Best Camping Near Santa Monica, CA

Explore Santa Monica's stunning beaches and vibrant attractions with nearby campgrounds for an unforgettable camping adventure.

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Nearby Campgrounds

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Nearby Camp Sites

4.3

Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near Santa Monica, California

4 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
Santa Monica, California

  • Santa Monica Pier - A historic landmark offering amusement park rides, an aquarium, and stunning ocean views. It's a perfect spot for family fun and sunset watching.

  • Griffith Observatory - Located in the nearby hills, this iconic observatory provides breathtaking views of Los Angeles and offers exhibits on astronomy.

  • Temescal Canyon Park - Just a short drive from Santa Monica, this park features hiking trails with varying difficulty levels and beautiful canyon views.

  • The Getty Villa - Situated in Pacific Palisades, this museum showcases ancient art in a stunning villa setting with beautiful gardens.

  • Malibu Creek State Park - Known for its scenic beauty, this park offers hiking trails through woodlands and along creeks. It's also famous as a filming location for many movies and TV shows.

  • Venice Beach Boardwalk - Famous for its vibrant atmosphere, street performers, shops, and skate parks. It's an iconic spot to experience the local culture.

  • Topanga State Park - Offers miles of trails through rugged terrain with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Ideal for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore nature close to the city.

Ways to camp near Santa Monica, California

RV Camping
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RV Camping

RV camping at KOA campgrounds offers clean, level sites with full hookups, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly amenities. Enjoy the comforts of home while exploring over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Cabin Camping
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Cabin Camping

Cabin camping at KOA offers a cozy outdoor experience with options like rustic Camping Cabins and fully-equipped Deluxe Cabins. Enjoy nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Tent Camping
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Tent Camping

Tent camping offers a blend of traditional camping with modern amenities. Enjoy level sites, hot showers, clean restrooms, and options like electric hookups and patios for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Extended Stays Camping
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Extended Stay

KOA campgrounds offer extended stay options that allow extended stay campers to enjoy amenities like upgraded Wi-Fi and on-site dining, whether you’re a snowbird, or just want to enjoy the outdoors longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can experience skydiving at Skydive West Coast and explore the natural beauty of Joshua Tree National Park.

Visit Oak Tree Village for shops and entertainment or explore the Bakersfield Antique District for vintage finds.

The East Bakersfield Festival offers a variety of cultural experiences and entertainment.

The Museum of Pinball provides fun with vintage arcade games, while Oak Glen Apple Farms offers seasonal activities like apple picking.

Kern River County Park and Sequoia National Forest offer beautiful landscapes perfect for hiking and exploring nature.

Plan a trip to Santa Monica, California

Plan a trip to Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica, CA, offers a perfect blend of beachside relaxation and vibrant city life. Nestled along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, it's an ideal destination for campers looking to explore Southern California's beauty. With KOA campgrounds like Ventura Ranch KOA Holiday and Banning Stagecoach KOA Journey nearby, you can enjoy both nature and urban adventures.

Best Time to Visit:
Spring and fall are fantastic times to visit Santa Monica. The weather is mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities without the summer crowds.

Weather Expectations:
In spring, expect cool mornings with warm afternoons—ideal for hiking or biking along the beachfront paths. Summer brings sunny days perfect for beach outings but be prepared for cooler evenings by the coast. Fall offers crisp air with clear skies—a great time for exploring local attractions.

Packing Essentials:
Pack layers to accommodate temperature changes throughout the day. A light jacket or sweater is handy in cooler months. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat to protect against sun exposure during outdoor activities.

Planning Tips:

  • Activities: Explore Santa Monica Pier’s amusement park rides or rent bikes to cruise along the boardwalk.
  • Dining: Enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries or grab a quick bite from food carts on the pier.
  • Nearby Attractions: Consider day trips to Malibu’s scenic hikes or Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles.
  • Camping Gear: Ensure your camping gear includes essentials like flashlights, portable chargers, and comfortable footwear for exploring trails.

Whether you're soaking up sun on Santa Monica Beach or venturing into nearby hillsides, this area promises an unforgettable camping experience filled with adventure and relaxation!

Family Eating Outside of Airstream
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Save money when camping near Santa Monica, California with KOA Rewards

If you like camping, then you will love being a part of the Kampgrounds of America KOA Rewards Program. Designed with campers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, KOA Rewards is both a discount and rewards program. From earning rewards while camping to receiving discounts at select merchants, our loyalty program is designed to help you save money in a few different ways.

Reserve Your Stay Today!

Unwind at a campground near Santa Monica, California, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.