This list can be helpful for families who want to go camping but are unsure of the best places to go or how to begin. It includes the top family campgrounds in and around Los Angeles that will ignite children’s enthusiasm for the outdoors.
Before going, it is important to check the websites for weather conditions and availability, particularly during this time, since some campsites are first-come, first-served while others are popular and need to be booked well in advance.
How to Plan a Family Camping Trip
No matter how experienced you are with travel or camping, camping can still be a fun and affordable way for a family to spend time together.
No family desires a trip to be ruined by an irate parent or restless children.
Here are a few pointers to help you in planning a family camping trip that will be successful:
- Choose the right campground. Not all campgrounds are appropriate for families. Make sure to choose one that is specifically designed for camping with kids. It should have facilities like playgrounds and swimming pools that will keep your children entertained. State parks are a great choice for families and tend to be less expensive than nearby privately owned campgrounds.
- Plan your activities in advance. Don’t just assume that because you’re at a campground, your kids will automatically have a good time. Plan out some specific activities that you all can do together, like hiking, fishing, or playing games around the campfire.
- Pack the right gear. Make sure to pack all of the essentials: sleeping bags, tents, cooking equipment, utensils, mosquito repellent, sunscreen. You will also want to pack some things that may not be as obvious like a first aid kit and plenty of bug spray.
- Be prepared for unpleasant weather conditions. Even if it is summertime in Los Angeles, it is important that you are prepared for rain or cold weather. You don’t want to end up stuck in a torrential downpour without enough supplies! Also, make sure to pack clothes appropriate for the season. (Tip: pack emergency raincoats in your gear box that take up every little room.)
- Pack plenty of food and water. Bring an adequate amount of food and water so that your family is properly nourished throughout the trip.
- Bring games and activities for the kids. If your children are bored, they will inevitably get into trouble or misbehave. Make sure you bring some fun outdoor games to keep them occupied throughout the day. Look for outdoor games for teens and camping charades that are fun for the whole family.
No matter what, I cannot assist you with packing positive energy and vibes. It is crucial to emphasize that maintaining a positive perspective and attitude during a family vacation is of utmost importance.
For any trip, not just family vacations, it is important to be adaptable and supportive, handling whatever challenges arise and providing assistance to others when necessary.
Family-Friendly Campgrounds We Recommend
Green Valley Family Campground
Green Valley Lake, CA
Green Valley Family Campground is situated just north of Arrowbear, which is known as the midpoint between Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear. In total, there are 37 camping sites available, with 11 being allocated for first-come, first-served campers and the remaining 26 being reserved for online bookings. The campground provides amenities such as picnic tables and flush toilets. Additionally, there are various family activities to be enjoyed, including hiking, trout fishing, kayaking, and more. The summer season is typically the busiest period at the campground.
Doheny State Beach
25300 Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, CA 92629
If you want to have a camping experience with the opportunity to spend time by the ocean, Doheny State Beach is the ideal location. It offers a total of 122 campsites, out of which 33 are situated right on the beach. Families can engage in various water activities such as surfing, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Additional amenities like showers, fire rings, and picnic areas are also available. As a fun fact, Doheny was the very first state beach in California.
Black Rock Campground
Joshua Tree National Park
Yucca Valley, CA
Located in the northwestern part of Joshua Tree National Park, Black Rock Campground is known as a tranquil and family-friendly camping site, making it an ideal choice for new campers. With a total of 99 sites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, convenient access to water and restrooms is also available. The campsites vary in size and can comfortably accommodate both tents and RVs. During your stay at the campground, you can enjoy hiking and explore the abundant wildlife, such as jackrabbits, ground squirrels, roadrunners, and many other fascinating species. For details regarding reservations, please refer to the website.
Malibu Creek State Park
1925 Las Virgenes Rd., Calabasas, CA 91302
Malibu Creek State Park is only 25 miles away from downtown LA, so it’s not a long drive. Families can have a great time there with activities like horseback riding, swimming, hiking, fishing, and more. The park also offers amenities for camping such as fire rings and showers. It’s interesting to know that for many years, this area was the heart of Chumash Native American life. Additionally, Malibu Creek State Park has been chosen as a filming location for TV shows like M*A*S*H and Planet of the Apes.
Crystal Cove State Park Moro Campground
8471 N. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
At Crystal Cove State Park Moro Campground, you can have a camping experience next to the Pacific coastline. You can enjoy 3.2 miles of Pacific coastline, along with wooded canyons, open bluffs, and offshore waters that are designated as an underwater park. There are 57 family campsites that come with picnic tables. Additionally, there are restrooms and showers available. This location offers families the opportunity to engage in various activities such as swimming, biking, hiking, walking, surfing, sunbathing, and more. Crystal Cove State Park is known as one of the remaining large natural seashores and open spaces in Orange County. Online reservation information can be found.
Lake Hemet
56750 California 74, Mountain Center, CA 92561
Lake Hemet provides a range of camping options to suit everyone, whether they are experienced or new to camping. Families can choose between a lake view site or an interior site, both offering great views of the lake. In addition, there is now the option of glamping with White Duck Outdoors’ new tent accommodations. These tents can accommodate up to 4 people and include two queen-size beds, linens, access to full indoor bathroom and showers, and more. Once you arrive at Lake Hemet, there is a variety of activities to keep you entertained, such as fishing, kayaking, and swimming. It’s also comforting to know that the Lake Hemet Cafe and Lake Hemet Market are conveniently located nearby.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
200 Palm Canyon Dr., Borrego Springs, CA 92004
With its vast size and numerous attractions, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the largest state park in California, offers a wide range of activities and sights to explore. It boasts “500 miles of dirt roads, twelve wilderness areas, and miles of hiking trails.” To secure a camping spot, reservations can be made from October 1st to April 30th, up to six months prior to the desired booking date. However, it’s important to note that some campgrounds, such as Tamarisk Grove Campground and certain Borrego Palm Canyon Tent Sites, may be closed during the seasonal period of June 1st to September 30th.
Table Mountain Campground
part of Angeles National Forest
near Wrightwood, CA
Table Mountain Campground is located near the bustling city of Los Angeles within the Angeles National Forest. The campground provides various types of campsites, including flat meadow areas and sites in hilly regions with shade. Families will have the opportunity to camp amidst a forest filled with oak and pine trees, which offers breathtaking views of the surroundings. The campsites are equipped with fire pits and are conveniently situated near vault toilets. Visitors can engage in activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and bird-watching. However, please note that this campground remains closed during the winter season.
