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20 Best Places to Camp Within Two Hours of Los Angeles CA

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Hollywood, California.

California (especially SoCal) is one of the most sought after states in the entire country, and LA is the city where dreams are made and broken. Most folks would spend their entire life’s savings to make it here, but living here can be exhausting. If you’re looking to break away from the glitz and constant momentum for one minute, then a quick camping trip just outside of the city is just what the doctor ordered.

Here are some of the easiest to access campsites near Los Angeles, we did the recon for you, so all you’ve got to do is read on to find your perfect match!

Los Angeles at night.

Get away every once in a while, and you’ll be able to appreciate the skyline even more.

1. Emma Wood State Beach

Emma Wood State Beach is a winner all around. If you’re looking to swim, surf, fish, or just take in the sights, you’re in for a great time here.

Bring your rod and your tackle, you’re in for some great catches. You’ll be able to find perch, bass, cabezon, and corbina without going far from your campsite. Off in the distance (but not too far) if you’re the type to do your fishing with your eyes, you can spot dolphins right offshore without having to bring along any equipment at all. The aquatic options on this campsite are robust and entertaining for a trip of any length.  

Family and primitive campsites are available to self-contained vehicles only, and if you’re bringing along a group you can get some nice, comfortable tent camping in. Watch your vehicle size, the turnaround areas are a little tight so avoid bringing along anything over 40 feet in length, and your weekend getaway will go off without a hitch

2. Moro Canyon/Camping and Trails

Tucked away in Crystal Cove, we have the Moro Canyon camping spot. This is an excellent spot for the hiking lover in your family. The trails here are beautiful, winding, and just the right amount of challenging for hikers of any skill level. If you’re ready to ratchet your hike game up, the strenuous areas are just tough enough to crest without tapping out your energy reserves, and anybody used to a mild hike will get their heart rate up just enough to feel alive. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, or you’re just partial to backcountry hiking, you’ll find that at Moro canyon as well. 

Once you’re done hoofing it through the miles of trails, you’ll find campgrounds that can fit nearly any need you have. The family sites are perfect for a small group and come with picnic tables to make meals together a breeze. Your RVs and soft-sided trailers will find themselves right at home in this campsite’s low-impact areas. 

3. Camp Williams Resort

Camp Williams is amazing all year round, but it truly shines in the fall. Camp Williams Resort is a short drive from the greater Los Angeles area and nestled away comfortably in the pristine San Gabriel Mountains. This site is full of activities without becoming a sterile camp experience that sucks all of the nature out of the experience. 

If you’re looking for a camping area that’ll allow you a quiet weekend alone right on the banks, then Camp Williams is where you should find yourself on your next camping trip. Once you’re here you can entertain yourself with swimming in the river, you can try your luck panning for gold and re-live the glory of the gold rush, or just luxuriate in the simple pleasure of a long bike ride or an invigorating hike.  

4. Chilao Campground

This campground right off of Little Pines Loop is anything but little. They offer nearly 100 campsites here in the Chilao Campground, and you’ll have plenty of access to potable water, saving you the weight and space to bring along your favorite gear. The elevation here is one of the biggest draws. Once you’re settled in at Chilao make sure to take a minute to take it all in because this is one of the best views in the state.

5. Point Mugu State Park

Camping at Point Mugu State Park is simple and enjoyable. If you’re looking for something without all the frills, and you’re the type to find your thrills in simplicity, then point your car in the direction of Point Mugu.

This vast park is just begging to be explored. The park is in the Santa Monica Mountains and calls itself home to about five miles of ocean shoreline. Some of the shore is littered with rocky bluffs, reminding you of the power of the waves and the long expanse of time. Some of the shorelines are sandy beaches and rolling dunes. You can hike one of the three easy or moderate trails through the uplands here towards the river canyons and the expansive verdant valleys. 

Point Mugu State Park is the place to be if you want to draw in a deep breath and take in all of the wonders of nature without worry about much of anything else. 

6. Lake Hemet

Lake Hemet is (unsurprisingly) all about the Lake. It’s beautiful at any time of the day, and the camping here is phenomenal. The scenery here is excellent for birdwatching, and the mountains perfectly frame Lake Hemet, and everywhere you look you’re greeted by the beautiful silhouette of the American mountains that wormed their way into the National Anthem. 

If you’re keeping your eyes peeled you’ll find yourself able to mark some eagles and hawks off of your birdwatching list, and for your arborists, you’ll find tall pines, manzanita trees, sage, and giant oaks everywhere you look. This place is a natural wonderland, and it’s all easy to appreciate, making this easily one of the most beautiful campgrounds on this list.

A ocean with palm trees.

The California palm trees create scenery most would do anything to live this close to.

7. Barton Flats

Barton Flats is great for RV campers and folks ready to rough it alike. Their campsites are simple and serviceable. You’ll have access to clean drinking water, so save that space for something a little more fun. If you’re worried about feeling grimy after a long day in the woods then worry no more, Barton Flats also has showers on-site, so you can wash away the day and tuck yourself away at night feeling fresh and so clean. RV owners will be happy to hear there’s a dump station on-site as well. 

Everyone camping here will have access to a picnic table and a campfire ring (remember to observe fire safety guidelines during the summer season!). Don’t fret too much about bringing along pests with wood from outside of the campsite, there’s plenty for sale here. 

8. Carpinteria State Beach

You’ll find a nice time here on Carpinteria State Beach. You don’t have to go far to find this relaxing sandy beach, and once you’ve arrived, you’ll find a beach with about a mile of shore to stretch your legs with. Once the temperature starts to dip towards the end of the year seals, sea lions, and gray whales start making an appearance. The tide pools around here are full of life as well. Take a quick peek and you’ll see starfish, sea anemones, crabs, snails, octopi, and sea urchins like you wouldn’t believe. 

Carpinteria Beach is a wonderful reminder of how beautiful and full of life the ocean is. The only real downside here is that you’re not able to share all of the wonder and awe with your faithful companion. Dogs are more than welcome on the campgrounds here, but the beach is much more strict about four-legged visitors. 

9. Leo Carrillo State Park

If Carpinteria Beach isn’t enough beach for you, then Leo Carrillo might be the better bet. You’ll find a mile and a half of beach here, a good fifty percent more than Carpinteria beach, and it really shows. The extra half-mile here makes for excellent swimming, windsurfing, and any other beachcombing your heart fancies. 

Once you’re done poking at reefs and discovering coastal caves, you’ll find that the sycamore shaded campgrounds are a joy to rest in. If you’re more of a landlubber, then you’ll be pleased that Leo Carrillo has more to offer than beachfront fun. The backcountry hiking here is a joy.

10. Refugio State Beach

Refugio State Beach is right outside of Santa Barbara. This place is great for a long weekend date. Stop by for some wine tastings, and sequester yourselves right nice to the beach for a comfortable and relaxing stay under the stars. The palm trees planted all around give this state beach an iconic look, it’s the kind of view that people visit from all over the country just to get a taste of.

If you’re looking for something to do during your stay there’s plenty of coastal fishing out on Refugio, as well as picnic tables and lots of hiking. If you’re feeling up to taking on the ocean there are kayak tours offered here for a unique view of the Golden Coast.

11. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is one of the most unique camping areas in the country. The meeting of the Mojave Desert and the desert systems in Colorado make this a place unlike any other. The extreme climate here has hand-carved some of the most unique vistas you’ll have the pleasure of experiencing. 

Any camper that’s willing to take on the outdoors should absolutely make a point of visiting Joshua Tree at some point in their pursuit of starlit slumber for the iconic Joshua Trees alone. There’s nothing like them anywhere in the United States, and you’re doing yourself a disservice if you miss out on the opportunity to see them first hand.

12. Saddleback Butte State Park

Saddleback Butte is a desert campground situated around a granite top mountain that puts Stone Mountain to shame. Out on Saddleback Butte, you’ll find hiking, horseback riding, and plenty of day-use space for folks that aren’t ready to commit to a night out in the Mojave Desert. 

The campgrounds are first-come, first-served, and all of them are outfitted with a barbecue grill, a picnic table, and a fire ring. Most of the sites have a ramada to provide wind blockage and shade from the sun, so there’s that much more incentive to get here early to claim one of the best spots.

Be careful not to gather firewood from the park, desserts are deceptively delicate, and taking dead wood from an area you’re unauthorized to might mean you’re taking home from some of the wildlife out here, so be considerate. It’s also illegal, so leaving their homes comes with the bonus of not ruining your trip. 

13. West Fork Trail Camp

West Fork Trail is way up there. You’re going to be about three thousand feet above sea level during your stay. This campsite is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a more rugged experience. The site is well maintained, but they make a point of coming out here much less than the other campgrounds on this list. We understand that sometimes coming out to camp means that you’re coming out to get your hands dirty and to surround yourself with nature.

The hiking trails out here are great for keeping you immersed in the outdoor experience. They’re only open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, you’re not going to contend with anything motorized while you settle in for some peace and quiet out on West Fork Trail.

14. Buckhorn Campground

The cedars in Buckhorn’s campground will bring campers in from miles around. This site is quaint and the trees shading the area also provide a robust and comforting aroma for everyone to enjoy. The crisp air of the great outdoors is always a reason to get yourself out of the city, but Buckhorn and the surrounding incense cedars give all other campgrounds a good honest run for their money. 

Camping here is easy and convenient as well, the site will only accommodate RVs up to 18 feet, and the sites here are first-come, first-serve, so you don’t have to worry about booking ahead of time if you’re the impulsive type.

A desert near Hollywood.

Camping in the desert might seem intimidating, but a little prep will go a long way.

15. La Jolla Indian Campground

Back in 1875, Ulysses S. Grant sent down an executive order to preserve La Jolla Indian Campground. Ever since that day, this area has been a pristine beauty of a campground. It’s the kind of place you go when you’re sick and tired of the city and you’re looking to reconnect with nature. The wildlife and the flora you’ll find are vast and varied. 

Bring yourself a journal and clear your calendar, and you’ll find hours, if not days, of wandering and appreciation of the great outdoors.

16. Catalina Island

Catalina Island is the closest you can get to a hidden island paradise without finding yourself way out in the middle of the Pacific. This place is beautiful and you’re surrounded by things to do. Camping here is the kind of camping you do in between trips out to sea and zip lining to dinner.

You can pitch at the tent sites right on the beach, and if you’re not up for all of the dozen or so amenities that Catalina Island offers, it makes for an exceptional beach trip on its own. 

17. Wheeler Gorge Campground

Wheeler Gorge is exactly what comes to mind when we imagine camping. It’s tucked away in the beautiful shaded gorge. The approach is beautiful and quiet. After winding through the rocky mountains and navigating the trees, you’ll find yourself in a campground that’s all about the perfect camping experience. The only thing missing here is potable water, but any experienced campers will find an easy solution to that.

18. Campland on the Bay

Camping on the bay at Campland on the Bay is a glittering oasis of comfort. You’ll find a tent and RV camping here, they’re open to boat owners and if you’re looking to rent an RV, Campland on the Bay has your back. The ocean here is beautiful, and if you’re partial to sunsets the views here are immaculate. Campland on the Bay is a beach campers delight, and it’s close to home. 

19. Table Mountain

Table Mountain is great for a quick jaunt or an extended stay. Their distance from the city isn’t so far that you’ll need to commit to an overnight stay to make your trip out here worth your time, so if you’re looking for a place outside of the city to get your biking in or a nice scenic drive then Table Mountain has what you need in spades. 

That doesn’t mean that the camping here is lackluster, however. Table Mountain is an excellent place to pitch a tent and leave all of your worries behind. The numerous water spigots and the fire pits at each site make your trip a breeze, and the views here will wash all of the worries out of your mind in no time.

20. Horse Flats Campground

Horse Flats isn’t just a fancy name for the campground. Once you’ve made it up to this lofty area, you’ll be greeted by a quartet of horse corrals, so you and your steed can tear it up out here in the mountains. The trails are long and wide enough for you and your muscular friend to really get a good work out in, and the scenery here is well worth the trip. You’ll have to bring your own water or take yourself on a trek to fetch it with your horse, but that minor inconvenience isn’t enough to put a damper on this wonderful spot.

Final Verdict:

Emma Wood State Beach is going home with the Outdoor Command trophy this time. Sometimes what you’re looking for is something simple enough to get into and right back out of, with just the right balance of amenities, and Emma Wood has it all without erecting any obstacles.

There’s fishing for your fishers, hiking for you hikers, and sights for the weary introvert. The sites are accommodating for groups of any size or just an individual and their trusty camper. Emma Wood State Beach has everything you’re looking for in a great trip and you won’t have to go far to find it. 

Bonus tip: Before you head out to camp in California, it’s always wise to brush up on your wildfire know-how, and this video will do just that!

 

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Living Life on the Edge: Embracing Adrenaline-Fueled Moments

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Life is an adventure, a journey filled with countless opportunities for thrill and excitement. For some, the idea of living life on the edge, embracing adrenaline-fueled moments, is an exhilarating concept that fuels their passion for adventure. This article delves into the world of adrenaline-chasing, highlighting the benefits and experiences of such a lifestyle.

Kitesurfing: Riding the waves of excitement

The first step to living on the edge is stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new. Kitesurfing, a water sport combining wakeboarding, windsurfing, and paragliding elements, is an excellent example of an adrenaline-fueled activity. The activity entails utilizing a sizable maneuverable kite to capture the force of the wind, enabling the rider to traverse the water on a board specifically designed for kiteboarding. There is nothing quite like the exhilaration of soaring through the air, feeling the breeze caress your cheeks, and mastering the art of maneuvering a kite. Kitesurfing is a remarkable adventure that captures the spirit of embracing excitement and pushing boundaries.

The psychological thrill

In addition to the excitement of the tangible experience, embracing a daring lifestyle offers a mental rush that is just as stimulating. Engaging in these activities provides an exhilarating experience that stimulates the production of endorphins, the body’s innate pain relievers. This results in a profound sense of joy and an overwhelming feeling of invulnerability. The thrill of this frenzy can become habit-forming, compelling thrill-seekers to pursue fresh and increasingly demanding adventures consistently. 

The benefits of embracing the edge

Embracing a daring lifestyle goes beyond pursuing excitement; it presents many advantages. Participating in thrilling adventures can enhance physical well-being, as numerous pursuits demand robustness, stamina, and skill. Furthermore, they have the potential to enhance one’s emotional well-being by offering a means to alleviate tension and unease. Engaging in these activities demands concentration, which can effectively alleviate mental clutter, resulting in a serene state once the surge of excitement diminishes.

The balance of risk and reward

While living life on the edge can be exhilarating, it’s important to remember the balance of risk and reward. Adrenaline-fueled activities often involve a certain level of risk, and it’s essential to approach them with a healthy respect for safety. Proper training, equipment, and precautions can help mitigate these risks, allowing you to enjoy the thrill without unnecessary danger. 

Always research your activities and location. This understanding can help you decide if the risk is acceptable and if you have the skills and equipment. Check and maintain your gear, and never sacrifice safety. Finally, embracing adventure with a responsible and safety-conscious mentality lets you enjoy high-risk activities without risking injury.

Living life on the edge embracing adrenaline-fueled moments, is a lifestyle choice that offers a unique blend of thrill, excitement, and personal growth. Whether kitesurfing across the waves, scaling a mountain, or skydiving from a plane, these activities provide an escape from the mundane, a chance to challenge oneself, and an opportunity to experience life at its most vibrant. So, step out of your comfort zone, embrace the adrenaline, and start living on the edge. After all, life is not meant to be lived in the slow lane; rather, it’s about experiencing every thrilling moment it offers.

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Renewable Energy Farms That Make Beautiful Hiking Trails

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Wind farms and solar panels are not just alternative means to get our natural resources. They have now combined with another industry and are making some unexpected news. 

The tourism industry has marked renewable energy farms as hiking trails, and hikers are here for it. You can read more about renewable energy sites. Although you might not think of hiking on a wind farm as beautiful as hiking along a famous mountain trail, you might just be in for a surprise. 

Let’s discuss the benefits that renewable energy farms have as hiking trails. 

Why are Renewable Energy Farms Important? 

Renewable energy farms are important for the future of civilization. These farms provide an alternative to our natural resources, such as wind and energy. 

The most important benefit of renewable energy is that it doesn’t produce any greenhouse emissions and reduces the air pollution other traditional processes create when providing natural resources. 

These farms also allow for the creation of the country’s own resources without having to import natural resources from another country and save their limited natural resources. 

Here are some of the reasons why energy farms are important: 

  • Allows for sustainable rural development 

This will allow landowners to make an extra income by generating energy. 

  • Test new technologies 

Providing the opportunity to test technologies to find new ways to create renewable energy. 

  • Improving the effect of climate change 

Climate change has left the environment filled with toxic pollutants, which has led people to become sick and breathe in harmful air. 

Renewable energy can change this by lessening the number of pollutants that are released into the atmosphere and providing much safer, cleaner, breathable air. 

  • This leads to job creation 

Job creation within the renewable energy farms industry is plentiful as there is a need for skilled workers such as construction, maintenance and manufacturing to build the necessary infrastructure that is needed to generate these wind and solar farms. 

The Benefits of Renewable Energy Farms As Hiking Trails 

Renewable energy farms have many benefits for both the environment and people who love spending their time outdoors. 

Embracing the Use of Green Technology 

Since wind farms and solar plants are located in areas that are unpopulated, they make for great hiking trails. 

By visiting these sites, people get to experience green technology, and by integrating them into recreational spaces, people can visit these sites and embrace green technology by seeing how they work and the positive effects that it has on the environment. 

The more people embrace the shift to green technology, the easier it will be to use it. 

Energy Farms Offer A Unique Experience For Visitors 

Visiting energy farms means you will have a unique experience while there. You will get to see how these large devices work and how they replace the basic resources needed to survive. 

Tours can give visitors more information on the background of the construction of devices, their environmental impact and why it is important for us to switch to sustainable energy resources. 

Visitors Get to Enjoy Natural Beauty 

The sites for these renewable energy farms are often located in areas that are surrounded by natural beauty, such as large landscapes. 

Natural pathways can be used as hiking trails without the need for carving out new roads and damaging the ecosystem. 

Visitors can even discover native plant life and explore the natural wonders that are located at these energy farms, as they are often placed where no infrastructure has been built on the property before. 

Providing Health and Wellness Benefits 

Hiking has many health benefits, such as reducing stress, improving fitness, and helping aid mental well-being. 

Energy Farms have Community Benefits and Increase the Economy 

These hiking trails can help boost economic sales, bringing tourists to the community. This will give the local people the opportunity to expand their businesses. 

This can also help increase employment within the community as these sites will be visited frequently and lead to new business openings to cater to tourists. 

Conclusion

Renewable energy farms greatly benefit both the economy and the people who want to spend their time on them. These farms are especially important for transitioning from natural resources to newer energy resource power plants. 

From learning how to embrace green technology to getting health and wellness benefits to enjoying nature’s natural beauty and finding job opportunities within the market. 

Spending time on these renewable energy farms can be educational and recreational for anyone who visits them. To find more renewable energy farm hiking trails, you can visit https://outsidebozeman.com

 

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Top Recommendations for RV Window Maintenance

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Much like other sections of your RV, the windows sometimes need a bit of maintenance. It is essential to clean off dirt and insect smudges and also make sure they are adequately sealed to avoid leaks and water harm.

If you have a broken RV window, then you may want to consult Van Isle Glass. However, if you wish to know more about simple measures to ensure your RV windows stay spotless and secure, you are in the right spot! Continue reading below.

Polish Your Windshield Using Ultra-Fine #0000 Steel Wool

Numerous RV enthusiasts have praised the use of the finest grade of steel wool #0000 for removing stubborn bugs and water marks from their windshields. Before proceeding, first test the #0000 steel wool on a small portion of your windshield. Apply it with light, circular motions. Sweep away any remaining steel wool bits with a microfiber towel. Next, spritz the surface with a residue-free glass cleaner and wipe it down with a separate cloth.

Steel wool is also great when used with a spray lubricant for cleaning tires, maintaining grills, starting campfires, and repelling mice. A gentler alternative is cleansing dish pads. These pads are versatile, suitable for cleaning various materials such as wood, porcelain, stainless steel, chrome, painted areas, and glass.

Apply a Sealant to Avoid Leaks

Silicone sealant is effective in stopping leaks in areas like your windshield, RV windows, sunroof, and vents. It penetrates tiny gaps, creating a robust waterproof barrier. Ensure the surfaces are clean before application and do not have old caulk, dirt, oil, and other residues.

Furthermore, clear away any standing water on windows to prevent hard water stains. Make sure the inside of your windows stay dry to avoid condensation and mold build-up. If there is significant condensation on your windows, consider getting a small dehumidifier.

Use Tools to Access Difficult Regions

Using cleaners with long handles can prevent you from straining to clean those distant parts of your windshield. Windshield cleaning tools often feature a lengthy, swiveling triangular head that is ideal for getting into corners and spots difficult to access manually.

Opt for a Residue-Free Glass Cleaner

A high-quality glass cleaner will maintain the clarity of your windows and windshield. A great glass cleaner performs well on both standard and tinted windows, making sure to remove streaks or leftover residue. Another option is a natural concoction of half vinegar and half water, with a touch of lemon essential oil.

Steer Clear of Cleaning RV Windows in Bright Sunlight

A sunny afternoon may feel perfect for washing your RV windows, but the warmth can speed up the drying of the cleaner, resulting in streaks or spots. It is advisable to tackle your RV window cleaning during early morning, late evening, or when stationed in a shaded area for the best outcome.

Endnote

Keeping your RV windows clean and clear is not only about aesthetics, but is also vital for safety. The subtleties in cleaning, like steering clear of the sun and using the appropriate products, play a key role. Adhering to these guidelines will help you maintain a pristine view during your various journeys.

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