When it comes to finding a romantic destination to spend the night, busy tourist destinations and crowded campsites don’t exactly set the mood. Instead, look for unique locations off the beaten path.
Whether you’re looking to celebrate an occasion with an all-out luxury escape or you and your significant other are regular outdoor adventurers, there are romantic camping destinations open in California for every budget. Here are 4 of our favorite destinations for romance this season:
Alabama Hills BLM Land
Price: FREE
Distance from LA: 3.5 hours
Alabama Hills tops this list for several reasons. First of all, staying on Bureau of Land Management land is free. (If free doesn’t scream romance to you, splurge on a nice bottle of wine to enjoy while stargazing.)
Besides the price point, the dispersed camping means plenty of privacy. Make sure to load up on plenty of water, food, and fuel as dispersed camping also means no nearby amenities.
Wake up to a glorious sunrise, hike to a view of the heart arch, and enjoy quality time in this unique landscape just 3.5 hours from Los Angeles.
Private Beach Farm (Hipcamp)
Price: $200 per night
Distance from LA: 2.5 hours
If you’re looking to go all out for the occasion, glamping in a greenhouse near Santa Barbara will be an unforgettable experience. Be warned: weekend bookings fill up a few months in advance.
If you like ocean views and quiet walks on the beach without straying too far from civilization, this unique site could be the one.
Just over two hours from LA, this destination is a perfect quick trip or an amazing way to start a coastal adventure.
Amboy Crater
Price: FREE
Distance from LA: 4 hours
Amboy Crater is one of the best spots in the Mojave Desert for stargazing. Plus, the wildflowers can begin to bloom as early as late January, which makes winter and early spring the best time to visit this desert landscape.
Even in winter, this volcanic field can get quite warm. Pack plenty of water and prepare for (free) remote camping.
Roughly 3 hours from LA, this is a great first stop on a southwest road trip or an unconventional destination for a weekend away.
Need help filling your drive time? Start with Cabana Curated: Our Romance Playlist
Jug Handle Creek Farm
Price: $45
Distance from LA: 8.5 hours
Featured on Hipcamp’s Best to Visit in 2021 and cited as one of their most romantic NorCal offerings, Jug Handle Creek Farm has certainly earned its reputation. The farm is only a 5 minute walk from the beach and has plenty of surrounding hiking trails.
Your selected campsite comes with a fire pit and plenty of space. (Make sure to select a space that allows camper vans.)
Although it’s quite a bit farther from LA, it’s a great addition to a west coast road trip.
