10 Southern California Camping Sites

California is considered by many to be a vacation Mecca. From its wild and mountainous north to it's rich coastal shores and green valleys, nearly every type of eco system can be found if one has only the patience to look. The best way for many to enjoy these scenic wonders is to camp, and listed below are 10 hot spots for campers frequenting southern California this summer.

The Angeles National Forest

The Crystal Lake Recreation Area

Despite the stigma that any camp site carrying the name Crystal Lake may carry for horror movie buffs, this scenic camp ground is wooded, hilly and surrounds a beautiful southern California lake. Located near Los Angeles, it's the perfect getaway amongst nearly 30 different camp grounds in the Angeles National Forest. Be sure to check out the canyon hiking trails!

The Anza Borrego Desert

Leapin' Lizard RV Resort

If you love the wide open spaces the desert has to offer, and if you're an off-road enthusiast, this is the place for you. There are several decent off-roading camp sites and groups in this Desert park, such as the "Just Runs" club. This site will provide you with easy access to Jeep trails while still letting the hikers of your bunch enjoy some scenic wilderness. The cost is $16 dollars a day. This may sound steep, so check out some of the other, more "rustic" camp sites the desert has to offer. Warning: this is a real desert. Some of the sites are free for a reason.

Catalina Island

Little Harbor Campground

If you're looking for a more exotic getaway, might I recommend Catalina Island. Located in the San Pedro Channel, this small yet alluring gem in the Pacific offers a view and feel that reminds many of camping on a forgotten Caribbean Island. Sailing and hiking are the norm, and bring your suit for those golden beaches. Space is limited on the island, and a reservation is required to stay. The cost is roughly $12 a night.

Cleveland National Forest

Doane Family Campground

Cleveland National Forest can be rather hit or miss, depending on your camp site. Located just east of San Diego, this campground in particular boasts beautiful forests and ample fishing for those willing to spend under $20 a night for camping rights. No off-roading, but there are clubs nearby...

Imperial County

Gordon's Well (Dune Buggy Flats)

Endless desert. Blistering heat. The most killer dunes for off-road racing and dune buggy trekking you've ever seen. Not for the inexperienced, this is a veritable wasteland of sand, sun and flat, forgotten pavement stretches in the middle of nowhere. Different areas have different costs, some ranging from $10-$25 a week. Bring lots of water, and lots of gas.

Joshua Tree National Park

Jumbo Rocks/Ryan Mountain

There's no water here, and still these places are packed. Both camp grounds are relatively inexpensive and offer wonderful hiking and challenging climbing adventures. Come prepared for some breathtaking views from Ryan Mountain, and come prepared to wait in line. A climber's paradise.

Mojave National Preserve

Calico Ghost Town Regional Park

Many like to rough it in the Mojave Desert, and there are no shortage of dangerous yet exhilarating sites, however this is probably the most family-friendly camp ground you are going to find in the middle of No Man's Land. A genuine "Ghost Town" complete with hot showers, restaurants and shops. The real Ghost Town is nearby and there are plenty of off-road trails close by in the desert. The cost is usually no more than $22 a day for camping rights, and the Town is closed on Christmas.

San Bernadino Mountains

Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

If you are seeking beautiful mountain ranges, shimmering lakes and fantastic boating, fishing and hiking while staying in relative luxury, this is the place to be. The San Bernadino Mountains are crawling with resorts, Motels and camp grounds, but the view on Silverwood Lake is breathtaking to behold. The price isn't all that bad either- $25 per day for camping rights. Reservations however, are required.

The San Jacinto Mountains

Idyllwild Campground

This mountain range boasts some seriously impressive peaks and valleys, as well as some fantastic shoreline fishing. This site in particular is home to a large amount of hiking and scenic views, the most breathtaking of which is of Tahquitz peak. Older campers or those not wanting to 100% rough it will be pleased to know that not only is there water, but flushing toilets. The cost can range from $14-$18 depending on the season, and some hiking sections will require a wilderness hiking permit, so come prepared.

The Santa Ana Mountains

Caspar Regional Park

Nestled between Orange County and Riverside County you will find the Santa Ana Mountains. The Caspar Regional Park is one of many campsites available to hikers and nature enthusiasts alike, however only come if you're in the mood for some rugged, serious hiking. Your reward will be some of the most spectacular views that California has to offer. This site boasts a developed restroom facility within a reasonable distance and a comfortable trailer camp ground. If you love riding horses, this park is recommended. The cost per day varies, and can get up to $15 a night.

All camp sites and specific information relating to all entries were found through research on http://www.socalcamping.com. Prices and general information as well as numbers for reservations and deals can be found there.