The mention of camping usually conjures up images of sleeping under the stars, campfires, trees, and mountains. Camping is a great way to escape our busy lives and reconnect to nature. Whether you are looking to relax by the sea, go on stress-melting hikes, or take in epic views, at least one of these secret camping spots in Southern California may become your next favorite getaway.

1. Arroyo Seco Campground, Los Padres National Forest

47600 Arroyo Seco Rd, Greenfield, CA 93927, USA
Jonny McMeows/Google Maps
With both rustic and modern campsites, Arroyo Seco Campground is the perfect place to enjoy rock climbing, snorkeling, tubing, and hiking. Wake up to fresh mountain air and fall asleep under the stars.

2. Buckhorn Campground, Angeles National Forest

Buckhorn Campground, Buckhorn campground, Pearblossom, CA 93553, USA
Wojciech Olma/Google Maps
Despite being just over an hour outside of Los Angeles, this peaceful hideaway is a great escape from urban life. Explore hiking trails, visit nearby waterfalls, and breathe in the fresh smell of native cedars at Buckhorn Campground.

3. Moro Campground, Crystal Cove State Beach

8732 N Pacific Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, USA
Matt Jew/Google Maps
Pitch your tent on a bluff over the protected cove with spectacular ocean views. If you are looking for something even more secluded and you are up for a 3-mile hike, head into the backcountry of Crystal Cove State Park to claim one of 32 primitive sites that are truly one of the best places for remote camping in Southern California to feel away from it all.

4. Del Norte Campground, Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island, California 93001, USA
Ryan Sellden/Google Maps
It doesn't get more secluded than a four-site campground on a small island off the coast of California. This is a primitive site and definitely not for the inexperienced backpacker. However, camping at Del Norte, with its shaded oak grove and incredible views of the island's coastline, is an amazing experience.

5. Gaviota State Park Beach & Campground

17620 Gaviota Beach Rd, Gaviota, CA 93117, USA
Braden Muzzy/Google Maps
Tucked between surrounding hills and the ocean, this small campground just outside Santa Barbara is known for the iconic railroad trestle that runs along the shore. Campers at Gaviota Beach enjoy beautiful beach sunrises and sunsets, a public fishing pier, hiking, swimming in the gentle waves, and horseback riding.

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6. Jumbo Rocks Campground, Joshua Tree National Park

Michael Teagardin/Google Maps
The name says it all with this unique site. Set up your tent or RV amidst the giant granite boulders. From stargazing and wildlife viewing to hiking and rock climbing, camping in Joshua Tree is ideal for a true change of pace and scenery.

7. Leo Carrillo State Park Campground

35000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
Remer J/Google Maps
Nestled into the canyon just a short walk from one of Southern California's most beautiful beaches, Leo Carrillo campsites are shaded by oak trees and provide a private feel. Campers enjoy the best of two worlds - the mountains and the beach.

8. Middle Lion Campground, Los Padres National Forest

19786 Forest Rte 6N31, Ojai, CA 93023, USA
Josh Patterson/Google Maps
Mountains, cottonwood trees, and a running stream make this cozy campground a relaxing retreat. Middle Lion is especially lovely during Spring and Fall when the landscape changes colors, but is enjoyable year-round.

9. Two Harbors Campground, Catalina Island

Two Harbors Campground, Campground, Two Harbors, CA 90704, USA
Bruce Sampson/Google Maps
Wake up to ocean breezes and panoramic views of Catalina Island's stunning blue waters. In addition to tent camping sites, Two Harbors has several tent cabins so you can enjoy camping without packing your own gear.

10. Wheeler Gorge Campground, Los Padres National Forest

17017 Maricopa Hwy, Ojai, CA 93023, USA
Daniel Padron/Google Maps
Rocky mountains surround the campground and almost all of the shaded campsites sit right on the stream that flows through Wheeler Gorge. Each site feels secluded and makes you forget you are less than half an hour from Ventura, California.

Have you ever camped at one of these secret camping spots in Southern California? Or do you have another campsite you enjoy instead? Feel free to share your favorite experience with us in the comments. We would love to hear from you! When you’re planning your trip, be sure to check out the incredibly helpful AllTrails+. Here, you can get detailed trail maps and learn from other hikers about their experiences on the trails.

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More to Explore

Camping In Southern California

Katie Feldkamp | May 06, 2024

Are there campgrounds in Southern California that don’t require reservations?

Luckily, there are some gorgeous campgrounds in Southern California where no reservations are required. The beauty of camping is that sometimes it can be a last-minute decision. Pack a bag, a tent and a few supplies and off you go to a peaceful time in Mother Nature. The next time you want to go camping but haven’t booked a site months in advance, consider one of the following locations:

  • Holcomb Valley Campground in San Bernardino National Forest offers 19 first-come first-serve family friendly campsites.
  • Oak Flats Campground in Angeles National Forest has both tent sites and RV/tent sites available.
  • Ryan Campground in Joshua Tree National Park has 31 spots that don’t need a reservation, but this is such a beloved place, you’ll need to get there early!
  • Horse Flats Campground is also within the Angeles National Forest and has 26 sites available without reservation.

For more information on these and several more locations, check out this article on no reservation campgrounds in Southern California.

Where are some kid-friendly campgrounds in Southern California?

Camping is a wonderful experience for a family to enjoy together, and the right conditions and amenities make it fun for everyone. There’s something for everyone at any one of these kid-friendly campgrounds in Southern California. Take your pick from adventures such as:

  • Lake Hemet Recreation Area in Mountain Center is home to both campgrounds and an epic water park.
  • Lake Jennings Campground in Lakeside offers the option of teepee camping as well as traditional tent camping.
  • San Diego Metro KOA Campground in Chula Vista offers all the activities before you lay in your sleeping back, including biking, swimming and rock climbing.

For more information on these and several more locations, check out this article on kid-friendly campgrounds in Southern California.

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