Camp near Lake Hughes for easy access to California’s most beautiful lakes, mountains, and beaches.
Nestled between the Sierra Pelona Mountains and Angeles National Forest, Lake Hughes is a hidden gem in California with three lakes to explore—Hughes Lake, Munz Lake, and Elizabeth Lake. Campgrounds, cabin rentals, RV parks, and unique glamping getaways create a perfect home base for exploring nearby Angeles National Forest’s mountains, rivers, deserts, and woodlands. Hike and backpack along Pine Canyon Loop to find panoramic views of the forest’s wildflower-covered peaks and valleys. Southwest sits Castaic Lake State Recreation Area. It has two clearwater lakes for boating, fishing, and swimming and lakeside campsites, while beach-bound campers can head to Topanga State Park for oceanfront camping and adventure.
Spanning almost 700,000 acres, Angeles National Forest is a biodiverse playground of endless outdoor activities. Three ranger districts and over 50 campgrounds allow campers to stay within the park in RV-friendly campsites and group camping accommodations. Amenities vary throughout the campgrounds and most run on a first-come-first-served basis. During warmer months, hiking, rock climbing, and fishing are among the most popular activities in the forest. In winter, campers can find snow on the forest’s higher points.
Sitting on the outskirts of Santa Clarita, Castaic Lake State Recreation Area boasts two beautiful lakes wrapped in hiking and biking trails. The lower lake is reserved for summertime swimming and non-motorized water sports, while the upper lake hosts anglers, sailors, and jet skiers. Castaic Lake’s campground offers over 60 reservable campsites for tents and RVs that include fire rings, restrooms, a paid dump station, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Campers also have access to a boat launch with additional fees for a personal watercraft or boat rentals.
North of Santa Monica in Los Angeles County, Topanga State Park’s challenging mountain trails, red rock canyons, and sandy beaches attract campers seeking a true California experience. Stretching almost 16,000 acres, the park is filled with oaks and sycamores alongside the Santa Monica Mountains and Pacific Coast shoreline. The park offers hike-in primitive camping via a single track trail, as well as a number of privately owned campgrounds for tents only. Close proximity to the city provides access to nearby cabin rentals, RV parks, and glamping options, as well.
Camping near Lake Hughes is a year-round activity. In late spring and early fall, temperatures range in the 70s and 80s. May, June, September, and October see little precipitation and allow campers to make the most of their visit. Blankets of California poppies on rolling hills greet springtime campers, as well. Southern California’s summer heat brings temperatures into the 90s, while winters can get close to freezing. Campers should be prepared for either extreme when camping during these seasons.