Expert: Steve Summers - 6/20/2006

Question
Hi there,

My boyfriend and I are planning a camping trip for July 13-15, 2006 (w/the possibilty of leaving the night of the 12th).  We live in LA & are looking for something w/in about 3 hours drive.  Beach camping would be ideal, but we are open to other types too (mountain, desert, or lake).

Here are the catches:  

1.)We don't want anything too crowded or too close to any citys/towns.  We go camping to feel like we are getting away from all that.
2.)We would prefer something on the cheap side.

Can you help us?

Thanks in advance,
Mira

Answer
Hi Mira,

That's a pretty tough order, considering that your criteria are mutually exclusive. Living in LA, you should know that there are 10 million people, all trying to get out of town because it's too hot. Anyplace that's cool, close, and cheap is going to be crowded.

With that said, I can give you a couple of suggestions that might fit the bill:

1)Jalama Beach: This is not easy to get to, but it fits all of your criteria: It's about 3 hours from LA (closest town is Lompoc), on the beach, uncrowded, and not too expensive. It's first-come, first-serve, so no reservations. You can get details at www.jalamabeach.com.

2) El Capitan and Refugio State Beaches: Not quite as far, but still relatively uncrowded and on the beach. These are both about 20 miles north of downtown Santa Barbara. You can make reservations at www.reserveamerica.com. Details can be found at parks.ca.gov.

3)Big Bear: Yellow Post Camping is remote camping at designated sites. A flat area has been cleared and a picnic table and fire ring are provided. These campsites offer a truly deep-woods experience and campers need to work with a ‘pack in-pack out’ mentality. There is no cost for Yellow Post Camping, but an Adventure Pass and a campfire permit must be obtained from the Discovery Center. Call the Discovery Center for more details on these campsites (909/866-3437).

Hope this helps,

Steve