The best pets off leash camping 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% (309)

Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Monica

1. AntFarm LA

98%
(100)
19mi from Santa Monica · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Looking for a quick escape from the city for a peaceful place to recharge? AntFarm LA offers a private, quiet retreat in nature where you can disconnect from the buzz of city life with the convenience of the city nearby. Hand-built with love and a couple of shovels by our family and friends, this hike-in, tent-only site is the perfect oasis for locals and visitors alike. As you embark on the short hike up, you will experience breathtaking views, shaded trails, and a sense of calm as you arrive at your campsite. You’ll enjoy stunning sunsets, sunrises, and the tranquil sound of birds chirping—an idyllic backdrop to clear your mind. We’ve thoughtfully added a few comforts so you can enjoy nature without completely leaving modern conveniences behind. Take advantage of amenities like a refrigerator, sink, a bathroom with a flushable toilet, and a shower to refresh after a day of exploring. We also have a few electrical outlets and WiFi if you need to stay connected online or charge your devices. If you want to howl at the moon, we have some more remote hike-in campsites available. Send us a message for details. Out of respect to our neighbors, we do not allow car camping in our parking lot. Car or RV sleeping is permitted on our Van Pad site only, although we do not provide RV hookups. To preserve the quiet, off-the-grid atmosphere we’ve created, we ask that you respect our noise curfew of 10PM. We look forward to having you stay!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$36
 / night

2. Topanga Oasis

99%
(38)
9.2mi from Santa Monica · 4 sites · Lodging
You will be nestled in a 13 acres with other cottages dotted throughout the property, along with private creeks + trails up the mountain. Visiting this property is a very unique experience, some describe it as “glamorous camping”. No photoshoots, parties or cats allowed. Please read the full description, disclaimer, and reviews, to make sure this is what you are looking for. **************************************************************************** DISCLAIMER: This is quite different from staying in an ordinary hotel. We are really in NATURE here - these are older cottages hand-built by artists in the forest. They are very rustic! It's like living in a mountain village, with other cottages nearby. While we work very hard to keep our places pristine and spotless - if anyone in your group will faint if they see a bug or lizard or little frog inside - then this probably isn't the place for you. Please be very careful booking cottages for someone else - like your parents just arriving from another continent - they might prefer something more conventional. Some folks describe our places as a luxurious form of camping. We make our cottages very comfortable - they have all the basics - electricity - wifi - most have kitchens, bath or shower and comfy clean beds. But they are not like a hotel with perfect walls and a sterile atmosphere. Please look at all the pictures and read all the reviews. We can't offer refunds just because we don't meet the standards of a normal hotel. Most people are charmed by this idyllic and bohemian lifestyle - but it's not for everyone. ********************************************************************* FILM AND PHOTOS SHOOTS: This is an amazing property for photography, and film, with 13 acres of rustic cottages, oak forests and sculpted streams. But please note we have special, and quite reasonable rates for filming, in addition to the normal rental charges. Please let us know ahead of time so we can work out the details. Commercial filming is not permitted without permission. Charming Cabin Ideal for Hikers and Nature Lovers in Topanga, California
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$70
 / night

4. The Oasis At Antelope Valley, CA

48mi from Santa Monica · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
Scenic Lancaster Oasis 🌄 Perfect RV & Vanlife Spot with Premium Amenities! Welcome to your ideal stopover in the heart of Lancaster, CA — where the beauty of the Mojave Desert meets modern convenience! 🚐💨 Nestled in a prime location, our private land offers a serene escape with panoramic views and a perfect setup for RV travelers and vanlifers alike. We also welcome our beloved snowbirds for extended stays! Come and enjoy our friendly atmosphere. This is the perfect spot to relax and refuel before tackling Los Angeles and its amazing landmarks: Universal Studios (less than 1 hour away), Paramount Studios (less than 1 hour away), Hollywood and the Observatory (a little over 1 hour away), Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, MGM, The Getty Museum, and so much more! At our unique RV spot, we’re committed to fostering a culture of respect, equity, and inclusion across all aspects of our community. We recognize that diversity — encompassing race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, ancestry, and country of origin — is a vital source of strength, innovation, and resilience. Lancaster is a gem in the Antelope Valley, renowned not only for its breathtaking desert landscapes but also for its vibrant local culture and history. Discover the iconic Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, explore local museums, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities right at your doorstep. Whether you’re capturing stunning sunset photos, hiking in pristine settings, or simply relaxing under the starlit sky, Lancaster provides an unforgettable backdrop. 🌼📸 Your Stay Includes: • Secure Parking Spot: Ample space for your RV or van, providing a safe and convenient base. • Full Bathroom Facilities: Stay comfortable with a private portable bathroom available 24/7. A free dump station is located nearby at Lancaster City Park Soccer Complex, open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. • Pet Play Space: Traveling with furry friends? They’ll love our dedicated area just for pets! 🐾 • Access to Tools: Need to make quick fixes or adjustments to your vehicle? We’ve got you covered. A mechanic is also on call and can service your rig.
Pets
Picnic table
from 
$16
 / night

5. Skoolie in a secluded meadow

98%
(30)
36mi from Santa Monica · 1 site · Lodging
This was originally a Girl Scout camp called Singing Pines back in the 30’s. You’ll see as you roam around some of the original buildings and structures. It hasn’t been in operation as a Girl Scout camp for over 30 years. The neighbor camp bought the lease but haven’t had the funds to revive it yet. DIRECTIONS: Take Exit for Angeles Crest Hwy (Hwy 2) from the 210 Go North, up the mountain for 29 miles Turn left on Sulpher Springs Rd Go about a mile and you will see a Singing Pines sign up on a hill on the right side. There is a white gate which is usually open but if it's closed go ahead and open it. Go down that driveway about a mile and turn left at the fork. Follow that road down and around the lake staying to the right. Once you passed the lake there will be a little uphill and the location is on the left. Learn more about this land: The Skoolie is a converted short bus with two love seats that convert to an RV queen bed, sink, stove top, dinette, and over head lights. Outside is a private meadow with a short walk to a small lake. You can bring your fishing gear. It's stocked with Bass and Bluegill. Outside the Skoolie is a picnic table, fire pit (firewood $10 a bundle) and a hammock. Up the hill, a very short walk is the private campground toilet facility. This is not shared with anyone else. No cell phone reception no linens bring a sleeping bag or warm blankets. You can charge your phone in the Skoolie for a sunrise alarm or just to take pictures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$131
 / night

6. Vintage Camper In LBC Garden

83%
(6)
22mi from Santa Monica · 1 site · Lodging
This 1968 Shasta Camper, located in a small garden within an urban neighborhood, sleeps up to four people, with additional space to set up tents if desired. It has a few amenities—some more rustic than others—including AC, refrigerator and freezer, stovetop (oven does not work), sinks, shower, internet, and coffee maker. Located just ten minutes from the Port of Long Beach and the Port of San Pedro, it’s a great launch point for cruise-goers. With swimming beaches only twenty minutes away, it’s an ideal option for a low-cost vacation. Help yourself to the freshest fruits, vegetables, and legumes from the garden, and watch the bees, butterflies, and grasshoppers happily pollinate, creating opportunities for new growth. The property is securely locked, and the entrance is video-monitored for your safety (and ours). It’s important to note that the camper (not a glamper) is vintage, and the convenience of the urban neighborhood can sometimes come with a variety of neighborhood sounds—though it can also be extremely quiet at times. Due to the desert climate, ants may accompany the pollinators and enter the camper if food or beverages are left out. The garden is shared with our home, so some privacy may be compromised when we tend to it.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$55
 / night

7. Onward Oceans

40mi from Santa Monica · 1 site · Lodging
Onward Oceans, located at Ballast Point in Cat Harbor on Catalina Island, is a serene waterfront retreat offering a unique off-grid experience. The rustic facility, accessible by ferry or private boat via Two Harbors, provides an ideal waterfront setting for those seeking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the most exceptional natural marine environment on the California coast. Accommodations at the center include comfortable bunks housed in glamping tents. Guests may also bring and pitch their own tents on the grounds. Bathrooms, running water, and cooking facilities complement a unique ecological experience right in the heart of the most bucolic natural harbor on the island, where hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, and an abundance of endemic nature await just outside the door Onward Oceans' natural waterfront setting and the island’s rugged, remote landscape offer a unique opportunity for adventure, retreat, celebration, and deepening.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$720
 / night

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% (309)

Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Monica

1. AntFarm LA

98%
(100)
19mi from Santa Monica · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Looking for a quick escape from the city for a peaceful place to recharge? AntFarm LA offers a private, quiet retreat in nature where you can disconnect from the buzz of city life with the convenience of the city nearby. Hand-built with love and a couple of shovels by our family and friends, this hike-in, tent-only site is the perfect oasis for locals and visitors alike. As you embark on the short hike up, you will experience breathtaking views, shaded trails, and a sense of calm as you arrive at your campsite. You’ll enjoy stunning sunsets, sunrises, and the tranquil sound of birds chirping—an idyllic backdrop to clear your mind. We’ve thoughtfully added a few comforts so you can enjoy nature without completely leaving modern conveniences behind. Take advantage of amenities like a refrigerator, sink, a bathroom with a flushable toilet, and a shower to refresh after a day of exploring. We also have a few electrical outlets and WiFi if you need to stay connected online or charge your devices. If you want to howl at the moon, we have some more remote hike-in campsites available. Send us a message for details. Out of respect to our neighbors, we do not allow car camping in our parking lot. Car or RV sleeping is permitted on our Van Pad site only, although we do not provide RV hookups. To preserve the quiet, off-the-grid atmosphere we’ve created, we ask that you respect our noise curfew of 10PM. We look forward to having you stay!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$36
 / night

2. Topanga Oasis

99%
(38)
9.2mi from Santa Monica · 4 sites · Lodging
You will be nestled in a 13 acres with other cottages dotted throughout the property, along with private creeks + trails up the mountain. Visiting this property is a very unique experience, some describe it as “glamorous camping”. No photoshoots, parties or cats allowed. Please read the full description, disclaimer, and reviews, to make sure this is what you are looking for. **************************************************************************** DISCLAIMER: This is quite different from staying in an ordinary hotel. We are really in NATURE here - these are older cottages hand-built by artists in the forest. They are very rustic! It's like living in a mountain village, with other cottages nearby. While we work very hard to keep our places pristine and spotless - if anyone in your group will faint if they see a bug or lizard or little frog inside - then this probably isn't the place for you. Please be very careful booking cottages for someone else - like your parents just arriving from another continent - they might prefer something more conventional. Some folks describe our places as a luxurious form of camping. We make our cottages very comfortable - they have all the basics - electricity - wifi - most have kitchens, bath or shower and comfy clean beds. But they are not like a hotel with perfect walls and a sterile atmosphere. Please look at all the pictures and read all the reviews. We can't offer refunds just because we don't meet the standards of a normal hotel. Most people are charmed by this idyllic and bohemian lifestyle - but it's not for everyone. ********************************************************************* FILM AND PHOTOS SHOOTS: This is an amazing property for photography, and film, with 13 acres of rustic cottages, oak forests and sculpted streams. But please note we have special, and quite reasonable rates for filming, in addition to the normal rental charges. Please let us know ahead of time so we can work out the details. Commercial filming is not permitted without permission. Charming Cabin Ideal for Hikers and Nature Lovers in Topanga, California
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$70
 / night

4. The Oasis At Antelope Valley, CA

48mi from Santa Monica · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
Scenic Lancaster Oasis 🌄 Perfect RV & Vanlife Spot with Premium Amenities! Welcome to your ideal stopover in the heart of Lancaster, CA — where the beauty of the Mojave Desert meets modern convenience! 🚐💨 Nestled in a prime location, our private land offers a serene escape with panoramic views and a perfect setup for RV travelers and vanlifers alike. We also welcome our beloved snowbirds for extended stays! Come and enjoy our friendly atmosphere. This is the perfect spot to relax and refuel before tackling Los Angeles and its amazing landmarks: Universal Studios (less than 1 hour away), Paramount Studios (less than 1 hour away), Hollywood and the Observatory (a little over 1 hour away), Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, MGM, The Getty Museum, and so much more! At our unique RV spot, we’re committed to fostering a culture of respect, equity, and inclusion across all aspects of our community. We recognize that diversity — encompassing race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, ancestry, and country of origin — is a vital source of strength, innovation, and resilience. Lancaster is a gem in the Antelope Valley, renowned not only for its breathtaking desert landscapes but also for its vibrant local culture and history. Discover the iconic Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, explore local museums, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities right at your doorstep. Whether you’re capturing stunning sunset photos, hiking in pristine settings, or simply relaxing under the starlit sky, Lancaster provides an unforgettable backdrop. 🌼📸 Your Stay Includes: • Secure Parking Spot: Ample space for your RV or van, providing a safe and convenient base. • Full Bathroom Facilities: Stay comfortable with a private portable bathroom available 24/7. A free dump station is located nearby at Lancaster City Park Soccer Complex, open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. • Pet Play Space: Traveling with furry friends? They’ll love our dedicated area just for pets! 🐾 • Access to Tools: Need to make quick fixes or adjustments to your vehicle? We’ve got you covered. A mechanic is also on call and can service your rig.
Pets
Picnic table
from 
$16
 / night

5. Skoolie in a secluded meadow

98%
(30)
36mi from Santa Monica · 1 site · Lodging
This was originally a Girl Scout camp called Singing Pines back in the 30’s. You’ll see as you roam around some of the original buildings and structures. It hasn’t been in operation as a Girl Scout camp for over 30 years. The neighbor camp bought the lease but haven’t had the funds to revive it yet. DIRECTIONS: Take Exit for Angeles Crest Hwy (Hwy 2) from the 210 Go North, up the mountain for 29 miles Turn left on Sulpher Springs Rd Go about a mile and you will see a Singing Pines sign up on a hill on the right side. There is a white gate which is usually open but if it's closed go ahead and open it. Go down that driveway about a mile and turn left at the fork. Follow that road down and around the lake staying to the right. Once you passed the lake there will be a little uphill and the location is on the left. Learn more about this land: The Skoolie is a converted short bus with two love seats that convert to an RV queen bed, sink, stove top, dinette, and over head lights. Outside is a private meadow with a short walk to a small lake. You can bring your fishing gear. It's stocked with Bass and Bluegill. Outside the Skoolie is a picnic table, fire pit (firewood $10 a bundle) and a hammock. Up the hill, a very short walk is the private campground toilet facility. This is not shared with anyone else. No cell phone reception no linens bring a sleeping bag or warm blankets. You can charge your phone in the Skoolie for a sunrise alarm or just to take pictures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$131
 / night

6. Vintage Camper In LBC Garden

83%
(6)
22mi from Santa Monica · 1 site · Lodging
This 1968 Shasta Camper, located in a small garden within an urban neighborhood, sleeps up to four people, with additional space to set up tents if desired. It has a few amenities—some more rustic than others—including AC, refrigerator and freezer, stovetop (oven does not work), sinks, shower, internet, and coffee maker. Located just ten minutes from the Port of Long Beach and the Port of San Pedro, it’s a great launch point for cruise-goers. With swimming beaches only twenty minutes away, it’s an ideal option for a low-cost vacation. Help yourself to the freshest fruits, vegetables, and legumes from the garden, and watch the bees, butterflies, and grasshoppers happily pollinate, creating opportunities for new growth. The property is securely locked, and the entrance is video-monitored for your safety (and ours). It’s important to note that the camper (not a glamper) is vintage, and the convenience of the urban neighborhood can sometimes come with a variety of neighborhood sounds—though it can also be extremely quiet at times. Due to the desert climate, ants may accompany the pollinators and enter the camper if food or beverages are left out. The garden is shared with our home, so some privacy may be compromised when we tend to it.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$55
 / night

7. Onward Oceans

40mi from Santa Monica · 1 site · Lodging
Onward Oceans, located at Ballast Point in Cat Harbor on Catalina Island, is a serene waterfront retreat offering a unique off-grid experience. The rustic facility, accessible by ferry or private boat via Two Harbors, provides an ideal waterfront setting for those seeking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the most exceptional natural marine environment on the California coast. Accommodations at the center include comfortable bunks housed in glamping tents. Guests may also bring and pitch their own tents on the grounds. Bathrooms, running water, and cooking facilities complement a unique ecological experience right in the heart of the most bucolic natural harbor on the island, where hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, and an abundance of endemic nature await just outside the door Onward Oceans' natural waterfront setting and the island’s rugged, remote landscape offer a unique opportunity for adventure, retreat, celebration, and deepening.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$720
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field