We absolutely love camping getaways that bring out the kid in all of us. Especially when you head to kid-friendly campgrounds in Southern California, those that are truly designed with kids in mind. From fun overnighters in a teepee to swimming pools to rock-climbing walls and more, these family-friendly campgrounds are just what you need for a memorable outing. Keep reading to find out more about seven of our picks for the best destinations where you can enjoy family camping in Southern California.

1. Lake Hemet Recreation Area, Mountain Center

Kid-Friendly Campgrounds In Southern California
Lake Hemet Campground/Facebook
Lake Hemet Campground, Box 4, 56570 CA-74, Mountain Center, CA 92561, USA
Lake Hemet Campground/Facebook
More than just a campground, Lake Hemet Recreation Area in SoCal is also home to an epic swimming zone, making it a great spot for some of the best family camping in Southern California. It's the perfect way to get the kids outside for a fun weekend of campsite activities along with some time splashing in the water and exploring out in nature. Learn more about the fun that awaits you at Lake Hemet Recreation Area.

2. Lake Jennings Campground, Lakeside

Lake Jennings Campground, 10108 Bass Rd, Lakeside, CA 92040, USA
googlemaps/greg kendall
As if camping steps away from a beautiful lake wasn't enough to get the kids excited, there's also an option to spend the night in a teepee instead of a tent. When it comes to the kids, this will definitely make camping sound even cooler. Read more about staying at Lake Jennings Campground.

3. Campland on the Bay, San Diego

googlemaps/mina oh

Related Stories

Glamp In Vintage Trailers At California’s Enchanting Alta Colina Winery

Glamp In Vintage Trailers At California’s Enchanting Alta Colina Winery

 This Fairy Tale Campground In Southern California Is Like Something From A Dream

This Fairy Tale Campground In Southern California Is Like Something From A Dream

 The Most Epic Resort Campground In Southern California Is An Outdoor Playground With An Adventure Course, Pool, Jumping Pillow, And More

The Most Epic Resort Campground In Southern California Is An Outdoor Playground With An Adventure Course, Pool, Jumping Pillow, And More
Campland on the Bay, 2211 Pacific Beach Dr, San Diego, CA 92109, USA
googlemaps/joe yau
Loaded with fun amenities for the whole family, including bike rentals, swimming pools, restaurants, an ice cream shop, and even a game room, a camping trip to Campland on the Bay campground in SoCal may be the highlight of the entire summer. Discover more reasons why Campland on the Bay is such a great spot for camping with kids.

4. San Diego Metro KOA Campground, Chula Vista

San Diego Metro KOA Resort, 111 N 2nd Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910, USA
googlemaps/san diego metro KOA
There are so many fun things to do at the San Diego Metro KOA campground, it's quite possible the kids will never want to leave. They'll love the option to bike, rock climb, or jump into the pool for a swim. After dark, sitting by the campfire is always a big hit. Find out more about San Diego Metro KOA Campground, another one of the many awesome kid-friendly campgrounds in Southern California.

5. Ventura Ranch KOA, Santa Paula

Kid-Friendly Campgrounds In Southern California
Ventura Ranch KOA Holiday, 7400 Pine Grove Rd, Santa Paula, CA 93060, USA
facebook/ventura ranch KOA
Located in the picturesque town of Santa Paula, you'll find another KOA campground that the kids will simply adore. Swimming, rock climbing, and teepees for a unique overnighter will turn this camping adventure into a perfect family outing. If that's not enough to convince you that this is some of the best family camping in Southern California, add some fun at the campfire at night roasting marshmallows, and you'll have some wonderful memories to take home with you. Get more information about Ventura Ranch KOA.

6. Calico Ghost Town Campground, Barstow

Calico Ghost Town Campground, Barstow, CA 92311, USA
googlemaps/doro dyk
Who doesn't love a good ghost town? Especially the kids! Just a short stroll away from Calico Ghost Town, the Calico Campground in the town of Barstow is a unique trip the family will never forget. Continue reading about Calico Ghost Town Campground and camping with the kids here.

7. LA RV Resort, Acton

LA RV Resort, 7601 Soledad Canyon Rd, Acton, CA 93510, USA
googlemaps/acton Koa
One of the nicest kid-friendly campgrounds, here, you can enjoy swimming, outdoor movies under the stars, arts and crafts, and even a variety of sports. It's just what you need when you want to get out of the city for a break but still need to find a way to entertain the kids. Get the most up-to-date information about LA RV Resort.

What are your favorite kid-friendly campgrounds in Southern California? They all look like tons of fun so it’s almost impossible to decide which one to check out first. Where do you go camping with kids? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!

Looking for more ways to make your summer in SoCal a memorable one? Check out 15 Unforgettable Things You Must Add To Your Southern California Summer Bucket List.

15 Unforgettable Things You Must Add To Your Southern California Summer Bucket List

 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Beautiful California

Rachel Raimondi | April 21, 2023

What are some kid-friendly attractions in Southern California?

From whimsical playgrounds to easy hiking trails to museums and more, these are some kid-friendly attractions in Southern California.

  • Alta Vista Botanical Gardens, Vista
  • Adventure Playground is located at 1 Beech Tree Ln., Irvine
  • Gold Rush Mining Company Adventures, Big Bear Lake
  • Dixie Canyon Trail, Sherman Oaks
  • Raging Waters is located at 111 Raging Waters Dr., San Dimas
  • Queen Califia's Magical Circle, Escondido
  • Fleet Science Center, San Diego
  • Galleta Meadows Sculptures - Borrego Springs
  • The Last Bookstore - Los Angeles
  • Pirates Dinner Adventure - Buena Park

Here’s a fun road trip featuring some cool kid-friendly attractions in Southern California.

Which hikes in Southern California are short and sweet?

If you don’t have too much time on your hands but still want to get out and explore for a little bit, check out these short and sweet hikes in Southern California:

  • Beach Trail and Broken Hill Trail: This three-mile loop trail is located within the 2,000-acre Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in La Jolla. While there are over 100 steps along the way, the sandstone cliff and beach views are outstanding.
  • Sara Wan Trail: Head to Malibu's Coral Canyon Park for this 2.5-mile loop trail. Along the way, you’ll have ocean views as well as see some of the most beautiful homes along the ocean. You’ll also be able to see the iconic Point Dume.

What are the best beaches in Southern California?

If you find yourself camping with kids and want to get out for something different, check out some of the best beaches in Southern California:

  • Mission Bay Park: Located in San Diego, there is much to do here in this 4,235-acre park, such as paddle boarding, fishing, swimming, surfing, water skiing, jet skiing, sailing, and kayaking.
  • Venice Beach: While swimming and sunbathing are pretty popular here, this beach in Los Angeles also features a 2.5-mile boardwalk full of places to eat and shop as well as areas for skating and basketball. And of course, be sure to check out Muscle Beach.

What are the best small towns in California?

Spend a day exploring some of the best small towns in Southern California:

  • Idyllwild: Located in Riverside County within the San Jacinto Mountains, this town sports a lovely main street full of shops like Merkaba tea shop, eateries like Ferro, and galleries. You can also take in nature at the Mount San Jacinto State Park or the Idyllwild Nature Center.
  • Solvang: You’ll find this Santa Barbara town within the Santa Ynez Valley. Founded by Danish Americans in 1911, it still maintains that presence within its shops, eateries, and museums. Grab a Danish pastry from Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery, explore the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, or browse the many shops.
  • Julian: Located in San Diego County, this mountain town offers many shops and bakeries, like Crow and Lilac and the Julian Pie Company as well as a lesson in mining history, as it is a historic gold mining town.

Related Articles

Explore Southern California