Down in Southern California, there are many choices for camping. It fits different styles. Some people like thrills. Some just want to relax. The weather in SoCal is good for camping.
Let’s look at some of the options. You can camp under the stars almost any time of year.
SoCal: Camping Your Way
In SoCal, you can camp in many ways.
You don’t need a lot of money. Some people like surfing, hiking, or just watching the stars. There’s a place for everyone.
- Beach Campgrounds: You can camp by the beach. Silver Strand State Beach and San Clemente State Beach are great. You will hear the ocean in the morning. Surfing is popular.
- Desert Campgrounds: The desert has big rocks and open skies. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Joshua Tree National Park are fun. You can hike or climb rocks.
- Mountain Campgrounds: If you like tall trees and mountain air, try Crystal Lake Recreation Area or Manker Flats. The views make you feel small.
- Glamping: Not everyone likes camping. Some people want luxury. Glamping has cabins or fancy tents. It’s like staying in a hotel in nature.
Weather In SoCal
Southern California is good for camping because of its weather. You do not need to worry about rain often.
- Mild Climate: There are more than 260 sunny days. This is good for camping. But winter can get cold at night. If you surf, a wetsuit might be needed.
- Best Time: Spring and fall are the best. Summer has too many people. Fall is also nice because the mountains change colors.
- Rain is Rare: It does not rain much. Most rain happens in the winter. You can camp and not worry about rain ruining your plans.
Weather by Season
Winter has temperatures from 60-70°F and lows from 40-50°F. It rains about 2.5 inches.
In spring, it’s 65-75°F with lows around 45-55°F, and 1.7 inches of rain. Summer is warmer at 80-90°F, and it almost never rains. Fall cools down to 70-80°F, and there’s little rain.
So always check the weather before you go.
If you want to save money, there are many tips. Find budget-friendly fun and cool places to camp. If you like camping mixed with other activities, look at our picks for December travel spots.
Beach Campgrounds
Want to sleep by the ocean or wake up to a beautiful sunrise?
Southern California is ready for you. If you want a beach adventure, there are two great spots: Silver Strand State Beach and San Clemente State Beach.
Both places offer sun, sand, and fun.
Silver Strand State Beach
Silver Strand State Beach in Coronado is a top camping spot. It has easy beach access and amazing views. You can swim, boat, or fish here. The beach has everything you need to stay comfortable.
Amenities:
- Restrooms with showers
- Picnic tables
- Fire rings for campfires
- RV spots with full hook-ups
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Coronado, CA |
| Sites Available | 136 RV sites |
| Hook-ups | Full (water, electric, sewer) |
| Beach Access | Direct |
| Activity Options | Swimming, boating, fishing |
If you love walking on coastal trails or doing activities by the water, Silver Strand is perfect. But it’s a busy spot, so book early to get a place.
San Clemente State Beach
San Clemente State Beach, in Orange County, is another fantastic beach camping spot. It has warm water, great surf spots, and stunning cliffs.
Amenities:
- Clean restrooms with showers
- Picnic tables
- Fire rings for cozy campfires
- RV sites with hook-ups
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | San Clemente, CA |
| Sites Available | 141 campsites |
| Hook-ups | Yes (water, electric) |
| Beach Access | 0.5 miles of sandy beach |
| Activity Options | Surfing, swimming, hiking |
San Clemente’s weather is always nice. It’s a great place to surf, swim, and hike on beautiful trails. Whether you’re with family or alone, it’s a great spot. It gets busy, so reserve early.
For affordable fun and unforgettable moments, both Silver Strand and San Clemente are excellent choices.
Desert Campgrounds
Camping in Southern California’s deserts is different. It’s like nowhere else. You can try Anza-Borrego Desert State Park or Joshua Tree National Park. Both places are full of adventure.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Anza-Borrego is the best for off-road camping. It has many trails.
Some of the best are Canyon Sin Nombre, Truckhaven Hills, and Oriflamme Canyon. You can camp there all year.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Trails | Canyon Sin Nombre, Truckhaven Hills, Oriflamme Canyon |
| Campsites | Tamarisk Grove, Borrego Palm Canyon |
| Access | Year-round |
Tamarisk Grove and Borrego Palm Canyon are the campsites to pick. They are simple but have what you need. And if you want a cheap but fun trip, Anza-Borrego is perfect.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree looks like a dream with its weird trees and huge rocks. If you want awesome camping photos, this is the place.
| Campground | Spots | Cool Things |
|---|---|---|
| Jumbo Rocks | 124 | Tent and RV sites, stunning views |
| Indian Cove | Varies | Hidden spot, great for climbing |
| Hidden Valley | Varies | Scenic, great for hiking |
Jumbo Rocks Campground has 124 sites for tents and RVs. It is perfect for stargazing at night. You can camp and explore the area up close. October to May is the best time to visit.
There are also hikes and rock climbing you can’t miss. And don’t forget to bring your dog, as the campsites are pet-friendly.
Mountain Campgrounds
Southern California’s mountains give you fresh air and nice views.
They are good for camping without spending too much. Two great places are Crystal Lake Recreation Area and Manker Flats.
Crystal Lake Recreation Area
Crystal Lake is in the Los Angeles National Forest. It sits above 6,000 feet. The Mt. Baldy Bowl Trailhead is close by, so it’s great for hikers.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Spot: Los Angeles National Forest
- Height: Over 6,000 feet
- Fun Stuff: Hiking, Fishing, Picnics
- Trail Fun: Close to Mt. Baldy Bowl Trailhead
| What’s There | Details |
|---|---|
| Campsites | Open all year |
| Water | Yes |
| Restrooms | Yes |
| Fire Pits | Yes |
| Picnic Tables | Yes |
Manker Flats
Manker Flats Campground is also in the Los Angeles National Forest. It’s near Mount San Antonio and has 21 campsites. They are first-come, first-served.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Spot: Near Mount San Antonio
- Height: Over 6,000 feet
- Fun Stuff: Hiking, Watching Wildlife
- Trail Fun: Close to Mt. Baldy Bowl Trailhead
| What’s There | Details |
|---|---|
| Campsites | 21 sites |
| Water | Yes |
| Restrooms | Yes |
| Fire Pits | Yes |
| Picnic Tables | Yes |
Both Crystal Lake and Manker Flats offer budget-friendly camping. You will love Southern California’s mountains.
For more ideas, check out our tips on budget trips and other places like Twin Falls or Mammoth.
Southern California Glamping
If you want a getaway that won’t break the bank but still feels like a dream, glamping in Southern California is your best bet.
No more fighting with tents or waking up soaked. Instead, check out fancy yurts and cabins that’ll make you feel like royalty.
Luxurious Yurts and Cabins
Southern California has some great glamping spots.
You’ll find stylish yurts, cozy cabins, and cute cottages. These places often have amazing views, perfect for those wanting a bit of luxury while still being close to nature.
Popular Glamping Sites in SoCal
| Location | Type | Amenities | Average Cost (per night) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Treebones Resort, Big Sur | Yurt | Ocean views, king beds, heating | $260 |
| El Capitan Canyon, Santa Barbara | Cabin | Full kitchen, private bathroom, BBQ area | $170 |
| Yosemite Pines, Groveland | Yurt | Wi-Fi, air conditioning, pet-friendly | $130 |
| Ventura Ranch KOA, Ventura | Cabin | Fire pit, picnic table, playground | $150 |
Traditional vs. Glamping Experience
Camping usually means tents and sleeping on the ground. Glamping, though, is like camping but fancier. Here’s a quick look at how they compare.
| Feature | Traditional Camping | Glamping |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Tent | Yurt, cabin, cottage |
| Sleeping Conditions | Sleeping bag, inflatable mattress | King/queen bed, air conditioning/heating |
| Cooking Facilities | Portable stove, campfire | Full kitchen, BBQ area |
| Bathroom Facilities | Shared campground restrooms | Private bathroom, running water |
| Weather Protection | Need weather gear | Insulated accommodation |
| Cost | Cheaper | More expensive for luxury |
For people who want to enjoy the outdoors but keep the comforts of home, glamping is a great option.
Whether it’s a family trip, a romantic weekend, or just a relaxing escape, glamping has something for everyone.
Southern California has tons of camping and glamping options, so there’s something for every style and budget.
Off-Road Camping
Nature lovers, get ready for some wild adventures. Off-road camping in Southern California waits for you.
Now, want to know the best places for excitement? Two of the top spots are Big Bear Trails and Joshua Tree.
Big Bear Trails
Big Bear is a perfect summer escape. When other parts of SoCal get too hot, Big Bear stays cool. The trails are rough enough to make off-roading fun.
| Stuff You’ll Find | Quick Deets |
|---|---|
| Where We At | Big Bear, CA |
| Trail Chill Level | Partially Rough |
| Sweet Spot Time | Summer |
| Fun Stuff | Off-roading, camping, hiking |
You can drive through forests, pass rocky spots, and enjoy new views as you go.
Camp anywhere you like and enjoy the beauty. Remember to pack what you need for a low-cost, comfy trip. Big Bear’s rugged beauty makes it a must-see.
Joshua Tree Exploration
Joshua Tree feels like another planet. The desert is hot, the rocks are cool, and the camping is peaceful. Stay on the marked roads to protect the plants and animals.
| Stuff You’ll Find | Quick Deets |
|---|---|
| Where We At | Joshua Tree, CA |
| Road Type | Official 4×4 Roads |
| Sweet Spot Time | All-Year |
| Fun Stuff | Off-roading, camping, stargazing |
The desert is quiet and offers a lot of space to relax. So camping here is safe and enjoyable, especially if you pick a spot in one of the official campgrounds.
Fishing-Friendly Campgrounds
Southern California isn’t just about beaches or Hollywood.
It’s a hidden gem for fishing lovers. Looking for an affordable and fun outdoor trip? Check out these top camping spots for fishing.
Dogwood Campground
Dogwood Campground sits quietly in the San Bernardino National Forest. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a peaceful spot to cast their line.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Where It’s At | San Bernardino National Forest |
| How Many Campsites | 87 |
| Fishing Scene | Lakes and streams nearby |
| Goodies | Picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, water taps |
| When to Go | Spring through Fall |
Whether you’re a pro angler or just starting out, Dogwood has plenty of fish waiting to be caught.
Lakeside Retreat Campsites
Imagine waking up by the lake with your fishing pole ready. Lakeside Retreat Campsites offer just that. You can catch fish without even leaving your chair!
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Where It’s At | Scattered all over SoCal |
| How Many Campsites | Varies by location |
| Fishing Scene | Right by the water |
| Goodies | Fire pits, restrooms, picnic tables, boat rentals |
| When to Go | All year long! |
These lakeside spots are great for a relaxed fishing trip. Whether with friends, family, or by yourself, you’ll enjoy lakeside lounging and the excitement of fishing.
Dog-Friendly Camping
Looking for a camping trip with your dog that will make both of you super happy?
Southern California has some awesome dog-friendly camping spots where you and your furry friend can have a blast.
Check out these two great places for an adventure together.
High Desert Hot Spring Hideout
High Desert Hot Spring Hideout is a peaceful spot with natural hot springs. It’s perfect for both people and dogs who love to relax and explore.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Northern Mojave Desert |
| Amenities | Hot springs, hiking trails, camping sites |
| Pet Policy | Dogs on leashes are welcome everywhere |
You and your dog can explore the many trails or take a relaxing walk in the peaceful desert.
Bowen’s Ranch Retreat
Bowen’s Ranch Retreat is another dog-friendly spot where both of you can enjoy open spaces and hot springs.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Apple Valley, CA |
| Amenities | Open desert camping, nearby hot springs, hiking trails |
| Pet Policy | Dogs allowed, keep them on leashes near hot springs |
This place has wide-open areas where your dog can explore while you relax and enjoy the scenery.
There are hot springs nearby and plenty of trails to hike with your dog. It’s a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Want to find more spots for you and your dog? Take a look at Holcomb Valley Ranch and other dog-friendly places in Southern California.
RV Camping at Lake Perris SRA
You pack up the RV, go to Lake Perris State Recreation Area in Southern California. Sky is big. Mountains all around. Perfect place to relax with friends, family.
Site Features and Utilities
Lake Perris SRA gives you everything you need. Here’s what you get:
| Utilities and Amenities | Details |
|---|---|
| Electrical Hook-ups | Keeps your gadgets charged, drinks cold. |
| Water & Sewer Hook-ups | Water at every site, plus a $10 Sani-Star dump station. |
| Restrooms & Showers | Clean, freshen up after a day outside. |
| Accessibility | Handicap spots available, discounts for Disabled Discount Pass holders. |
Tent campers? You’re welcome too. You can stay at any RV site. Good for groups, up to 8 campers.
Reservation Guidelines
Campsites at Lake Perris? Book early. Summer? Holidays? Spots go fast.
| Reservation Details | Info |
|---|---|
| Site-Specific Reservations | Pick your exact site number. Hard to swap later. |
| Stay Limits | 30 nights max per year. 15 during peak season. |
| Extra Vehicle Fees | 3 cars max per site. Fee for more than 1. Carpool is smart! |
| Payment | No checks! Cash or cards only. |
Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Dump Station Fee | $10 per use |
| Extra Vehicle Fee | Fee for 2nd and 3rd vehicles |
So, Southern California has a lot of cool places for camping.
You can go to the beach or maybe head up into the mountains. If you want a calm time or some fun adventure, there is a place for everyone.
Check out nature, relax, and enjoy the outdoors. You’ll make great memories at any of these camping spots.
