Intro Guide To Van Life In Los Angeles From A Pro (2025)

Here is everything you need to know about van life in Los Angeles! While I’ve never lived in a van, we asked our friend, Warren to share his expertise on LA van life with his 1-year experience traveling around California while living in a van.

Los Angeles, land of glitz, glam, and… vans? Van life in Los Angeles is not just a passing trend, it’s a lifestyle choice embraced by many, including myself.

Having navigated the streets and secrets of LA in my not-so-trusty van, I’ve created this guide to help you experience the very best of Van Life, whether you’re a local or just passing through. From finding the best spots to park your van to insider tips on living comfortably on four wheels, this guide is your roadmap to an incredible journey.

Can You Live in Your Van in LA?

A person sitting inside a van with wooden interior, eating a meal at a small table with a laptop open next to them.

Absolutely! Living the Van Life in Los Angeles is possible, and I’m a testament to that. However, it’s important to understand the local laws and have a bit of street smarts. Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:

Firstly, you need a legal address on paper, as your van doesn’t qualify as a primary residence. This can be easily managed with a mail forwarding service or using a friend’s address. Also, in LA sleeping in your vehicle near residential areas, schools, or parks is prohibited from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Although, if you’d van looks inconspicuous with blacked-out windows, you’re unlikely to be fined.

Moreover, the van life community in LA is quite supportive, often sharing tips and safe parking spots through social media and online platforms. I will go into more detail about free parking and paid campgrounds below.

Free Places to Stay Overnight In Your Van

When it comes to Van Life in Los Angeles, one of the biggest challenges can be finding those sweet spots to park for free overnight. Here are some locations I’ve stayed along the way.

Industrial Areas: These areas are often overlooked but are goldmines for van lifers. They’re less crowded at night, offering a quiet place to rest. Just make sure to check for any ‘No Parking’ signs.

24-Hour Businesses: Parking lots of 24-hour supermarkets and gyms are a safe bet. They’re well-lit and often have security. If unsure, you can ask for permission and patronize the business as a courtesy, although, many do not.

Certain Parks and Beaches: While not all parks and beaches allow overnight parking, some do. Look for spots that don’t have clear restrictions, and always adhere to any posted rules.

Walmart Parking Lots: Most Walmart stores are known for allowing overnight parking for RVs and vans. You will likely encounter many other vans in the parking lot.

Street Parking in Residential and Non-Residential Areas: There are streets in Residential and commercial areas that allow overnight parking. These are great if you practice stealth parking. Make sure the outside of your van doesn’t look like a camper and you have your windows blacked out, and you won’t have any trouble.

Have a look at this Yelp page for a list of specific locations. Additionally, joining social media van life communities in LA and browsing online forums will provide you with the latest insights on the best spots for overnight stays in Los Angeles.

6 Best Paid Campgrounds in Los Angeles

A van with open doors lit from inside at night, showing a cozy interior with a bed, parked in a dark outdoor area.

For the utmost safety and comfort, campgrounds in LA are the best choice, provided you can afford them. Given their location in LA, these campgrounds are on the pricier side, with nightly rates ranging from $35 to $75. However, if you’re planning a longer stay, you can often snag a discounted rate. Below are my top 6 picks for campgrounds in the Los Angeles area:

Malibu Creek State Park

In the Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu Creek State Park is a paradise for those who love the great outdoors. It’s famous for its hiking trails, rock climbing, and stunning scenery. The campground here is well-maintained, offering spacious spots for your van. Plus, you’re just a short drive from the iconic Malibu beaches.

Hollywood RV Park

For a slice of Hollywood mixed with your van life, Hollywood RV Park is the place. It’s unique for its artistic flair, with murals and sculptures adorning the park. The amenities are top-notch, including full hookups, a gym, and even a small theater. It’s a great spot to feel connected to the city while enjoying your cozy van space.

Millard Trail Camp

If you’re looking for a more secluded experience, you might want to check out Millard Trail Camp. Located in the Angeles National Forest, this campground offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. It’s perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with trails leading to waterfalls and scenic overlooks. The facilities are basic, so it’s ideal for those seeking a more authentic camping experience.

Dockweiler RV Park

Want to wake up to ocean views? Dockweiler RV Park is located right on the beach, offering a unique experience where you can enjoy beachfront living right from your van. It’s equipped with full hookups and facilities like laundry and showers. Plus, you can enjoy beach activities like bonfires and kite surfing just steps away from your van. If you’re traveling North, be sure to check out the best beach camping spots in Northern California.

Rancho Ybarra

Rancho Ybarra combines the tranquility of the countryside with the convenience of city amenities. It’s a family-owned campground that provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The sites are spacious, and there are facilities like showers and a communal kitchen. It’s perfect for those who want a friendly, community-oriented experience.

Bolsa Chica RV Campground

Located near the beautiful Bolsa Chica State Beach, this campground is a favorite among beach lovers and bird watchers. The campground offers direct access to the beach, making it perfect for surfing, swimming, or just relaxing by the ocean. The facilities include full hookups, a convenience store, and picnic areas.

Additionally, to find more free and paid campgrounds around Los Angeles, use online platforms like The Dyrt, Recreation.gov, and local tourism websites, which provide updated listings and reviews.

Where to Shower While Living in a Van in LA

Maintaining hygiene while living the Van Life in Los Angeles is another common issue that is frequently raised. Fortunately, it is quite manageable with several options available.

Beach Showers: Scattered along LA’s iconic coastline, beach showers are a convenient and free resource. Places like Venice Beach, Santa Monica, and other coastal spots provide these facilities. They’re typically open-air with cold water, offering a quick and easy solution to rinse off after a day at the beach or just to freshen up.

A row of brown public restroom doors with "No Smoking No Vaping" signs on them, next to a path and a wooden bench.

Gyms: For a more comprehensive shower experience, local gyms are an excellent choice. Many offer day passes, starting as low as $5, granting access to their shower facilities along with other amenities like workout equipment and Wi-Fi.

Recreation Centers: These centers across LA provide another budget-friendly option for showers. With a typical cost of around $5, they offer a no-frills but clean and efficient way to shower.

Swimming Pools: Public swimming pools in Los Angeles are a great, underrated option for showers. For as little as $4, you can take a dip and use the shower facilities.

Campgrounds: If you’re staying at a campground, showers are included. For non-guests, many campgrounds offer shower facilities for about $10. At busy parks, many van lifers will walk in unnoticed and use the showers for free.

Truckstops: For those on the city’s outskirts, truck stops can offer free showers. These varied options ensure that staying clean and refreshed while enjoying van life in LA is both easy and accessible.

Best Apps for Van Life in Los Angeles

Inside a van converted for living, with a bed, wooden walls and ceiling, white storage cabinets, and curtains on the windows.

Navigating Van Life in Los Angeles is made much easier with the help of some handy apps, each designed to address the different needs of the van living community. Here’s a roundup of some of the best apps that I’ve found useful during my van life journey in LA:

The Dyrt: This app is a fantastic resource for finding campgrounds. With a $35 yearly subscription, you gain access to a large list of campgrounds, complete with reviews and ratings.
iOverlander: A free app that helps you find not just campsites, but also essential services like showers, water refills, and waste disposal sites. The user-generated content provides up-to-date information.
AllTrails: For $29 a year, AllTrails offers detailed information on hiking trails, which is perfect for those looking to explore LA’s natural beauty.
Sēkr (formerly The Vanlife App): This app is a great resource for finding campsites and connecting with the van life community. It includes features for locating community events and gatherings and connecting with nearby van lifers.
AllStays Camp & RV: For a one-time fee of $10, this app is a guide to free places to stay, RV parks, and campgrounds. It’s particularly useful for finding those out-of-the-way spots for a peaceful night’s sleep.
Recreation.gov: This free app is essential for anyone looking to explore National Park campgrounds and backcountry spots. It provides detailed information and the ability to book campsites in federal lands, including many scenic spots around Los Angeles.

FAQs: Van Life in Los Angeles

How Much Does Vanlife Cost Per Month?

The cost of Van Life in Los Angeles can vary greatly depending on lifestyle choices and van maintenance. On average, expenses range from basic necessities like food, fuel, and occasional campground fees to more occasional costs like vehicle maintenance and insurance. Budgeting wisely you can expect to spend $1000 – $1500 per month. Many spend much less and more!

How Dangerous is Vanlife in LA?

Like living in any large city, Van Life in LA comes with its challenges, but it doesn’t have to be dangerous. Staying aware of your surroundings, parking in safe areas, and taking general safety precautions will mitigate most risks. Joining local van life communities also provides valuable insights into safe practices and areas.

You can always take extra precautions to feel safe like having an alarm set up on your van, carrying pepper spray in the van, having access to the driver’s seat without needing to go outside, and you can even travel with a dog for added safety.

Where are the Safest Places to Sleep in Your Van in Los Angeles?

The safest places for overnight parking in LA include well-lit, populated areas, or paid campgrounds that offer security and amenities. Avoiding secluded or poorly lit areas is advisable. Utilizing apps and online van life communities can also help in finding the safest and most recommended spots. Here are some of the safest Neighborhoods in LA: Bel Air, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Los Feliz, Playa Vista, Encino, Brentwood, Porter Ranch, Silver Lake & Playa Del Rey

Are There Better Places to Live in a Van in California?

A van parked in a grassy field at night under a starry sky, with trees in the background and lights on inside the van.

While Los Angeles is a unique urban experience for van lifers, California is dotted with numerous other locations that offer a more relaxed van life experience. In addition to cities, the state is home to numerous remote areas that are ideal for van life. Places like the Sierra Nevada mountains, the serene deserts of Joshua Tree, and the lush landscapes of Big Sur provide a stark contrast to the bustling city life of LA. For a more comprehensive guide on Van Life across California, including these remote areas, be sure to check out our full guide for van life in California.

Where Can You Park and Sleep in Los Angeles?

Apart from the earlier mentioned free and paid spots, many suburban areas of Los Angeles are van-friendly for overnight parking. Always check for any parking restrictions and be respectful of the neighborhoods. Additionally, many commercial areas allow overnight parking. It’s best to verify and adhere to any posted signage or regulations.

Can You Work Remotely From Your Van?

Definitely! Remote work from a van is not only possible but also increasingly popular. With mobile hotspots, portable solar panels, and access to Wi-Fi in various public spots, you can efficiently turn your van into a mobile office. Cafes, public libraries, and parks in LA, known for their Wi-Fi connectivity, are perfect for remote working. It’s all about managing your power, and internet connectivity, and choosing the right spots for work. And if you’re contemplating this digital nomad lifestyle, check out our Ultimate Digital Nomad Packing List for essential tips and items to make your mobile work life seamless and efficient.

Final Thoughts: Van Life in Los Angeles

Living the Van Life in Los Angeles has truly been an amazing adventure for us. From the lively streets of Downtown LA to the serene beaches along the Pacific Coast, living in a van here means being part of a diverse canvas. It’s a lifestyle that comes with freedom, adaptability, and the thrill of discovering new corners of this iconic city every day. But of course, it also comes with it struggles!

This guide aims to equip you with the knowledge and tips needed to navigate Van Life in Los Angeles successfully. With all its quirks and challenges, it offers an unparalleled experience for van lifers. So gear up, hit the road, and embrace the unique adventure that is Van Life in the City of Angels.

Author’s Bio: Warren and Natasha here, the passionate creators behind The Nomad Hive, a travel blog dedicated to showcasing our favorite destinations across the globe. Our travels span over 7 remarkable years, 4 of which were spent embracing the van life across the US and Australia. Our journey has not just been about the places we’ve visited, but also about the unique lifestyle and freedom that comes with calling a van our home. Through our journey, we aim to inspire and simplify your van life adventures. We hope our insights and stories help you navigate this exciting lifestyle with ease and joy!