Camping near Los Angeles is one of the most popular activities for California outdoor enthusiasts, offering a perfect way to soak up the beautiful sunshine, scenic lakes, ocean views and mountains. With Fall upon us, now is the ideal time to explore some of the most stunning spots, including desert areas that are usually too hot for summer camping.
The summer crowds have lessened, the heat has tamed and also the bugs that come with it, the leaves are turning color, and the campfires become even more enjoyable.
In this post, you’ll find spectacular fall camping destinations near LA, perfect for stargazing and enjoying the season’s natural beauty. Discover new places or revisit old favorites; we’ve gathered some of the best for you. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping getaway!
1 – Anza Borrego Desert National State Park
Description:
Anza-Borrego is California’s largest state park, renowned for its vast desert landscapes, unique geological formations, and quiet seclusion. The cooler weather makes this park very welcoming for camper enthusiasts.
Fall is the best time to visit Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, as the cooler temperatures allow for comfortable camping and hiking. Also the fall season often brings a burst of desert wildflowers, vibrant sunsets, and clear starry skies, ideal for nighttime stargazing.
Some of the best campsites are Borrego Palm Canyon and Tamarisk Grove campground, these are great for families because they offer great views and family friendly hikes, but they’re also some of the very few with amenities including water and restrooms.
For a peaceful desert experience and stargazing, visit the Blair Valley campground, just keep in mind there are no facilities here so bring your own water and supplies.
Location:200 Palm Canyon Dr, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
Pic Credit: @Thedyrt
2 – Death Valley National Park
Description:
Death Valley is one of the most interesting and beautiful places to visit, and because it’s the hottest and driest national park in the State, this beautiful gem is one of the few that is not as popular in the Summer as it is during the Fall and Winter. Its popularity soars now when the temperatures are no longer scorching hot.
From late October through early December, temperatures drop to a comfortable range of 70°F to 90°F during the day and cool down to 40°F-50°F at night. Take wonderful day hikes, explore the Death Valley and take lots of gorgeous pictures, and in the evening gather round the campfire. Expect clear dark skies at night perfect for stargazing.
There are a variety of campgrounds, some of them are very peaceful and completely primitive so you must bring your own water.
Other campgrounds are super welcoming for families and feature water and restrooms. RV campgrounds are also available, just make sure to make reservations.
Location:Airport Rd, DEATH VALLEY, CA 92328
PIC Credit: @hipcamp
3 – Red Rock Canyon State Park
Description:
Red Rock Canyon State Park is famous for its striking layers of red and white cliffs that are beautifully sculpted by the elements over millennia. The park’s vibrant rock formations have earned it the reputation of being one of the most photogenic spots in California.
This wonderful park was once home to ancient lakes, and it has yielded fossilized evidence of animals that once roamed the region, including saber-toothed cats and three-toed horses.
It was also inhabited by the Kawaiisu Native American tribe, who left behind petroglyphs that can still be found in the park’s rock faces. These historical elements add layers of intrigue to your exploration.
Take a look at Ricardo campground. This is a top choice for fall camping due to its scenic setting, access to trails, and peaceful ambiance.
It’s the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of Red Rock Canyon State Park and experience the best of the desert landscape during the cooler season.
Location:37749 Abbott Dr, Cantil, CA 93519
PIC Credit: @kingdomcalifornia
4 – Tecopa Hot Springs Campgrounds and Pools
Description:
We love Hot Springs! Camping at Tecopa Hot Springs Campgrounds and Pools in the Fall is more than just a getaway; it’s a chance to reconnect with nature and recharge your spirit. The combination of soothing hot springs, crisp desert air, and serene landscapes makes for an unforgettable camping experience.
Whether you’re there to unwind in the mineral pools, explore nearby Death Valley, or simply relax under the stars, Tecopa provides the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
This area is remote, so it makes the perfect place for those seeking to unwind from chaos, and just take a break from it all.
It’s also a perfect destination for RVs so you can bring everything you need for a comfortable stay. For glamping cabins info and RV parking rates visit https://www.tecopahotspringscampground.com/
Location:860 Tecopa Hot Springs Rd. tecopa ca 92389
PIC Credit: @agoda
5 – Joshua Tree National Park
Description:
Camping at Joshua Tree in the Fall is a perfect way to enjoy the park’s iconic landscapes, from its vast, star-studded skies to its unique rock formations and diverse plants and animals. Take beautiful day hikes with your family, some popular trails include Hidden Valley, Barker Dam, and Ryan Mountain.
Choose from a variety of campgrounds. Black Rock and Cottonwood have water and flushable toilets. Indian Cove offers beautiful and serene views, and Jumbo Rocks campground gives you remarkable stargazing and it’s the closest to Skull Rock.
These last two don’t have potable water or toilets, so you must bring your own water supplies.
Take memorable pictures with your group of friends or family with the stunning backgrounds in this magnificent park.
Enjoy the campfires during the cool nights, temperatures can drop significantly so come prepared.
This is the best time of the year for stargazing in Joshua Tree so remember to bring your telescope or binoculars with you.
Location:6533 Freedom Wy, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
PIC Credit: @visitjoshuatree
Do you agree with our list or did we miss an obvious one? Let us know by commenting below!