The best camping near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area adventure.

100% (11 reviews)
100% (11 reviews)

Discover the wild side of Los Angeles in the Santa Monica Mountains.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

  • Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum
  • Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum
  • Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum
96%
(53)

Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum

2 sites · Tents9 acres · Topanga, CA
Long before he founded Theatricum Botanicum, Indiana native Will Geer was well-known for his work on the New York stage, in film, and on radio. By the mid-1950’s, he had relocated permanently to California and had established a successful Hollywood career. His future looked bright. But after being called to testify before the U.S. Congress’ Committee on Un-American Activities, he suddenly found himself blacklisted by the major studios with no viable means of income. For Geer and his young family, the McCarthy Era had arrived. Relocating to an acreage in Topanga, California, Mr. Geer established a theatre for similarly blacklisted actors and folk singers on the property. Because he held a degree in botany (one of his life long interests) the theater was named for a landmark botany text book, Theatricum Botanicum, which means, quite literally, “a garden theatre.” In the years to come, Geer cultivated not only theater, but a bountiful garden that enabled him and his wife, actress Herta Ware, to earn a living from the sale of vegetables, fruit, and herbs. With the success of television’s “The Waltons” in 1973, Geer discovered renewed popularity with his portrayal of Walton family patriarch, Zebulon Walton. Now he re-gathered his family (many of whom were working actors in regional theatres across the country) and together they formed a non-profit organization, Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum. In those heady days, audiences flocked to free workshop performances of Shakespeare, folk plays, and concerts featuring such well-known artists as Pete Seeger, Arlo Guthrie, Della Reese, Burl Ives, and many more. After his death in 1978, the family (led by their mother, Herta Ware) and a small troupe of dedicated actors tirelessly dedicated their energies to transform Theatricum into a professional repertory theatre, with educational programs and musical events incorporated into its programming. Since 2016, Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum has been a member of The Folger Shakespeare Library Theatre Partnership Program. Today, under the creative supervision of Artistic Director Ellen Geer (Will’s daughter), Theatricum has blossomed into a vital creative force that has been recognized internationally for its interpretation of Shakespeare’s work. In addition to an annual summer season of 5 repertory plays, Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum offers year-round classes to actors of all ages, hosts live music concerts, nurtures budding playwrights, and successfully reaches schools and students across the Greater Los Angeles County with the aim of making live theater bloom for generations to come. Our 2023 theatrical season opens to the public with Wm. Shakespeare's "MacBeth" in June, along with "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and "Queen Margaret’s Version of Shakespeare’s War of the Roses". In July we open "A Perfect Ganesh" written by Terrence McNally, and we run all 4 plays through early October. It's also our 50th Year Anniversary so we have a number of special events happening ~ check our web site for more information. We close the Theatricum in early November. . You can find play descriptions, dates, times and prices at the Theatricum's web site, www.theatricum.com.
Potable water
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from 
$90
 / night
  • Hillside Homestead
  • Hillside Homestead
  • Hillside Homestead
100%
(1)

Hillside Homestead

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Topanga, CA
Discover a secluded haven perched in the hills of Topanga, enveloped by thousands of acres of state park, offering an idyllic retreat for camping enthusiasts. Situated at the culmination of a winding road, this hidden gem invites you to immerse yourself in the natural splendor that Topanga has to offer. Just a scenic 7-mile journey, as the crow flies, to the Pacific Coast and Topanga State Beach, this location provides an ideal blend of wilderness and coastal proximity. Engage in a plethora of outdoor activities, from invigorating hikes to leisurely horseback rides, all amidst breathtaking views that stretch as far as the eye can see. The ambiance is one of tranquility, with a gentle breeze rustling through the towering trees and the sweet melody of birdsong in the air. As a bonus, revel in the exclusive privacy that this property affords, ensuring an intimate and serene camping experience. Escape the ordinary and embrace the Zen-like atmosphere of this Topanga retreat. Portable Potty available, tent and vehicle camping only. Airstream not available for use at the moment.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$100
 / night
  • Malibu Creek Orchard Retreat
  • Malibu Creek Orchard Retreat
  • Malibu Creek Orchard Retreat
80%
(5)

Malibu Creek Orchard Retreat

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Calabasas, CA
A retreat in a steep canyon with beautiful ridgelines in the Malibu Creek area. Private camp spots and hidden trails away from it all, but yet so close. Only 30 Minutes from the Santa Monica Pier or 15 Minutes to the beaches of Malibu, still it feels like being a world away. You wouldn't expect nature to be so pristine and exciting that close to the city.
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from 
$175
 / night
  • Red Tail Ridge
  • Red Tail Ridge
  • Red Tail Ridge
100%
(2)

Red Tail Ridge

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Topanga, CA
20 acres of beautiful land. 360 views of mountains and ocean from every point on the property. There are many flat areas and nooks for camping found throughout the property, as well as a yurt, a double-decker bus, and an airstream. You enter through a iron gate and first come onto a big central flat pad with ocean views overlooking Saddle Peak and the San Gabriels. There are two 40 foot shipping containers on the flat pad, one of them is a fully functioning kitchen with windows looking out towards the ocean. There is wooden furniture outside so you can lounge and enjoy the views in front of the kitchen. If you continue down the drive to the right of the central flat pad, you come down to a point that looks straight towards Saddle Peak. On the way to the point you will find a double-decker Crown bus and an Airstream that can accommodate campers. At the end of the point there is a 20ft diameter traditional Mongolian yurt complete with wood fire stove and wraparound deck. If you go back up to the central flat pad and continue on down the drive to the left, you will find more beautiful and secluded spots down by the well house. There are a few meadows to explore as well as the ever present view of the ocean. There is plenty of wildlife around the property including deer, bobcats, hawks, owls, ravens, foxes, rabbits, and much more... On this vast property there are regular camping and RV spots as well as a yurt, a double-decker bus, and an airstream for campers.
Pets
Toilets
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from 
$88
 / night
  • Deer Temple Hidden In The Woods
  • Deer Temple Hidden In The Woods
  • Deer Temple Hidden In The Woods

Deer Temple Hidden In The Woods

1 site · Lodging70 acres · Topanga, CA
Nestled in the embrace of nature, our custom-built cabin offers an idyllic retreat from the bustle of the city. Step inside the 120 sq ft deer cabin through a hand-carved front door from the custom-built front porch, where you'll be greeted by hardwood floors, a queen bed with a hand-carved Mongolian headboard, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the natural surroundings. The deer cabin is located on a property spanning over 70 acres in beautiful Topanga Canyon, our breathtaking cabin will immerse you in nature, trees, and wildlife. Stunning landscapes from every angle, a seasonal waterfall that suspends from the property’s peak, and numerous scenic locations within the property are just a few of its draws. Mountains surround the cabin, making you feel miles away from the city. Yet our location is only a stone’s throw away from Topanga Village and 10 minutes from PCH. Our estate offers privacy and land in abundance, but also the convenience of close proximity to amenities. The variety of vegetation throughout the grounds creates multiple microclimates on the property, creating different environments and landscapes. From lush, green, mossy fern banks along the natural creek, to expansive grasslands studded with boulders and sculptural trees. Meditative nature paths wind up the mountainside, leading to the breathtaking seasonal waterfall.
Potable water
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$300
 / night
  • Parking for camper
  • Sunset Views!
  • Parking for camper
100%
(31)

Prospector Ranch

3 sites · Lodging, RVs10 acres · Thousand Oaks, CA
Chris and Meggan own Prospector Ranch which is an 1800's style ranch located right next door to the acre used for Hipcamping.  The ranch is made up of their home and is also a venue for filming, photo shoots and small events.  When not being used, camping guest are welcome to enjoy the area down around the authentic saloon, use the picnic area under large Oak trees and hike the property. They purchased the ranch 3 years ago and love being outside of the city in the mountains. Star gazing is a must when staying there! The camp site is NEXT DOOR to Prospector Ranch which is our 1800's style ranch tucked away in the Santa Monica mountains, close to beaches, vineyards, amazing hiking, biking to the beach and the city! The wide open empty lot looks out at the beautiful mountains. Enjoy stunning sun sets and Picnic under the grand Oak Trees at the ranch or maybe come by the saloon next door for a cold beverage if we are around. :-). We are happy to point you in the direction for what ever you want to do. There are so many things to do in Thousand Oaks!
Pets
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from 
$160
 / night
  • Nomad NeXus @ Lonesome Ranch
  • Nomad NeXus @ Lonesome Ranch
  • Nomad NeXus @ Lonesome Ranch
74%
(19)

Nomad NeXus @ Lonesome Ranch

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents9 acres · Leona Valley, CA
Staying with us gives you the best of both worlds. Nature, Serenity and Connectivity. Enjoy the seclusion and privacy of your own little spot in nature knowing that you have an instant community & can still have access to fast internet speed in most places of the ranch thanks to our 2 starling internet networks. Also there are always some awesome, helpful people near by ready to help you with anything you might need. And YES, your always welcome to hop into our sparkling swimming pool, join us at our fun Western Saloon and play billiards, hang out at the bar and meet other campers and ranch hands and join us at our campfire and enjoy all the other cool amenities which make up our ArtFarm community! Most camp sites are just a short 5 minute walk from our main ranch house were you have access to our community kitchen, Showers, air-conditioned co- workspace w unlimited, high speed Starlink internet for all your online work needs, a Movie projector area, indoor fireplace and With tons of hiking and ATV trails there is lots to do and explore and with all the friendly people and projects going on close by at Art Farm you might just get inspired to make some friends or be more creative yourself and start tinkering with your own art or craft projects. As far as supplies, Leona Valley has a well stocked little mini mart, gas and a a great little restaurant called "Jacks Place" with yummy food and amazing draft beer .... all just 10 minutes drive down the dirt road.
Pets
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from 
$75
 / night
  • Tiny Home Cabin in the Hills
  • Tiny Home Cabin in the Hills
  • Tiny Home Cabin in the Hills
100%
(9)

Tiny Home Cabin in the Hills

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Sunland, CA
On the hillside of rural Shadow Hills in Los Angeles known as "Horse Country", most residents work in the film and TV industry in an area described as "close but a world away from the studios"!With views of the hillside and neighboring horse arenas and barns, you'll forget that you're still in Los Angeles and Disney studios is a mere 15 minutes away!
Potable water
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from 
$75
 / night
Book externally

Public campgrounds in the park
Book externally

Stay at a public campground in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Mountains cascading in the marine layer in the early morning
100%
(11)

Circle X Ranch Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

  • Malibu Beach RV Park
  • Malibu Beach RV Park
  • Malibu Beach RV Park
94%
(112)

Malibu Beach RV Park

298 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Malibu, CA
Malibu RV is set on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, California. Founded in the 1970s, Malibu RV offers RV Sites, Van Sites and Tent Camping, a communal ambiance, and a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of your travels along the California Coast. Whether you are a digital nomad, a surfer looking to shack up for the night, or an adventurer looking for an extended stay, we would love to have you.
Pets
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from 
$45
 / night
  • Camp RainDale
  • Camp RainDale
  • Camp RainDale
100%
(77)

Camp RainDale

6 sites · Tents30 acres · Santa Paula, CA
There is a road that leads to the site when you enter the gate the road runs between the stream and the mountain there are 4 Camps to choose from so far. Many more on the way and you can ask if you would like to camp somewhere else on the property and we can work it out. The site runs along a flowing stream consisting of paths from camp to stream. There are many trees enclosing the entire camping area.
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from 
$20
 / night
  • WIldflower Ridge
  • WIldflower Ridge
  • WIldflower Ridge
100%
(1)

WIldflower Ridge

2 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Topanga, CA
Pitch your tent in the shade of a sprawling Sumac tree, enjoying views of the mountain side. Be intoxicated by the scent of vibrant purple sage surrounding you on all sides. Be enchanted by the abundance of wildflowers in every direction. Catch views of Black Walnut and California live oak trees.  Relax in our hammock and take in the beauty of the mountain. Eat by camp at our picnic table with chairs to lounge in. Take a nap in the tree on our treehouse platform.  Access a private hike with a 360 degree view featuring Topanga Canyon, Pacific Ocean, Catalina Island, and San Fernando Valley.  Dog friendly :)
Pets
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from 
$55
 / night
  • The Lodge at Deer Creek
  • Spring time greenery
  • The Lodge at Deer Creek
91%
(47)

The Lodge at Deer Creek

2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Malibu, CA
At The Lodge at Deer Creek you'll be nestled between mountains and the pacific ocean. Surround yourself with nature and its music on this 25 acre ocean view property. Grab a surf or paddle board and head to the beach or zen out amongst the greenery. Grocery, restaurants, and retail are a beautiful drive along the coast.
Pets
Trash
from 
$75
 / night
  • The host - Lisa's house.
  • Cross Bull Ranch/CBR
  • The host - Lisa's house.
97%
(265)

Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · Topanga, CA
DEAR HIPCAMPER, PLEASE KNOW NOW IS "The Best Time" To Visit Our Beloved Canyon With The "Road Closure." There's Hardly ANY Thru Traffic. MANY OF US Taking Walks With or Without Our Dogs, Riding Bikes & Horses On Canyon for 1st Time in Decades Since NO Cars Speeding By! "Welcome" To Cross Bull Ranch/CBR Where You Can Unplug & "Disconnect" from Technology & Devices because... WE HAVE A GREAT "Connection With Nature" HERE ON THE RANCH! ALSO PLEASE KNOW 2 YEARS AGO THIS APRIL 1ST I INVESTED IN CREATING "3 MILES OF HIKING TRAILS" ONSITE WITH "Breathtaking Views!" WonderFULL TO HIKE AT SUNRISE, SUNSET. ANY TIME! You Can Find Us @crossbullranchtopanga On Instagram! PERFECT FOR 1ST TIME CAMPERS, FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN & VETERAN CAMPERS TO PRACTICE & HONE THEIR SKILLS IMMERSED IN NATURE YET CLOSE TO ALL THE CONVENIENCES OF... "Home." CBR is A Secluded 16 Acre Eco-Village, Rural Rustic Permaculture & Preparedness Retreat & International Healing Center within Walking Distance to "Topanga Living Cafe" (TLC) & "Cafe' 27". Grab a Bullet Proof Coffee or Oat Milk Latte' with a Wonderful Organic Breakfast, Brunch or Lunch. "Pack Up" & "Head Out" for A Day of Adventure hiking trails, offroad mountain biking The Canyons or cycling along the Pacific Coast Highway, enjoy swimming in seasonal fresh water pools, food foraging, boogie/paddle boarding & surfing The Waves Of Topanga State Beach. While returning to Cross Bull Ranch/CBR Stop Off At The "Topanga General Store" or "Topanga Gourmet" to Pick Up Provisions to "Chill Out" Under The Stars at Your Campsite or One Of Our "Human Nests!" If You're "Lucky" It Will Be Low Fire Danger & We Can Make Smores in The Main Fire Pit Together! Enjoy The Sights, Sounds, Smells, Beauty & "Majesty" of Nature, Enjoy A Drink & A Nice Dinner at "Endless Color," "Then Canyon Bistro" or... The World Renoun "Inn Of The Seventh Ray" in Town. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Sunday Brunch! Or Perhaps "IF" You're In Need Of "Healing" Set Aside 2 - 3 hrs. for Yourself and... Book A "Shamanic Somatic Healing Session" or "Plant Medicine Ceremony" Customized JUST FOR YOU with Your Hostess, Lisa. Details BELOW. Surprise loved ones or take a solo trip to Celebrate Life, Holidays, B'Earth Days, Anniversaries, Multi-Generational Family Gatherings, Reunions+++ ALL while... Safely "Social Distancing in Nature." Cross Bull Ranch was Originally A Chumash Indian Village. In 1926 "A Farmer" Named McDougal Came to CA from Santa Fe, NM in Search of A Better Life for He & His Family. Originally 40 Acres The Farm Provided ALL Produce, Dairy, Poultry & Beef to The Topanga Community via The "General Store" Until The End of WW2 IN 1945 when The American Public were Sold Post Military Chemicals as pesticides & fertilizers. It was Then That "Corporations" began Buying Up Fertile Farm Land, Clear Cutting, Mono-Cropping. Creating Corporate "Grocery Store" Chains DESTROYING "The Family Farm." My Son's Father & I Rescued This Land in 1998. It was Derelict. We were Handed A 1' HIGH FILE FULL OF Building Department "Violations" The Oaks were ALL Dying from Lack Of Fresh Air/Oxygen & Sunshine. We Removed (8) 5 TON DUMPSTERS/40 TONS OF GARBAGE INCLUDING: Cars, Car Parts/Tires, Toilets, Jacuzzi Tubs, Dishware, Newspapers, Utensils++. We Picked Up EVERY Chard of Glass from Broken Beer Bottles, EVERY Bottle Cap, EVERY Cigarette Butt. Which ARE NOT BIODEGRADABLE. It was A "Travesty." And... "A Labor Of Love." We IMMEDIATELY "Invested" $25,000.00 Clearing & Cleaning, "Healing" The Oaks. With Ropes NOT Spikes. We Bought A Brush Cutter & Cut Down Weeds TALLER THAN ME. At 1st you Couldn't EVEN See The Topography Of The Land. We Renovated an Existing Trailer Adjacent to The Farm House. The "Treehouse Trailer" as We Affectionately Call It Was Out Home for 7 Years While I Resolved A 1' High File Of Building Violations, Woke at 5:30AM EVERY MORNING To Direct/General Contract A Crew Of Talented Artisans from San Miguel Allende, Mexico NONE Of Which Spoke English (Soy Boriqua) & Who'd NEVER Built or Renovated A House Before. In 2009 after Separation, Divorce & Financial Devastation in '09/'10 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This "Dis-Ease" Ended Up Being "A Gift". It Lead me On "The Red Road" To Getting Baptized in The Native American Church in The Lakota Way, Taking "Refuge" in Tibetan Buddhism, Hosting Shaman & Healers from ALL OVER The World in Plant Medicine Ceremonies, Practicing Permaculture & Preparedness, Creating My Own Line Of "Cross Bull Ranch" Non-GMO Organic Food, Becoming A Certified Somatic Healing (Trauma Release) Practitioner & Ordained Minister. Until November of 2019 I had been Hosting Retreats, Workshops, Weddings++ In "Our Home." Until... covid. Similar to "My Prayer" 10 Yeas Ago Asking "God" To Send Healers Who Needed Land to Support Their Work In Exchange/Barter For me To Receive The Healing I Needed. Again "I Prayed" HARD & Divine Inspiration Came To me Similar to "Food Being Medicine," that Pachamama, "Mother Earth" is The MOST Potent Healer. I Decided to "Open Up The Land" To Offer To "Others" to Leave Society & Devices Behind. Ground Themselves. FULLY IMMERSING Themselves, Family & Friends in Nature "Maskless." In Order To Breathe Fresh Air. Filling Their Lungs With Life Sustaining Oxygen & Bathe Themselves in Sunshine which Is A PowerFULL Disinfectant, Recharge "Their Souls" & Stimulating Their Third Eye/"Pineal Gland." Helping Others To Re-Boot & BOOST Their Immune Systems. Which is Of The UTMOST IMPORTANCE "Right Now." I Am Lisa Cianci and... I AM Looking Forward To Seeing YOU Here On The Ranch!" Until Then... Take Care. Stay Safe & Well!
Potable water
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Campfires
from 
$100
 / night
  • Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch
  • Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch
  • Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch
96%
(95)

Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents62 acres · Lake Hughes, CA
Run by three generations, our ranch has been in our family for more than 70 years. We opened our doors to the public in 2014 to help support feeding our animals, bred and rescued, after the Powerhouse Fire almost burned us out. We’ve survived a county quarantine(2018-2019), the COVID Lockdowns (2021-2022), the Lake Fire (2020), and the Hurricane Kay burn scar debris flow and flood (9/11/22), depending on hard work and strong family and community bonds. In addition to camping and educational tours, we host private and community events, grow & sell produce and eggs, hatch and sell chicks, rescue ratites, and support the local bee population (which gives us RAW honey to sell), and are working to open a private U-pick-by-appointment orchard. We are all animal lovers, and conservationists, and try to do our part to ensure our children inherit a healthy and viable world. This is our home where we live, work, love, and play. We enjoy sharing our space with visitors who we hope learn about ostrich and make some great memories.
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from 
$20
 / night
  • EAGLE ROCK NEST
  • EAGLE ROCK NEST
  • EAGLE ROCK NEST
100%
(2)

EAGLE ROCK NEST

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Topanga, CA
The Nest is located at the end of the road very close to Eagle Rock and Santa Ynez waterfalls right off Musch Trail, bordering the state park.we have a toilet and 2 large picnic tables also have some water but not for drinking... amazing views, many hiking trails and lots of bunnies and other animals...
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from 
$65.50
 / night
  • Nomad-NeXus @ArtFarm Nature Space
  • Nomad-NeXus @ArtFarm Nature Space
  • Nomad-NeXus @ArtFarm Nature Space
92%
(91)

Nomad-NeXus @ArtFarm Nature Space

38 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Leona Valley, CA
Nomad-NeXus @ ArtFarm Nature Space offers the best of both worlds: Amazing Nature , bright stars and serenity , a fun creative vibe and good people and blazing fast internet connection for digital nomads and young entrepreneurs who are looking for a space to connect with nature and the world at large all at once, bridging the gap between Nature and Technology, Freedom and Community , hard work and inspiring moments with inspiring and positive people. ArtFarm Nature space is the perfect space for Digital Nomads and Creative entrepreneurs to immerse themselves in Nature while enjoying the benefits of an instant community of inspired people who love to connect, collaborate and create ! we would love to meet you
Pets
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from 
$68
 / night
  • HSH
  • Green Oak Retreat
  • HSH
100%
(3)

Green Oak Retreat

5 sites · Lodging23 acres · Topanga, CA
Indulge in the luxury of glamping with our exquisite tent that offers a captivating ocean view. Thoughtfully furnished with a king-sized bed, a cozy table for two, and convenient amenities like a coffee maker and filtered water. Accessible via a scenic 15-minute hike, the well-maintained trail features steps where needed. Immerse yourself in the outdoor experience with a hot water outdoor shower equipped with soap, shampoo, and conditioner. For added convenience, a VIP porta-potty awaits with running water, lighting, and a fan. The Setton, nestled in an enchanting oak grove, promises an unforgettable stay with a breathtaking ocean vista at the top! 🏕️🌅
Pets
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from 
$100
 / night
  • Arber-Moore's Ranch
  • Arber-Moore's Ranch
  • Arber-Moore's Ranch
94%
(365)

Arber-Moore's Ranch

6 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Oak View, CA
Beautiful natural campsites in the Valley of the Moon (Ojai Valley). Our sites are within an eighth of a mile of walking, running, biking, and riding trails from Ojai to the beaches of Ventura. On many days you can experience Ojai’s famous pink moments. You can hike the trails above Ojai, boat, eat, or picnic at Lake Casitas. Travel to nearby Ventura to shop, fish the pier, or take a deep sea fishing charter or Island charter to Whale watch or fish around the Channel Islands. Please note the aerial view of the camping area recently placed by Hipcamp is NOT AT ALL REPRESENTATIVE of the current camping sites and shows a photo that is many years old when the site was merely land. That photo is without any of the existing amenities or improvements. The actual sites are all Larger than Federal Park and Statepark guidelines, with averages of 20'x30' for campsites and 20'x40' for a long RVCampsite. We have planted many young trees and continue to plant trees and native shrubs around and near the sites. We have picnic tables, table coverings, fire pits, and camping rugs/footprints. There is also an outdoor shower, a shower tent with hot water, and an upgraded porta-potty with a sink. Note: During times when high heat is predicted, we strongly recommend that our Hipcampers bring pop-up shade tents or canopies for their sites. The Hipcamp is adjacent to our working ranch, and any photos of old sheds, trucks, a wood lot, or other equipment are NOT on the Hipcamp, but you will drive past that property to get to the separate Hipcamp area. Wineries, Farmer's Markets, Craft Breweries, dispensaries, and more are within 10 to 15 minutes of our site. Our location allows moments when you may see Hawks, Owls, Geese, Swallows, Robins, Bluebirds, and more. We offer both tent and RV camping. The Majority of our Guests love it here: "Vivian and Dave were exceptional hosts! Easy to contact and find our way to their property. Also gave us a plethora of places to go and things to do in the Ojai area. The area was open and spacious, and many trees and upgrades were in the works to make future stays more user-friendly. Big pluses were the shower and toilet facilities—much appreciated !!"
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from 
$69
 / night
  • Lots of rocky river beds
  • AntFarm LA
  • Lots of rocky river beds
98%
(68)

AntFarm LA

6 sites · TentsLos Angeles, CA
NOTE: THIS IS A PARK AND HIKE-IN TENT-ONLY STAY. You must park by street and hike-up. You will not sleep in vehicle/RV.My wife and I built this place with the help of our 2 toddlers, our friends, and our team of shovels. 
Pets
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from 
$40
 / night
  • Picnic Table at primitive camping spot
  • Airstream available for rent - add on as extra!
  • Picnic Table at primitive camping spot
98%
(54)

Lacey S.’s Land

1 site · RV5 acres · Malibu, CA
Pets
Trash
from 
$100
 / night

The best camping near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

The Santa Monica Mountains take up a huge chunk of the coastline east of Los Angeles, preserving the beauty of the wilderness located only a few miles from the urban sprawl of the big city. If you’re in Southern California, you have every reason to come to this National Recreation Area, get away from the light pollution and the congested highways and drink in the mountain coastline.

When to go

The best time to visit the Santa Monica Mountains is during the spring and fall when temperatures are mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers longer days for exploration, though it can be quite warm. Winters are cooler and may present the perfect opportunity for serene hikes, albeit with shorter days.

Know before you go

  • Check for alerts on current conditions before your visit to stay informed about any closures or safety information.
  • Accessibility varies across the park, so plan ahead to ensure the areas you wish to explore meet your needs.
  • Remember to pack out all trash and respect wildlife by observing from a distance.
  • Cell service can be spotty, so download maps and information ahead of time.
  • For any inquiries, the park's contact number is 805 370-2301, available during standard office hours.

Top parks near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Joshua Tree National Park
Los Padres National Forest
Sequoia National Forest
Morro Bay State Park
Yosemite National Park
Sequoia National Park
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Top cities near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

San Diego
Los Angeles
Indio
Irvine
San Jose
Fresno
Las Vegas
Bakersfield

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