updated April 2023
Southern California has so many amazing campgrounds and off-the-grid campsites! If you want to plan a family camping trip in 2022 – we’ve got the list of the best kid-friendly campgrounds that will help you have a memorable vacation. We’ve researched and sifted through the hundreds of campgrounds, RV parks, State Parks, and tent sites to come up with a no-fail list of the top family friendly campgrounds in Southern California.
Camping in California does not HAVE to mean roughing it (unless you want to!) The campgrounds we’ve profiled are proven favorites for families with kids of all ages. Some of them have miles of hiking trails, some have beaches, some have tons of wildlife, some have lakes – and some have all of these amenities! Whether you are a seasoned camping pro or going on your FIRST camping trip — we promise – you’ll enjoy these campgrounds.
As parents ourselves, we know what’s important for a successful family camping trip.
- CLEAN BATHROOMS – so important for tent campers who rely on clean, well-maintained bathrooms and showers! Even if you have a bathroom with your RV, its essential to have nice bathrooms when you are out and about exploring the parks.
- KIDS’ AREAS & ACTIVITIES. While it isn’t essential to have organized activities for children, they are nice to have as an option. In addition – playgrounds and kid-friendly hiking trails are a must. (Click here for tips on camping with toddlers)
- CAMPSITE PRIVACY. No one wants to drive a couple hours from home with all their camping gear to just be crammed into a campsite practically on top of their neighbors! We know we’re back-packing into the wilderness, but bonus points for those campsites who have a measure of privacy so you can at least pretend you are miles away from society.
With these criteria in mind, here is our suggested list of best campgrounds for families in South California.
FAMILY FRIENDLY CAMPGROUNDS IN SOUTH CALIFORNIA (LISTED NORTH TO SOUTH)
- Azalea Campground
- Furnace Creek Campground
- Riverside Campground & Cabins
- Morro Bay State Park Campground
- Pismo Coast Village RV Resort
- Lopez Lake Campground
- Calico Ghost Town Campground
- Ocean Mesa RV and Campground
- Wheeler Gorge Campground
- Carpinteria State Beach Campground
- Lake Casitas Recreation Area
- Ventura Ranch KOA Holiday
- Leo Carrillo State Park
- Camp Williams Resort
- San Bernardino National Forest – Serrano Campground
- Indian Cove Campground
- Lake Hemet Campground
- Moro Campground
- Hermit Gulch Campground
- Borrego Palm Canyon Campground
- Oakzanita Springs RV Campground
- Campland on the Bay

daveynin
Location:
Grant Grove, CA
Phone: 1-559-565-3341
Located near the entrance to Kings Canyon National Park, Azalea campground is among evergreen trees and near the famous General Grant Tree. General Grant tree is the largest giant sequoia in the park and the second largest tree IN THE WORLD.
Campsites are situated somewhat close to one another, but there are plenty of trees to offer privacy. You can fish and boat in Kings River or hike on any of the nature trails that wind through the park. In the spring the Azalea shrubs are alive with rainbows of color!
Amenities | Camp store Equestrian trail Visitor center Biking Fishing Hiking Boating General Grant sequoia grove General Grant tree Restaurant Gift Shop |
Tent/Trailer/RV Camping:
Campsites: | 110 (first come, first serve) |
Site features: | Picnic table, fire ring, food locker. Drinking water and restrooms with flush toilets nearby. |

runarut
Location:
Death Valley, CA
Phone: 1-760-786-3200
Furnace Creek Campground is central located in Death Valley National Park. Peak camping season is November through March, when the temperatures are mild with only occasional storms. Summer months are very hot (it is DEATH VALLEY).
Everyone in the family will enjoy the many interpretive and educational programs offered at the park’s visitor center. There is also a 1 mile bike path that connects to an interpretive trail leading to Harmony Borax Works – an abandoned borax refinery from the late 1800s.
Amenities | Visitor Center Hiking Guided interpretive walks Interpretive programs Wildlife viewing |
Full Hook-up
Campsites: | 18 |
Site features: | 30/50 amp, water & sewer. Drinking water, picnic table, flush toilets and dump station nearby. Campfire ring/grill. |
Tent, Trailer, RV
Campsites: | 67 |
Site features: | Drinking water, picnic table, flush toilets and dump station nearby. Campfire ring/grill. |
Tent Only
Campsites: | 50 |
Site features: | Drinking water, picnic table, flush toilets and dump station nearby. Campfire ring/grill. |


chrisbucks
Location:
47020 CA-1
Big Sur, CA 93920
Phone: 1-831-667-2414
For families looking for a smaller, private campground should check out Riverside Campground located in Big Sur. You can tent/RV camp or book one of their cabins to stay in. Big Sur Road House restaurant is nearby so you don’t even need to do your own cooking!
Swim or wade in Big Sur River or go fishing November-February (catch and release). During winter you can view the California Gray whales migrate past the coast. In the summer you may spot a Blue Whale or Humpbacks. There are plenty of day hikes through the redwood, up mountains, and along ridges.
Amenities/Activities | 10 acre campground Fishing (seasonal, catch and release) Hiking Near beaches Fully stocked camp store |
Tent Camping
Campsites: | 27 |
Site features: | Picnic table and fire pit. Max 5 people |
RV Camping
Campsites: | 12 |
Site features: | RVs up to 34’. Picnic table and fire pit. Max 5 people. 20 amp electric + water hook ups. |
Cabins
Cabins: | 11 |
Site features: | Outdoor picnic table, fire pit, seating.. Pets OK ($). Bedding, linens provided. Shared bathrooms. |

David Seibold
Situated in Morro Bay State Park, this campground is perfect for families looking for a seaside escape with activities ranging from beach combing to golfing. One of the popular draws is the Museum of Natural History inside the park which has activities like nature walks, exhibits, lectures, puppet shows, videos, tours, and other special events.
The campsites themselves are rather close together – but there are trees and brush for added privacy.
Amenities/Activities | Campfire center Picnic area Restrooms with flush toilets + hot showers Bayside café Amphitheater Boat launch/ramp Boat rentals Dump station Gift shop Nature center Observatory Golf course Museum |
Tent/Trailers/RVs Camping
Campsites: | 134 |
Site features: | 30 of these sites have water & electric hook-ups). Paved parking pad, picnic table, fire ring + grate, and food locker. |
Group Camping
Campsites: | 2 |
Site features: | Chorro Campsite: up to 35 people, 15 vehicles (max 2 RVs) Osos Campsite: up to 25 people, 10 vehicles (max 2 RVs). Group campsites have water, picnic tables, fire rings + grates. No electric. |

If you are looking for more of a Resort-Style campground, Pismo Coast Village RV Resort is an excellent choice. Well-maintained and serene, you’ll enjoy the beautiful 26 acre resort and all of its amenities. From the heated swimming pool to mini golf to the bike rentals – there are activities for every age. You don’t need a vehicle to walk into Pismo Beach downtown and where you can shop, dine, and visit the Pier. Camping spots are close together – zero privacy – but that’s typical resort RV camping – so no big deal. Anyway, you won’t be hanging out in the camper – there are games to play at the arcade and sports competitions at the shuffleboard court and horseshoe pit!
Amenities/Activities | Heated swimming pool Arcade Laundromat Bike rentals Surrey rentals 3 playgrounds Mini golf ($) Basketball court, shuffle board, ping-pong, horseshoe pits Annual children’s’ Christmas party General store Walking distance to downtown Pismo Beach shopping, restaurants, and Pismo Pier |
Full Hook-Up Sites:
Campsites: | 400 |
Site features: | Full hook-up, free WiFi, Cable TV. Level concrete pad, picnic table. |
LOPEZ LAKE CAMPGROUND
Location:
6800 Lopez Drive
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Phone: 1-805-788-2381
Lopez Lake Campground offers year-round camping and tons of outdoor activities for everyone in the family. 22 miles of shoreline on Lopez Lake are perfect for picnicking, swimming (the lake temperature in the summer is a comfortable 70 degrees), boating, fishing, hiking and more. If you enjoy bird watching, there have been over 150 species of local birds spotted in the park – bring your binoculars!
If your family enjoys adventure courses, check out Vista Lago Adventure Park – it has zip lines as well as easier courses for the younger adventurers. Mustang Water Park is located on the lake and offers all sorts of fun for the entire family – from 600-ft waterslides to tot pools and cabana picnic areas.
There are campsites for tent campers, RVers, trailers, group campers, equestrian campers, and even a boat-in campsite. There are bears in the area along with other wildlife, so it is vital to lock up any food over night!
Amenities/Activities | 22 miles of shoreline Summer water temps at 70 degrees Boating Waterskiing Fishing Swimming Hiking Mountain biking Horseback riding Birdwatching (150 species inside park) |
Primitive Camping:
Campsites: | 128 |
Site features: | Open to tents, trailers, and RVs. Picnic table, fire pit. |
Electric Camping:
Campsites: | 65 |
Site features: | Open to tent camping only – no RVs or trailers. Picnic table and fire pit. |
Full Hook-Up Camping:
Campsites: | 167 |
Site features: | Open to trailers and RVs only – no tents. Picnic table and fire pit. |
Group Camping:
Campsites: | 7 |
Site features: | BBQ pit, serving table, picnic tables, water, electricity. Restrooms nearby. Tent camping only (no hook ups) |
Boat-In Camping:
Campsites: | 1 |
Site features: | Accessible via boat or difficult 4-mile hike on Duna Vista Trail. First come, first serve. 2 picnic tables, fire pit, chemical toilet. Bear pole for proper storage of food away from bears. Bring your own firewood and water. |
Equestrian Camping:
Campsites: | 1 group site |
Site features: | 18 pipe horse corrals, water trough, large BBQ pit, tables, drinking water, chemical toilets. |

InSapphoWeTrust
Location:
Barstow, CA 92311
Phone: 1-800-862-2542
Calico is an old West mining town that was abandoned in the mid-1890s after silver lost its value. The buildings were architecturally restored in the 1950s and the town received State Historical Landmark. The Ghost Town has tours, museums, shops, and restaurants. You can ride a historic train through the park, pan for gold, and tour an authentic silver mine that has exhibits and displays set up.
Camping reservations includes admission to the Ghost Town for up to 6 people.
Amenities/Activities | OHV trails (all ATV’s, dirt bikes, buggies, and UTVs allowed) Mountain Biking Trails Hiking Museum Maggie Mine (authentic silver mine w/displays) Gold panning Restrooms with hot showers 2 Dump stations |
Full Hook-Up Camping:
Campsites: | 104 |
Site features: | Fire ring & grill. Picnic table. Restrooms nearby. |
Partial Hook-Up and Primitive Camping:
Campsites: | 161 |
Site features: | Fire ring & grill. Picnic table. Restrooms nearby. |
Cabins:
Cabins: | 10 |
Cabin features: | Sleeps up to 4. Heat & A/C. Linens not provide. No pets |
Mini Bunkhouse:
Mini Bunkhouse features: | Sleeps 6. Heat & A/C. Private bathroom and kitchenette. Linens not provided. No pets. |
Main Bunkhouse:
Site features: | Sleeps 12, max 20 persons. Heat & A/C. Linens not provided. No pets. Restrooms are located outside. Showers located in the campground. |
Group Camping:
Campsites: | 1 |
Site features: | For groups of 20 or more people. Tent camping only. |

Location:
100 El Capitan Terrace Lane
Santa Barbara, CA 93117
Phone: 1-805-879-5751
Camping at Ocean Mesa RV and Campground is especially enjoyable for families in the summer months when there are outdoor movie nights, concerts, and wine tastings scheduled. Kids enjoy the swimming pool and playground, while parents like the massage and wellness center.
It’s only a 30 minute drive up US 101 to get to Carpinteria State Beach where you can can explore tidal pools, swim, surf, and paddle. There is 1 mile of beach access and lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend. You can spot seals, sea lions, dolphins, and whales from the shore! You can also fish and clam for your dinner, or head to one of the nearby local restaurants.
Amenities/Activities | 15 miles hiking trails Heated swimming pool & jacuzzi Playground Outdoor movie night (seasonal) Wine tastings (seasonal) Concert series (seasonal) Massage ($) Laundry facilities Horseshoe pits Dog run General store Dump stations |
Full Hook-Up Camping:
Campsites: | 80 |
Site features: | Water, sewer, 30/50 amp electric. Cable TV, WiFi. Picnic table, fire pit/grill. Can accommodate slide-outs on both sides of camper/coach. |
Tent Camping:
Campsites: | 24 |
Site features: | 20’ circular, level tent pad. Picnic table, grill, firepit. Parking nearby. |

Location:
17017 Maricopa Hwy
Ojai, CA 93023
Phone: 1-805-434-1996
Nearly a century ago, the Boy Scouts built Wheeler Gorge campground next to a picturesque stream and rocky mountains. Families can explore the Los Padres National forest – hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, or enjoying one of the many ranger-led nature programs. The Manzanilla Creek runs through the campground – with some campsites situated right next to it. Almost all the campsites are shaded with tall trees which helps with privacy as well as high summer temperatures.
Small children will especially love the kid-friendly hiking trail where they might be able to spot deer, squirrels, lizards, and birds.
Amenities/Activities | Manzanilla Creek access Hiking trails Fishing Mountain biking |
Tent/RV/Trailer Camping:
Campsites: | 67 |
Site features: | Can accommodate RVs up to 35 ft. Picnic table, BBQ, fire ring. Vault toilets, no potable water. |

David Seibold
12 miles south of Santa Barbara, Carpinteria State Beach has a mile of coastline where families can explore tidal pools, swim, surf, and paddle. There are 5 campgrounds in the park – for all kinds of camping – from primitive tent camping to full hook-ups for RVers.
From shore you can spot gray whales, seals, sea lions and dolphins – or get out your paddle boat of choice (kayak, canoe, paddle board) and head out onto the waters to get closer. Catch dinner by fishing or clamming on the beach – or, if that doesn’t appeal, you can walk into town to dine at a local restaurant.
Amenities/Activities | Amphitheater Dump station Visitor Center Beach Access Lifeguards (Memorial – Labor Day weekend) Biking Boating (non-motorized) Diving Fishing, Clamming Mountain Biking Scuba diving Surf fish Surfing Tide pools Nature trails Dolphin, Seal, Whale watching Interpretive programs Summer campfire presentations Junior Ranger and Pre-Junior Ranger programs NO DOGS allowed at beach |
Tent/RV/Trailer Camping – no hook ups:
Campsites: | 111 |
Site features: | Picnic table, fire ring, drinking water nearby. Restrooms nearby, showers coin operated. |
Tent/RV/Trailer Camping – water/electric hook ups:
Campsites: | 25 |
Site features: | Picnic table, fire ring, drinking water nearby. Restrooms nearby, showers coin operated. |
Tent/RV/Trailer Camping – full hook ups:
Campsites: | 80 |
Site features: | Picnic table, fire ring, drinking water nearby. Restrooms nearby, showers coin operated. |

Location:
11311 Santa Ana Road
Ventura, CA 93001
Phone: 1-805-649-1122
2,500 acre Lake Casitas is the perfect destination for all water-loving camping families. The lake is stocked with all sorts of fish and they even hold moonlight fishing events during full moons in the summer. The big hit with kids (of all ages) is the Casitas Water Adventure Park which features a spray park for babies and tots, a multi-level gym with waterfalls for little kids, and a lazy river featuring waterfalls, bridges, and lifeguards for the whole family.
Amenities/Activities | Water Adventure Park Disc golf Bird watching Picnic areas Biking Boating Boat rentals Bait & tackle shop Fishing (lake stocked with largemouth bass, rainbow trout, crappie, red-ear sunfish, bluegill, and channel catfish) Full moon night fishing |
Tent/RV/Trailer Camping – basic sites:
Campsites: | 247 |
Site features: | Dirt pads, no hook-ups. Water located nearby. Picnic table & fire ring. |
Tent/RV/Trailer Camping – water/electric hook ups:
Campsites: | 113+ |
Site features: | Dirt pads, water & electric hookups. Picnic table and fire ring. |
Tent/RV/Trailer Camping – deluxe hook ups:
Campsites: | 10+ |
Site features: | 40’ concrete pad. Water & electric hookups. Picnic table and fire ring. |
Tent/RV/Trailer Camping – executive hook ups:
Campsites: | 7+ |
Site features: | 40’ concrete pad. Water, electric & sewer hookups. Picnic table and fire ring. |

Location:
7400 Pine Grove Road
Santa Paula, CA 93060
Phone: 1-805-933-3200
If you are looking for a campground close to home where you can just get away for a few days, Ventura Ranch KOA has something for everyone. The facilities are clean and well maintained and there is a definite family-feel about the place. Kids can ride bikes along the roads and paths and meet other camping kids around the park.
The campground organizes family activities like the Bigfoot Adventure walk, Tie-Dying, and movie nights. In addition there is a climbing wall, swimming pool, jumping pillow, and a couple of playgrounds. Kids won’t be bored!
Amenities/Activities | Swimming pool (Memorial Day to Labor Day) Dog park Pavilion Playground Nature trails Climbing Rock Jumping pillow Bocce ball & corn hole courts Meeting hall General store Dump station WiFi RV storage Laundry |
Tent sites:
Campsites: | 38 |
Site features: | Gravel or grass pad, no hook-ups. Pets OK. Picnic table, fire grill. |
RV sites (full and partial hook-ups):
Campsites: | 68 |
Site features: | Picnic table, fire grill. Some pull-thru sites, some back in. Pets OK. |
Teepees
Teepees: | 14 |
Site features: | Sleeps between 4-8 people. Linens available ($). No bathroom or kitchen. No pets. |
Safari Tents:
Tents: | 4 |
Site features: | Linens provided. Sleeps up to 4. No bathroom or kitchen. NO pets. |
Cabins:
Cabins: | 16 |
Site features: | Deluxe and Camping style cabins. Sleeps between 4 and 6 people. Linens provided. No pets. |

Kent Kanouse
Situated along the Pacific Coast Highway in the Santa Monica Mountains is the Leo Carrillo State Park. Campers have easy access via a walking path from the campground to the 1.5 miles of beach- where you can explore tide pools, kelp forests, whale watching, surfing, and swimming. Lifeguards are posted during the summer months for the safety of swimmers.
The more private campsites are along the exterior of the campground loop, while the interior campsites are closer together (making them ideal group camping spots). There is also a 50 person group campground with its own bathrooms and showers.
Amenities/Activities | Beach access Tide pools Surf fishing Swimming Camp store Concession stand Visitor center Kayaking Whale watching Nature trails Scuba diving, snorkeling Lifeguards Interpretive programs (summer months) RV dump station |
Tent/Trailer/RV sites:
Campsites: | 135 |
Site features: | Max length trailer/RV: 31’ Max height trailer: 13’6” Picnic table, fire ring. Bathrooms and ($) showers located nearby. |
Group Camping:
Campsites: | 1 |
Site features: | Accommodates up to 50 people. Picnic tables, 2 BBQ pits, and restrooms w/($) showers. |

Location:
24210 E Fork Rd
Azusa, CA 91702
Phone: 1-626-910-1126
Locate in the San Gabriel Mountains (near Los Angeles) – Camp Williams Resort sits right on the San Gabriel East Fork. Every camping site is riverside, so you will fall asleep each night listening to the soothing sound of river water.
During the days, kids can try their hand at fly fishing, or just swim and splash in the river. The campground is quiet and secure and there is a café and general store located on premises.
Amenities/Activities | River Access Convenience store Dump station Fly fishing Hiking Biking Pets welcomeSnack bar, Cafe Pool |
Tent:
Campsites: | 12 |
Site features: | No hook-ups. All sites are riverfront. Picnic table. Water faucets nearby. |
Full Hook-Up RV/Trailer Camping:
Campsites: | 3 |
Site features: | Water/Sewer/50 amp Electric. Every site overlooks the river. Picnic tables. Plenty of room for slide-outs and large RVs. |
Cabin Camping:
Cabins: | 1 |
Site features: | Sleeps up to 4. Deck chairs. No Linens provided. |

Pacific Southwest Forest
Location:
Big Bear, CA 92314
Situated on the north shore of Big Bear Lake in San Bernardino National Forest, Serrano Family Campground is the perfect destination for families who love spending time in nature and on the water! Big Bear Lake is only a short walk away from the campground, where you can swim, fish, boat, waterski, and watch the wildlife.
A family favorite is the Big Bear Discovery Center where you can easily spend a half a day or more checking out their exhibits, programs, eco-tours, outdoor concerts, theater productions, and nighttime interpretive programs.
Amenities/Activities | Big Bear Lake Fishing – rainbow trout, large & smallmouth Bass, Blue and Channel Catfish, Carp, Bluegill, Pumpkinseed, and Black Crappie. Hiking Swimming Boating Pets OK Dump station Big Bear Discovery Center |
Tent/RV/Trailer:
Campsites: | 93 Single; 16 Double |
Site features: | Picnic table, fire ring, restrooms with hot showers and flush toilets nearby. Max RV length is 55 ft, height 12 ft. |
Full Hook-Up RV/Trailer Camping:
Campsites: | 29 |
Site features: | Water, sewer, 30 amp electric. Max RV length is 55ft, height is 12 ft. Picnic table, fire ring, restrooms with hot showers, flush toilets nearby. |

Erik Wilde
Location: Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
Campsites are located in between towering boulders on a flat, sandy surface in the desert landscape. Rock climbers are drawn to the area because of the steep rock formations and rock climbing routes nearby. There are plenty of boulders and rocks for amateurs to climb as well. If you aren’t into rock climbing, you’ll still enjoy the incredible landscapes, wild life viewing, and natural tranquility of the desert.
Amenities/Activities | Amphitheater Picnic areas Pets OK Rock climbing Bouldering Wildlife Equestrian trail Cultural sites Walking trails Mountain biking trails Vault toilets No water |
Tent/RV/Trailer:
Campsites: | 101 |
Site features: | No hook-ups or drinking water (water & emergency phones located 2 miles away). Picnic table, fire ring & grate. |
Group (Tent Only):
Campsites: | 13 |
Site features: | No hook-ups or drinking water (water & emergency phones located 2 miles away) Picnic table, fire ring & grate. Group Sites can accommodate between 15- 60 people (check website for site specific details). |

Paul Mason
Location:
56570 Highway 74
Mountain Center, CA 92561
Phone: 1-951-659-2680
Lake Hemet is one of the most popular spots in Southern California for camping and fishing. With over 600 campsites, glamping tents, and cabins – there is plenty of opportunity to make a reservation.
Families who like waterparks can spend the day at Splashing Eagle Waterpark which features a Giant Action Tower XXL climbing wall, giant water trampoline, inflatable teeter totter, as well as splash zones, swimming areas, and spots to relax
Amenities/Activities | Fishing Picnic areas Boat ramp Swimming beach Playground Basketball, volleyball grouts Horseshoes Dump station Waterpark |
Tent/RV/Trailer:
Campsites: | 600+ |
Features: | Picnic table + fire pit. Some sites just for dry camping, some partial RV hook-up, some full hook-up. Some for mixed use. Call for availability of type of site you need. |
Glamping Tents:
Tents: | 9 |
Features: | Sleeps up to 4 guests. Two full sized beds. Linens provided. Lanterns, indoor and outdoor seating, fire pit. Bathrooms located nearby. No Pets. |
Lakeview Cabins:
Cabins: | 10 |
Features: | Sleeps up to 6 guests. Double bed bunkbeds, double sofa sleeper. TV w/DVD player. Mini fridge, microwave, coffee pot. Linens provided. Bathrooms located nearby. Pets OK. |

Jasperdo
Located in Orange County, Moro Campground is the perfect family destination because it has both extensive beaches as well as hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. Crystal Cove State Park offers an underwater park popular with snorkelers and scuba divers, miles of beaches and coves perfect for relaxing in the sun or building a sand castle, and ridges and canyons for hikers.
The rangers conduct interpretive programs throughout the year which include guided hikes, tidepool explorations, and geology talks. If you want to step back in time, check out the Crystal Cove Historic District – with 46 vintage rustic coastal cottages originally built as a 1930’s & 40’s seaside colony.
Amenities/Activities | Amphitheater Ranger station Beach – 3.2 miles Beach coves Backcountry trails in 2,400 wilderness acres Biking Historic sites Kayaking Visitor center Water sports – surf, snorkel, scuba, paddle Dump station |
Tent/Pop-Up Trailer:
Campsites: | 29 |
Features: | No hook-ups. Picnic table. Restrooms with showers and flush toilets located nearby. |
RV/Trailers:
Campsites: | 30 |
Features: | Electric hook-ups. Picnic table. Restrooms with showers and flush toilets located nearby. |
Backcountry Primitive Camping
Campgrounds: | 3 |
Features: | 2-3 mile hike in. Reservations required. Bring own water. |

Miss Shari
Location:
Avalon Cyn Rd
Avalon, CA 90704
Phone: 1-877-778-1487
Hermit Gulch Campground is the only campground located within the Avalon city limits on Catalina Island. It’s only a 30 minute walk/5 minute bus ride to downtown – where you’ll find grocery stores, shops, and restaurants. A must-see while visiting is Wrigley Botanical Gardens which is only a half mile away.
On the island there are endless activities to partake in such as land and ocean expeditions, golfing, zip lines, and more. If you want a complete list of activities – check out their activities brochure here.
Unlike most campgrounds, Hermit Gulch charges a per camper fee. If you don’t have all your camping equipment, you can rent sleeping bags, stoves, and tents at the campground store. To access the campground, take the ferry 22 miles across the pacific to the city of Avalon. From the ferry launch, it is a 1.5 mile walk to the campground or you can take a taxi or shuttle.
Amenities/Activities | Potable water Campground office (with rentals of gear, sales of some camping necessities) Central community firepit Coin lockers Restrooms with coin operated showers |
Tent:
Campsites: | 40 |
Features: | Picnic table & BBQ stand. No wood fires permitted. Flush toilets and showers ($) nearby. |
Tent Cabins:
Cabins: | 6 six-person cabins; 3 three-person cabins. |
Features: | Picnic table & BBQ stand. Cots, lantern, propane stove w/propane included. |

Bill Gracey
If hiking is an activity your family enjoys, check out the Borrego Palm Canyon Campground in Anza Borrego Desert State Park. The campground is near the access points for several hiking trails including the popular Borrego Palm Canyon Trail (best time to hike this trail is October – May).
Set aside some time to stop by the visitor’s center where you can meet the knowledgeable staff who can suggest hiking routes suitable to your family’s interests and abilities. You’ll also be able to see the exhibits on Anza Borrego’s natural and cultural history as well as short films on the park.
Amenities/Activities | Picnic areas Biking/Hiking trails Off-road trails (OHV) Dump station Amphitheater Potable water Wildlife viewing Archeological sites |
Tent/Trailer/RV:
Campsites: | 69 |
Features: | Picnic table, fire ring & grill. Restrooms with flush toilets, potable water, and showers ($) located nearby. |
Electric hook-up sites:
Campsites: | 51 |
Features: | Electric hook ups. Picnic table, fire ring & grill. Restrooms with flush toilets, potable water, and showers ($) located nearby. |
Group Camping Primitive Sites:
Campsites: | 5 |
Features: | For groups only. Tents only. Each site can accommodate from 9-25 people, 6 vehicles. No RVs or trailers. |

Location:
11053 CA-79
Descanso, CA 91916
Phone: 1-619-445-2835
East of San Diego in the Cuyamaca Mountains you’ll find the Oakzanita Springs RV campground. This is a year-round campground, but you’ll find more activities open during the summer months. Large rigs up to 36 ft can fit here, but some of the turns are sharp and challenging. This resort is part of the Thousand Trails group.
20 minute drive away is the Viejas Casino and shopping at an Outlet Center.
Amenities/Activities | Clubhouse WiFi Nature/hiking trails Playground Bocce ball Biking trails Mini golf Swimming pool (seasonal) Pets OK Spa/hot tub Picnic areas Volleyball/basketball courts Weekly potlucks Children’s programs Kid’s activities Arts & crafts |
Tent/Trailer/RV:
Campsites: | 118 |
Features: | Water & 30/50 amp electric. Max 36 ft. Picnic Table & Fire ring. |

Location:
2211 Pacific Beach Dr
San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: 1-800-422-9386
If you are looking for a resort-style camping experience, you can’t go wrong with Campland on the Bay. Make no mistake – this is not camping in the traditional sense – visitors are here for the plentiful recreation activities and kids’ activities. There are kids everywhere – they are racing their bikes around, riding scooters, swimming, running, and playing. Let your kids loose and they’ll be active from sun up to sun down.
Family activities include swimming, boating, arcades, mini golf, biking and more. There is nightly live entertainment and organized kids’ activities. Kids are never bored.
Amenities/Activities | Arcade/Game room BBQ grills Boat rentals Club room Convenience store Pavillion Exercise facilities Fenced pet area Golf cart rentals Laundry facilities Internet access Marina Playground Pools, hot tubs Restaurant/snack bar Water skiing Mini golf Paddleboats Biking trails Fishing Golfing Live entertainment Kids’ activities Sandy beach |
Dry/No-Hook-Ups:
Campsites: | 18 |
Features: | Picnic table, fire pit. Restrooms nearby. Max RV length is 45 ft. |
Water & Electric Hook-Ups:
Campsites: | 150 |
Features: | Picnic table, fire pit. Restrooms nearby. Max length RV: 45 ft. |
Full Hook-Ups:
Campsites: | 411 |
Features: | Picnic table, fire pit. Restrooms nearby. Max length RV: 45 ft. |
Glamping at the SuperSite:
Campsites: | 1 |
Features: | Large gated site. Hot tub, fire pit, outdoor BBQ & sink. Shower, bathroom, and laundry. Lounge chairs & picnic area. Located along waterfront overlooking Kendall Frost Wildlife Preserve. |
