Camping in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

96% (24 reviews)

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

Top public campgrounds in the park

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Mountains cascading in the marine layer in the early morning

1. Circle X Ranch Group Campground

100%
(11)
1 site · RV, Tent · In Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
Look over the mountain ranges and lay on the sandy beach at Circle X Ranch, a former Boy Scout camp
96% (24 reviews)

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

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

  • Gorgeous hillside behind the tent site.
  • Leap Lab Farm
  • Gorgeous hillside behind the tent site.
100%
(38)

Leap Lab Farm

1 site · RV, Tent15 acres · Santa Paula, CA
15 acres of land right nestled up against South Mountain, on an ecologically-minded property where we are building a sustainability education center. From your campsite, you'll have a sweeping view of the Topa Topa mountain range, as well as a birds eye view of our community farm. Site has access to a geodesic dome, a funky spot to hang out, meditate, do yoga, or picnic. There is one electric outlet to plug into, as well as a hookup for water. Behind the site is South Mountain, where you can scramble, look for fossils from the Sespe range (20 million years old) and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Pets
Potable water
from 
$70
 / night
  • Acton Oasis
  • RV parked in front of our house.
  • Acton Oasis
100%
(44)

Acton Oasis

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Acton, CA
We are a BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ friendly location. Our family home is conveniently located just off of Highway 14, along Sierra Highway, in Acton, CA. We offer parking in our large driveway with hookups for electricity and well water. You can save money by boondocking if you don't need to plug in or use well water -- just add it as an extra. Please fill your tanks with potable water and/or bring drinking water. Our well water is very hard so we filter. No black water disposal. There are no toilets, laundry, or other amenities. We currently do not have garbage disposal, but will again soon. No smoking or fires allowed. No exceptions. This is a high risk fire area.   No leaking vehicles. A $400 fee to cleanup any vehicle leaks. No working on vehicles on the property.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$15
 / night
  • TV with all streaming
  • Wine at Sunset
  • TV with all streaming
100%
(5)

The Hangar At M&Ms

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Reseda, CA
Our home sits on an 8000sqft property filled with love, a vegetable garden, and entertainment. You will stay in our back unit lovingly called The Hangar as it is a large 700sqft open warehouse that we converted into our dream living space filled with treasures. includes: - Large bathroom with rain shower - Kitchenette with sink, fridge, coffee maker, blender, air fryer, electric tea kettle - Wifi - big screen tv with streaming services - Loft bed - Gym area w mats, bench, squat rack, free weights - Pool table - Split ac / heating unit - giant rolling door that opens up to a patio in the vegetable garden - lots of books :) Youll have access to the brick patio within the vegetable and herb garden, a grilling deck and the outdoor fire pit. The town of Reseda is located about 10 minutes from the famous Ventura Blvd where you will find an ample bars, restaurants, shopping, etc. Your home will also be walking distance to a well stocked grocery store, less than 10 min drive from the Orange Line Metro station that will take you into North Hollywood, then to downtown where you can transfer just about anywhere in the city. You’ll also be about a 15 min drive from scenic hikes, 20 minutes from iconic Topanga Canyon, and 30 minutes from Hollywood or Santa Monica.
Potable water
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$107.10
 / night
  • Queen size bed
  • Green Oak Retreat
  • Queen size bed
100%
(14)

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
Potable water
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from 
$100
 / 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
  • Nomad NeXus @ Lonesome Ranch
  • Nomad NeXus @ Lonesome Ranch
  • Nomad NeXus @ Lonesome Ranch
78%
(23)

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.
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from 
$61.20
 / night
  • Copper Ranch Horse Back Riding
  • Honestly blown away but how much the terrain reminds me of Europe
  • Copper Ranch Horse Back Riding
97%
(43)

Agua Dulce with Your RV

5 sites · RVs5 acres · Agua Dulce, CA
Site #1 is set up with a full RV service. 30 amps, water and permitted septic. There is a large 12 ft x 30 ft cement patio to park next to with a 12 x 12 ft covered pergola on Site, dining seating and lovely views. Sunsets are amazing from here. We sit on 5 acres with walking trails and vista points. Across the street is Vasquez Park, and the town center is a 5-minute drive or a healthy walk. There are 3 restaurants to enjoy along with 2 bars, a liquor store and a 1950's style hardware store. Easy freeway access will get you to shopping centers in @ 15 minutes. These include Chase Bank, Vons Supermarket, Subway, 31 Flavors, Starbucks, Yum Yum Donuts, a Pizza Place. Costco is the next offramp up. The best of both worlds. The Beauty of a quiet, rural area only a skip, hop and jump to a shopping center.
Pets
Potable water
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from 
$71.25
 / night
  • Malibu Creek Orchard Retreat
  • Malibu Creek Orchard Retreat
  • Malibu Creek Orchard Retreat
92%
(18)

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. Prior to check-in guests will need to sign the property’s lease agreement which requires a $300 fully refundable security deposit hold on the travellers credit card. For larger groups of five guests and more the deposit will be 50% of the total rent.
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from 
$190
 / night

Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

  • Malibu RV Park
  • Malibu RV Park
  • Malibu RV Park
93%
(453)

Malibu RV Park

301 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.
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from 
$65
 / night
  • Arber-Moore's Ranch
  • Arber-Moore's Ranch
  • Arber-Moore's Ranch
93%
(494)

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
  • The Lodge at Deer Creek
  • Spring time greenery
  • The Lodge at Deer Creek
90%
(91)

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.
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Trash
from 
$75
 / night
  • Oceanview Mountaintop Bubble Dome
  • Oceanview Mountaintop Bubble Dome
  • Oceanview Mountaintop Bubble Dome

Oceanview Mountaintop Bubble Dome

2 sites · Lodging, Tents1 acre · Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
Welcome to a truly one-of-a-kind camping experience above the clouds in the hills of Palos Verdes. This private mountaintop retreat offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean and coastline—locally known as The Pearl Necklace—with a peaceful, quiet atmosphere ideal for rest, reflection, and unforgettable memories. Campers are welcome to bring their own gear or request our popular bubble dome setup, designed to offer comfort and panoramic sky views while still immersing you in the natural surroundings. The site features: • Indoor bathroom and shower access for comfort and convenience • A beautiful oversized swing facing the ocean, perfect for relaxing or taking in a spectacular sunset • A cozy, flower-wall photo lounge area with plush outdoor seating—ideal for capturing special moments or simply enjoying the view • A 100-inch projector screen and high-quality projector for magical movie nights with the ocean and city lights as your backdrop • A hummingbird tree, often visited by these stunning creatures, offering a peaceful connection to nature The space is private and serene, yet spacious enough to accommodate intimate events. We’ve proudly hosted weddings, proposals, birthdays, and other meaningful gatherings here—each one made extraordinary by the setting. Whether you’re here for a peaceful solo getaway, a romantic retreat, or a memorable group celebration, this property offers a unique blend of natural beauty, comfort, and magic.
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from 
$196
 / night
  • Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch
  • Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch
  • Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch
96%
(134)

Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch

7 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 and 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 
$25
 / night
  • A cool vintage camper can thats in the works !
  • Hill Top camping area, there’s also another spot next to this one
  • A cool vintage camper can thats in the works !
98%
(94)

AntFarm LA

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · La Crescenta Montrose, CA
Looking for a quick escape from the city for a peaceful place to recharge? AntFarm LA offers a private, quiet retreat in nature where you can disconnect from the buzz of city life with the convenience of the city nearby. Hand-built with love and a couple of shovels by our family and friends, this hike-in, tent-only site is the perfect oasis for locals and visitors alike. As you embark on the short hike up, you will experience breathtaking views, shaded trails, and a sense of calm as you arrive at your campsite. You’ll enjoy stunning sunsets, sunrises, and the tranquil sound of birds chirping—an idyllic backdrop to clear your mind. We’ve thoughtfully added a few comforts so you can enjoy nature without completely leaving modern conveniences behind. Take advantage of amenities like a refrigerator, sink, a bathroom with a flushable toilet, and a shower to refresh after a day of exploring. We also have a few electrical outlets and WiFi if you need to stay connected online or charge your devices. If you want to howl at the moon, we have some more remote hike-in campsites available. Send us a message for details. Out of respect to our neighbors, we do not allow car camping in our parking lot. Car or RV sleeping is permitted on our Van Pad site only, although we do not provide RV hookups. To protect the privacy of others and the exclusivity of the retreat, we ask that you do not disclose the purpose of your stay to anyone outside of AntFarm LA, including surrounding neighbors. You may identify yourself as a guest or a friend, if asked. To preserve the quiet, off-the-grid atmosphere we’ve created, we ask that you respect our noise curfew of 10PM. We look forward to having you stay!
Pets
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from 
$36
 / night
  • ArtFarm Movie Ranch & Nomad NeXuS
  • View of the campground.
  • ArtFarm Movie Ranch & Nomad NeXuS
91%
(138)

ArtFarm Movie Ranch & Nomad NeXuS

50 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 Movie Ranch and Nature space is the perfect location for all your artistic needs and 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 
$62.48
 / night
  • Park At Tar Creeks Ranch
  • Park At Tar Creeks Ranch
  • Park At Tar Creeks Ranch
99%
(56)

Park At Tar Creeks Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent13 acres · Ojai, CA
Welcome to our tranquil ranch nestled among oak and pine trees, offering a serene getaway with stunning views of the Topatopa bluffs. Our site is the perfect place to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature, with five ephemeral creeks meandering through the 13-acre property. As a Leave No Trace environment, we ask that all guests come fully self-contained. While we don't yet have a compost toilet set up, we do provide a potable water hookup for your convenience. Please be mindful of your impact on the land and practice responsible camping during your stay. There are 4 permanent residents on the land, including me, who are in and out of the ranch daily, and our driveway passes near your campsite. So while you have privacy in the trees, you may have smile-and-wave distance interaction with other humans during your stay. A one-mile trail winds through the property that you are welcome to enjoy. Let me know if you are interested and I will show you were to find the trailhead. The path leads you to fascinating sites such as a tar caldera, Chumash cupules and mortars on boulders, and a tar marsh where wildlife thrives. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, botanist, birder, hiker, or simply seeking peace, this land offers something for you. We welcome guests to stay for a maximum of three days, but we're open to accommodating longer stays upon request. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with the beauty of the natural world. We look forward to hosting you!
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Potable water
from 
$50
 / night
  • Sunrise on the creek.
  • Perfect place to rest after reaching the top of your hike.
  • Sunrise on the creek.
93%
(44)

Los Encinos Ranch in Ojai CA

3 sites · Tents19 acres · Ojai, CA
We've officially re-opened as of 2025! Come stay at my beautiful land!
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$112.50
 / night
  • Started out our morning with some Topo Chico.
  • You can camp anywhere you'd like here :)
  • Started out our morning with some Topo Chico.
97%
(298)

Cross Bull Ranch/CBR

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · Topanga, CA
DEAR HIPCAMPER, "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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from 
$90
 / night
  • Rancho de Granville
  • Original Bunkhouse & Barn!
  • Rancho de Granville
93%
(70)

Rancho de Granville

6 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Oak View, CA
Sandy yard, a tent spot with privacy near San Antonio Creek ! Challenge a friend to game of horseshoes or darts. Your neighbors are the friendly horses and the curious chickens! This was the original stage coach stop between Ventura and the small community of Nordoff (Ojai) the old bunkhouse and barn remain!
Pets
Potable water
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from 
$53.36
 / night
  • There was a gorgeous peacock roaming around.
  • Road to the campsite
  • There was a gorgeous peacock roaming around.
98%
(243)

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 
$42.75
 / 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.
96%
24 ratings · 13 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is absolutely stunning. Such a beautiful mix of rugged hills, scenic trails, and peaceful natural surroundings. It’s the perfect backdrop for a relaxing getaway, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, or just soaking in the views. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or just looking to unwind, this area really delivers.
J
Jason B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Great hikes
C
Carlos O.
2 reviews
Recommends
· April 2025
Beautiful experience
F
Freddie W.
2 reviews
Recommends
· February 2025
Bonita Falls
Head to Bonita Falls. You're Welcome
J
J Brant C.
2 reviews
October 2023
Circle X Ranch Group Campground
How can I reserve?
K
Kim S.
1 year on Hipcamp
October 2022
Circle X Ranch Group Campground
is this campsite open ?
Avatar
Michael T.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2017
Circle X Ranch Group Campground
Unbelievingly breathtaking
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Debbie B.
7 years on Hipcamp
April 2015
Very family friendly, bring all the kids!
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Hipcamper
10 years on Hipcamp
March 2015
Head to Solstice Canyon to see a year-round waterfall (what do you mean there’s no water in SoCal?)
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Hipcamper
10 years on Hipcamp
March 2015
Before heading out, stop by the visitor’s center for maps and souvenirs
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Hipcamper
10 years on Hipcamp
March 2015
There are plenty of exploring opportunities for you and your pet. Hit the backcountry (and don’t stray off the trail)!
H
Hipcamper
10 years on Hipcamp
March 2015
Drive from the 101 in LA to the Mulholland Highway, an amazingly scenic route that travels miles and miles through dozens of parks in the Santa Monica Mountains, eventually turning into the 1 at the coast.
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Hipcamper
10 years on Hipcamp
March 2015
Woah… this is the world’s largest urban national park!
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Hipcamper
10 years on Hipcamp

Top national parks near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Joshua Tree National Park
César E. Chávez National Monument
Cabrillo National Monument
Channel Islands National Park
Devils Postpile National Monument
Death Valley National Park
Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument
Manzanar National Historic Site

Top parks near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Refugio State Beach
Doheny State Beach
Castaic Lake State Recreation Area
McGrath State Beach
Henry W. Coe State Park
Limekiln State Park
Butano State Park
Modesto Reservoir Regional Park

Top points of interest near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Cedar Creek Falls
Jalama Beach
Miramar Beach
Mission Beach
Bombay Beach
Boulder Beach
Carmel Beach
Horseshoe Bend

Top cities near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Los Angeles
San Diego
Escondido
Oxnard
San Jose
Las Vegas
Murrieta
Indio

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  1. United States
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  2. California
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  3. National Parks
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  4. Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area