Southern California Camping

About This Region

Southern California delivers an extraordinary diversity of camping experiences unmatched anywhere else in the country. Within just a few hours' drive, campers can transition from crashing Pacific waves to ancient Joshua Tree deserts, from riverside oases along the Kern River to pine-scented mountain retreats in the San Bernardino and Cleveland National Forests. The region's campgrounds span dramatic coastal bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, high-desert landscapes filled with otherworldly rock formations, forested mountain sanctuaries above 6,000 feet, and river valleys perfect for swimming and fishing. Whether you seek the dramatic red cliffs of Red Rock Canyon, the year-round beach access at San Clemente and Carlsbad, or the legendary Pacific Crest Trail access at Walker Pass, Southern California camping offers something for every style of outdoor adventure. With nearly 800 combined campsites across our curated selection, the region welcomes millions of campers annually who come to experience everything from world-class stargazing in Joshua Tree National Park to hot spring soaks near the Kern River. The remarkable accessibility—many campgrounds sit within two hours of Los Angeles and San Diego—makes weekend escapes easy for the region's urban population.

Southern California's camping landscape presents a fascinating study in contrasts. Coastal campgrounds like South Carlsbad and San Clemente perch on dramatic bluffs with direct beach access, ocean views, and the moderating influence of marine breezes. Desert destinations like Ricardo Campground and Sheep Pass Group offer stark beauty, minimal light pollution for world-class stargazing, and temperatures that swing dramatically between scorching days and cool nights. Mountain campgrounds in the San Bernardino and Cleveland National Forests provide escape from the lowland heat, with sites beneath towering pines and oaks where temperatures can be 20-30 degrees cooler than coastal areas. River and lake campgrounds along the Kern River and Lake Isabella offer swimming, fishing, and water sports. Amenities vary widely—from primitive sites with vault toilets and no water at Walker Pass to full-hookup RV sites with hot showers at Dogwood. Pack accordingly based on your chosen destination.