Same beautiful setting as Arrowhead, but the people were really nice and the drive was much shorter.

Jennifer

May 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

The house was amazing! My kids had plenty of space to spread out. Host was responsive and we plan to return!

Z

Zoe

May 2025

Tent

1 night at Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

Roy did a great job of creating a super private little camp site. The views were spectacular and it was close to a lot of cool activities! I would definitely recommend!!

E

Emily

May 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

This stay was so fun! The house was beautiful with plenty of space for everyone. The distance to the lake was perfect and we had a great time.

M

MANAGER MISAEL

May 2025

With pets

3 nights at SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

It was awesome; the weather was perfect, and the cabin was perfect. I will be hip camping again.

Katie

April 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

The property has a sweet, private enclosure to pitch your tent with a firepit, table and chairs, and water. And some pretty sweet dogs to greet you. :) It was also cool to see the early stages of a desert permaculture farm.

j

juan

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

Easy to find flat spot if you are camping on trailers or roof tents. Amazing views and great if you want to take your bikes. Would definitely camp here again.

G

April 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

Great stay for various forms of camping! Spent the night while car camping after other plans fell through - booked a bit late into the evening around 7-8pm and owner was still happy to have us. Site was beautiful at the top of a small hill; far out enough from the city that the sky was clear and the stars were bright. Wind is a bit strong during the windy seasons, as since it's at the top of the hill there is no protection; other spots were protected by the hill for those looking to go during a windy day. Sites are clearky marked and accurate. Woke up in the morning to some nearby sheep which was a welcoming suprise. Would definitely reccomend for anybody in the area or those just passing through. The area receives great data connection (t-mobile).

A

Amy

March 2025

Group trip

4 nights at SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

This was a great spot for our family vacation. The house is spacious and super comfortable! The kitchen is well equipped and we loved hanging out on the deck. The owners were quick to respond, and really helpful.

J

Jonathan

March 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

The camp site had amazing views of the surrounding area, and the stars at night. The directions to the site were very good, although I do recommend using Google maps vs Apple as Google seems more precise. It was mid-March when we stayed so the weather wasn’t the best, and the wind was blowing! I would stay here again in the future.

J

James-Patrick

March 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

So easy! Such a great time! Such a cool ride in too!

I

Ivan

March 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

Thanks so much for hosting us! We actually ran out of power in our 12 volt battery in the car and a gentleman on a Motocross helped us jump start the car. We'll have to come during a new moon so we can see better stars! It was still so bright.

M

Marcel

February 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

Spent the night with my wife here. Easily accessible via our Mazda CX-5 following the directions provided. Possibly a difficult path if after a hard rain. My only complaint is that the out-house was occupied by a creature when my wife went use it. Out of respect, we gave it its privacy for the rest of our stay. We had the entire campground to ourselves, minus the out-house. Did not do as much stargazing as I would have liked due to exhaustion from an impromptu hike at the nearby poppy reserve. The night sky was awesome except for the light pollution to the south from LA. There are ranches nearby so you do hear the occasional rooster and working dogs. You do hear the faint sound of vehicles off in the distance, but it’s mostly quiet and peaceful. A bonus were the open range sheep and goats in the area. They added a certain charm to our sunset/evening. Overall, it was a nice getaway from typical suburban and city surroundings.

K

Kimberly

February 2025

19 ft campervan

1 night at Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

The Magic Portal is a truly unique and special spot in the Mojave Desert. The freestanding door frame, fittingly named the ‘Portal to Nowhere,’ adds a fun and creative touch to the landscape. My dog, however, wasn’t so sure about it and refused to walk through! I was lucky to catch a stunning sunset, and the peacefulness of the area made for a perfect stay. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind desert experience!