Southern California is home to some of the most beautiful campgrounds in the United States, and there’s nothing quite like camp cooking around a campfire under the stars after a day of exploring. If you’re looking for the best campsites that allow campfires in Southern California, here are five top locations to check out. If campfire cooking’s your thing, check out the best-selling camping cookbook, Fire To Fork.
Jumbo Rocks, Joshua Tree National Park
Jumbo Rocks Campground – Joshua Tree National Park’s Jumbo Rocks campground is located near the heart of the park and offers a unique camping experience. The campground is nestled among massive granite boulders and offers a secluded, peaceful setting. Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings, but you must bring your own firewood. However, fire restrictions may apply during times of high fire danger. The campground is a great place for hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife watching. It’s also home to the famous Joshua Tree, a type of yucca plant that is unique to this area. Find out more or book a site at nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/jumbo-rocks-campground.htm
Southfork Campground – Angeles National Forest
Angeles National Forest’s Southfork campground is located just an hour drive from Los Angeles and offers a peaceful getaway from the city. Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings, but you must bring your own firewood. However, fire restrictions may apply during times of high fire danger. The campground is located near the South Fork of the Santa Clara River and offers a great location for fishing, swimming, and tubing. It also offers a variety of hiking trails, including one that takes you to the nearby Cattle Canyon. It’s the perfect spot for camp cooking and enjoying nature.
Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is located in San Diego County and offers a variety of camping options, including RV and tent sites. Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings, but you must bring your own firewood. However, fire restrictions may apply during times of high fire danger. The park is also a great place for hiking and has a number of trails that take you through meadows and forests, and even to the summit of Cuyamaca Peak. It’s also a popular spot for fishing and picnicking.
Leo Carrillo State Park
Leo Carrillo State Park is located in Malibu and offers RV and tent camping sites. Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings, but you must bring your own firewood. However, fire restrictions may apply during times of high fire danger. The park is also a great place for hiking, swimming, and picnicking, as well as beach activities like swimming, surf fishing, and tidepooling.
Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake is a popular destination for camping and outdoor recreation. The campgrounds here allow campfires in designated fire rings, but you must bring your own firewood. However, fire restrictions may apply during times of high fire danger. The lake offers boating, fishing and swimming Additionally, Big Bear Lake is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The surrounding area also offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. Big Bear Lake Village, a quaint mountain community, offers a variety of dining and shopping options, making it a great destination for families. And of course, the camp cooking that you can do at these campgrounds with fire rings and designated area are a bonus.
It’s important to note that before visiting any of these campgrounds, you should check the website of the park or campground for the most current information on fire restrictions and regulations, as well as to make a reservation if needed. Also, please be aware of fire safety and follow the guidelines and rules provided by the park or campground to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Fire To Fork
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Easy-to-follow camp cooking tips, recipes and camp oven cooking over the fire. 200+ pages of recipes, guides, photos and the culmination of years of work by Harry Fisher, founder of the popular Youtube and Instagram channels Fire To Fork. Australia’s best-selling outdoor cookbook, now updated for the USA.
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