The best campgrounds near Santa Monica, California with horseback riding

Ah, big, beautiful, beachfront Santa Monica. West of downtown Los Angeles and 18 miles south of Malibu, this coastal city is home to the iconic pier. It also boasts the equally legendary Muscle Beach. RV campers can explore the coastline of Santa Monica Bay at Dockweiler State Beach RV Park.

For prime tent camping, head north on Pacific Coast Highway to Leo Carrillo State Park in Malibu. The large canyon campground has 140 spots for tents and RVs. The beaches are brimming with tidepools and caves begging to be explored. Hit the moderate 5.9-mile Yellow Hill Fire Trail for wildflower and Channel Island viewing.

If you’re headed to Malibu Creek State Park, make sure the campground has reopened. As of May 2019, only the park’s backcountry and day-use areas are open. The Woolsey fire of November 2018 took a tragic toll on parts of this region.

No visit to California’s coast is complete without time spent in the Santa Monica Mountains. Hike, bike, or ride your horse along 500+ miles of public trails crisscrossing the land. Some of the steepest climbs reward with 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean.

Need a challenge? Tackle the 65-mile (one way) Backbone Trail, LA’s premier long-distance trek. You can’t camp on the trail, but it makes a great day hike. The best ocean views are found on the Ray Miller Trail at Point Mugu State Park. Head to Inspiration Point at Will Rogers State Historic Park for easy access and some Hollywood history.

93% (358)

Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Monica

Ah, big, beautiful, beachfront Santa Monica. West of downtown Los Angeles and 18 miles south of Malibu, this coastal city is home to the iconic pier. It also boasts the equally legendary Muscle Beach. RV campers can explore the coastline of Santa Monica Bay at Dockweiler State Beach RV Park.

For prime tent camping, head north on Pacific Coast Highway to Leo Carrillo State Park in Malibu. The large canyon campground has 140 spots for tents and RVs. The beaches are brimming with tidepools and caves begging to be explored. Hit the moderate 5.9-mile Yellow Hill Fire Trail for wildflower and Channel Island viewing.

If you’re headed to Malibu Creek State Park, make sure the campground has reopened. As of May 2019, only the park’s backcountry and day-use areas are open. The Woolsey fire of November 2018 took a tragic toll on parts of this region.

No visit to California’s coast is complete without time spent in the Santa Monica Mountains. Hike, bike, or ride your horse along 500+ miles of public trails crisscrossing the land. Some of the steepest climbs reward with 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean.

Need a challenge? Tackle the 65-mile (one way) Backbone Trail, LA’s premier long-distance trek. You can’t camp on the trail, but it makes a great day hike. The best ocean views are found on the Ray Miller Trail at Point Mugu State Park. Head to Inspiration Point at Will Rogers State Historic Park for easy access and some Hollywood history.

93% (358)

Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Monica

1. Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

97%

(309)

9.1mi from Santa Monica · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

DEAR HIPCAMPER, "Welcome" To Cross Bull Ranch/CBR Where You Can Unplug & "Disconnect" from Technology & Devices because...WE HAVE A GREAT Connection With Nature HERE ON THE RANCH You Can Find Us @crossbullranchtopanga On Instagram! PERFECT FOR 1ST TIME CAMPERS, FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN & VETERAN CAMPERS TO PRACTICE & HONE THEIR SKILLS IMMERSED IN NATURE YET CLOSE TO ALL THE CONVENIENCES OF... "Home." CBR is A Secluded 16 Acre Eco-Village, Rural Rustic Permaculture & Preparedness Retreat & International Healing Center within Walking Distance to "Topanga Living Cafe" (TLC) & "Cafe' 27". Grab a Bullet Proof Coffee or Oat Milk Latte' with a Wonderful Organic Breakfast, Brunch or Lunch. "Pack Up" & "Head Out" for A Day of Adventure hiking trails, offroad mountain biking The Canyons or cycling along the Pacific Coast Highway, enjoy swimming in seasonal fresh water pools, food foraging, boogie/paddle boarding & surfing The Waves Of Topanga State Beach. While returning to Cross Bull Ranch/CBR Stop Off At The "Topanga General Store" or "Topanga Gourmet" to Pick Up Provisions to "Chill Out" Under The Stars at Your Campsite or One Of Our "Human Nests!" If You're "Lucky" It Will Be Low Fire Danger & We Can Make Smores in The Main Fire Pit Together! Enjoy The Sights, Sounds, Smells, Beauty & "Majesty" of Nature, Enjoy A Drink & A Nice Dinner at "Endless Color," "Then Canyon Bistro" or... The "Inn Of The Seventh Ray" in Town. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Sunday Brunch! Or Perhaps "IF" You're In Need Of "Healing" Set Aside 2 - 3 hrs. for Yourself and... Book A "Shamanic Somatic Healing Session" or "Plant Medicine Ceremony" Customized JUST FOR YOU with Your Hostess, Lisa. Details BELOW. Surprise loved ones or take a solo trip to Celebrate Life, Holidays, B'Earth Days, Anniversaries, Multi-Generational Family Gatherings, Reunions+++ ALL while... Safely "Social Distancing in Nature." Cross Bull Ranch was Originally A Chumash Indian Village. In 1926 "A Farmer" Named McDougal Came to CA from Santa Fe, NM in Search of A Better Life for He & His Family. Originally 40 Acres The Farm Provided ALL Produce, Dairy, Poultry & Beef to The Topanga Community via The "General Store" Until The End of WW2 IN 1945 when The American Public were Sold Post Military Chemicals as pesticides & fertilizers. It was Then That "Corporations" began Buying Up Fertile FarmLand, Clear Cutting, Mono-Cropping. Creating Corporate "Grocery Store" Chains DESTROYING "The Family Farm." My Son's Father & I Rescued This Land in 1998. It was Derelict. We were Handed A 1' HIGH FILE FULL OF Building Department "Violations" The Oaks were ALL Dying from Lack Of Fresh Air/Oxygen & Sunshine. We Removed (8) 5 TON DUMPSTERS/40 TONS OF GARBAGE INCLUDING: Cars, Car Parts/Tires, Toilets, Jacuzzi Tubs, Dishware, Newspapers, Utensils++. We Picked Up EVERY Chard of Glass from Broken Beer Bottles, EVERY Bottle Cap, EVERY Cigarette Butt. Which ARE NOT BIODEGRADABLE. It was A "Travesty." And... "A Labor Of Love." We IMMEDIATELY "Invested" $25,000.00 Clearing & Cleaning, "Healing" The Oaks. With Ropes NOT Spikes. We Bought A Brush Cutter & Cut Down Weeds TALLER THAN ME. At 1st you Couldn't EVEN See The Topography Of The Land. We Renovated an Existing Trailer Adjacent to The Farm House. The "Treehouse Trailer" as We Affectionately Call It Was Out Home for 7 Years While I Resolved A 1' High File Of Building Violations, Woke at 5:30AM EVERY MORNING To Direct/General Contract A Crew Of Talented Artisans from San Miguel Allende, Mexico NONE Of Which Spoke English (Soy Boriqua) & Who'd NEVER Built or Renovated A House Before. In 2009 after Separation, Divorce & Financial Devastation in '09/'10I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This "Dis-Ease" Ended Up Being "A Gift". It Lead me On "The Red Road" To Getting Baptized in The Native American Church in The Lakota Way, Taking "Refuge" in Tibetan Buddhism, Hosting Shaman & Healers from ALL OVER The World in Plant Medicine Ceremonies, Practicing Permaculture & Preparedness, Creating My Own Line Of "Cross Bull Ranch" Non-GMO Organic Food,Becoming A Certified Somatic Healing (Trauma Release) Practitioner &Ordained Minister.Until November of 2019 I had been Hosting Retreats, Workshops, Weddings++ In "Our Home." Until... covid. Similar to "My Prayer" 10 Yeas Ago Asking "God" To Send Healers Who Needed Land to Support Their Work In Exchange/Barter For me To Receive The Healing I Needed. Again "I Prayed" HARD & Divine InspirationCame To me Similar to "Food Being Medicine," that Pachamama, "Mother Earth" is The MOST Potent Healer. I Decided to "Open Up The Land" To Offer To "Others" to Leave Society & Devices Behind. Ground Themselves. FULLY IMMERSING Themselves, Family & Friends in Nature "Maskless." In Order To Breathe Fresh Air. Filling Their Lungs With Life Sustaining Oxygen & Bathe Themselves in Sunshine which Is A PowerFULL Disinfectant, Recharge "Their Souls" & Stimulating Their Third Eye/"Pineal Gland."Helping Others To Re-Boot & BOOST Their Immune Systems.Which is Of The UTMOST IMPORTANCE "Right Now." I Am Lisa Cianci and... I AM Looking Forward To Seeing YOU Here On The Ranch! Until Then... Take CareStay Safe & Well!

2. Old West Mountain Camping Near LA!

96%

(115)

34mi from Santa Monica · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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. 

3. Prospector Ranch

100%

(45)

23mi from Santa Monica · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging

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. We purchased the ranch 8 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!

4. Topanga State Park

96%

(13)

8 sites · Topanga, California

Wilderness in the middle of L.A.—The best day hikes + the Pacific Ocean at your feet.

Toilets

Picnic table

5. Malibu Creek State Park

91%

(109)

58 sites · Calabasas, California

Enjoy nature and outdoor recreation at this former set location in the mountains above Malibu.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Acton Oasis

100%

(44)

36mi from Santa Monica · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We are a BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ friendly location. Our family home is conveniently located just off of Highway 14, along Sierra Highway, in Acton, CA. We offer parking in our large driveway with hookups for electricity and well water. You can save money by boondocking if you don't need to plug in or use well water -- just add it as an extra. Please fill your tanks with potable water and/or bring drinking water. Our well water is very hard so we filter. No black water disposal. There are no toilets, laundry, or other amenities. We currently do not have garbage disposal, but will again soon. No smoking or fires allowed. No exceptions. This is a high risk fire area.   No leaking vehicles. A $400 fee to cleanup any vehicle leaks. No working on vehicles on the property.

7. Green Oak Retreat

95%

(20)

9.4mi from Santa Monica · 7 sites · Lodging

Indulge in the luxury of glamping with our exquisite tent that offers a captivating ocean view. Thoughtfully furnished with a king-sized bed, a cozy table for two, and convenient amenities like a coffee maker and filtered water. Accessible via a scenic 15-minute hike, the well-maintained trail features steps where needed. Immerse yourself in the outdoor experience with a hot water outdoor shower equipped with soap, shampoo, and conditioner. For added convenience, a VIP porta-potty awaits with running water, lighting, and a fan. The Setton, nestled in an enchanting oak grove, promises an unforgettable stay with a breathtaking ocean vista at the top! 🏕️🌅

8. Desert mountain

100%

(21)

35mi from Santa Monica · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: Desert mountain view of the open sky with lots of stars Covered picnic area with games fire pit seating area tables heat lamps in western Decour Two horses chickens ducks dogs with clean comfort walking distance to Le Chen Restaurant

9. Malibu Creek Orchard Retreat

92%

(19)

13mi from Santa Monica · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

A retreat in a steep canyon with beautiful ridgelines in the Malibu Creek area. Private camp spots and hidden trails away from it all, but yet so close. Only 30 Minutes from the Santa Monica Pier or 15 Minutes to the beaches of Malibu, still it feels like being a world away. You wouldn't expect nature to be so pristine and exciting that close to the city. Prior to check-in guests will need to sign the property’s lease agreement which requires a $300 fully refundable security deposit hold on the travellers credit card. For larger groups of five guests and more the deposit will be 50% of the total rent.

10. 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

11. Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

96%

(12)

1 site · Malibu, California

Discover the wild side of Los Angeles in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. Point Mugu State Park

93%

(64)

117 sites · Camarillo, California

Sandy beaches and mountain hikes await.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

13. 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

14. Pepper Tree Cottage tiny home

100%

(8)

23mi from Santa Monica · 2 sites · Lodging

Our little piece of the Earth. Welcome to our Hipcamp page! We have two accommodations: The Rose City Garden Studio and The Pepper Tree Cottage Tiny Home. The Garden Studio is unavailable at this time. Our property is located at the base of the San Gabriel mountains in Pasadena. 15 minutes (traffic permitting) from Downtown LA. Come enjoy our delightful and unique space on Aprox. 1/4 acre. Nature and serenity close to the big city. Read more about the property in the site descriptions. Message me with questions!

15. Beautiful Altadena

93%

(7)

23mi from Santa Monica · 3 sites · RVs

Our 2 acre property is on Chiquita Canyon., easy access to hiking, biking and horse back riding trails . County Equestrian center , tennis courts and Free public pool nearby. Great location for Rose Bowl events, Museums, Old Town Pasadena, Rose Bowl Aquatic Center , Arboretum and many more area attractions

16. Pink Palace at Storybook Farms

67%

(3)

42mi from Santa Monica · 4 sites · RVs

Learn more about this land:Dry creek bed a little hike down the hill. Surrounded by animals and hillsides we are afforded a beautiful sunrise and sunset daily. See the stars and hear nature just 10 miles away from overcrowded civilization and light pollution.

17. Bonelli Bluffs RV Resort & Campground

40mi from Santa Monica · 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.

18. Castaic Lake RV Park

33mi from Santa Monica · 100 sites

Nestled just 1/2 mile from the stunning Castaic Lake Recreation Area in sunny California, Castaic Lake RV Park stands out as a serene and welcoming destination for families and retirees seeking a peaceful retreat. This RV park offers a unique blend of urban convenience and tranquil surroundings, making it an ideal spot to enjoy California's premier recreation lake. Located north of Los Angeles, guests can bask in the warm weather while indulging in a variety of exciting water sports. Castaic Lake boasts an impressive 2,500 surface acres of water and miles of picturesque shoreline, providing endless opportunities for year-round outdoor activities suitable for all ages and skill levels. Visitors can partake in sailing, water skiing, power boating, swimming, and fishing. The park also features family-friendly picnic areas, hiking trails, biking paths, and equestrian routes. For those looking to paddle, the Lower Lagoon is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and float tubing, while the Upper Reservoir accommodates trolling motors and power boats. Anglers will find a diverse range of fish, including largemouth bass, striped bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, and rainbow trout, which are stocked bi-weekly from October through May. When it's time to unwind, guests can relax at the

19. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina

44mi from Santa Monica · 198 sites

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina stands out as a unique destination, offering an unparalleled blend of camping and luxury right along the stunning Newport Beach Back Bay. This resort provides RV campers with access to a wealth of amenities typically reserved for hotel guests, including direct beach access, inviting swimming pools, beachfront dining options, exciting water sports, and the largest inflatable water park in Southern California. Let Newport Dunes be your home base for exploring all that Newport Beach and Orange County have to offer. Our dedicated Concierge and Housekeeping teams are available seven days a week, 365 days a year, ensuring that your stay is tailored to create unforgettable memories for you, your family, and friends. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Newport Dunes is the perfect spot to enjoy the natural beauty and vibrant attractions of the area.

20. Crystal Cove State Park

98%

(66)

59 sites · Newport Beach, California

Explore tidepools or hike through the backcountry at this multifaceted beach park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Camper favorites near Santa Monica

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Malibu Creek Orchard Retreat

92%

(19)

13mi from Santa Monica · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

A retreat in a steep canyon with beautiful ridgelines in the Malibu Creek area. Private camp spots and hidden trails away from it all, but yet so close. Only 30 Minutes from the Santa Monica Pier or 15 Minutes to the beaches of Malibu, still it feels like being a world away. You wouldn't expect nature to be so pristine and exciting that close to the city. Prior to check-in guests will need to sign the property’s lease agreement which requires a $300 fully refundable security deposit hold on the travellers credit card. For larger groups of five guests and more the deposit will be 50% of the total rent.

Pepper Tree Cottage tiny home

100%

(8)

23mi from Santa Monica · 2 sites · Lodging

Our little piece of the Earth. Welcome to our Hipcamp page! We have two accommodations: The Rose City Garden Studio and The Pepper Tree Cottage Tiny Home. The Garden Studio is unavailable at this time. Our property is located at the base of the San Gabriel mountains in Pasadena. 15 minutes (traffic permitting) from Downtown LA. Come enjoy our delightful and unique space on Aprox. 1/4 acre. Nature and serenity close to the big city. Read more about the property in the site descriptions. Message me with questions!

Beautiful Altadena

93%

(7)

23mi from Santa Monica · 3 sites · RVs

Our 2 acre property is on Chiquita Canyon., easy access to hiking, biking and horse back riding trails . County Equestrian center , tennis courts and Free public pool nearby. Great location for Rose Bowl events, Museums, Old Town Pasadena, Rose Bowl Aquatic Center , Arboretum and many more area attractions

Pink Palace at Storybook Farms

67%

(3)

42mi from Santa Monica · 4 sites · RVs

Learn more about this land:Dry creek bed a little hike down the hill. Surrounded by animals and hillsides we are afforded a beautiful sunrise and sunset daily. See the stars and hear nature just 10 miles away from overcrowded civilization and light pollution.

Bonelli Bluffs RV Resort & Campground

40mi from Santa Monica · 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.

Castaic Lake RV Park

33mi from Santa Monica · 100 sites

Nestled just 1/2 mile from the stunning Castaic Lake Recreation Area in sunny California, Castaic Lake RV Park stands out as a serene and welcoming destination for families and retirees seeking a peaceful retreat. This RV park offers a unique blend of urban convenience and tranquil surroundings, making it an ideal spot to enjoy California's premier recreation lake. Located north of Los Angeles, guests can bask in the warm weather while indulging in a variety of exciting water sports. Castaic Lake boasts an impressive 2,500 surface acres of water and miles of picturesque shoreline, providing endless opportunities for year-round outdoor activities suitable for all ages and skill levels. Visitors can partake in sailing, water skiing, power boating, swimming, and fishing. The park also features family-friendly picnic areas, hiking trails, biking paths, and equestrian routes. For those looking to paddle, the Lower Lagoon is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and float tubing, while the Upper Reservoir accommodates trolling motors and power boats. Anglers will find a diverse range of fish, including largemouth bass, striped bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, and rainbow trout, which are stocked bi-weekly from October through May. When it's time to unwind, guests can relax at the

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina

44mi from Santa Monica · 198 sites

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina stands out as a unique destination, offering an unparalleled blend of camping and luxury right along the stunning Newport Beach Back Bay. This resort provides RV campers with access to a wealth of amenities typically reserved for hotel guests, including direct beach access, inviting swimming pools, beachfront dining options, exciting water sports, and the largest inflatable water park in Southern California. Let Newport Dunes be your home base for exploring all that Newport Beach and Orange County have to offer. Our dedicated Concierge and Housekeeping teams are available seven days a week, 365 days a year, ensuring that your stay is tailored to create unforgettable memories for you, your family, and friends. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Newport Dunes is the perfect spot to enjoy the natural beauty and vibrant attractions of the area.

Public campgrounds near Santa Monica

Eagle Rock is about a mile hike from the camp it's a bit steep at parts but the view is definitely worth it!

96%

(13)

Musch Trail Camp

8.1mi from Santa Monica · 8 sites · in Topanga State Park

91%

(109)

Malibu Creek Campground

14mi from Santa Monica · 57 sites · Tents, RVs · in Malibu Creek State Park

75%

(4)

Gould Mesa Trail Camp

22mi from Santa Monica · 5 sites · in Angeles National Forest

Oakwilde Campground

23mi from Santa Monica · 5 sites · in Angeles National Forest

100%

(5)

Millard Trail Camp

23mi from Santa Monica · 6 sites · in Angeles National Forest

100%

(9)

Bear Canyon Trail Camp

25mi from Santa Monica · 3 sites · in Angeles National Forest

I really like HipCamp's campaign "finding yourself outside."(Great Video HipCamp!) That is my favorite part about camping/hiking, especially waking up in the morning. Here is a photo of the moon greeting me on my cold morning at Tom Lucas.

Tom Lucas Trail Camp

25mi from Santa Monica · 2 sites · in Angeles National Forest

Mt. Lowe Trail Camp

25mi from Santa Monica · 5 sites · in Angeles National Forest

"Hammock-friendly meadow, creek running through the camp."

100%

(3)

Idlehour Trail Camp

26mi from Santa Monica · 3 sites · in Angeles National Forest

Mountains cascading in the marine layer in the early morning

96%

(12)

Circle X Ranch Group Campground

27mi from Santa Monica · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Fall Creek Trail Camp

27mi from Santa Monica · 6 sites · in Angeles National Forest

Looking down stream as we stand in the dry river bed. We're actually standing on the Valley Forge trail here, it cuts through the dry stream.

100%

(10)

Valley Forge Trail Camp

28mi from Santa Monica · 6 sites · in Angeles National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

m

mike

November 2025

21 ft campervan

With kids

1 night at Old West Mountain Camping Near LA!

Great quiet spot, no one bothered us. Clean and easy to access. Beautiful. Took my daughter to Vasquez rocks and then camped here in our camper van. Quick and easy overnight from LA.

R

Rachel

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Old West Mountain Camping Near LA!

Such a lovely spot. Quiet, beautiful view. Rustic site, very private. Recommend arriving in daylight if possible to navigate the roads. Wonderful.

R

RAINER

September 2025

28 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Desert mountain

This is a very unique place and the owner is very kind, interesting and wonderful to talk to. I didn’t have much time to spend there but next time I will. It’s peaceful and the location is not too far from Los Angeles Definitely a must visit

A

Aaron

September 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

Lisa was amazing, showed us around the entire property walking around barefoot like a true warrior! We stayed at the campsite near the trailer, which was nice and roomy and had room for our big family tent. Close to the beach and some cool cafés nearby in Topanga canyon. Would highly recommend!

T

Taylor

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

Lisa is a great host! I took my sons on a last minute "camping" trip over Labor Day weekend and we had a great time. We loved how close it is to civilization, but still had a true woodsy vibe.

Our rental car was fun in the canyons & on PCH!

M

Malcolm

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Prospector Ranch

We had a really nice time on the ranch! Team was communicative and answered all our questions, and the location is beautiful! A great place to get out of the city to appreciate nature without a crazy commute.

C

Curt

August 2025

17 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

Lisa was very helpful and a good communicator. It’s a nice spot to camp!

Amir

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

Great spot to hang out with family and friends. This place is sacred, gorgeous and extremely flammable! So keep your fire and sour drunk buddies out! Lisa is a great person. Would love to see her again.

S

Stephanie

July 2025

30 ft travel trailer

8 nights at Desert mountain

Loren’s property was amazing! It was the perfect spot right outside the city to break in my new camper. He was very helpful when I needed help with understanding my power needs. He’s got a bunch of cool props hanging around the property which were also pretty cool. There’s a great French restaurant down the street that’s perfect for a nice dinner and glass of wine. Definitely recommend!

M

Meredith

July 2025

With kids

1 night at Prospector Ranch

Fun, old-school Air Stream stay in a beautiful setting. Friendly hosts.

D

Drew

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

Staying at Cross Bull Ranch was an amazing getaway experience for my partner and I! We wanted to get out into nature somewhere that wasn't super far away from us and we definitely got what we were looking for. Lisa was a great host and we really enjoyed talking to her and plan on going back! Camp sites all were well maintained and we picked one with plenty of shade to get out of the summer heat. I recommend staying here if you want a convenient getaway. Wish we could've stayed longer! Thank you Lisa!!

You can camp anywhere you'd like here :)

Brent

June 2025

19 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

our host was very kind, let us pick our spot with any of the open ones. my Son and I had the best fathers day here camping……… hope to be back one day :)

R

Robert

June 2025

21 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Prospector Ranch

It’s a very nice spot. We loved all the old west decorative touches. We brought an RV and also rented the “Fearless Mary” airstream. Enjoyed the sunset and early morning views up there. Also dined below by the saloon under the big oak. It’s 25 minutes to the beach, 10 minutes to shops and restaurants. The hosts were great. Emphatic thumbs up

Clay

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Prospector Ranch

We had a great time in the “land yacht“. It was a fun throwback to the past. Very comfortable, clean and cozy. The secluded area was very relaxing and Meggan was an exquisite host.

J

Jessie

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

I didn’t need to bring a canopy as there is plenty of shade or chairs which were already provided was nice. This was a nice not far from home getaway. You’re not far off the main highway but it still feels secluded. You can sleep in a tent but also jump in your car and go to a cafe, bistro, or market 5-10 minutes away if you wanted to. I think my spot at the moon lodge was the best as you’re tucked in a nice corner by the stream and the mountain. Lisa was very sweet and accommodating, we were the only ones there when we went to it was nice to have the place to ourselves. She has dogs but they were so well trained they didn’t make a peep the whole time we were there. She even has a rooster that Lisa let us feed which i loved ! Bathrooms were clean but you have to walk outside of the property to get there. The equalivent of maybe 1 street block give or take depending on where you are. Which is not uncommon for camping. I 100% recommend this spot of your looking for something local. :)

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Gianella

May 2025

Tent

1 night at Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

Beautiful camp site! The host is very friendly and kind.

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Michelle

May 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

Lisa our host was truly nice and made our camping trip memorable. The location and camp site was beautiful with the trees and landscape and it was a great experience for us. We appreciate the warm welcome and hospitality from Lisa!

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Yogiraj

May 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

Lisa was a really good host. She was super friendly and welcoming and made it easy to arrive unassisted. I brought my two young daughters and they loved swinging on the rope swing and exploring the dry creek bed. We had a nice propane fire pit. (No real fires allowed). And when we needed bug spray I drove 5 minutes to pick it up and come back. feels removed from LAand yet not at all removed from civilization.

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Bryan

April 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Malibu Creek Orchard Retreat

A hidden-away gem. What a fun campsite! The vintage Airstresm trailer is in amazing shape. Decorated and arranged beautifully. Fabian put everything together so nicely. A bowl of fresh rosemary and lemons from their orchard on the table when we arrived. Coffee and cream packs in the fridge. Firewood and kindling and cooking utensils for the BBQ. Lovely little touches everywhere. Thr amenities are amazing. Full power in the trailer and a bathroom with instant hot water. A smart space heater for the chilly evenings and Alexa to play music and turn on the outside string and accent lights made for a really great nighttime camp experience. There is a hiking loop that is private to the site and takes you up into the hills with a bench at the top to watch the sunset it was gorgeous! Overall we can't wait to go back. There is a cabin you can also rent for larger groups they are renovating currently, when they is done, a larger group of friends would make this an incredible site for a getaway weekend. Highly recommend!

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Raquel

April 2025

3 nights at Green Oak Retreat

Such an amazing experience! The hike up there is a little difficult so pack light but definitely worth it. The hike is very beautiful and seems magical almost. Tent was very clean and homey. Came with a heated blanket and mini fridge. Showers were clean and water was hot.