River, stream, or creek glamping in Southern California

"Heaven on Earth" really exists in Southern California camping.

96% (1463 reviews)
  1. Southern California
96% (1463 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Southern California

Camper favorites in and near Southern California

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Stories from the community

12 top river, stream, or creek glamping sites in Southern California

95%
(348)

San Diego Canyon Creek

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · El Cajon, CA
Try out camping without having to rough-it! You can rent the Honeycomb Cabin! Or swing through for a safe place to spend the night in your van, or tent, while taking advantage of San Diego and all it has to offer! So much to be seen or done within 30 miles! You can plan a visit to the World Famous San Diego Zoo, Museums, Sea World, Birch Aquarium, Safari Park, Lego Land and more! San Diego county has wine tasting, breweries, theaters and eateries of all kinds. There are several beaches, mountain lakes, and even the deserts! You can skydive, or scuba dive, go deep sea fishing, or lake fishing, mountain biking, hiking, climbing, or walking the boardwalk! SAN DIEGO CANYON CREEK is a SMALL PATCH of WOODS, NEAR a ROAD, in a NEIGHBORHOOD. In the midst of the trees we have a great view of the stars at night. Harbison Canyon is surrounded by rocky peaks, with a CREEK! We have multiple species of song birds, owls, hawks, and other wildlife that live in this Riparian Habitat. There is a chorus of frogs throughout the spring nights, and crickets year round! It's a very short walk to the neighborhood park- equipped with several types of playground equipment and public creek access, or a five minute drive to a Crestridge Ecological Reserve containing multiple trails. We have three campsites and a cabin on about an acre of land. If you'd like to hang out on the property, we offer a table and chairs with each campsite to lounge in while enjoying the fresh air and nature. There are also a couple of hammocks available. In addition, our SHARED amenities include an outdoor kitchen that includes a sink with hot water, 2 mini fridges,(full at times, extra coolers available) coffee maker, a two burner stove, a griddle, a toaster oven, blender, tea kettle, and a few pans, plates, bowls, cups, and utensils. Also here to SHARE is a Propane fire pit and BBQ area. The bathroom now includes a flush toilet, sink and shower. We are continuously making improvements. Fun Fact: Harbison Canyon was named after John Stewart Harbison - aka the King of the Bee Keepers. He arrived with over one hundred colonies of bees in 1874 and within 7 years he became the world's largest honey producer! Today there are just a few bees in the area.
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$45
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89%
(105)

Bowen Ranch Deep Creek Hot Springs

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Lake Arrowhead, CA
Peaceful Off-the-Grid Property in the Mountains of the Mojave Desert, Hot Springs and Numerous Hiking and Off-Roading Trails Nearby... Surrounded by 1,000s of Acres of Undeveloped BLM and US Forestry Land, With Endless Views of the San Bernardino Mountains and High Desert Scenery. Bring Your Tent, Trailer, RV or Camp in your Car . Picnic Tables and Fire Pits (grills available). Flushing Toilets, Pits Toilets, Potable Water, and Showers On-Site. Breakfast Lunch Dinner Served on the Weekends *Warning! The hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is fairly steep and can be difficult for some people, especially in warm weather, so everyone’s physical fitness needs to be considered when deciding to hike to the hot springs with pets, children, elderly people, or out-of-shape/over-weight people in your group. Even though Deep Creek has never had any known cases of amoeba outbreaks, be advised that the warm waters around hot springs can carry a sometimes fatal amoeba. *Although children are permitted at most sites on the property (children are not permitted at the cabin or spring pool sites), we do not recommend bringing them due to occasional nudity that may be seen in the area and the degree of difficulty for the hike. In order to be prepared with the correct gear to make the hike to the hot springs and know the USFS rules that apply to the area, please educate yourself before coming by visiting the USFS website page for the Deep Creek area. Know before you go! The Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground is part of the historic Bowen Ranch property that was homesteaded in 1924 and has been the camping and parking area for the Deep Creek Hot Springs for nearly a century. The Bowen Ranch property is under new ownership as of 2020. See our webpage deepcreekhotspringscampground.com for more information and detailed driving directions to our property.
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$54.99
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Arrowhead Tree Top Lodge

20 sites · Lodging2 acres · Lake Arrowhead, CA
Located on the heart of the forest, surrounded by the scent of pine, cedar and dogwood trees and fresh, pure air at an altitude of 5,100 feet, Arrowhead Tree Top Lodge offers our guests an opportunity to rejuvenate and relax away from the everyday routine. The serenity and beauty of the natural environment here is unparalleled. Our quaint Lodge is an excellent choice for your perfect getaway from the city, but not from modern conveniences. Our architecture is sensitive to the topography and integrates seamlessly into the existing natural environment. With the stunning scenery and wildlife comes a natural peacefulness. Whether you are looking for rest, relaxation, a romantic getaway from “the flatlands”or the thrill of being at one with Mother Nature and all she has to offer in our Nature Trail, you are sure to find it here at Arrowhead Tree Top Lodge. Our promise to our guests: Our rustic alpine rooms are both comfortable and spacious. A true home away from home. Your stay will be extraordinary and relaxing. We will provide you with old-fashioned personal service. The beautiful Lake Arrowhead Village community offers countless recreational activities, such as hiking, backpacking, bicycling, lake tours, water and snow skiing, fishing, horseback riding, performing arts, galleries, fine dining, golf, and so much more!
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$118.30
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96%
(300)

Harmony's Glamping

11 sites · Lodging90 acres · CA
Nestled along a spring fed creek in the beautiful mountains of Santa Barbara. Immerse yourself in the great outdoors while staying cozy in a Yurt, or one of our Geo Domes. Each is secluded with a hot shower, propane fire pit, camp kitchen (stove and sink ) please bring pots/ pans and all necessary cooking supplies, and a comfortable queen bed. Wake up to the sound of the birds chirping and the creek rippling. Hike to our very own 30' ft waterfall where you can take a dip, lay out and catch some sunshine. The trail is rugged so be ready to boulder and use your hands in some places. Our wood burning hot tub is freshly filled every time, and right along the creek for a natural hot/cold plunge experience. We also offer morning yoga, and relaxing massages for a fully rejuvenating experience. Enjoy some nearby experiences all within 30 minutes: -Cold Springs Tavern, historical stagecoach stop, live music and delicious BBQ -Wine Tasting in Solvang or on Stearns Wharf -State Street, Downtown Shopping and Restaurants -Beaches, LedBetter, East Beach, Butterfly, Hendry's Beach (Dog Friendly) -Painted Cave, a cave full of Indian paintings -Hikes, SaddleRock, Lizards Mouth, Hot Springs Please note that a high clearance vehicle is recommended! This is a mountainous bumpy dirt road with steep sharp corners. A regular car can make it, just be warned you may bottom out a couple times. We are not liable for any damage to you or your vehicle when entering our property, so do so at your own risk. Please feel free to reach out with any further questions. Text or Call: 805-698-8623 IG:@harmonys_glamping
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$160
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99%
(435)

Bailes Farm

5 sites · Lodging60 acres · Fallbrook, CA
One of the last remaining undeveloped parts of Southern California, De Luz Heights is located adjacent to the Cleveland National Forest, and the Santa Margarita River (just a few miles from the campsite). On my 60 acres, there are no major roads going through or next to the property. My land is 13 miles from the Pacific ocean and enjoys a relatively mild yearly climate. Giant boulders provide topographical relief and offer platforms from which to enjoy the view of the nearby Santa Margarita Mountains. The valley views are filled with olive and avocado groves, vineyards, and horse ranches. The Camp Pendleton Marine Corps base is nearby, so you might hear some artillery in the distance on some occasions. The campsite embraces all the comforts of "glamping": a hot shower, composting toilet, beds with sheets provided, gas grill with a stovetop, pots and pans, kitchenware, a sink, picnic table, shaded deck, sofa, lounge chairs, and propane fire pit. The basics are provided: toilet paper, paper towels, purified drinking water, towels, sheets, cooking oil, etc. Campers need to bring their own blankets. I've created a network of hiking trails for especially fit hikers looking for a more rigorous hike than the nearby Santa Margarita River Trail. My trails lead through creek beds, over boulders, through rocky crags, with views of the Pacific ocean on a clear day. Hikers on my trails need to wear proper hiking boots with good traction. Sections of my trails will require bouldering with hands and feet. Expect to have fatigued quadriceps, some scrapes, and a sweaty hat brim. The campsite is accessible with a two-wheel drive vehicle; I drive a Kia Forte out there regularly. However, some tips when driving a two-wheel drive car: when going uphill on a dirt road, try to keep some momentum of about 12-15 MPH. If you stop and try to start again, your tires will spin out. If that happens, just reverse down the hill, and try it again with more momentum.
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$138.57
 / night
91%
(142)

ArtFarm Movie Ranch & Nomad NeXuS

51 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Leona Valley, CA
Nomad-NeXus @ ArtFarm Nature Space offers the best of both worlds: Amazing Nature , bright stars and serenity , a fun creative vibe and good people and blazing fast internet connection for digital nomads and young entrepreneurs who are looking for a space to connect with nature and the world at large all at once, bridging the gap between Nature and Technology, Freedom and Community , hard work and inspiring moments with inspiring and positive people. ArtFarm Movie Ranch and Nature space is the perfect location for all your artistic needs and the perfect space for Digital Nomads and Creative entrepreneurs to immerse themselves in Nature while enjoying the benefits of an instant community of inspired people who love to connect, collaborate and create ! we would love to meet you!
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$62.48
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97%
(301)

Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · Topanga, CA
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!
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$90
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100%
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Topanga Oasis

4 sites · Lodging13 acres · Topanga, CA
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
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$70
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96%
(134)

Thundering Hawk Retreat

10 sites · Lodging40 acres · Valley Center, CA
Welcome to our Hipcamp located on a 40-acre flower farm in the heart of Valley Center. As soon as you arrive, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery. The sound of the creek flowing nearby will immediately put you at ease. Our serene setting is the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Our property is bursting with color and nature, thanks to the many types of flowers and plants that we cultivate here. You'll love wandering through the fields and taking in the beauty that surrounds you. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful getaway, our Hipcamp is the perfect place to disconnect and recharge. At night, the stars shine bright overhead, and the peaceful sounds of the creek and wildlife create a calming atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else. Whether you're camping in a tent, staying in a camper, or enjoying one of our glamping bell tents, you'll be able to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our farm. We can't wait to share our little slice of paradise with you! Follow us on Instagram @thunderinghawkretreat
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$107.10
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Bare All Retreat

31 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents138 acres · Caliente, CA
Welcome to our 138-acre ranch and farm, nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of our mountainous landscape. With a creek running through the front and steep mountains in the rear, our property offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Explore the many old gold miners trails that crisscross our land, now perfect for horseback riding and OHV adventures. Our working ranch and farm provide a glimpse into traditional agricultural practices, with opportunities to observe and participate in farm activities. Keep an eye out for free-range cattle roaming the area, adding to the rustic charm of our mountainous terrain. Discover hidden valleys with seasonal waterfalls and year-round springs, offering peaceful retreats and refreshing natural beauty. Whether you're seeking adventure on the trails, relaxation by the creek, or a glimpse into rural life on the farm, our 138-acre property has something for everyone to enjoy amidst the serene beauty of nature.
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$40
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Dog-friendly getaways

Other options in and near Southern California

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Exploring the beautiful vast landscapes with friends, family, or a solo adventure will be an experience you won’t soon forget.

River, stream, or creek glamping in Southern California guide

Overview

The Pacific shoreline, vast deserts, snow-capped mountains—Southern California has it all. Whether you're looking to hike or surf, the state parks, and beaches are a great starting point for your SoCal adventure.

If you want to hear the waves from your tent, stake your claim at a beach campground with epic ocean views. There are tons of state beaches in Santa Barbara and San Diego Counties. One local favorite is Carpinteria State Beach. Windsurfing, fishing, and surfing are a few ways to enjoy this sandy stretch of the ocean shore.

If you're looking for adventure, Joshua Tree National Park may be calling your name. The rocky desert landscape is a hot spot for hiking and rock climbing. For those who want to escape the crowds, there are plenty of remote places to pitch a tent across the Mojave Desert.

For spectacular mountain views, venture into San Bernardino National Forest, just outside of Los Angeles. In this sprawling wilderness, you find tons of cabins and camping spots, especially near Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake.

If you're looking for something just outside Malibu, you can't beat Malibu Creek State Park. The 8,000-acre rocky wilderness hosts 15 miles of hiking trails and a volcanic swimming hole.

While the rugged landscape lends itself to tent camping, Glamping is also a big deal in SoCal. Keep an eye out for decked-out yurts, cabins, and cottages with spectacular views.

Southern California is known for its fair weather year round. That said, it can get chilly in the winter. Remember to bring a jacket (and a wet suit if you plan on surfing). To beat the summer rush, try to plan your camping trip for late spring or early fall.