In This Article

Craving beaches, deserts, and mountain views? These epic camping spots in Southern California offer everything from oceanfront escapes to starry desert nights perfect for outdoor lovers and families.

Highlights:

  • Joshua Tree National Park – Iconic desert camping with surreal rock formations, epic stargazing, and family-friendly campgrounds like Hidden Valley
  • Leo Carrillo State Park (Malibu) – Beachside camping just steps from sandy shores, tide pools, and scenic coastal trails
  • El Capitan State Beach (Santa Barbara) – Oceanfront camping with bluffs, beach access, and peaceful sunsets
  • San Onofre State Beach (Orange County) – Surfside camping with mellow beach vibes, scenic cliffs, and perfect waves
  • Mount Laguna (Cleveland National Forest) – Mountain getaway with cool forested campsites, hiking, and starry skies

Unique Camping Ideas

1. Buckhorn Campground, Arcadia

Rating: ★★★★★

Buckhorn Campground, Arcadia

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Location: Angeles National Forest, Arcadia, California

Recommended For: Hikers and tent campers seeking a peaceful retreat in the San Gabriel Mountains

What I Love: “A hidden forest gem above the city—cool air, quiet trails, and starry nights.”

  • Unplug at Buckhorn Campground, located at a cool 6,300 feet in the heart of Angeles National Forest.
  • Camp naturally: Choose from 38 campsites—including 3 accessible spots—all available first-come, first-served.
  • Bring your boots: Access the Burkhart Trail and connect to scenic National Recreational Trails for forested hikes and wildlife views.
  • Stay comfortable with basic amenities like drinking water and toilets.
  • Pet-friendly: Dogs are welcome—just keep them on a leash at all times.

Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall, when weather is mild and trails are dry

Local Tips: Bring layers—temperatures drop significantly at night. This campground is remote, so pack essentials and arrive early on weekends for a site.

How to Get There: Take CA-2 (Angeles Crest Highway) northeast from La Cañada Flintridge for about 35 miles

Address: 701 N. Santa Anita Ave, Arcadia, CA 91006, Phone: 626-574-1613

2. Buttercup Group Campground, San Bernardino

Buttercup Group Campground, San Bernardino

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Location: San Bernardino National Forest, near Big Bear Lake, California

Recommended For: Large camping groups and nature lovers exploring the Big Bear area

What I Love: “Shady pines, crisp air, and space for all your friends to gather in nature.”

  • Camp together at Buttercup Group Campground, located at 7,000 feet elevation in a lush part of the San Bernardino National Forest.
  • Reconnect with nature: Only 2 miles from Big Bear Lake, this peaceful forest location is great for hiking, biking, and climbing.
  • Bring the comforts: The site offers tables, grills, drinking water, and vault toilets—perfect for keeping your group comfortable and well-fed.
  • Ideal for groups: Spacious layout designed to host large gatherings of campers, families, or scout troops.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall; campground opens in late April

Local Tips: Make your reservation up to a year in advance—this site is popular for summer group trips. Nights can get chilly, so pack warm layers.

How to Get There: Follow Highway 38 toward Big Bear Lake; the campground is well-signposted within the forest.

Address: San Bernardino National Forest, San Bernardino, CA 92408-2607, Phone: 909-382-2600

Watch the Buttercup Group Campground video

3. Camp Williams Resort, Azusa

Camp Williams Resort, Azusa

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Location: East Fork of the San Gabriel River, Azusa, California

Recommended For: Families, RV travelers, and LA locals seeking a quick riverside escape

What I Love: “Pitch a tent riverside, pan for gold, and wake up beneath oak trees.”

  • Escape to nature at Camp Williams Resort, located along the East Fork of the San Gabriel River—a perfectly scenic getaway just outside Los Angeles.
  • Flexible camping: Choose from riverside tent camping or shaded RV sites with full hookups under majestic oak trees.
  • Comforts included: Campers enjoy hot private showers, picnic tables at each site, and a relaxed, rustic vibe.
  • Fun for all ages: Hike the mountain trails, go birdwatching or fishing, cool off in the river, or let kids pan for gold.

Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall, when the weather is ideal for riverside activities

Local Tips: Bring water shoes for swimming and gold panning. Weekends fill fast—reserve early if visiting during holidays.

How to Get There: Follow East Fork Road in the Angeles National Forest toward Azusa. The campground is well-marked near the river.

Address: 24210 East Fork Rd, Azusa, CA 91702, Phone: 626-910-1126

Family-Friendly

4. Moro Campground, Crystal Cove State Park

Moro Campground, Crystal Cove State Park

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Location: Off Pacific Coast Highway between Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar, California

Recommended For: Beach lovers, hikers, families, and RV travelers looking for coastal wilderness

What I Love: “Three miles of pristine beach meets 2,400 acres of wild backcountry—California camping at its best.”

  • Crystal Cove State Park is a coastal gem offering a 3-mile stretch of beautiful beach and 2,400 acres of wilderness trails perfect for hiking and biking.
  • Camping options: Choose from primitive backcountry campsites or stay in comfort at Moro Campground, which offers 58 scenic sites for tents and RVs (up to 35 ft).
  • Outdoor fun: Enjoy surfing, swimming, diving, tide-pooling, and guided tide pool walks and hikes with park staff.
  • Facilities at Moro Campground include restrooms, showers, and allow the use of gas barbecues.

Best Time to Visit: Spring through early fall for ideal beach weather and clear trail conditions

Local Tips: Reserve your site early during summer and holiday weekends. Bring sturdy shoes for hiking and a camera for tide-pool exploration.

How to Get There: Access the park via the Pacific Coast Highway. Moro Campground is well-marked with parking on site.

Address: Moro Campground, Crystal Cove State Park, 8471 North Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, Phone: 949-494-3539

5. Dogwood Campground, San Bernardino National Forest

Dogwood Campground, San Bernardino National Forest

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Location: 26898 Rim of the World Highway, Rimforest, CA 92378 – just 20 miles from San Bernardino

Recommended For: Families, RV campers, and nature lovers seeking a peaceful forest escape near Lake Arrowhead

What I Love: “A serene forest retreat with hot showers, hiking trails, and evening programs under the stars.”

  • Dogwood Campground offers 87 sites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring, and some include electrical hookups.
  • Nearby activities include extensive hiking trails and fun at Lake Gregory (15 minutes away) with boating, fishing, and a water slide.
  • Campground amenities feature restrooms, hot showers, and ADA-accessible sites.
  • Special programs: Join interpretive programs on Friday and Saturday nights for nature-themed storytelling and education.
  • Local attractions: Lake Arrowhead Village is just 5 minutes away, offering shopping and fine dining.
  • Reservations required: All sites must be reserved in advance; no walk-ins or first-come, first-served options.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for warm weather and full access to lake activities

Local Tips: Bring layers for cool evenings, and don’t miss the weekend ranger programs for a family-friendly experience.

How to Get There: Access the campground via Rim of the World Highway from San Bernardino or Lake Arrowhead.

Address: Dogwood Campground, San Bernardino National Forest, 26898 Rim of the World Highway, Rimforest, CA 92378, Phone: 909-382-2790

6. Dripping Springs Campground, Cleveland National Forest

Dripping Springs Campground, Cleveland National Forest

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Location: 39755 Highway 79, Aguanga, CA 92536 – in the heart of Cleveland National Forest, near Temecula

Recommended For: Hikers, equestrians, backpackers, and rustic camping enthusiasts

What I Love: “Remote wilderness, scenic trails, and a peaceful base for riders and hikers.”

  • Dripping Springs Campground offers a rustic experience with no showers or hook-ups, perfect for campers looking to immerse in nature.
  • Equestrian facilities include a horse corral, staging area, and access to designated riding trails.
  • Hiking opportunities: Located next to the Agua Tibia Wilderness, the site provides access to a 20-mile loop trail teeming with wildlife.
  • Campground amenities include toilets, drinking water, and fire rings. RVs up to 20 feet are allowed.
  • Nearby attractions: Enjoy a day off the trails with a visit to Temecula Wine Country for wine tasting just a short drive away.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for cooler weather and vibrant wildflower displays

Local Tips: Pack everything you need for a dry camp, including extra water and lighting. Don’t miss sunset views from the trailhead ridge.

How to Get There: Access via Highway 79 southeast of Temecula. Follow signage into Cleveland National Forest toward Dripping Springs.

Address: Dripping Springs Campground, Cleveland National Forest, 39755 Highway 79, Aguanga, CA 92536, Phone: 760-788-0250

7. Emma Wood State Beach, Sacramento

Emma Wood State Beach, Sacramento

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Location: 1416 9th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814 – right on the Pacific coast near Ventura, CA

Recommended For: RV travelers, surfers, and beach lovers looking for oceanfront serenity

What I Love: “Uninterrupted ocean views, soothing surf, and sunsets from your RV window.”

  • Emma Wood State Beach Campground is a coastal RV-only campground with no hookups or facilities, ideal for self-contained motorhomes or trailers up to 45 feet.
  • Activities: Spend your days surfing, swimming, fishing, windsurfing, or simply relaxing to the sound of the waves. A bike path leads into nearby Ventura.
  • Amenities: There are no toilets, showers, electricity, or a dumpsite – dry camping only. Be prepared and pack accordingly.
  • Reservations: Sites are bookable in advance during the summer months (May–October). In the off-season, it’s first-come first-served.
  • Group Camping: The Ventura River Group Camp features four tent-only group campsites with basic amenities.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for the best weather and water conditions

Local Tips: Arrive early in the off-season to secure a spot. Bring binoculars – you may spot dolphins or whales offshore!

How to Get There: Take Highway 101 to Ventura, then follow signage west to the beach. GPS is helpful due to narrow beach access roads.

Address: Emma Wood State Beach, Phone: 916-653-6995

Romantic Camping

8. Fern Basin Campground

Fern Basin Campground

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Location: Forest Rte 4502, Banning, CA 92220 – just under 6 miles north of Idyllwild in the San Bernardino National Forest

Recommended For: Tent campers, RV travelers, hikers, and nature lovers seeking a peaceful mountain escape

What I Love: “Small, quiet, and scenic – a hidden gem for outdoor solitude near Idyllwild.”

  • Fern Basin Campground features just 15 campsites nestled in a tranquil forest setting, ideal for both tents and RVs. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and access to vault toilets and an RV sanitation station.
  • Activities: The area offers access to mountain biking, hiking, and rock climbing. For more water-based fun, boating, fishing, and swimming are available in nearby recreation areas.
  • Convenience: A convenience shop just a few miles away provides last-minute essentials you may have forgotten.
  • Peace & Privacy: With only 15 campsites, it never feels crowded – making it an ideal destination for a quiet getaway.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for pleasant weather and full access to hiking and biking trails

Local Tips: Always check current fire restrictions before lighting a campfire. Bring layered clothing – temperatures drop at night.

How to Get There: From Idyllwild, take Highway 243 north for about 5.5 miles, then follow signage to Fern Basin Campground. A forest adventure pass may be required for parking in the area.

Address: Fern Basin Campground, Phone: 909-382-2922

9. Frandy Park Campground, Kernville

Frandy Park Campground, Kernville

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Location: 11252 Kernville Rd, Kernville, CA 93238 – set along the scenic Kern River in the California High Desert

Recommended For: Families, groups, RV travelers, and water sports enthusiasts seeking a riverfront mountain retreat

What I Love: “Riverfront sites, oak forest shade, and easy access to rafting, hiking, and Kernville charm.”

  • Frandy Park Campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites, including pull-throughs for larger trailers and campers. Guests can also enjoy unique accommodations like on-site RV rentals or a pioneer-style covered wagon.
  • Activities: Campers have access to a wide variety of recreational options, including kayaking, whitewater rafting, boating, hiking, cycling, and trout fishing right on the Kern River.
  • Nearby Attractions: The town of Kernville offers antique shopping, golf courses, and quaint restaurants, just minutes from the campground.
  • Nature & Views: Surrounded by oak forests and steep hillsides, this peaceful retreat is perfect for those looking to unwind in a beautiful natural setting.

Best Time to Visit: Spring through early fall for warm weather, river access, and festival season in Kernville

Local Tips: Book early during peak rafting season (late spring/early summer). Ask about group discounts and unique lodging options when reserving.

How to Get There: Located just north of Bakersfield, take Highway 178 east to Kernville and follow signs to the campground on Kernville Road.

Address: Frandy Park Campground, Phone: 760-531-4151

10. Horse Flats Campground, San Gabriel Mountains National Monument

Horse Flats Campground, San Gabriel Mountains National Monument

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Location: Horse Flats Rd/Angeles Crest Hwy, Flintridge, CA 91011 – set in the serene woodlands of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument

Recommended For: Equestrians, tent campers, and nature lovers seeking a primitive camping experience near Los Angeles

What I Love: “Tall pines, peaceful seclusion, and horseback access to stunning mountain trails.”

  • Horse Flats Campground offers a rustic, no-reservations experience with first-come first-served sites shaded by towering pine trees. There are no piped water or shower facilities, so visitors must bring their own water.
  • Facilities: Campsites feature fire pits and pit toilets. The campground accommodates equestrians with a corral and hitching post, though riders must supply their own feed and water.
  • Activities: Guests can enjoy horseback riding and hiking along nearby trails, with scenic views of the San Gabriel Mountains.
  • Experience: With no electricity or running water, the campground offers a true off-grid adventure perfect for those wanting to sleep under the stars in a tranquil forest setting.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall when the weather is clear and trail access is optimal

Local Tips: Arrive early to secure a site, especially on weekends. Bring plenty of water and prepare for cool mountain evenings.

How to Get There: From Los Angeles, take the Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2) northeast toward Flintridge. Follow signs for Horse Flats Road.

Address: Horse Flats Campground, San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, Phone: 818-899-1900

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