David Go
Los Angeles, a city synonymous with glitz and glamour, also offers an incredible escape into nature for families seeking adventure under the stars. Beyond the bustling city life, the surrounding mountains, forests, and coastlines are dotted with fantastic family-friendly camping sites, perfect for disconnecting from screens and reconnecting with each other. From serene forest retreats to sun-kissed beachside pitches, LA’s diverse landscapes provide a backdrop for unforgettable memories. Get ready to pack your tents, sleeping bags, and s’mores supplies as we explore some of the best spots for a family camping trip near the City of Angels.
Angeles National Forest
Angeles National Forest offers a vast wilderness playground for families, providing a refreshing escape just a short drive from Los Angeles. This expansive national park features a multitude of developed campgrounds nestled amidst pines and redwood forests, alongside scenic trails perfect for hikers of all ages and even horseback riding. Families can explore creeks, streams, and rivers, making it an ideal setting for nature exploration and educational outdoor experiences. The forest boasts well-maintained restrooms and is entirely dog-friendly, ensuring that every member of the family, including furry ones, can join the adventure. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking diverse activities and serene natural beauty. [0]
⭐ 4.7 (15495 reviews)
Activities
- ✅ Hiking
- ✅ Horse Riding
- ✅ Off-Road Vehicles
- ✅ Nature Exploration
Amenities
- ✅ Restroom
- ✅ Good for Children
- ✅ Allows Dogs
Leo Carrillo State Park
Leo Carrillo State Park is a coastal gem offering families a unique blend of beach and camping adventures. Located in Malibu, this state park features a beautiful beach with fascinating coastal caves and reefs, perfect for tide pool exploration with kids. Beyond swimming and surfing, families can enjoy camping right by the ocean, scenic hiking trails, and surf fishing. The park’s additional summary highlights its popularity for tide pooling and rocky beaches, providing endless opportunities for discovery. With accessible facilities and a dog-friendly policy, Leo Carrillo ensures a memorable and convenient seaside camping experience for all family members. [1]
⭐ 4.7 (3516 reviews)
Activities
- ✅ Beach Access
- ✅ Coastal Caves & Reefs
- ✅ Swimming
- ✅ Surfing
- ✅ Camping
- ✅ Hiking
- ✅ Surf Fishing
- ✅ Tide Pools
Amenities
- ✅ Good for Children
- ✅ Allows Dogs
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✅ Free parking lot
- ✅ Paid parking lot
Malibu Creek State Park
Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu Creek State Park is a rugged yet welcoming destination for family camping. This vast park is renowned for its extensive hiking trails, leading to impressive rock formations and a refreshing rock pool swimming hole – a perfect spot for kids to cool off. The campground offerings cater to various camping styles, ensuring a comfortable stay. Visitors consistently praise the beauty of the creek and the watchful presence of park rangers, contributing to a safe and enjoyable environment. It’s an ideal location for families who love to explore, hike, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Southern California. [2]
⭐ 4.7 (3511 reviews)
Activities
- ✅ Hiking Trails
- ✅ Rock Pool Swimming Hole
- ✅ Camping
Amenities
- ✅ Good for Children
- ✅ Allows Dogs
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✅ Paid parking lot
Point Mugu State Park
Point Mugu State Park, part of the Santa Monica Mountains, is a spectacular coastal and canyon retreat offering over 70 miles of trails and 5 miles of pristine beach. This park is a fantastic option for families, providing kid-friendly hikes that wind through river canyons and alongside dramatic bluffs. Picnic tables and public restrooms enhance the visitor experience, making day trips and overnight stays comfortable. A unique highlight is the occasional sighting of sea lions, adding an exciting wildlife element to your outdoor adventure. It’s a comprehensive destination for families looking for diverse natural experiences. [3]
⭐ 4.7 (2425 reviews)
Activities
- ✅ Beach Access
- ✅ River Canyons
- ✅ Bluffs
- ✅ Hiking Trails
- ✅ Wildlife Viewing (Sea Lions)
Amenities
- ✅ Good for Children
- ✅ Allows Dogs
- ✅ Picnic Tables
- ✅ Public Restroom
- ✅ Paid parking lot
- ✅ Free street parking
Chilao Campground
Situated within the beautiful Angeles National Forest, Chilao Campground provides a classic forest camping experience perfect for families. This well-regarded campground features both tent and RV sites, each equipped with essential amenities like fire rings, creating the quintessential campfire ambiance. While offering non-potable water, the presence of restrooms adds to the convenience. Its location within the national forest means easy access to hiking trails and the natural beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains. Chilao is particularly noted for being good for children and allowing dogs, making it an excellent choice for a comprehensive family outdoor retreat. [4]
⭐ 4.6 (231 reviews)
Campground Features
- ✅ Tent Sites
- ✅ RV Sites
- ✅ Fire Rings
- ✅ Non-potable water
Amenities
- ✅ Restroom
- ✅ Good for Children
- ✅ Allows Dogs
Sycamore Canyon Campground
Sycamore Canyon Campground offers a fantastic family camping experience within the scenic Point Mugu State Park. Providing standard tent and RV sites, this campground is designed for comfort and convenience, with picnic tables at each site for delightful outdoor meals. Its prime location grants direct access to numerous hiking trails, inviting families to explore the diverse landscapes of the Santa Monica Mountains. The campground is praised for being good for children and accommodating dogs, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all. With clean restrooms and accessible features, Sycamore Canyon is an excellent base for a coastal and mountain adventure. [11]
⭐ 4.6 (578 reviews)
Campground Features
- ✅ Standard Tent Sites
- ✅ RV Sites
- ✅ Picnic Tables
- ✅ Hiking-trail Access
Amenities
- ✅ Restroom
- ✅ Good for Children
- ✅ Allows Dogs
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible seating
- ✅ Paid parking lot
LA RV Resort
For families traveling with an RV, LA RV Resort provides a dedicated and comfortable camping experience in Acton, a short distance from the bustling city. This resort is specifically designed to accommodate RVs, offering essential hookups and facilities to ensure a hassle-free stay. Families will appreciate the amenities tailored for convenience, including restrooms and the added bonus of Wi-Fi access, which can be a comfort for keeping in touch or for kids’ entertainment. The resort is also dog-friendly and considered good for children, making it a practical choice for families seeking a home-away-from-home on wheels with a focus on ease and accessibility. [9]
⭐ 3.8 (662 reviews)
Campground Features
- ✅ RV Park
Amenities
- ✅ Restroom
- ✅ Wifi
- ✅ Good for Children
- ✅ Allows Dogs
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✅ Paid parking lot
Los Angeles proves that you don’t have to travel far to find incredible family-friendly camping experiences. Whether you prefer the crisp mountain air, the soothing sound of ocean waves, or the rugged beauty of the desert, there’s a perfect spot waiting for your family. These campgrounds offer not just a place to sleep, but a gateway to adventure, learning, and bonding that will be cherished for years to come. Remember to book your sites in advance, especially during peak seasons, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve these beautiful natural spaces for future generations. Happy camping!
