Tag: Southern California weekend getaway

8 Best Family-Friendly Glamping Resorts Near Los Angeles (2025 Guide)

Searching for a glamping getaway near LA that’s actually family-friendly? Same here! After weeks of comparing every dreamy spot, I just booked Huttopia Paradise Springs. I’ll share my honest review after we go, but for now, here’s my research shortlist—plus what made each place stand out. Got your own glamping tips? Drop them in the comments or tag me on Instagram!

Huttopia Paradise Springs glamping tent in the San Gabriel Mountains

🌟 Editor’s Picks

Best Overall: Huttopia Paradise Springs → Nature + luxury + kid perks.
Best for Toddlers: El Capitan Canyon
Most Instagrammable: AutoCamp Joshua Tree
Best Off-the-Grid Escape: 28 Palms Ranch

🏕️ Top Luxury Glamping Resorts Near LA

Resort	Location	Style	Family Features	Luxury Perks	Pros & Cons	Notes
El Capitan Canyon	Santa Barbara (2 hrs)	Yurts, Cabins, Tents	Sleeps 7, pool, playground, bikes	Organic gardens, concerts, beach access	Pros: Spacious cabins/yurts, on-site pool & playground, organic gardens, beach nearby, concerts Cons: No pets, some cabins lack AC, beach requires a drive	No pets allowed due to wildlife corridor policy → Check Dates
Huttopia Paradise Springs	San Gabriel Mountains (90 min)	Safari tents, cabins	Sleeps 5, nature programming	Spring-fed pool, bistro, forest trails	Pros: Private bathrooms in some tents, spring-fed pool, nature programs, bistro, ADA accessible Cons: No pets at pool, solar-powered (may affect device charging), summer heat	— → Check Dates
Postcard Cabins (Getaway)	San Bernardino (2 hrs)	Modern cabins	Sleeps 4, kid-friendly space	Minimalist chic, phone lockbox	Pros: Private, peaceful, comfy beds, fire pit, easy check-in, digital detox vibe Cons: Not walkable to town, some cabins have better views than others, limited communal spaces	— → Check Dates
28 Palms Ranch	Twentynine Palms (2.5 hrs)	Mongolian yurts	Private baths, sleeps 4–6	Stargazing, fire pits	Pros: Authentic yurts, private bath, stargazing, fire pits, pet-friendly, secluded Cons: No electricity (solar lights/USB only), can be windy, rustic amenities	No electricity; solar lights/USB only → Check Dates
AutoCamp Joshua Tree	Joshua Tree (2.5 hrs)	Airstreams, tents	Kid-friendly, ADA Airstreams	Spa bathrooms, yoga, live music	Pros: Airstream/cabin options, spa bathrooms, pool, ADA units, yoga, family-friendly Cons: Pricey, some cabin amenities inconsistent, desert views sparse	— → Check Dates
Moonrise Ranch	Near Indio (2.5 hrs)	Luxury tents, trailers	Family-focused, animal rescue	Horse sanctuary, outdoor movies	Pros: Animal rescue, outdoor movies, family-focused, hiking, communal spaces Cons: Limited nearby attractions, rustic, may be remote for some	— → Check Dates
Cachuma Lake Yurts	Santa Ynez (2 hrs)	Lakefront yurts	Sleeps 5, playground	Deck views, hot showers	Pros: Lakefront views, playground, hot showers, deck options Cons: No lake swimming, communal bathrooms, pools seasonal	Lake swimming not allowed; pools open May–Sept → Check Dates
The Holidays	San Clemente (1.5 hrs)	Vintage trailers	Games, surf gear	Retro vibe, surf access	Pros: Vintage trailers, surf gear, games, retro vibe, near beach Cons: Communal bathrooms/showers, limited privacy	Communal bathrooms/showers → Check Dates

El Capitan Canyon

Location: Santa Barbara (2 hrs)

Style: Yurts, Cabins, Tents

Family Features: Sleeps 7, pool, playground, bikes

Luxury Perks: Organic gardens, concerts, beach access

Pros: Spacious cabins/yurts, on-site pool & playground, organic gardens, beach nearby, concerts

Cons: No pets, some cabins lack AC, beach requires a drive

Notes: No pets allowed due to wildlife corridor policy

→ Check Dates

Huttopia Paradise Springs

Location: San Gabriel Mountains (90 min)

Style: Safari tents, cabins

Family Features: Sleeps 5, nature programming

Luxury Perks: Spring-fed pool, bistro, forest trails

Pros: Private bathrooms in some tents, spring-fed pool, nature programs, bistro, ADA accessible

Cons: No pets at pool, solar-powered (may affect device charging), summer heat

Notes: —

→ Check Dates

Postcard Cabins (Getaway)

Location: San Bernardino (2 hrs)

Style: Modern cabins

Family Features: Sleeps 4, kid-friendly space

Luxury Perks: Minimalist chic, phone lockbox

Pros: Private, peaceful, comfy beds, fire pit, easy check-in, digital detox vibe

Cons: Not walkable to town, some cabins have better views than others, limited communal spaces

Notes: —

→ Check Dates

28 Palms Ranch

Location: Twentynine Palms (2.5 hrs)

Style: Mongolian yurts

Family Features: Private baths, sleeps 4–6

Luxury Perks: Stargazing, fire pits

Pros: Authentic yurts, private bath, stargazing, fire pits, pet-friendly, secluded

Cons: No electricity (solar lights/USB only), can be windy, rustic amenities

Notes: No electricity; solar lights/USB only

→ Check Dates

AutoCamp Joshua Tree

Location: Joshua Tree (2.5 hrs)

Style: Airstreams, tents

Family Features: Kid-friendly, ADA Airstreams

Luxury Perks: Spa bathrooms, yoga, live music

Pros: Airstream/cabin options, spa bathrooms, pool, ADA units, yoga, family-friendly

Cons: Pricey, some cabin amenities inconsistent, desert views sparse

Notes: —

→ Check Dates

Moonrise Ranch

Location: Near Indio (2.5 hrs)

Style: Luxury tents, trailers

Family Features: Family-focused, animal rescue

Luxury Perks: Horse sanctuary, outdoor movies

Pros: Animal rescue, outdoor movies, family-focused, hiking, communal spaces

Cons: Limited nearby attractions, rustic, may be remote for some

Notes: —

→ Check Dates

Cachuma Lake Yurts

Location: Santa Ynez (2 hrs)

Style: Lakefront yurts

Family Features: Sleeps 5, playground

Luxury Perks: Deck views, hot showers

Pros: Lakefront views, playground, hot showers, deck options

Cons: No lake swimming, communal bathrooms, pools seasonal

Notes: Lake swimming not allowed; pools open May–Sept

→ Check Dates

The Holidays

Location: San Clemente (1.5 hrs)

Style: Vintage trailers

Family Features: Games, surf gear

Luxury Perks: Retro vibe, surf access

Pros: Vintage trailers, surf gear, games, retro vibe, near beach

Cons: Communal bathrooms/showers, limited privacy

Notes: Communal bathrooms/showers

→ Check Dates

🧭 Not Sure Where to Book?

Here’s a quick cheat sheet to help narrow it down:

🌊 Want a pool and full bath? → El Capitan or Huttopia
🔭 Craving privacy + stargazing? → 28 Palms Ranch
📵 Looking for a digital detox (with comfy beds)? → Postcard Cabins
🎶 Want vibes and Insta moments? → AutoCamp Joshua Tree

🌟 Family Must-Do & Pro Tips for Each Resort

El Capitan Canyon
Family Must-Do: Visit the playground and petting zoo—perfect for toddlers and younger kids.
Pro Tip: Book a Saturday to catch live music and the farmer’s market!

Huttopia Paradise Springs
Family Must-Do: Join a guided nature walk or splash in the historic spring-fed pool.
Pro Tip: Reserve a tent near the creek for the most peaceful sleep.

Postcard Cabins (Getaway)
Family Must-Do: Try the s’mores kit and unplug with classic board games.
Pro Tip: Use the phone lockbox for a true digital detox!

28 Palms Ranch
Family Must-Do: Stargaze in the desert—bring a telescope if you have one.
Pro Tip: Pack extra layers for chilly desert nights.

AutoCamp Joshua Tree
Family Must-Do: Join a sunrise yoga class and explore the on-site clubhouse.
Pro Tip: Book an ADA Airstream for extra space and accessibility.

Moonrise Ranch
Family Must-Do: Visit the horse sanctuary and watch an outdoor movie.
Pro Tip: Ask about animal feeding times for an interactive experience.

Cachuma Lake Yurts
Family Must-Do: Rent a kayak or pedal boat for a day on the lake.
Pro Tip: Request a yurt with a deck for the best sunset views.

The Holidays
Family Must-Do: Take the kids boogie boarding or play retro lawn games.
Pro Tip: Book early for summer weekends—they fill up fast!

🌿 Family Glamping Packing List 🌿

Our family-tested essentials for a magical, stress-free glamping adventure!

🧥 Layers for all weather: Warm jacket, hoodie, and soft T-shirts for cool nights and sunny days.
😴 Pajamas & comfy clothes: Snuggle up in soft PJs after a day of adventure.
👟 Hiking shoes or sandals: Sturdy footwear for exploring trails and campground paths.
🩱 Swimsuit & towel: Don’t forget a quick-dry towel for pool or creek time.
🧴 Toiletries: Toothbrush, soap, shampoo—plus a
compact first aid kit for peace of mind.
🦟 Bug spray & sunscreen: We love
Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ for gentle, effective sun protection.
💧 Reusable water bottles: Hydration is key in the great outdoors!
🔦 Flashlight or headlamp: Essential for nighttime bathroom runs and bedtime stories under the stars.
🔋 Portable phone charger/power bank: Stay powered up for photos and emergencies.
🍫 Favorite snacks & s’mores kit: For classic campfire fun, these
extendable s’mores sticks make roasting marshmallows a breeze.
🎲 Board games, cards, or books: Our go-to is the
3-in-1 Vintage Giant Checkers & Tic Tac Toe set—perfect for family bonding.
🔭 Camera or binoculars: For budding explorers,
GeoSafari Jr. Kidnoculars are a huge hit—lightweight, durable, and made for little hands.
🩹 Small first aid kit: (See above for our favorite travel-size option.)
🛍️ Reusable shopping bag: Handy for groceries, laundry, or impromptu picnics.
🧸 Child’s favorite toy or blanket: Comfort from home = smoother bedtimes.
🐾 Pet supplies (if allowed): Don’t forget food, leash, and cozy bedding for your furry friend.
🧊 Cooler (if not provided): For keeping drinks and snacks fresh.
☕ Coffee or tea gear (if not provided): Mornings are better with your favorite brew.
🌬️ Travel fan (for warm nights): The
JISULIFE Portable Mini Fan is a lifesaver for stuffy tents or cabins.
🌧️ Rain jacket or umbrella (seasonal): Be ready for a surprise sprinkle or two.
🧺 Outdoor family picnic blanket: We adore the
Little Unicorn 5’x7′ Outdoor Family Picnic Blanket—it’s waterproof, easy to pack, and perfect for snack breaks or stargazing.
🐞 For little explorers: Pack a
Nature Bound Bug Catcher—it turns every campsite into a science adventure!

Happy glamping! With these essentials, you’ll be ready for adventure, comfort, and all the magical moments in between.
Have questions or want more family travel tips? Subscribe to our newsletter

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best time of year to go glamping in Southern California?

Spring (March–May) and fall (Sept–Nov) offer the best weather—mild temps, fewer crowds, and gorgeous skies. Avoid desert areas mid-summer unless the site is well-shaded or pool-equipped.

Are these resorts accessible and kid-friendly?

Yes! Many have ADA-compliant cabins or tents, pools, on-site activities, and flexible sleeping arrangements for families. Always call the property to confirm your specific needs.

Can I bring my dog?

Many featured resorts are pet-friendly! Check the table above for notes, and confirm directly with the resort before booking. Note: El Capitan Canyon does not allow pets.

How do I book the best spots?

You can book directly on each resort’s website, or through trusted platforms like Glamping Hub or Hipcamp. Book early for weekends and holidays!

What should I pack?

Layers, reusable water bottles, a small fan, power bank, games, and bug spray. Want a free printable checklist? Join our newsletter and I’ll send it straight to your inbox!

✨ Final Take

Whether you’re planning a digital detox, outdoor birthday, or multigenerational getaway—glamping near Los Angeles has never felt more doable (or more luxurious). From forest trails to spring-fed pools, there’s a site for every type of family. I’ll report back after our stay at Huttopia Paradise Springs, but I hope this guide helps you plan your next adventure in the meantime!

June 7, 2025

Palm Desert With Littles: The Real Deal on Surviving & Thriving With Kids Under 5
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting our family adventures!

Splashtopia with Toddlers: Why Omni Rancho Las Palmas Is a 10/10 Family Resort

Quick Overview (1-Min Read)
Location: Rancho Mirage, CA (2 hrs from LA)
Best Ages: 1–10 years
Top Highlights: Lazy river, splash pad, water slides, shaded sand beach, poolside food, nearby palm oasis walks
Parent Tip: Book Building 30 — closest to Splashtopia and parking
Keywords: Palm Springs family resort, Omni Rancho Las Palmas, Splashtopia with toddlers, shaded hikes, best family resorts in Palm Springs

Why We Love It:
Omni Rancho Las Palmas in Rancho Mirage is our top pick for a Palm Springs family vacation with toddlers and young kids. With Splashtopia’s lazy river, splash pad, water slides, and shaded sand beach, plus easy access to palm oasis hikes, it’s a 10/10 for stress-free, memory-making family fun.

At Tiny Tales Expedition, we believe travel is the best teacher—even in the toddler years. Our Memorial Day weekend at Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa was the perfect blend: desert magic at the resort and outdoor adventures just a short drive away. From splash zones to palm oasis hikes, it delivered space to reset, reconnect, and explore beyond the pool.

Memorial Day Weekend Activities for Families

🎨 Omni’s Spring Activity Guide:
- Glitter Tattoos, Slime Lab, Tie-Dye Shirts (small fee)
- Face Painting & Balloon Artist by the pool
- Splash Contest & Duck Race = prizes + giggles
- Movie Nights: “Finding Dory” + “Spiderman: Into the Spider-Verse”
Best Hikes Near Omni Rancho Las Palmas
- 🌴 Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve – towering palms and boardwalks
- 🛒 Palm Oasis Trail (San Andreas Fault) – shady, stream-fed, stroller-friendly
- 🐎 Clancy Lane Walk – stroller-friendly + horse sightings
- ⛰️ Whitewater Preserve – canyon hike with picnic areas
Plan Your Best Family Adventure

Packing Essentials for Desert Travel with Kids

🧳 Must-haves:
- Floaties + SPF rash guards: O’Neill Youth Basic Skins UPF 50+ is a favorite for sun protection and comfort
- Kid-friendly sunscreen: Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ is gentle and effective for desert sun
- Swim vests: Chriffer Kids Swim Vest is a top pick for pool safety
- Cooling towels: Frogg Toggs Chilly Pad—just wet, wring, and chill!
- Stroller fans: JISULIFE Portable Mini Fan is helpful for sunny walks
- Bug nets: Nature Bound Bug Catcher for hands-on exploring
- Waterproof phone pouch: JOTO Universal—a must for poolside photos and sandy hands
- Water shoes: Robeez Kids Water Shoes protect little feet on hot pavement and slippery pool decks
- Sun hats: Sunday Afternoons Kids Play Hat—lightweight, full-coverage, and stays on!
ABC Spotlight: “D is for Desert Days”

D is for Desert Days
Hot trails, cool water, and dry air—this was our ABC moment. Paxton learned about palm groves and desert survival through real life play.

Did you know? The Colorado Desert has more native palm oases than anywhere else in North America.

Key Takeaways for Your Family Trip
- 🏨 Book Building 30, Ground Floor: Closest to Splashtopia and parking, easy stroller access.
- ⏰ Reserve lounge chairs early: 9 AM is prime time—aim for the shaded sandy section.
- 💺 Relax & watch: Sip coffee while the kids play.
- 🌊 Splashtopia highlights: Lazy river, water slides, shaded splash pad.
- 🎉 Activities: Face painting, tie-dye, movie nights, and more.
- 🥾 Hikes: Palms Oasis Trail (shady & stroller-friendly), Thousand Palms Preserve (easy boardwalks).
- 🍔 Dining: Poolside eats—call ahead for allergies.
- 💛 Family moments: It’s the small stuff that lingers—ant watching, nighttime cuddles, sunset walks.
Additional Family Tips
- 🍼 Baby gear rentals: Cribs and mini-fridges included; rent bigger gear locally.
- 🌙 Light sleepers: Ask for a quieter building.
- ☀️ Shade & hydration: Hats, sunscreen, and refillable water bottles. Many families recommend the
  Sunday Afternoons Kids Play Hat and
  Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ for desert adventures.
- 👕 Laundry: On-site washers are clutch.
- ♿ Accessibility: Resort and nearby trails are stroller/wheelchair friendly.
– Book Omni Rancho Las Palmas
– Explore Thousand Palms Preserve
– Follow us on Instagram

A Parenting Win at Poolside Movie Night

On our first night, we missed movie night completely—nap time was off, bedtime was chaos. But on night two, we made a deal with Paxton: if he napped and followed through with his veggies and good behavior, movie night would be his reward. And he did it.

This time, he was in pajamas, cuddled up on a poolside chair while Jan stayed back with Kai. No meltdowns. Just magic. It reminded us that setting the tone early can shape the whole day.

Splashtopia gave us more than a vacation — it gave us presence. That’s what we’re after. Less logistics, more wonder. And if that’s your vibe too, Tiny Tales Expedition has a seat saved for you.

FAQ: Planning Your Splashtopia Stay

Is the Splashtopia pool heated?

Yes — all pools are heated year-round, so you can float even when the desert nights cool down. Toddlers won’t shiver after five minutes in!

Can I bring my own snacks?

Yes! You can bring your own snacks and drinks to the resort. That said, it’s best to check with the front desk for the most current outside food policy, especially around the pool area.

Is there a height requirement for the water slides?

Yes — kids must be at least 42” tall to ride the big slides. But don’t worry — the shaded splash pad and zero-entry zone nearby are perfect for littles under that mark.

Are pool towels provided?

Yes! Fresh towels are available at the entrance of Splashtopia. No need to bring extras from your room.

Do I need a wristband to access Splashtopia?

Yes — wristbands are required for each registered guest. You’ll get them at check-in or from the pool concierge.

Is early check-in worth it?

If you’re arriving before nap time or want to hit the pool early — absolutely. You can also ask if they’ll let you use the amenities even if your room’s not ready yet.

🛒 Shop Anything on Amazon

Every click supports Tiny Tales Expedition!

Like this kind of content? Subscribe for more travel guides and tips.

Tiny Tales Expedition is a family travel brand documenting the real moments, beautiful messes, and teachable adventures from traveling with our two little explorers. We create children’s books, flashcards, and guides to inspire meaningful journeys—big and small.

Follow us on Instagram
June 1, 2025