Desert camping near Los Angeles

Get all sides of the sunny Southern California experience within a hour of LA.

90% (544 reviews)
90% (544 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Los Angeles

Available this weekend

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top desert campgrounds near Los Angeles

96%
(113)

Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents62 acres · Lake Hughes, CA
Run by three generations, our ranch has been in our family for more than 70 years. We opened our doors to the public in 2014 to help support feeding our animals, bred and rescued, after the Powerhouse Fire almost burned us out. We’ve survived a county quarantine(2018-2019), the COVID Lockdowns (2021-2022), the Lake Fire (2020), and the Hurricane Kay burn scar debris flow and flood (9/11/22), depending on hard work and strong family and community bonds. In addition to camping and educational tours, we host private and community events, grow & sell produce and eggs, hatch and sell chicks, rescue ratites, and support the local bee population (which gives us RAW honey to sell), and are working to open a private U-pick-by-appointment orchard. We are all animal lovers, and conservationists, and try to do our part to ensure our children inherit a healthy and viable world. This is our home where we live, work, love, and play. We enjoy sharing our space with visitors who we hope learn about ostrich and make some great memories.
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$20
 / night
96%
(108)

Old West Mountain Camping Near LA!

2 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Acton, CA
Learn more about this land:A vast expanse of oak trees, California Junipers and rugged, mountainous land running with jackrabbits, quail, and owls that is just 3 miles from Vazquez Rocks and the PCT, our ranch transports you. From the tent campsite, you look out for 20 miles and see nothing but nature across small mountains and canyons all the way to the peaks of Angeles National Forest in the distance. The campsite is a large flat area. For a trailer or RV it's a great place to park and the view is towards wide open spaces. With a tent or if you want more pure nature, you can drive out onto the property further towards the small ruin of the old homesteader's cabin or beyond. The property has a long-abandoned gold mine and circular arrastres where miners used mules to break up rocks. Nearby Acton has pick-your-own apples/pears/peaches at Bloom farms. We are at 3000 feet with strong sun during the day and cool mountains air at night. The camping is set away from structures, but if you want to stroll, closer to the ranch buildings, we have friendly small goats you can visit if interested and horses and a donkey to say hello to across the corral fence. 
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$42.75
 / night
100%
(33)

Prospector Ranch

5 sites · Lodging, RVs10 acres · Thousand Oaks, CA
Prospector Ranch which is an 1800's style ranch located right next door to the acre used for Hipcamping. The ranch is made up of their home and is also a venue for filming, photo shoots and small events. When not being used, camping guest are welcome to enjoy the area down around the authentic saloon, use the picnic area under large Oak trees and hike the property. They purchased the ranch 3 years ago and love being outside of the city in the mountains. Star gazing is a must when staying there! The camp site is NEXT DOOR to Prospector Ranch which is our 1800's style ranch tucked away in the Santa Monica mountains, close to beaches, vineyards, amazing hiking, biking to the beach and the city! The wide open empty lot looks out at the beautiful mountains. Enjoy stunning sun sets and Picnic under the grand Oak Trees at the ranch or maybe come by the saloon next door for a cold beverage if we are around. :-). We are happy to point you in the direction for what ever you want to do. There are so many things to do in Thousand Oaks!
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$140
 / night
81%
(8)

HIPTRIP Basecamp + Wildlife Habitat

2 sites · Tents3 acres · Santa Clarita, CA
A NATURAL AMPHITHEATER SPACE – come tent-camp under the stars – at the base of desert chaparral rolling hills – on a secluded, flat, circular, primitive camp area 50 feet in diameter – within a three-acre wildlife habitat – along the edge of a quiet suburban neighborhood. ACCESS INCLUDES shaded concrete patio with gas-fired firepit (no wood). 18+ only. No pets. Pee anywhere, but bring your own camp toilet, please. NEARBY – Six Flags Magic Mountain, San Fernando Valley, Castaic Lake, Angeles National Forest, Pyramid Lake, Pacific Crest Trail, Antelope Valley Poppy Preserve, Southern Sierra Mountains, Mojave Desert. Downtown L.A., 60 minutes away. Orange County, 90+ minutes away. ONE HOUR NORTH OF DOWNTOWN L.A. – off I-5 at Newhall Ranch Road. Perfect for overnight stays before heading elsewhere in California – north or south. Friendly onsite host and property owner.
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$30
 / night
100%
(4)

Zorthian Ranch

1 site · Tent45 acres · Altadena, CA
For over 70 years, the Zorthian Ranch has stood as a haven for artists and intellectuals, functioning as both a community and arts center, and providing a natural respite from the city. Conveniently located just 15 miles from Downtown Los Angeles and bordering the Angeles National Forest, Zorthian Ranch spans 45 acres of mountains, valleys, forests, structures, and sculptures. Its distinctive architecture, handcrafted by the renowned Jirayr Zorthian, a popular and eccentric artist in the area, adds a unique touch. The ranch features vintage vehicles, a variety of farm animals, agriculture, and a diverse landscape, creating a vibrant setting for community events, art, music, and permaculture. Additionally, the ranch has served as a film location for over 20 years, hosting popular TV shows, movies, and music videos. Campers have various options for their stay. Those seeking a tranquil, wilderness-immersed experience can choose campsites accessible by foot trail, offering shaded areas and expansive overlooks with views stretching to Santa Catalina Island. For car campers, campsites within the developed portion of the ranch are accessible by vehicle and nestled in a lively garden oasis. The property boasts extensive wilderness with numerous private trails available to campers. Scenic outlooks and open flat rest areas with tables and chairs are scattered throughout the private wilderness trails. Campers also have access to a vast network of public trails and sites in the San Gabriel Mountains, including Millard Canyon Falls Trail, Sunset Ridge Trail, Mt Lowe Trail, and Echo Mountain Trail. The dominant plant communities within and around the ranch create a diverse mosaic, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, coast live oak, Engelmann oak woodland, riparian habitat, and ephemeral wash habitat. The undeveloped foothill and mountainous terrain within the Angeles National Forest to the north serve as the core habitat for large mammals and birds. Wildlife movement within and through the ranch features daily and seasonal patterns for both large and small vertebrates, with shaded canyon bottoms acting as vital corridors. Regular wildlife sightings include bobcats, coyotes, bears, deer, rabbits, squirrels, and a variety of birds. In the developed portion of the ranch, terrain can be steep and uneven in certain areas, with dirt pathways that result in dust during hot summers and mud during the wet season. Campers should take this into consideration when packing and come prepared with sunscreen, hats, sturdy footwear, and water bottles for exploring the property.
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$31.50
 / night
100%
(3)

Rancho Poppy

3 sites · Lodging2 acres · Elizabeth Lake, CA
Welcome to our off-grid camping experience! If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in nature, this is the perfect place for you. Beautiful Views of the dessert sunrises and night skies, Short drive Awesome spots like the Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve, Antelope Valley Indian Museum, Kill Bill Church, Charlie Brown Farms, Saddle Back Butte State Park. Please note that we do not offer traditional amenities such as a kitchen or regular bed. Our off-grid camping site provides a unique opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the great outdoors. You can sleep under the stars or choose to sleep inside on the futon or loft or even kick your feet up on the cozy recliners, cook using a propane grill, and truly experience the beauty of nature. Whether you are an experienced camper or looking to try something new, our off-grid camping experience offers a chance to unwind, relax, and rejuvenate in a peaceful and natural setting. Book now for a one-of-a-kind adventure! Nestled in the Antelope Valley’s High desert, our campsite offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those seeking connection with nature. Wake up to breathtaking sunrises with view of Lancaster to the East, explore the vast desert landscapes and hills. Witness the beautiful starry night sky. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of California's seasonal poppies. Witness the rolling hills come alive with vibrant hues of orange and gold as the poppies bloom in all their glory. The location of this listing offers a perfect balance between tranquility and convenience. Situated away from the city, you can enjoy a peaceful environment free from the noise and chaos of urban life. At the same time, the property is strategically located within a short drive to various amenities such as shops, dining options, and hospitals. This means that you can easily access all the necessities within minutes. Start your day with a refreshing hike, feeling the adrenaline rush as you navigate dirt tracks on a thrilling dirt bike ride, or peacefully casting your line into the aqueduct to reel in the catch of the day. For those who appreciate the wonders of nature, indulge in observing diverse bird species in their natural habitat or lose yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of the night sky while stargazing. This location is perfect for those looking for a calm and quiet space to meditate. Our off-grid campsite provides the perfect blend of comfort and ruggedness, with cozy accommodations and basic amenities to make your stay truly memorable. Disconnect from the chaos of everyday life and reconnect with yourself and loved ones. Whether you're looking for a solo retreat, a romantic getaway, or a fun adventure with friends, our desert campsite is the ideal destination for your next escape. Because we are off grid, we do have a solar charger station to allow you to keep your phone charged, this is only able to accommodate phones and other small gadgets that may be charged using USB port. It's best to conserve as much power as you can once the sun goes down. We suggest bringing your own backup power source such as a generator or solar power station if You wish to power other devices. Propane-Powered Shower: Our shower operates on propane for heating water. While this ensures a warm and comfortable shower experience, please be aware that water usage is limited. We kindly ask guests to be mindful of their water consumption during their stay to ensure availability for all. We're here to ensure your stay is as enjoyable as possible. Book your desert getaway today and embark on an unforgettable adventure ! .• ROAD CONDITIONS: roads are dirt, they may be muddy or slippery after rain or snow so please take it slow. A four wheel drive car is not required, but note that roads will often have ruts, particularly after a rain. 💧 Limited Water Supply: Due to our remote location, we have a limited water supply. We offer 275gal of water supply. Guests may experience occasional low water pressure. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in conserving water during your stay. The site does not offer DRINKING/COOKING WATER! Please be sure to bring plenty. Our site is pet-friendly, as we understand the importance of including furry family members in your travels. However, we kindly request that you refrain from bringing your pets inside the accommodation or allowing them on the furniture. If you wish to bring your pet indoors for sleeping hours, we ask that they remain crated at all times. This policy is in place to maintain the cleanliness and comfort of our space for all guests to enjoy. PLEASE BE SURE TO HAVE PETS RELIEVE THEMSELVES OUTSIDE AND CLEAN UP AFTER THEM! We ask for your cooperation in adhering to this guideline. We recommend bringing along a cozy bed or blanket for your pet to relax on outside, where they can still be close to you while respecting our house rules. Thank you for understanding and for helping us ensure a pleasant stay for all visitors. As you embark on your adventure here, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable stay. While exploring the natural beauty surrounding our property, please be mindful of the wildlife that inhabits the area. Keep an eye out for coyotes etc., which are common in the region. It's important to take precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of your furry friends. Remember to keep your pets on a leash and supervise them closely to prevent any encounters with wildlife. By staying alert and respecting the wildlife, you can have a wonderful and worry-free experience during your stay. Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and we hope you have a fantastic time exploring the great outdoors! For your comfort and convenience during your visit, we kindly ask that you bring your own supplies such as toiletries, extra blankets and any other supplies you may need during your stay. By bringing along these items, you can personalize your experience and have everything you need to make your stay enjoyable. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us maintain a comfortable environment for all our guests. Thank you for your attention to this important detail, and we look forward to welcoming you soon. LIABILITY WAIVER: By making your reservation you and the other members in your party as THE GUESTS agree to release THE HOSTS from all liability, including financial responsibility relating to injuries & personal property damage that may occur during your stay. You understand that exploring, hiking, and climbing anywhere on the property is at your own risk and that special risks may be involved with hiking, exploring, and/or climbing. You accept full responsibility for any bodily injury arising while on the property and do not hold the owner responsible. OVERVEW: Off Grid NO WIFI provided NO AC limited water supply 275gal Full working indoor bathroom/shower(septic) NO DRINKING/COOKING WATER PROVIDED ON SITE NO refrigerator Situated on 2 acres, remote with a few neighbors down the road. Enough room to park your desert offroad vehicles Outdoor BBQ (Propane) 1 picnic table 1 futon bed, 2 recliners NO ELECTRICITY, Solar powered string lights inside Please note: there are no shaded parking areas, so please consider bringing the necessary car shades to keep your interior cool. 420 friendly OUTSIDE only, please be sure to safely contain anything that may still be hot or burning. indoor safe Mr. heater propane heater howling cayotes may be heard at night NO PARTIES Please be mindful of the other properties nearby! We look forward to accommodating you, Please reach out to host with any issues or questions.
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$135
 / night

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Desert camping near Los Angeles guide

Overview

Looking for a camping experience near Los Angeles, California in the desert? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 1,700 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you prefer a secluded oasis or a bustling campground, there's something for everyone. Check out top campsites like Cuyama Badlands (1681 reviews), Down-to-Earth Ecoshire (552 reviews), or Blue Sky Center (343 reviews) for highly recommended options. Plus, with popular amenities like showers, trash disposal, and pet-friendly options, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Get ready to enjoy activities like wind sports, horseback riding, and climbing in the beautiful desert terrain. And with an average price per night of $33 and options as low as $5, you can enjoy an affordable camping adventure. Happy camping!

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